Mosquitoes are pesky insects that can ruin an otherwise perfect outdoor experience. Not only do they cause itchy bites, but they can also transmit diseases like Zika, dengue fever, and malaria. To avoid these unwanted consequences, many people turn to mosquito repellents.
When it comes to choosing the best mosquito repellent for skin, there are several things to consider. The first is the active ingredient. DEET, picaridin, and IR3535 are the most effective repellents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, some people may prefer natural alternatives like oil of lemon eucalyptus or citronella.
Another important factor is the concentration of the active ingredient. Higher concentrations generally provide longer protection but may also increase the risk of skin irritation. It's also essential to consider the duration of protection, especially if you plan to be outside for an extended period.
After researching and testing various options, we have identified the best mosquito repellents for skin. Our top picks offer reliable protection, are easy to apply, and have minimal side effects. With these products, you can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about pesky mosquitoes.
Best Mosquito Repellent for Skin
We understand the frustration of mosquito bites, especially during outdoor activities or when traveling to tropical regions. That's why we've researched and tested various mosquito repellents to bring you our top picks for the best mosquito repellent for skin. Our list includes products that are effective against different types of mosquitoes, safe for all skin types, and easy to apply. Keep reading to find the perfect mosquito repellent for your needs.
Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin
Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes and ticks carrying Lyme Disease and other disease-carrying nuisances with the Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce.
Pros
- Safe for use on the whole family
- Long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, gnats, and chiggers
- Non-greasy and fragrance-free
Cons
- Causes substantial but temporary eye injury
- May need to reapply after excessive sweating or swimming
- May not be as effective as DEET-based repellents in areas with high mosquito populations
We highly recommend the Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce for anyone looking for an effective and safe insect repellent. This product is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and backyard BBQs.
The long-lasting protection of up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and up to 8 hours against flies, gnats, and chiggers makes it perfect for all-day protection. The non-greasy and fragrance-free formula is comfortable to wear on your skin and won't damage plastics or synthetic coatings.
However, it is important to note that this product may cause substantial but temporary eye injury, so be sure to take extra care when applying around the face. Additionally, you may need to reapply after excessive sweating or swimming. In areas with high mosquito populations, DEET-based repellents may be more effective.
Overall, the Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce is a top-rated bug repellent and a great choice for anyone looking for a safe and effective insect repellent.
Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
If you're looking for a DEET-free mosquito repellent that actually works, Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is a great option. We've used this product on several outdoor adventures and have been impressed with its effectiveness.
Pros
- Made with oil of lemon eucalyptus, a plant-based ingredient recommended by the CDC
- Repels mosquitoes for up to 6 hours, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue, and Chikungunya viruses
- Not greasy or sticky, and has a refreshing scent
Cons
- May need to reapply after sweating or swimming
- Some users may not like the scent
- Oil-based formula may stain clothing
We appreciate that this insect repellent is made with oil of lemon eucalyptus, which is a natural alternative to DEET. It's also effective at repelling not just mosquitoes, but other biting insects as well. We've found that it lasts for several hours before needing to be reapplied, although if you're sweating or swimming, you may need to reapply more frequently.
One thing to note is that the formula is oil-based, which means it can leave stains on clothing. We recommend applying it before getting dressed and allowing it to fully dry before coming into contact with any fabrics.
Overall, we think Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is a great choice for anyone looking for an effective, DEET-free mosquito repellent. It's easy to apply, lasts for hours, and has a refreshing scent that won't leave you feeling greasy or sticky.
Repel 100 Insect Repellent
If you're looking for a mosquito repellent that will last for hours, Repel 100 Insect Repellent is a great choice. We highly recommend this product for outdoor enthusiasts who need dependable coverage that lasts as long as they need it to.
Pros
- Provides up to 10 hours of protection
- Repels mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers, and fleas
- Formulated for severe insect conditions
Cons
- Contains 98.11% DEET, which may not be suitable for everyone
- Strong odor
- Can be oily when first applied
We recently used Repel 100 Insect Repellent on a camping trip and were impressed with its effectiveness. We were able to spend hours outdoors without being bothered by mosquitoes or other biting insects. The spray pump made it easy to apply, and we appreciated that it was compact enough to store with our other gear.
One thing to keep in mind is that this product contains a high concentration of DEET, which may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, the strong odor may not be appealing to some users. We also noticed that the spray can be oily when first applied, but it does dry quickly.
Overall, we highly recommend Repel 100 Insect Repellent for anyone who needs long-lasting protection against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Just be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions carefully.
Sallye Ander "No-Bite-Me" All Natural Bug Repellent & Insect Repellent
If you're looking for an all-natural mosquito repellent that is safe for kids and infants, Sallye Ander "No-Bite-Me" is a great option. It also repels fleas, ticks, and black flies, making it a versatile choice for outdoor activities.
Pros
- The unique blend of pure essential oils provides up to 4 hours of protection against bugs.
- The cream-based formula not only repels bugs but also relieves itchy, bug-bitten skin with soothing, moisturizing beeswax.
- The fast-acting scent created by active ingredients like mint, lemongrass, and cedarwood is pleasant and packs a powerful punch.
Cons
- The strong scent may not be appealing to everyone.
- The cream may feel greasy on the skin.
- The 2-ounce tin may not be enough for extended outdoor activities.
We recently tried Sallye Ander "No-Bite-Me" during a camping trip, and we were impressed with its effectiveness. The cream was easy to apply and didn't leave a mess. We appreciated that it is an eco-friendly and DEET-free bug repellent, making it safe for our family and the environment.
One thing to note is that the scent is quite strong, so if you're sensitive to smells, this may not be the best option for you. Additionally, the cream may feel greasy on the skin, but we found that it was worth it for the relief it provided from bug bites.
Overall, we would recommend Sallye Ander "No-Bite-Me" to anyone looking for an all-natural bug repellent that is safe for kids and infants. It's a trusted product that has been used by families for over 40 years, and we can see why.
Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray
Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray is a great option for anyone looking for an effective, environmentally friendly, and fragrance-free mosquito repellent.
Pros
- LONG LASTING PROTECTION - Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray provides 14-hour protection from mosquitoes and ticks, thanks to its plant-powered Picaridin formula.
- KID FRIENDLY - This insect repellent is made with CDC recommended Picaridin, a bioidentical version of a long black pepper plant, making it safe for kids and pregnant women.
- IT DOES THE JOB - This water-resistant and non-flammable insect repellent repels biting flies, gnats, and chiggers for up to 8 hours.
Cons
- NOT AVAILABLE FOR SHIPPING TO MAINE, HAWAII, AND CANADA - Unfortunately, this product is not available for shipping to Maine, Hawaii, and Canada.
- LIMITED SIZE OPTIONS - Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray comes in only one size, a 4-ounce bottle.
- MAY NOT BE EFFECTIVE FOR ALL BUGS - While it works great for mosquitos, it may not be as effective against other bugs like chiggers.
Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray is a great choice for anyone looking for an effective, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly mosquito repellent. It is easy to apply, dries quickly, and doesn't leave any greasy residue on your skin. Plus, it doesn't have any lingering chemical odor, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
I have used this product during insect season, and it has kept me protected from bites. I love that it is made with plant-powered Picaridin, which is a safer alternative to DEET. It is also safe for kids and pregnant women, making it a great option for families.
Overall, I highly recommend Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray for anyone looking for an effective and safe mosquito repellent.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best mosquito repellent for skin, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:
Active Ingredients
The active ingredients in mosquito repellents are what actually repel the mosquitoes. The most common active ingredients include DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus. Each of these ingredients has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose a repellent with an active ingredient that suits your needs.
Concentration
The concentration of the active ingredient in a mosquito repellent determines how long it will last. Generally, the higher the concentration, the longer the protection. However, higher concentrations can also increase the risk of skin irritation, so it’s important to choose a concentration that is appropriate for your skin type.
Application Method
Mosquito repellents come in various forms, including sprays, lotions, and wipes. The application method you choose will depend on your personal preference and the activity you’ll be doing. Sprays are great for outdoor activities, while lotions are better for everyday use.
Duration of Protection
The duration of protection varies from product to product. Some repellents last for only a few hours, while others can provide protection for up to 12 hours. Consider the length of time you’ll be spending outdoors and choose a repellent that will provide adequate protection.
Other Considerations
Other factors to consider when choosing a mosquito repellent include scent, texture, and packaging. Some people prefer products with a pleasant scent, while others prefer unscented products. The texture of the product can also affect how it feels on your skin. Finally, consider the packaging and whether it’s convenient for your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best mosquito repellent for your skin and enjoy your time outdoors without being bothered by pesky mosquitoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best mosquito repellent to put on your body?
The best mosquito repellent to put on your body is one that contains DEET, picaridin, or IR3535. These ingredients have been proven to be effective in repelling mosquitoes. It's important to follow the instructions on the label and reapply as needed.
What is the number 1 mosquito repellent?
There is no one "number 1" mosquito repellent that works for everyone. The effectiveness of a mosquito repellent can depend on a number of factors, including the type of mosquito, the concentration of the repellent, and the individual's body chemistry. However, products containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 are generally considered to be the most effective.
What is the healthiest mosquito repellent?
When it comes to mosquito repellents, there is no one "healthiest" option. However, there are some natural alternatives to chemical repellents that can be effective, such as citronella oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, and soybean oil. It's important to note that natural repellents may not provide as long-lasting protection as chemical repellents.
What can I put on my skin to keep mosquitoes from biting me?
To keep mosquitoes from biting you, you can apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to your skin. You can also wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and avoid being outside during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).
What are the best mosquito repellents for kids?
When it comes to choosing a mosquito repellent for kids, it's important to choose a product that is safe and effective. Products containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 are generally considered safe for children when used according to the instructions on the label. However, it's best to avoid using repellents on infants under 2 months old.
What are the top mosquito repellent lotions for skin?
Some of the top mosquito repellent lotions for skin include products containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535. Other options include natural repellents containing citronella oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, or soybean oil. It's important to choose a product that is effective and safe for your individual needs.
