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Historical Insect Repellent Efficacy Questioned
Users recall Avon Skin So Soft Original being effective against midges in the late 80s/early 90s. However, many believe formula changes have reduced its potency for current outdoor use, leading to a search for more reliable alternatives.
Confusion Between Bath Oil and Bug Guard
A common point of discussion involves differentiating the original Skin So Soft Bath Oil from Avon's dedicated Bug Guard repellent line. Many users inquire if the bath oil serves as a repellent, highlighting the need for clarity regarding its primary function versus specialized products.
Anecdotal Use for Sensitive Skin & Pets
Some forum participants report using the original Skin So Soft, citing its jojoba oil, as a natural, moisturizing repellent for sensitive skin and pets. This contrasts with its official classification as a moisturizer rather than an EPA-registered insect repellent.
Expert answers based on real user experience
Yes, numerous outdoor enthusiasts recall using the original Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil Spray with perceived effectiveness against midges and sand fleas during the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly in humid coastal environments. This anecdotal success was often attributed to ingredients like jojoba oil. However, many users report that current formulations provide significantly less protection, suggesting potential recipe changes have diminished its historical efficacy for insect deterrence.
Reddit user discussions
Avon Skin So Soft Original is primarily marketed as a moisturizing bath oil, not an EPA-registered insect repellent. While it may offer some mild, unquantified deterrence against certain insects, products with 20% Picaridin are formulated and tested for solid protection. These dedicated repellents are reported by users to provide up to 8 hours of mosquito protection and 12 hours against deer ticks, offering a more reliable defense in environments with high insect activity than the original bath oil.
Community comparison threads
Some users mention using the original Avon Skin So Soft, noting its jojoba oil and Vitamin E content, as a gentler, moisturizing option for sensitive skin when seeking mild insect deterrence. Unlike harsher chemical repellents, its base is designed for skin conditioning. However, its primary function remains moisturizing; for confirmed protection against biting insects, especially in conditions like 25°C with high humidity, dedicated repellent products are generally recommended over this bath oil.
User testimonials
Avon officially designates the Skin So Soft Original Bath Oil Spray as a moisturizer, not an EPA-registered insect repellent. While it has anecdotal historical use against midges, its performance in tropical conditions (e.g., 30°C, 90% humidity) against persistent mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti is not substantiated by scientific testing or product registration. Dedicated repellents containing Picaridin or DEET are formulated and tested to provide proven protection for extended periods, often exceeding 4-8 hours in such challenging environments.
Expert analysis of product classification
AVON
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AVON AVON Skin So Soft Original Bath Oil Spray - Moisturizing Shower Oil with Jojoba Oil & Vitamin E - Non-Greasy Formula for Dry Skin Care - After Shower Moisturizer for Women - Hydrating Spray, 5 fl oz. Features: 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐤𝐲 𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 — Finally, a body oil after shower that absorbs .... 𝐀𝐥𝐥-𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐇𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐬 — Enriched with botanical extracts, this bath oi.... 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐦𝐩, 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 — The precision oil spray nozzle delivers a fine, .... 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 — Whe...
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