by Myth » Mon Apr 06, 2009 11:00 pm
Hey Ann,
I am a total midge magnet (well anything that bites actually) and like to get as much time out and about before mid May - as that's when I find the little buggers start to be a real pain.
It really does seem to depend on:
- where you are: west generally worse except for Glen Affric which is always bad.
- weather conditions: hot and dry discourages them, as does heavy rain.
- wind: the little beggars won't take off in a good breeze.
And none of the usual lotions and potions work "well" for me. The truly repellent ones are not only repelling to midges, but melt clothes and equipment, and the less hideously smelling ones don't seem to repel anything other than myself! That said, the Avon "Skin So Soft" does provide some value in reducing the number of bites (they still crawl on you though) at the expense of making you and your kit slippery and slimy.
Your mileage may vary.