Parents rave about unexpected beauty item that stops mosquitoes biting

"Although not an insecticide, it seems to stop the midges biting and soothes the itch."

Hands up if you're the person who ALWAYS gets bitten by mozzies? No matter what you do, the little blood suckers always find their way to your ankles over anyone else and you're forever stuck with the lingering stench of citronella-infused insect repellents.  

Itch no more - we have found a solution for you!

A man has taken to the (very niche) Facebook group Everyone Caravan & Camping to rave about his miraculous find that manages to deter insect bites. And the best news is, it's under $12 and can be found at all major grocery and pharmacy retailers. 

The man claims the secret to deterring bites is a good lather of Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Body Lotion. 

Parents claim the coconut oil range of Palmer's body lotion helps prevent mosquito bites. Image: Facebook

"My wife and I are staying in a van park where the midges are absolutely ferocious. A local put us onto this product, and although not an insecticide, it seems to stop the midges biting and if bitten, soothes the itch," he shared, along with an image of the bottle. 

"Certainly works for us and, Mrs is very happy!"

Are you following us on TikTok? Head to Kidspot Official to watch our latest videos

Palmer's body lotion is the best insect repellent

Shortly after sharing the tip, the post was flooded with over 600 comments - mostly from people who were so thrilled to find such an accessible and cheap solution to the common problem.  

"This is going in the van!" one person shared. 

"Good idea. Anything that has a high scent will help keep them away. I spray hubby in deodorant on feet and legs or anywhere, and it works when I don't have anything else," another added. 

And another said: "Worth a try better than any insecticide if it works I’ll give it a go."

RELATED: There's a reason why mozzies love to bite certain people

But there were a handful of people who already knew of this secret midge deterrent. 

"Someone else knows your secret weapon," one person shared, tagging their travel companion. 

"I happened to have this Palmer's coconut lotion and just tested it out for a half hour watering garden. I usually get nailed, not one bite. Good potential," another said. 

Another person claimed it was "the best product on the market" and another agreed: "I bought the same product for moisturising and used while up in nth QLD. I found that I wasn’t getting bitten much by anything and wondered if it was something in the moisturiser . . . Maybe we’re on to something here!"

RELATED: Mum shares clever mosquito trap hack

An accidental winner

Midges aside, let's look at the beauty facts for a second. The coconut oil range from Palmer's has long been a beauty must-have as it is deeply hydrating and replenishing, offering 48-hour moisture on the skin. It's also dermatologist approved, vegan friendly, and free of any nasties (ie: parabens, phthalates, dyes). 

And while the lotion works well for repelling mozzies as we have now discovered, our pals at Palmer's are rather offended that the pesky insects don't want in. They're thrilled that it works for you... but still a little offended.

“We can’t understand why midges would not like Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Lotion. What’s not to love?!" Hannah Zochowski, Palmer’s Australia Brand Manager, told Kidspot. 

"It’s formulated with Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil which locks in moisture, plus antioxidant-rich Green Coffee Extract to help improve skin radiance, and it leaves a delightful tropical scent. And while Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Lotion has not been specifically tested for insect-repellent properties, we are delighted to hear that our Coconut-loving fans may enjoy bonus midge protection in addition to deeply moisturised, soft and radiant skin!”

Palmer's Coconut Oil Body Lotion retails at $8.19 (250ml) or $11.79 (400ml), so not only is it good for your skin, but it's also a lot cheaper than most insect repellents. 

Originally published as Parents rave about unexpected beauty item that stops mosquitoes biting