Doing a thorough tick check after outdoor activities is crucial for keeping yourself and your loved ones safe, but even the most vigilant among us can overlook some key spots. 
The Commonly Missed Spots
When performing a tick check, it's easy to focus on obvious areas like arms, legs, and necks, but ticks are notorious for latching onto hidden, hard-to-see spots.

Here are some areas people frequently forget to check:

In and Behind the Ears
Ticks love warm, moist environments, and the area behind your ears (and even inside your ears) is a perfect hiding spot. They can be especially tricky to spot here if you have long hair.

Scalp and Hairline
If you’ve spent time in tick-prone areas, make sure to part your hair and check your scalp. Ticks can crawl up into the hairline and stay undetected for days.

Underarms
These shadowy, often-overlooked areas are favorites for ticks. Be sure to lift your arms and thoroughly inspect under them.

Behind Knees
Ticks are experts at finding spots where clothing fits snugly or skin folds occur. The backs of your knees are a prime hiding spot!

Around the Waist and Bellybutton
Clothing seams around the waist can provide plenty of places for ticks to cling and settle. Don't forget to check inside and around your bellybutton, too.

Groin and Buttocks
Ticks aren’t shy about latching onto any warm, undisturbed place. A full-body mirror or trusted helper can make this easier.

Between Fingers and Toes
It’s easy to forget small crevices like these, but ticks can crawl between fingers and toes.

Under Watchbands, Bracelets, or Other Accessories
Ticks can crawl under snug accessories like wristbands or even rings. Remove these items during your tick check to ensure no spots are missed.

Use Good Lighting
A dimly lit room can make it harder to spot ticks. Check yourself in a bright area or use a flashlight to illuminate any shadows.

Grab an Extendable Adjustable Mirror
These mirrors make it easier to inspect your own back, behind your ears, and other hard-to-see areas without relying on someone else.

Use a Magnifying Glass
Tiny nymph ticks can be really hard to see and are experts at blending in with moles and freckles. A good magnifying glass can really come in handy for telling the difference. 

Buddy Up
Ask a family member or friend to check areas that are difficult for you to see, like your scalp or back.

Shower Soon After
Showering within two hours of being outdoors can help wash away any unattached ticks and give you a chance to do a thorough check.

Wear Light-Colored Clothing
Before you head outdoors, wear light-colored clothing, like the Mozzie Style's white mosquito net jackets and pants, to make spotting ticks easier. Tucking your pants into your socks can also reduce your chances of ticks crawling onto your skin.

Check Gear and Pets
Ticks can hitch a ride on clothing, gear, or furry friends and find their way to you later. Inspect your pets and outdoor items after every outing.

What to Do if You Find a Tick
If you find a tick, don’t panic! Follow these steps to safely remove it:

Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers or a Tick Tool
Grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible. Pull upward with steady pressure—avoid twisting or jerking.

Clean the Area
After removing the tick, clean the bite area with soap and water or an antiseptic.

Save the Tick
If possible, place the tick in a sealed bag or container in case you need it for identification later.

Monitor for Symptoms
Watch for signs of tick-borne illnesses, such as fever, rash, fatigue, or joint pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider.

By paying attention to the most commonly missed areas during a tick check, you can stay one step ahead of these pesky parasites. With a little extra vigilance and a solid post-outdoor routine, you can enjoy the great outdoors with greater peace of mind.

Have your own tips or experiences with tick checks? Share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!