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CNN
08-08-2025
- Health
- CNN
I tried the best tick repellent products, according to entomologists. Here's how to stay safe
Tick repellent quick picks Tick repellent for clothing and gear: Insect Shield Premium Permethrin Spray DEET tick repellent for skin: Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent DEET-free tick repellent: Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent Tick-removal tweezers: Tweezerman Stainless Steel Splintertweeze If you're spending time outdoors, especially during peak tick season, it's essential to use the best tick repellent products. 'There is nothing good that happens when a tick attaches to the human body,' said Elmer Gray, a medical and veterinary entomologist at the University of Georgia, so finding ways to prevent them from doing so is key to enjoying worry-free time outdoors. When it comes to protecting yourself from ticks, there's no shortage of products to choose from, but some products are more effective than others. Many tick repellents contain active ingredients like permethrin, DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus, which are often considered highly effective, but there are also products such as tick-repelling bracelets, stickers and essential oils that some people swear by. The latter, however, don't have the same demonstrated success, according to Gray. To help you stay safe from ticks and tick-borne diseases, I consulted top entomologists and tick experts to identify the most effective tick repellents, bug sprays and tick-removal strategies that actually work. Andrea Swei, professor of biology at San Francisco State University with a speciality in tick-borne pathogens and a doctorate in infectious disease ecology, said that treating clothes and outdoor gear with permethrin is highly effective for outdoor recreation. But since permethrin is an insecticide, it should only be applied to clothing and gear, not your skin. When applying the spray, ensure you're in a well-ventilated outdoor area and follow each product's instructions. Gray recommended 'treating your shoes, socks and pants over the waistline with this material if you're going to be exposed to known tick populations.' This treatment is particularly beneficial for regular hikers, campers and anyone frequently exposed to tick habitats. Insect Shield Premium Permethrin Spray The permethrin in this spray paralyzes ticks and protects you for up to 60 days. Insect Shield Premium Permethrin Spray is also almost completely odorless and delivered a consistent, even coating when I applied it to my shoes and clothing. I left the treated articles to dry for two hours outdoors, per label instructions, but I noticed the shoes I treated were dry in 30 minutes. The spray left no stickiness after drying. Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent This spray dries in about an hour, and while it is odorless, it has a noticeable chemical smell during application. I liked that it had both spray and stream application settings for precise coverage. Applying a permethrin spray like this one can provide up to six weeks of protection from ticks. 'I use permethrin products to spray my pants and tops of boots before entering infested areas,' said Jerome Goddard, a medical entomologist and professor with a doctorate in entomology at Mississippi State Women's No Fly Zone Pants If you're like me and want to venture outdoors safely with minimal prep time, these trousers are pretreated with permethrin and offer protection without the hassle of spending hours applying a spray yourself. They also protect the skin from the sun with UPF 50 sun protection. Men's No Fly Zone Pants No Fly Zone trousers provide tick protection for up to 70 washes. According to Goddard, permethrin-treated clothing is an effective option trusted by the military and endorsed by outdoor enthusiasts. Women's Insect Shield Field Tee With lightweight fabric, UPF 50 sun protection and an EPA-approved permethrin mosquito- and tick-repellent coating, Insect Shield Field Tee offers practical protection suitable for most outdoor adventures. Men's Insect Shield Field Tee A permethrin long-sleeved tee is a great option because it provides additional protection while covering exposed skin. Gray said that those in high-exposure areas should be vigilant about tucking in their clothing, even when treated with permethrin, to reduce the risk of exposure. Insect Shield Lightweight Hiking Socks With Permethrin Bug Repellant These socks are soft and thick with added tick protection. According to Gray, many tick encounters occur when we walk through wooded or grassy areas and vegetation brushes against our legs. Tucking in permethrin-treated socks like these can stop ticks from coming in contact with your skin. You can apply DEET directly to your skin for proven protection against ticks. According to the CDC, DEET bug spray works by making it harder for insects like mosquitoes and ticks to smell humans (and then bite them). Goddard said sticking to a specific range of concentration is best to avoid potential adverse reactions from overuse. 'There is really no need to use 100% DEET as a repellent when 20% to 35% DEET products are very effective,' he said. Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent has less of the oily feel characteristic of many DEET repellents, which made it a top pick in our best bug sprays guide. With a 25% concentration of DEET, it provides comfortable protection from ticks. Read our review OFF! Deep Woods DEET Insect Repellent Aerosol Deep Woods from OFF! is a 25% DEET formula that repels gnats, mosquitoes and biting flies in addition to ticks. Goddard said DEET repellents are the gold standard for on-skin application. Ben's Tick and Insect Repellent Eco Spray Ben's Tick and Insect Repellent Eco Spray smells like traditional bug spray and leaves a slightly oily residue on the skin, but it uses a 30% concentration of DEET, which is an ideal amount for repelling ticks, according to Goddard. IR3535-based products provide long-lasting tick and mosquito protection and were recommended by both Swei and Goddard for on-skin use. Coleman IR3535 SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent For those put off by the feel of DEET, Colman's SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent was quick-drying without a greasy or sticky feel when tested by outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Kai Burkhardt. IR3535 is EPA registered and recommended as a tick repellent by the CDC. Read our review Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535 Expedition Aerosol Spray Goddard recommends using products containing IR3535, like this Skin-So-Soft aerosol spray, for reliable tick and mosquito protection for up to eight hours. It also provides SPF 28 protection. Since you typically want to reapply sunscreen more often than bug spray, be careful not to reapply this repellent more than its instructions indicate. Lemon eucalyptus-based repellents offer a natural yet effective short-term solution against ticks, making them suitable for those seeking alternatives to synthetic chemicals. The experts I spoke to said to avoid other essential oil- or natural oil-based repellents, though. According to Gray, repellents with this EPA-approved active ingredient are one of the best types for skin application. Coleman Botanticals Insect Repellent Spray With Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus If you want to avoid DEET, repellents using lemon eucalyptus, like this one, can protect you for up to six hours. Gray said this natural repellent is a short-term but effective option against ticks. Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito and Tick Bug Repellent Spray Swei said oil of lemon eucalyptus is the only natural oil she recommends for tick prevention, since other natural oil-based tick repellents have not been proven to be effective. Picaridin is appreciated for its feel and strong protection against mosquitoes, but it also protects against ticks. It's an option for those who dislike the oily feel of DEET. According to Swei, picaridin repellents have some of the longest periods of effectiveness and can remain effective against ticks for up to eight hours. Proven Insect Repellent Mosquito and Tick Odorless Picaridin Spray This traditional spray bottle option offers 14 hours of protection from ticks and was a top pick in our best bug sprays guide. I like that this formulation also repels mosquitoes and flies. Read our review Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent This 20% picaridin formula comes as a lotion, and I liked that it lacked the greasy or sticky feel of some other insect repellent products. It provides eight-hour protection from ticks and mosquitoes too. When it comes to tick removal, experts unanimously recommend tweezers as the safest and most effective tool. Tweezerman Stainless Steel Splintertweeze "A pair of tweezers is just as effective as any [tick remover] I have seen," Goddard said. A thin head, like the one on this Tweezerman pair, helps to grip ticks for removal. Tick Mitt Tick Removal Glove Though tweezers are recommended for removing embedded ticks, options like this tick glove can help remove ticks on pets and clothing that have not yet embedded. The right tick protection depends on your environment, activity level and personal preferences. If you're heading into a wooded area or tall grass, experts recommend taking a layered approach. 'Permethrin sprayed on clothing and equipment does a good job of protecting most people who are hiking, recreating outdoors or gardening,' Swei said. For exposed skin, topical repellents offer another layer of protection, and DEET is the best option. 'DEET is a longtime standard that is easily available in many formulations and is highly effective,' Gray said. Picaridin is also effective, with studies showing up to eight hours of protection from certain formulations. 'The gold standards for tick repellents on skin are DEET, picaridin and a compound called IR3535,' Goddard said. For those looking for plant-based alternatives, oil of lemon eucalyptus is the only natural option with proven efficacy, according to Swei. Choosing between sprays, creams or treated clothing often comes down to comfort and convenience. Sprays may offer more even coverage, while creams can be easier to apply to smaller areas. For most people, a combination of permethrin-treated clothing and a skin-applied repellent with at least 20% active ingredient provides the best defense. Also, though they are other popular alternatives, 'stickers and bracelets are not effective and should not be used,' Gray said. If you're unsure what tick protection would be best for you, the EPA offers an interactive tool to help consumers select repellents based on personal needs and activity types. If you find a tick on your body, swift removal is key. Use a clean pair of tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out with steady pressure. Wash the bite area with soap and water and apply a local antiseptic. Gray recommends placing the tick in a sealed bag or medicine vial and freezing it in case symptoms arise later. Once the tick is removed, clean the area thoroughly and monitor your health over the next two weeks. 'If any kind of illness — headache, fever, rash — begins within the next 14 days, they should see their physician with the tick removal information,' Gray said. Swei also said that ticks often take hours to embed, so frequent tick checks during and after outdoor activity increase the chance of spotting one before it bites. Some ticks, such as the Lone Star tick, can trigger a fairly immediate allergic reaction. 'Their saliva produces a strong allergic reaction that will produce a significant, very itchy welt,' Gray said. He recommends washing the area with very hot water and applying cortisone cream to ease irritation and reduce the chance of infection. The following questions were answered by professor and entomologist Jerome Goddard, entomologist and public health specialist Elmer Gray, and biology professor and expert in infectious disease ecology Andrea Swei. What repels ticks? What repels ticks? Ticks are most effectively repelled by products containing EPA-approved active ingredients, with permethrin, DEET, picaridin and IR3535 leading the list. According to Gray, 'permethrin and higher (25% to 40%) concentrations of DEET' are especially effective. Permethrin is used to treat clothing and gear and is widely recommended, while skin-applied repellents like picaridin and IR3535 offer strong protection when used as directed. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is the only natural ingredient the experts we consulted consider effective. Plant-based oils like citronella or rosemary may offer minimal protection but wear off quickly and are not recommended for serious prevention. Does DEET repel ticks? Does DEET repel ticks? Yes, DEET is a proven and effective tick repellent when used at the right concentration. 'DEET does repel ticks,' Goddard said. Concentrations between 20% and 40% are both safe and effective, with no need for 100% formulations. While DEET can have an oily feel and may damage some plastics, it remains a trusted, widely available option for ticks and mosquitoes. Does bug repellent work on ticks? Does bug repellent work on ticks? Bug repellents can work on ticks, but not all formulas are effective. While many products marketed for mosquitoes are also labeled for ticks, the concentration of the active ingredient is key. 'It is recommended that concentrations of 20% or greater be used for ticks. This eliminates many of the commercially available products,' Gray said. The EPA is working on a clearer labeling system to help consumers understand which repellents are effective against specific pests, as some ingredients last longer or perform better on mosquitoes than ticks, Swei said. Should I use a tick testing kit? Should I use a tick testing kit? While tick testing kits are widely available, Goddard warned that a negative test result can be misleading. 'What if there were several ticks that got on you and bit you that day?' he said. 'You might start showing signs and symptoms of tick-borne illness, but think, 'Nope. It can't be a tick disease. The test showed negative.'' Instead, tracking symptoms and timing is more reliable. When in doubt, consult a healthcare provider. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Jerome Goddard, medical entomologist at Mississippi State University with a doctorate in entomology and extensive publications on tick-borne diseases Elmer Gray, medical and veterinary entomologist at University of Georgia's Cooperative Extension Service, public health specialist and avid outdoorsman Andrea Swei, professor of biology at San Francisco State University with a speciality in tick-borne pathogens and a doctorate in infectious disease ecology, and leadership board member of the CDC Center of Excellence in Vector Biology's Pacific Southwest region CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors with many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products, and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this guide, editorial intern Chelsea Collier interviewed entomologists and tick experts to gain trusted advice on tick repellent products.
The Independent
04-08-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Best bug sprays 2025, tried and tested
Nothing ruins a summer night faster than a swarm of mosquitoes or the maddening itch of bug bites that show up out of nowhere. Whether you're camping in the woods, gardening in the backyard, hiking deep into the wilderness, or just hanging on the front porch with friends, the best bug sprays will help keep the usual suspects (mosquitoes, ticks, sand flies) at bay. Not to mention protecting you from nasty potential diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika, and Lyme disease. With so many options on the market, it is tricky to know which ones actually work and won't leave you sticky or smelling like a science lab. Insect repellents also come in a wide range of application methods, including aerosols, pump sprays, lotions, and roll-ons, adding another layer to the decision-making process. To help guide you, I spent two months testing bug sprays in a range of conditions, from daily use around my RV at a campsite (where mosquito activity is high and bugs love me) to a camping trip with friends. Below is a curated list of the top performers — formulas that stood out not just for their ability to keep bugs away, but also for their comfort, scent, application method, and overall wearability. How I tested I tested close to two dozen products before whittling down the options to the top performers ( Rachel Cavanaugh/The Independent ) As a longtime gear tester who's reviewed everything from the best tents and camping chairs to travel coolers and camping stoves, I know how important it is to trial products in real-life conditions. For this guide, I stayed in my camper on a friend's property — a wide-open grassy field that turns into a mosquito haven each evening — making it the perfect place to evaluate how well each formula held up under heavy bug pressure. I also brought several products on a camping trip with two friends, where I took audio recordings to capture our reactions and feedback. Rotating between sprays, lotions, and oils nightly, I noted differences in scent, texture, stickiness, and ease of application. I focused on the following factors: Texture and stickiness: There's nothing worse than a bug spray that leaves a sticky residue and doesn't dry down cleanly, so I considered how each one felt on the skin. Those listed here absorbed fast and didn't leave my skin feeling tacky. There's nothing worse than a bug spray that leaves a sticky residue and doesn't dry down cleanly, so I considered how each one felt on the skin. Those listed here absorbed fast and didn't leave my skin feeling tacky. Scent: I paid close attention to the smell of each spray repellent, favoring those that had a subtle scent that didn't linger unpleasantly. I paid close attention to the smell of each spray repellent, favoring those that had a subtle scent that didn't linger unpleasantly. Application method: I assessed whether the sprays were more like a fine mist or heavy droplets — the former was preferred. For the lotions, I assessed how easily they spread across the skin. For all the repellents I tested, I considered how user-friendly the nozzle and packaging were. Because people have different preferences around bug spray ingredients, I made sure to test products featuring all three major active ingredients: DEET (the most widely used), picaridin, and citriodiol. All of the ones listed here are EPA-approved. In total, I tested close to two dozen products — including sprays, lotions, oils, and more — and then narrowed it down to the standout repellents. Why you can trust IndyBest US reviews IndyBest U.S. is the ultimate destination for product reviews from The Independent, all of which are a result of real-world testing. As an outdoor gear tester with nearly a decade of experience, Rachel Cavanaugh has reviewed everything from hiking boots and tents to backpacking stoves and travel coolers. Beyond her work, Rachel spends a lot of time camping, hiking, and simply enjoying the outdoors, so she has a genuine interest in finding the repellents that will keep her (and you) protected. She knows what to look for when tracking down high-quality formulas that provide effective protection. The best bug sprays for 2025 are:
CNN
02-07-2025
- Health
- CNN
Best bug sprays in 2025, tried and tested
The best bug sprays we tested Best bug spray: Proven Insect Repellent Spray Best DEET-free bug spray: Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent Best DEET bug spray: Cutter Backwoods Insect Repellent Nothing ruins time spent outdoors while camping, hiking or relaxing in the backyard like an entourage of pesky mosquitoes chowing down on your arms and legs. Sure, bug spray is great, but between the various active ingredients and concentrations, it's hard to know what truly works, let alone find a repellent that doesn't smell like a chemistry lab or make you feel like you took a dip in a vat of oil. Since insect repellents are one of the best ways to repel mosquitoes, I went hands-on with 13 bug repellents to test how they feel, how they smell and everything else you'd want to know before you use one. I also consulted multiple experts to ensure I included repellents that are effective at, well, repelling bugs. I only tested bug repellents with active ingredients approved by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, p-Menthane-3,8-diol (which is in oil of lemon eucalyptus), IR3535 and 2-Undecanone. DEET was the resounding favorite among the experts I interviewed, but they also praised the effectiveness of the other ingredients, especially picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus. Notably, I didn't include any essential oils like peppermint oil or vanilla extract. To be clear, I didn't test each spray for its efficacy at repelling bugs; there are just too many external variables that go into that. Instead, I conducted extensive research, leaned on my expertise and referenced the opinions of experts to choose a pool of repellents that science has proven to be effective. Then, I tested each of the products for things like ease of use, smell and feel. After months of testing, here are the three bug sprays that stood out above the rest. Proven Insect Repellent Spray So nice and light, you might forget you're wearing it, though bugs won't. Picaridin, Proven's active ingredient, comprising 20% of its formula, is one of the best at repelling bugs. Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent A 30% IR3535 spray in an aerosol bottle, Coleman SkinSmart delivered a consistent, wide spray, dried instantly and didn't leave any greasy residue on my skin. Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent Cutter Backwoods is a 25% DEET formula, the gold standard in insect repellents. It's very effective, and it had the mildest scent and least greasy texture of the DEET repellents I tested. This picaridin formula from Proven is one of the most portable options, perfect for hikers or for simply stashing in your bag so you're always prepared. The nozzle, despite its small design, is incredibly consistent and applies evenly. It isn't an aerosol can, but it's equipped with a long pump, so spraying felt nice and easy, even though it gets harder when you spray it upside down (since, thanks to gravity, the straw may no longer be submerged). Despite that fact, it didn't take me long at all to spray myself. With an average application time of just over 21 seconds, it was the fastest pump spray I tested. Proven's scent is largely, well, nonexistent. In the first round of testing for this story, each bug repellent went through two separate testers, and both testers who used Proven said they could barely smell anything. No wafting, tear-inducing chemical odor. The Proven bug spray also wasn't greasy and had a nearly perfect score for the way the spray felt on each of the testers' skin. It was easy to forget that I even applied this spray — besides the fact that no bug would dare come near me — making it one of the best sprays for clothes and skin The Proven repellent was also remarkably portable, thanks in part to its slim bottle. It can fit in any bag, but it's not so small that you'll easily lose it. (If you do prefer a travel-size spray, this repellent is available in a smaller, 2-ounce spritzer.) The bottle also comes with a simple cap to protect from any leaks, which held up well during some stress testing. While it doesn't provide perfect protection because it can fall off, when one of our testers threw it in a bag and went for a bike ride, it stayed completely secure. I love the way Proven's spray disappears on my skin, not to mention its nearly scentless formula. If you're looking for an insect repellent that's easy to use and easy to forget, you can't get much better than the Proven Insect Repellent Spray. One of the better bug sprays for skin and coming in just shy of first place in my ratings, was the Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent Spray. It was one of the best sprays in the performance category (which covered tests such as spray smell, feel, quality and others), falling just a little short in portability due to its slightly bulky bottle. The IR3535 repellent had a wide, even spray that made application a breeze. And since it's an aerosol can rather than a pump spray, I didn't have the problem of the pump not being submerged in the spray when applying it upside down. Instead, the aerosol pushes the repellent out, which made spraying my entire body a super-fast process. Just be careful of spraying upside down too often because, like all aerosol products, if you do it too much, the aerosol will escape. (I had this happen with a different aerosol spray when I used it upside down too many times, which resulted in repellent stuck in the can with no way to get out. Bummer.) The feel of the Coleman SkinSmart wasn't greasy or sticky at all. The formula uses a drying technology that makes it disappear almost instantly on your skin. The only issue I had with this spray was its smell. It's marketed as odorless, and while that rang true for one of our testers in the first round, another said it had a smell of chemicals that could easily make you cough when you spray it, and that the harsh scent lingered for a while. Another highlight of the Coleman IR3535 formula is the bottle it comes in. It's equipped with a locking switch to keep it secure. It was right in the middle in terms of size, not big and bulky, but also not slim and packable like some of the other options I tested. If you want an aerosol repellent with similar performance to my top pick, and you're fine giving up portability, the Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent is what you seek. During my research, I found the consensus was that DEET is the gold standard when it comes to insect repellents. But despite its reputation, sprays containing DEET didn't score as well overall in our tests as other options. If you don't care as much about the smell and feel of the spray and want the science-backed, best-in-class ingredient for repelling bugs, DEET is the way to go. Out of the multiple DEET-based repellents I tested, the Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent edged out the competition. It really came down to the Cutter and the ever-popular OFF! Deep Woods Insect and Mosquito Repellent, but the OFF! cap popped off during testing, and was the aerosol can that left had repellent stuck in the bottle I mentioned before. So, even though it performed well, I had to knock off some points. The Cutter had a solid spray, though it came out slightly wet and cold at times. The nozzle is larger than the others I tested, resulting in a wide area of application. This, plus its ability to spray upside down, made for ultra-fast application times, clocking in at an average of under 13 seconds for mostly full-body coverage. The spray wasn't too offensive but was still a little harsh, as it has that classic chemical smell you expect from bug spray. The repellent also left a light residue that took quite a while to fully dry, but it didn't feel too greasy. Another feature of this spray I loved is the size of the bottle. In the original round of testing, the Cutter was a bit bulky, but now its bottle is slim, making it much easier to handle and pack. Its thin shape makes it easy to grasp, and its cap is comfortable to hold down while applying. It isn't as small as the Proven bottle, but it's still super easy to stuff into basically any bag or backpack. If you're looking for a DEET repellent, willing to sacrifice some comfort in terms of the spray's feel and smell, and you don't mind carrying around a larger can, Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent should top your list. I ran each bug repellent through the same tests to measure both performance and portability. I did not test each spray's ability to physically repel bugs, but instead relied on our extensive research and the opinions of experts I interviewed to create criteria that all the repellents I tested met. The performance ratings, on the other hand, were based on tests that examined the physical quality of spray, smell and feel, among other things. Since many of these tests are subjective, I had at least two testers evaluate each repellent during the first round of testing and took the average of both results. Here's a full breakdown of every test I ran. Performance Spray quality: I tested how wide, even and consistent the spray was by applying it multiple times on myself. Spray smell: I smelled the spray whenever I applied it and noted how strong or weak it was, as well as if it was a pleasant or harsh smell. Spray feel: I noted how the spray felt on my skin whenever I applied it and if it was greasy or sticky. Spray difficulty: I tested how hard it was to spray myself with each repellent, noting how hard it was to hold each bottle and if I could spray it upside down. Spray time: In the first round of testing, each tester timed and sprayed themselves three times with each repellent, and calculated the average time it took to spray themselves. I then averaged the results from both testers to come up with an average spray time. Spray durability: After conducting all other tests, I observed how the bottle held up and if the quality of the spray was affected. Portability Leaks: I examined each bottle and looked for any sort of locking mechanism or cap and judged how likely it would be to leak in a bag. Size: I noted how large each bottle was and threw it in a bag to see if it took up a lot of space. Size options: I researched how many size options are available for each repellent. I tested 13 bug repellents after thoroughly researching the most effective ingredients and talking to several experts to find the best at repelling flying and biting insects. I chose only repellents with an active ingredient that is both CDC and EPA approved, which are DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, p-Menthane-3,8-diol (which is a component of oil of lemon eucalyptus, but they are regulated separately), IR3535 and 2-Undecanone. The experts I talked to largely echoed the CDC and EPA, praising the effectiveness of all these ingredients, but heralded DEET above all else as the industry standard. 'DEET is still the gold standard to many in the public health profession,' said Elmer Gray, entomologist at the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service. Many of his peers also agree. 'The gold standard for insect repellents is still DEET-based products sold under a whole host of brand names,' said Jerome Goddard, extension professor of medical entomology at Mississippi State University, with a doctorate in entomology. 'Many studies through the years have demonstrated its effectiveness against a variety of flying insects and (somewhat) against ticks.' While some may harbor concerns over DEET's safety and its toxicity, all the experts I talked to said those worries are largely unfounded. 'The first law of toxicology is that everything is toxic,' said Jeffrey G. Scott, professor of insect toxicology at the department of entomology at Cornell University. 'It's just the dose that determines the effect,' he said. The EPA has concluded that DEET is safe, and many of the worrying stories of people getting seizures or even dying came after ingestion or 'dermal applications not consistent with label directions,' according to the EPA. That's why, whether you're using a spray, a wipe or lotion, you should carefully follow the directions on the label. The EPA has been testing DEET for decades and found that if used as directed, it is completely safe for everyone, even pregnant women and children over 2 months of age. However, repellents with the active ingredient oil of lemon eucalyptus and p-menthane-3,8-diol aren't recommended for children under the age of 3 because the dangers of applying them to kids under that age haven't been thoroughly explored. The CDC recommends using products with an active ingredient concentration of more than 10% for limited protection and says that the effectiveness of DEET plateaus after 50%. The experts I talked to agree. 'In general, higher concentrations of an active ingredient provide longer duration of protection, regardless of the active ingredient,' said Eva Buckner, assistant professor and state extension specialist at University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Medical Entomology Laboratory. 'However, concentrations above around 50% do not offer a marked increase in protection time. Products with less than 10% active ingredient may offer only limited protection, often from one to two hours.' Following that guidance, all the repellents I tested have between a 10% and 40% concentration of their active ingredients. Even with regular repellent application, you may occasionally be bitten — and if you consider yourself a mosquito magnet, you're probably very aware of when you are. If you're the kind of person who seems to attract mosquito bites, I've found that the viral suction-based Bug Bite Thing can provide relief, as long as you keep it on hand and use it immediately. Otherwise, a variety of topical applications, ranging from hydrocortisone creams to treatments like After Bite may help. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion This lotion took longer to apply than any other repellent in my testing pool and left a sticky feeling on my skin. When applying this lotion, I got a strong whiff of chemicals, but that scent soon went away as I rubbed the lotion in. However, a few minutes after application, my skin felt sticky, especially my hands. I didn't love the application process or the feel of this repellent, and it took longer to apply than a typical spray — not to mention the lid doesn't have any locking mechanism, so it could also accidentally leak into your bag. Repel Sportsmen Max 40% DEET Bug Spray This 40% DEET spray from Repel sprays quickly, but it smelled bad and felt wet on my skin. Repel's 40% DEET concoction is sure to keep bugs at bay, but I found it quite unpleasant to apply. The repellent comes out thick and wet, with the harsh smell you probably think of when you hear the words 'bug spray.' Once dried, the repellent felt sticky on my skin, and I wanted to wash it off. Plus, the bottle doesn't have a lock. If you want a high DEET percentage and only need to apply it to your clothes, this might be a good option, but I much preferred my other winners. Ranger Ready Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray With a subtle, pleasant smell, this picaridin formula is a solid option. However, it went on a little wet and has a leaky applicator. When the Ranger Ready repellent arrived in the mail, one corner of the box was soaked with leaked spray. After opening it up, I saw a lock on the applicator of the spray bottle set to 'on' instead of 'off,' so I chalked the leak up to faulty packaging. However, once I tested the spray, I noticed that even with the lock set to the 'off' position, some repellent would still squirt out if I pressed on the trigger. Besides the potential for some leaks, this repellent had a similar performance to the winning Proven spray and is worthy of consideration. OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent, 2-Pack If you're careful with a slightly more delicate can and avoid spraying it upside down too much, then the OFF! Deep Woods repellent is a top-notch pick. This spray was one of the leaders early on in the testing process, but it dropped in the rankings after some durability issues. The cap popped off in a bag during a day of hiking, and after some serious spraying (much of it upside down), the aerosol in the bottle ran out, resulting in a can that still has bug repellent in it with no way to get it out. Ben's Tick and Insect Repellent Ben's has an incredibly strong, unpleasant and chemical smell that most people may not like. It also goes on thick with a wet feel that had our testers antsy for a shower. This bug spray from Ben's has a spraying mechanism that mimics the distribution you'd get from an aerosol can without actually using any of the gas. However, the spray came out extremely dense and sticky, which outweighed any of its other benefits. Sawyer SP544 Premium Insect Repellent This spray can be frustrating to use as it doesn't cover a large area when you try to apply it. I did like, however, that it dried quickly and that the spray bottle features a double-locking lid. The pump spray on the Sawyer repellent provided short little spritzes that didn't cover much area, so I found myself spraying a lot to get even coverage. Its small size makes it a little difficult to hold and spray all around, but it doesn't have a strong smell. It dried quickly, but the pump also got clogged quite a bit during testing. The highlight was the double-locking lid, which ensured a leak-free experience. OFF! FamilyCare Insect and Mosquito Repellent Spritz This picaridin option from OFF! impressed our testers with a wide aerosol spray and a fast-drying feel. One tester of this OFF! FamilyCare spray said she didn't smell anything when she applied it and another smelled orange peel, so even if you do smell anything, it's not a harsh, eye-watering scent. This repellent scored highest in the performance category, but its aerosol version doesn't have a cap or lock and is a little bulky, which knocked off some points. Only one point behind our runner-up, Coleman SkinSmart spray, it's still a high-quality option. OFF! Botanicals Insect Repellent This repellent is made with p-menthane-3,8-diol, but its tiny size and small pump make it hard to apply. This spray from OFF! doesn't apply particularly evenly and sometimes just squirts a jet of spray instead of a mist. However, it didn't have a scent at all, which was a huge bonus. It's also available in one of the smallest size options (2 ounces), so if you want a truly tiny spray you can fit in your pocket, this one could be for you. Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent The scent of this lemon eucalyptus spray was polarizing for our testers. One loved the natural, herby tones and the other was left coughing because of its strong and pungent smell. This lemon eucalyptus spray from Repel was the hardest for our testers to agree on. Some couldn't stand the smell, while others thought it smelled amazing. Even if you enjoy the scent, I'd recommend applying it outside, as it is quite strong. This repellent was also extremely greasy and took a while to dry. Similar to Ben's spray, the first thing I wanted to do after applying it was take a shower. Coleman Botanicals Insect Repellent Coleman's Botanicals Insect Repellent is oilier than other options, and the spray dripped around the nozzle, making it a little messy. This spray had a pleasant smell due to its oil of lemon eucalyptus base, although it was strong at times. The pump worked well, but it took too long to apply and the bottle is a bit stubborn: You can't spray it upside down due to its pump function, and it's easy for your finger to slip off the small nozzle. The following questions were answered by Jerome Goddard, extension professor of medical entomology at Mississippi State University; Elmer Gray, entomologist at the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service; and Karthikeyan Chandrasegaran, assistant professor in the entomology department at the University of California, Riverside. Does bug spray expire? Does bug spray expire? 'Yes, bug spray can expire, and its effectiveness may diminish over time. Most insect repellents have a shelf life of approximately three to five years, depending on the active ingredients and how the product is stored. The longevity of the active compounds — such as DEET, picaridin or essential oil derivatives — is a key factor in determining shelf life,' Chandrasegaran said. 'Although not all bug sprays are required to carry expiration dates, it is generally recommended to replace them after three years to ensure reliable protection. Signs that a repellent may no longer be effective include changes in smell, color or texture, or visible separation of the ingredients.' What is DEET in bug spray? What is DEET in bug spray? 'Previously called N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, DEET remains the gold standard of currently available insect repellents,' Goddard said. 'The chemical was discovered by USDA scientists and patented by the US Army in 1946. It was registered for use by the public in 1957. Twenty years of empirical testing of more than 20,000 other chemical compounds has not resulted in another marketed product with the duration of protection and broad-spectrum effectiveness of DEET.' How does bug spray work? How does bug spray work? 'They all generally work to disrupt the mosquitoes' ability to locate humans in the environment or to make a potential host and their skin less attractive to bite,' Gray said. 'The precise details are still somewhat unclear. DEET seems to have an irritant effect on the mosquito's sensory system. Other products seem to make it more difficult for mosquitoes to sense their prey in the environment, and others mask our scent or produce avoidance-type signals.' Can you bring bug spray on a plane? Can you bring bug spray on a plane? 'Yes, you can bring bug spray on a plane, but it must comply with specific airline and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations,' Chandrasegaran said. 'In carry-on baggage, insect repellents — whether in aerosol or pump spray form — are permitted as long as each container holds 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fits within the quart-sized clear plastic bag used for liquids under the TSA's 3-1-1 rule. This ensures that the repellent is treated like any other liquid or gel when passing through airport security.' Does bug spray work on ticks? Does bug spray work on ticks? 'Yes, the CDC recommends the use of a product with 20% or higher concentration of DEET, picaridin or IR3535. Repellents containing the active ingredient permethrin can be used on clothing only,' Gray said. 'In today's world of widespread tick-borne diseases and populations, this is a very important aspect. The best tick prevention starts with wearing light-colored pants; tuck them into your socks and apply a high-concentration repellent to your shoes, socks, pants and waistline. If possible, tuck in your shirt and apply repellents above the waistline. It is also advised to avoid walking where grass, brush and vegetation brush against your legs. Using these precautions is highly effective in preventing ticks from contacting our skin.' 'DEET is more effective in repelling mosquitoes than ticks,' Goddard said. 'One study demonstrated that DEET on military uniforms provided between 10% and 87.5% protection against ticks, depending on species and life stage of the tick. There was an average of 59.8% protection against all species of ticks. Protection levels in the 50% range are less than desirable because just one tick can transmit a tick-borne disease.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Eva Buckner, assistant professor and state extension specialist at University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Medical Entomology Laboratory Karthikeyan Chandrasegaran, assistant professor in the entomology department at the University of California, Riverside, with a doctorate in evolutionary ecology Jerome Goddard, extension professor of medical entomology at Mississippi State University, with a doctorate in entomology Elmer Gray, public health extension entomologist for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service Jeffrey G. Scott, professor of insect toxicology at the department of entomology at Cornell University, with a doctorate in entomology CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. The author of this guide, Kai Burkhardt, tested and reviewed each bug spray and repellent included in this piece. He sprayed the repellents and noted how easy they were to apply, how they felt, smelled and more. Burkhardt also interviewed multiple experts to figure out what ingredients are effective and safe in bug sprays.
The Sun
22-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The correct way to apply insect repellent revealed, and if you do it wrong you can expect more bites
WHETHER you're holidaying abroad of enjoying the warm UK weather, chances are mosquitoes are going to be an issue. These pesky insects can cause irritating bites, that may also pose a health risk depending on your location. Make sure you're not making an easy error when applying your insect repellant this summer. And if you're travelling abroad, take extra care as bites can sometimes lead to issues such as malaria, dengue, Zika fever, and yellow fever. Bug repellents need to be applied during the day and also at night, and whether you're indoors and outdoors. You should also pay particular attention to the product's label before purchasing. DEET is chemical ingredient found in most bug sprays and shoppers are advised to check for it when picking up a bottle. "A product with 50% DEET is recommended as a first choice," said official Government advice, last updated in 2023. "If DEET is not tolerated, use of a repellent containing the highest strength formulation available of either icaridin (20%), eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclised or 3-ethlyaminopropionate is recommended." And whichever bug spray you opt for, make sure you're applying it at the correct time alongside your other products. This is particularly relevant when it comes to another summer essential: suncream. The Government stressed the importance of always using bug repellant afterward you apply suncream for the most effective results. Plague of parasites that hitch a ride on flying insects and 'slurp liquid from human skin' sweep holiday hotspot You should also opt for suncreams with an SPF of 30 to 50 as DEET can reduce their potency. Most repellents need to be reapplied frequently, especially in hot weather conditions or after spending time in water. Users are encouraged to read each repellent's packaging for more specific guidance. "50% DEET is safe for those pregnant and breastfeeding and for babies older than two months," the Government's guidance explained. "Get advice before you travel from your doctor or pharmacist if your baby is aged under two months. How to prevent tick bites - and remove the bugs There are a few things you can do to lessen your likelihood of tick bites. Firstly, try and cover as much of your skin as possible while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks. You should also be using insect repellent containing DEET on your clothes and skin, and wearing light coloured clothing so you can spot a tick easily. Also stick to paths where possible when you're out walking. How can I remove a tick safely? To remove a tick safely: Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool. You can buy these from some pharmacies, vets and pet shops. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Slowly pull upwards, taking care not to squeeze or crush the tick. Dispose of it when you have removed it. Clean the bite with antiseptic or soap and water. The chance of getting ill is low. You do not need to do anything else unless you notice a rash or become unwell. If either of these happen, make sure to see a GP so you can get treatment as soon a possible. "Take insect repellents with you—in case of shortages at your destination." You can also make use of other steps to prevent bites, including wearing long-sleeved clothing and treating nets with insecticide. These are particularly important in situations where you might be sleeping outdoors or in a space without air conditioning. "Check your net for rips and tuck the ends under the mattress," the Government advised. "There may also be a risk of bites from ticks and other insects; the same protective measures will help reduce bites from these too." 2
CBC
21-06-2025
- General
- CBC
It's blackfly season — here's what you need to know to avoid bites
It's blackfly season — here's what you need to know to avoid bites 8 minutes ago Duration 1:43
