10 best bug repellent lotion
Bug repellent lotions are skincare products formulated to help protect the skin from insect bites. These lotions typically contain active ingredients that insects find undesirable, helping to ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting bugs. The application of bug repellent lotion is a practical and convenient way to enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing the risk of insect bites.
Common active ingredients found in bug repellent lotions include DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, or natural alternatives like citronella, eucalyptus, or lemongrass oil. DEET is a highly effective synthetic repellent, while picaridin is a synthetic compound that is often considered a suitable alternative.
Bug repellent lotions not only provide protection against annoying bites but also offer the benefits of moisturization for the skin. They are designed to be applied directly to exposed skin areas, creating a protective barrier that deters insects from landing or biting.
It's important to follow the instructions on the product regarding application frequency and reapplication, especially if you are spending an extended period outdoors.Additionally, some formulations are designed for specific activities, such as water-resistant bug repellent lotions for swimming or sports.
Using bug repellent lotion is a practical and sensible approach to enjoying outdoor activities without the discomfort of insect bites, making it a staple for many during warm seasons or in regions where insects are prevalent.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bug repellent lotion on the marketProduct description
An effective alternative to DEET that’s safe for the whole family, Sawyer’s 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent provides effective protection from disease-spreading ticks (Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis) and mosquitoes (West Nile, Dengue, and Zika viruses). More effective at repelling biting flies than DEET, it's also effective at repelling stable flies, black flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies. Very comfortable to wear on your skin, it's ideal for all your outdoor adventures, from camping, backpacking, hunting, and fishing to backyard BBQs, sporting events, days at the park, and more. Sawyer 20% Picaridin topical spray is effective for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks (14 hours for the lotion), and the spray and lotion provide up to 8 hours of protection against biting flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies. Both the non-greasy, fragrance-free spray and lotion dry quickly and won't damage plastics or synthetic coatings — safe for use on clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing line, firearm finishes, and more. Available in a variety of spray and lotion bottle sizes, Sawyer 20% Picaridin also comes in individual 0.34-ounce lotion packets that are great for everyday use and small enough for carrying in a pocket, purse, or backpack. The top-rated bug repellent by WireCutter/New York Times (May, 2020), it's also considered to be the repellent of first choice by the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Canadian Advisory Committee on Tropical Medicine and Travel for travelers 6 months to 12 years of age. Maximize protection by pairing with Sawyer Permethrin tick and insect repellent spray for clothing and gear. Since 1984, Sawyer has used technological advancements to create products that keep you outdoors — from the backcountry to the backyard — including insect repellents for both skin and clothing, water filters for camping and emergencies, and sun protection.
- Safe for use on the whole family, long-lasting insect and tick repellent lotion deters a wide variety of pests — up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and up to 8 hours against flies, gnats, and chiggers
- Fragrance-free topical insect repellent with 20% Picaridin — more effective at repelling biting flies than DEET; repels disease-spreading ticks (Lyme, tick-borne encephalitis) and mosquitoes (West Nile, Dengue, and Zika viruses), chiggers, and more
- Very comfortable to wear on your skin, it's ideal for all your outdoor adventures, from camping, backpacking, hunting, and fishing to backyard BBQs, sporting events, days at the park, and more
- Non-greasy; dries quickly and won't damage plastics or synthetic coatings — safe for use on clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing line, firearm finishes, and more
- Top rated bug repellent by WireCutter/New York Times (May, 2020); maximize protection by pairing with Sawyer Permethrin tick and insect repellent spray for clothing and gear
User questions & answers
Question: | I'm traveling to Asia with a 2-year old for 5 weeks. How many bottles do you think I'll need for both of us |
Answer: | No but this works for all of the insects that we face in the woods. It will probably work |
Question: | Is this product oily like some lotions |
Answer: | provides 8+ hours protection from mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, chiggers, and biting flies. |
Question: | Will this really work for minnesota boundary waters mosquitos? I'm skeptical |
Answer: | Skin. For clothing, get Permethrin, but apply it ahead of time so it is completely dry once you wear the garment. I used Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent Trigger Spray for clothing and this repellent for skin while traveling in Central America. The combination provided excellent protection. |
Question: | Has anyone used both the spray and the lotion? Which works better for ticks in your opinion |
Answer: | I'm was cutting grass and gardening about 5-6 days a week. We had s very wet year also. I sprayed every time I went out and multiple times through out the day. 1 can lasted about 3-4 weeks. |
Product features
Long Lasting, Gear Safe Protection
Safe to use on the whole family, Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent is highly effective at deterring a wide array of insects and is great for use on both skin and clothing.
The non-greasy Picaridin offers all day protection, has a pleasant low citrus odor, and won’t damage plastics or synthetic coatings
Maximize protection from mosquitoes and ticks by combining Picaridin with Sawyer’s Permethrin insect repellent for clothing and gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Picaridin is the perfect balance of efficacy, safety, and user-friendliness. It repels a wide variety of pests including mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, sand flies, gnats, chiggers, and midges.
One of the longest lasting repellents available, it provides up to 14 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks (using the lotion; up to 12 hours for spray models), and up to 8 hours against a variety of flies, chiggers, and gnats.
Is Picaridin Safe for the Whole Family?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the active ingredient Icaridin (which is how Picaridin is known around the world) as the product of choice for malaria prophylaxis.*
Icaridin is recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Canadian Advisory Committee on Tropical Medicine and Travel for travelers six months to 12 years of age.**
Product description
Outdoor enthusiasts know that when the going gets tough, so should their insect repellent. However extreme the activity or terrain, there's a Repel insect repellent designed to offer dependable coverage that lasts as long as you need it to. Repel products make effective mosquito protection simple under any circumstance—so you can heed the call of the wild wherever the trail takes you. Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen Max Formula Lotion 40% DEET repels mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers and fleas with a convenient lotion formula. A tough repellent for any adventure, this formula contains 40% DEET – designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts exposed to the toughest conditions. Repels mosquitoes that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses. The easy-to-apply lotion stores nicely with outdoor gear or in your backpack. Take it everywhere for effective, long-lasting protection.DEET has been used as an insect repellent in the United States for more than 50 years. It’s recommended for those spending longer periods of time outdoors, in more heavily infested conditions. Recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for effective, long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, DEET is also an effective repellent for ticks. DEET-based products are available in a wide variety of Repel formulas, including aerosols, sprays and wipes. DEET insect repellents with 30 percent concentrations or lower can be used on children ages 2 months and older.
- REPELS: Creates a barrier against mosquitoes, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.
- CONTAINS 40% DEET: Provides long-lasting protection in the great outdoors.
- DEVELOPED FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS: Especially for campers, backpackers, golfers, hunters, bikers, hikers, joggers, ball players and others who are active outdoors.
- REPELS OTHER INSECTS: Repels mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, gnats, chiggers and fleas.
- LOTION: Lotion is easily packed with outdoor gear so it's ready whenever you need it.
User questions & answers
Question: | Can I use on a 1 year old baby |
Answer: | It's a great repellent |
Question: | Will the airlines allow this since it is 4 ounces |
Answer: | The actual spray is good but my plastic bottles were defective and did not spray properly.. they were useless |
Question: | How does it smell |
Answer: | As each region of the world have different species of mosquitoes.I suggest you do your research on the type of repellent that is effective for that region.Being in the military in the passed one has to be diligent in the choice of mosquito repellent . |
Question: | gnat |
Answer: | We ship all our products the fastest most economical way possible. |
Product features
Repel Personal Insect Repellent Products
Adventure awaits. Whether you’re camping, fishing, hunting or heeding the call of the wild, you need an insect repellent that’s going to go the extra mile. Repel Insect Repellents offer dependable coverage that last as long as you need it to. So gear up and get ready for your next adventure – Repel Insect Repellents have your back.
Pump
- Perfect for prolonged outdoor activities.
- Spray upside down for easy application.
Aerosol
- Perfect for prolonged outdoor activities.
- Available in various active ingredient concentrations to match the length of your outdoor activity.
Wipes
- Convenient, on-the-go application.
Lotion
- Easily packed with your outdoor gear.
Repellent Active Ingredients
Although using any repellent is most important, choosing the right active ingredient for your individual needs can make repelling bugs a painless process. Consider the length of time you’ll be outside
and the type of activity you’re planning.
- Deet has been used in the U.S. for more than 50 years and continues to be an effective option for consumers. DEET-based products are recommended for those who plan to spend longer periods of time outdoors in more heavily infested conditions.
- Picaridin (pronounced “pick-CARE-a-den”) became available in the U.S. in 2005. Clean, odorless and effective, this active ingredient provides the long-lasting, effective protection consumers have come to expect from DEET in a formula with a light, clean feel.
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus is the only plant-based active ingredient recommended by the CDC. Derived from oil obtained from the leaves of the Eucalyptus citriodora tree, this active ingredient repels mosquitoes and deer ticks for up to six hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the expiration date? I can’t find it listed on the container.
A: When stored properly and not exposed to extreme temperatures, Repel products will last for several years. If you notice any change in odor or appearance or damage to the packaging, replace the repellent with a new product.
Q: Is DEET safe to use on children?
A: Formulas with 30 percent concentrations or lower can be used on children ages 2 months or older.
Q: Will DEET damage my clothing or gear?
A: DEET will not damage nylon, cotton or wool. It may damage some synthetic fabrics, plastics, watch crystals, leather and painted or varnished surfaces. Wash treated clothing before wearing it again.
Product description
The Ultrathon insect repellent lotion delivers excellent protection against biting insects, so you can enjoy the great outdoors without the worry. Designed to provide long-lasting mosquito repellency in some of the world's harshest environments, This insect repellent deliversup to 12 hours of powerful protection from mosquitoes with innovative 3M time-release technology. This mosquito repellent utilizes a polymer to trap DEET & slowly release it over skin surfaces to provide protection You can rely on for your whole family. This insect repellent is proven to repel mosquitoes that may carry viruses such as Zika, West Nile & Dengue fever. So get out there, get dirty & explore the wonders of nature¬–but first protect yourself & Your loved ones with Ultrathon insect repellent lotion.
- Contains 34.34% DEET for superb protection against insect bites
- Proven to repel mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, chiggers, gnats, fleas and deer flies
- Repels mosquitoes that may carry Zika virus, West Nile virus, Dengue fever, Chikungunya and deer ticks that may carry Lyme disease
- Advanced 3M controlled release technology provides a continuous shield of protection that lasts up to 12 hours when used as directed
- Unique time-release technology provides long-lasting protection
User questions & answers
Question: | Can it be used on the face and neck |
Answer: | This repellent is pretty strong....Which means it works. I have and do use it on my neck and ears. I have not used it on my face. |
Question: | the picture of the item says 1.5 ounces but the description says 2 ounces... which one is correct |
Answer: | 2 ounces is correct. No more, no less, but enough to last for 2 people on Koh Phi Phi Island for 5 days. |
Question: | Will one of these last 2 weeks with daily use |
Answer: | That all depends what "daily use" means. Are you planning on applying it liberally or only using a drop? Will you need to re-apply after 12 hrs, or just be using it once a day? How extensive is the surface area you'll need to cover each day? In my experience, one container will not last 2 weeks. It's pretty small, being only 2 oz. |
Question: | How does it smell? I use Off Deep Woods which has that citrus-y weird smell. Is this similar, milder, stronger in terms of smell |
Answer: | This should be much milder than Off Deep Woods aerosol that I have used. I can smell the Ultrathon, but it is so much more kind to me than the aerosols. And you don't spray it so it can't end up in your nose (unless you intentionally put it there!). This is probably the best (or one of the best) smelling DEET-based repellent. DEET is very effective but the smell and inhalation were big negatives for me, and I feel that this lotion solves those problems. |
Product features
The Ultrathon Brand Promise
The Ultrathon Brand assures its products will be of the highest quality. If you are not completely satisfied with your Ultrathon Brand product, you may return it within 30 days of purchase, with proof of purchase, for a refund or replacement unless it meets one of the situations below. We do this to protect all our customers and make sure that we handle every return or exchange with reasonable fairness.
Product description
4 Fl oz bottle insect repellent and sunscreen lotion in one. Provides repellent to insects outdoors with protecting your skin from the sun
- Suitable for the entire family
- Spf 30 Water Resistant
- Helps prevent sunburn
- PABA Free
- Non greasy formula helps replenish moisture and leaves skin soft and smooth
User questions & answers
Question: | Would this work against the chikugunya mosquitos |
Answer: | I got it to protect my toddler this summer. It worked well. When I forgot it we could not even sit on our front porch, after applying it he was bite free. |
Question: | Can you apply this to your face before applying makeup? Or, in other words, does this work under your makeup |
Answer: | Personally, I wouldn't apply it to my face. The directions state to keep out of eyes and to not use on broken skin. Nothing stated about applying to the face. |
Question: | Does this work well for flea bites? If it doesn't, then I'm not gonna buy this |
Answer: | It does, and for everyone who think this is about regular fleas, is not, sand fleas or sand flies live in the tropical beaches like Florida or the caribbean and their bite is worst than mosquitos. |
Question: | What is the difference, it any, between this and the Avon SKin So Soft Bug Guard Expediton version in the green bottle |
Answer: | The Expedition is meant to be for long deep woods excursions where a stronger bug repellent is needed for longer periods of time (it essentially is stronger). It comes in a pump spray or aerosol spray. This Bug Guard Plus comes in a lotion that is easy to apply to children or in cases where people do not want a spray. The fragrance of each is also different. |
Product features
Small changes in product size & weight lead to lower carbon emissions.
We created Compact by Design to identify products that, while they may not always look very different, have a more efficient design. With the removal of excess air and water, products require less packaging and become more efficient to ship. At scale, these small differences in product size and weight lead to significant carbon emission reductions.
- Trust Proven insect repellent for effective protection from mosquitoes and ticks - use with confidence on the whole family
- Contains 20% Picaridin, an active ingredient recommended by the CDC; alternative to DEET insect repellent
- Long-lasting protection - repels mosquitoes and ticks for up to 14 hours; repels black flies, gnats, chiggers and no-see-ums for up to 8 hours
- Odorless bug repellent, non-greasy,clean feel. Don’t like bug spray? Try lotion for easy face application.
- EPA registered mosquito repellent, made in USA with ingredients sourced from USA and Germany
User questions & answers
Question: | does it smell like heavy chemical |
Answer: | It does not. The smell is very faint and once it dries, you cannot smell it at all. |
Question: | List of ingredients? Includes a sunscreen? If so, which ones (hopefully no hormone mimicking, oxybenzone, octinoxate, or homosalate |
Answer: | Active Ingredient is Picaridin. According to the CDC, Picaridin is proven safe and effective, even for use on pregnant and breastfeeding women when used as directed. *Does not include sunscreen |
Question: | Does it leave any type of feel or film on the skin? Most bug sprays leave a sticky feel or a film (and smell) until I wash it off |
Answer: | I don't perceive a film 9n the skin but the scent is not pleasant. I suppose,this comes down to what bothers you more--the insect bites and associated discomfort or the smell. This stuff works on me so far this year. Hint: apply to clean skin. The bugs are attracted by scent (sweat, skin oils) and reducing those and then adding the repellant maximizes effectiveness. Good luck!! |
Question: | Does it work with Biting flies? I have tried regular bug spray but feel like nothing is stopping the biting flies from getting us |
Answer: | Yes, It does work with biting flies. |
Product features
Proven Insect Repellent – Effective Protection Against Mosquitoes, Ticks & Flies
Enjoy the outdoors insect-free with Proven Insect Repellent! Our insect repellent contains 20% Picaridin (derived from the black pepper plant) – an active ingredient recommended by the CDC, and World Health Organization (WHO) for effective protection against mosquito and tick species that may transmit diseases. Proven Insect Repellent Sprays and Lotions effectively repel mosquitoes, ticks black flies, biting flies, stable flies, gnats, chiggers, sand flies, and No-see-ums (Scottish biting midges).
Proven bug repellents are non-greasy, and can be used to protect the whole family. Our insect repellent sprays and lotion help to keep pesky and disease-carrying bugs away all day. With a single application, our effective formula works to protect against mosquitoes and ticks for up to 12-14 hours and other listed insects for up to 8 hours so you can enjoy the best parts of being outdoors.
Picaridin vs. DEET
Picaridin is a long-lasting ingredient that has a low acute toxicity, low skin absorption rate, and provides effective protection from mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects, according to independent testing.
Studies have shown that 20% Picaridin concentration is equally as effective at repelling insects as higher concentrations of DEET – for those looking for a DEET alternative. Our effective formula contains Saltidin (20% Picaridin) and provides effective 12-14 -hour protection against mosquitoes and ticks.
About PROVEN
The insect repellent market has historically offered solutions with either harsh chemicals or less than effective natural repellents. As a health-conscious family we didn’t want to have to choose, and neither should your family.
So we developed Proven, a range of insect repellent sprays and lotions you can trust to keep bugs away from your family all day.
Proven seeks to create safe, quality-focused, effective products for the health-conscious family.
Proven is made in the USA with ingredients sourced from the US and Germany. Products are EPA
registered. Proven promises transparency and independently studied proof of our claims so that health conscious consumers like you can feel protected while enjoying the outdoors.
Long-lasting Protection
The insect repellent market historically has offered solutions with either harsh chemicals or less than effective natural repellent. We didn’t want to have to choose, and neither should your family. So, we developed Proven: a range of insect repellent sprays and lotions you can trust to keep bugs away from your family all day.
Broad Spectrum Repellent
Proven Insect Repellent Spray and Lotion effectively repel mosquitoes, ticks, black flies, biting flies, stable flies, gnats, chiggers, sand flies, and No-see-ums (Scottish biting midges). With a single application, our effective formula works to protect against mosquitoes and ticks, for 12-14 hours and other insects for up to 8 hours so you can comfortably enjoy the outdoors all day!
Trustworthy Care
Proven Insect Repellent Lotion is perfect for those who want complete, unwavering coverage and protection from annoying insects and pests. A DEET-free alternative, Picaridin has low acute toxicity and skin absorption, according to independent studies. There is no sticky greasy feel and it’s completely odorless or available with a gentle scent.
- NATURAL SUNSCREEN AND BUG REPELLENT LOTION FOR FAMILY & KIDS - MSRP $41.97 - No need to worry about whether applying bug repellent and sunscreen might bring harm to your skin as our two-in-one bug repellent with sunscreen is enriched with organic ingredients and university tested to ensure it is always DEET-FREE, ALCOHOL-FREE and PARABEN-FREE. Our DEET FREE bug repellent is designed for convenient & portable for on-the-go sun repellent against biting mosquitos and harmful UVA / UVB rays.
- ALL IN ONE INSECT REPELLENT TO SAVE TIME AND MONEY - If you are a person who likes to go hiking or camping frequently with your friends and kids, then our sunscreen bug repellent in one makes a great companion for any trip or activity saving you money and time with both products in one! Our outdoor bug repellent is university tested to repel mosquitoes with organic ingredients. This bug repellant repels mosquitoes without leaving your skin feeling sticky or greasy
- NATURALLY SHIELD YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN - Don’t let the sun stop you from enjoying the outdoors! Our natural skin sunscreen is infused with non nano uncoated zinc oxide and shields your skin from the sun with Broad Spectrum SPF 30. This lightweight sunscreen is fast absorbing and provides a long lasting repellent against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Our nontoxic sunscreen is highly effective and can be used everyday without having the fear of harmful chemicals entering your body.
- WATER RESISTANT AND FRESH SCENT - Are you tired of applying a bug repellent that gives an unpleasant smell? If that is the case, don’t worry, our eco-friendly mosquito repellent has a pleasant fragrance. Our 3oz travel sunscreen helps you to enjoy the great outdoors wherever your next adventure may take you with natural repellent from the sun and mosquitos! This travel size mosquito repellent is completely water resistant up to 40 minutes and reef friendly. Have fun in the sun and water!
- GREENERWAYS CUSTOMER PROMISE - RISK FREE SHIPPING AND FREE RETURNS. We believe in delivering the highest quality affordable organic products in the belief that everyone deserves to enjoy the benefits of a chemical-free, organic lifestyle.
Product description
Proven Insect Repellent Combo Pack - Spray and Lotion - Protects Against Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies - Odorless - 6oz each
- Proven insect repellent for effective protection from mosquitoes and ticks
- Contains 20 Percent Picaridin, an active ingredient recommended by the CDC; alternative to DEET insect repellent
- Long-lasting protection - repels mosquitoes and ticks for up to 12 hours; repels black flies, gnats, chiggers and no-see-ums for up to 8 hours
- Odorless or Gentle Scent bug spray and lotion, non-greasy, clean feel
- EPA registered mosquito repellent, made in USA with ingredients sourced from USA and Germany
User questions & answers
Question: | Can you wear sun block with this |
Answer: | Hello - Thank you for asking. This product is designed to repel mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, chiggers, gnats, fleas, and deer flies. |
Question: | one guy said this was sticky? Is it |
Answer: | 3M's personal application spray |
Question: | Is this unscented |
Answer: | Its a pump spray. |
Question: | is there a "use by" date |
Answer: | Well personally I do not get any odor out of it but to make sure I asked my wife to see if she smelled any thing and she could not get an odor either but I tell ya what thought it really works well must be like the commercial you rub it on and you disappear don't need an odor and I live in minnesota we got of bugs |
Product features
The Ultrathon Brand Promise
The Ultrathon Brand assures its products will be of the highest quality. If you are not completely satisfied with your Ultrathon Brand product, you may return it within 30 days of purchase, with proof of purchase, for a refund or replacement unless it meets one of the situations below. We do this to protect all our customers and make sure that we handle every return or exchange with reasonable fairness.
Product description
This lotion "kills 2 bugs with one stone" (ha ha) Skeeter Beater is a very soft, creamy, moisturizing lotion that also keeps the skeeters away. Great for those of us that don't like chemicals on us, but still don't like getting eaten by bugs. Made from natural oils and essential oils (Citronella essential oil) Use after an evening shower so you can moisturize your skin and still sit by the fire with friends and family! Use in combination with Trascentuals Skeeter Beater Soap in case of heavy insect areas.
- Natural Lotion Made With Citronella Essential Oil
- DOES NOT CONTAIN DEET
- Lotion is easier to use than sprays, it won't get in your mouth or eyes
- Moisturizes the skin while deterring insects
- Bottle is convenient for travel as it won't spray on accident in your gear
Product description
Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard AQhPMF PLUS IR3535 Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion - SPF 30 Gentle Breeze, 4 oz (2 Pack)
- Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard AQhPMF PLUS IR3535 Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion - SPF 30 Gentle Breeze, 4 oz (2 Pack)
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