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As someone who loves summer getaways but dreads the battle against mosquitoes, I decided to bring along the Skin So Soft Original Dry Oil Spray on my recent 10-night holiday to Samos, Greece, which I had purchased from Avon UK, the largest Avon representatives group in the country. I’d heard whispers about its reputation not only as a skin softener but also as a possible mosquito repellent, which felt ideal for a warm-weather destination. Here’s how it held up over my trip – the beauty benefits, the practicality, and, of course, its mosquito-repelling powers.

Day 1-3: First Impressions and Settling In

Upon arrival, I was instantly reminded why I’d chosen to bring a dry oil instead of a heavier moisturiser. The hot, sunny climate of Samos made traditional creams feel sticky and uncomfortable, whereas the lightweight, fast-absorbing nature of the Skin So Soft spray was a welcome change. After a day in the sun and a cool shower, I spritzed it all over to seal in moisture, and it absorbed quickly, leaving my skin with a healthy glow without any greasiness.

In the evenings, I applied it generously on my arms, legs, and exposed areas, hoping it would double as a subtle mosquito repellent. While not marketed specifically as an insect deterrent, I’d read that Skin So Soft has a following for its repellent qualities, so I was eager to put it to the test.

Pros:

• Lightweight feel suited for hot climates
• Easy application without stickiness
• Adds a soft sheen to the skin

Cons:

• Needed frequent reapplication to maintain a hydrated look in the heat

Day 4-7: Testing the Mosquito Repellent Claims

By mid-trip, I had fully incorporated the spray into my morning and evening routine. It was incredibly convenient to use after beach days, as it soothed my skin without feeling heavy, even after applying sunscreen all day. At night, I increased the amount I used, covering all exposed skin before heading to an outdoor taverna for dinner.

I was surprised to find that, while not 100% mosquito-proof, the spray did seem to keep most of the mosquitoes at bay compared to my friends who hadn’t applied it. On the nights when I missed a spot, like my ankles or wrists, I did end up with a bite or two, so I made sure to cover every area thereafter.

Positives:

• Effective at softening sun-exposed skin
• Seemed to reduce the number of mosquito bites when applied generously
• No greasy or heavy feeling, even in high humidity

Negatives:

• Not a foolproof repellent – some mosquitoes still found their way to uncovered areas

Day 8-10: Final Nights and Overall Impressions

By the final days of my holiday, I’d fallen into a rhythm with the Skin So Soft Original Dry Oil Spray. I applied it religiously every evening, and it had become my go-to for both hydration and protection against bugs during outdoor dinners and sunset strolls. My skin felt soft and well-nourished, despite days spent under the sun, and I loved how smooth it left my legs when wearing sundresses or shorts.

One unexpected perk was that the light scent was refreshing and didn’t clash with my perfume, which made it easy to apply without worrying about overwhelming fragrances. I didn’t encounter any major mosquito issues, which I partially credit to the spray’s light coating on my skin.

Final Pros:

• Lightweight, fresh scent that pairs well with other fragrances
• Keeps skin soft and smooth without feeling oily
• Helps reduce the number of mosquito bites when applied thoroughly

Final Cons:

• Requires full, generous coverage for effective mosquito prevention
• May not be as effective for heavy-duty repellent needs in very buggy areas

Final Verdict

After 10 nights in Samos with the Skin So Soft Original Dry Oil Spray, I’m impressed by its versatility. Not only did it keep my skin looking smooth and hydrated in the dry, sunny climate, but it also provided a gentle, albeit not foolproof, defence against mosquitoes. While it might not replace a dedicated insect repellent, it certainly helped me avoid some of the worst bites.

Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience with Skin So Soft Original Dry Oil Spray on holiday. Individual results may vary, especially in different climates or levels of mosquito activity. If you’re looking for a travel-friendly product that provides lightweight hydration with a bit of bug protection, this could be an ideal addition to your suitcase.