One method that some people claim to be effective in keeping deer flies away is using mixtures of certain essential oils. These oils include peppermint, citronella, and lavender. While there is some anecdotal evidence supporting this claim, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these oils may vary and their use as a repellent has not been scientifically proven.
It is believed that the strong scent of these essential oils may help deter deer flies and horse flies. However, it is important to keep in mind that different species of flies may have different sensitivities to certain scents, so what may work for one type of fly may not work for another.
If you are interested in trying essential oils to repel deer flies, here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
1. Dilute the oils: Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be irritating to the skin if applied directly. It is recommended to dilute them with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying to the skin. A general guideline is to use 5-10 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
2. Patch test: Before applying the diluted mixture to a larger area of your skin, perform a patch test to check for any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to a small area and wait for 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs.
3. Apply to exposed areas: Focus on applying the diluted essential oil mixture to exposed areas of your body, such as arms, legs, and neck, where deer flies may land and bite. Avoid applying near the eyes, mouth, or any open wounds.
4. Reapply as needed: The scent of essential oils may dissipate over time, so it is important to reapply the mixture regularly, especially if you are spending an extended period outdoors.
While using essential oils may help in preventing deer fly bites, it is also important to consider other strategies for effectively managing these pests. Here are some additional tips:
1. Wear protective clothing: Covering up with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats can help reduce the exposed skin for flies to land on. Opt for light-colored clothing, as dark colors tend to attract flies.
2. Use physical barriers: Setting up physical barriers, such as mosquito netting or screens, can help keep flies away from outdoor seating areas or picnic spots.
3. Avoid peak activity times: Deer flies are most active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. If possible, try to schedule outdoor activities during less active times to minimize encounters with these flies.
4. Consider natural repellents: Apart from essential oils, some people find success using natural repellents like apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, or even homemade fly traps. Experiment with different options to see what works best for you.
5. Maintain a clean environment: Properly dispose of garbage and keep outdoor areas clean and free from debris, as flies may be attracted to these conditions.
It is important to note that while these strategies may help reduce deer fly encounters, no method is guaranteed to completely eliminate them. It may be necessary to employ a combination of approaches and be prepared to tolerate some level of fly activity when spending time outdoors.
Using mixtures of essential oils such as peppermint, citronella, and lavender may help repel deer flies, but their effectiveness varies and has not been scientifically proven. It is recommended to dilute the oils, perform patch tests, and reapply as needed. Additionally, consider using other strategies such as wearing protective clothing, using physical barriers, avoiding peak activity times, and maintaining a clean environment.
