10 Best Mosquito Repellents to Keep Bites at Bay While Home or Away

When it comes to keeping those pesky mosquitoes at bay, it’s crucial to rely on effective mosquito repellents rather than old wives’ tales. Common myths, such as increasing vitamin B intake or consuming asparagus, have proven ineffective. Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmica, confirms that vitamin B does nothing to repel mosquitoes.

Choosing the Right Mosquito Repellent

Effective mosquito repellents typically contain ingredients like DEET or icaridin (also known as paradin). Despite DEET’s less-than-pleasant smell, it is highly effective and modern formulations reduce the risk of skin irritation. For those concerned about DEET, opting for a product with a lower concentration or choosing an alternative ingredient like icaridin can provide both safety and efficacy.

Top 10 Mosquito Repellents

1. 1. Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
   • Active Ingredient: 25% DEET
   • Features: Long-lasting protection, effective in heavily infested areas.
2. 2. Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin
   • Active Ingredient: 20% Picaridin
   • Features: Odorless, effective against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies.
3. 3. Repel 100 Insect Repellent
   • Active Ingredient: 98.11% DEET
   • Features: Provides up to 10 hours of protection, ideal for extreme environments.
4. 4. Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
   • Active Ingredient: Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
   • Features: DEET-free, natural alternative, repels mosquitoes for up to 6 hours.
5. 5. Natrapel Insect Repellent Spray
   • Active Ingredient: 20% Picaridin
   • Features: Safe for the whole family, effective for up to 12 hours.
6. 6. Ben’s 30% DEET Tick & Insect Wilderness Formula
   • Active Ingredient: 30% DEET
   • Features: Fragrance-free, water-based formula, long-lasting protection.
7. 7. Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent
   • Active Ingredient: Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
   • Features: Plant-based, effective for up to 6 hours, DEET-free.
8. 8. Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick & Insect Repellent
   • Active Ingredient: 20% Picaridin
   • Features: Non-greasy, quick-drying, effective against mosquitoes and ticks.
9. 9. Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent
   • Active Ingredient: IR3535
   • Features: Odorless, non-greasy, safe for use on children.
10. 10. Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus
    • Active Ingredient: IR3535
    • Features: Moisturizing formula, contains SPF, effective against mosquitoes.

Treating Mosquito Bites

For those inevitable bites that do get through, it’s essential to avoid scratching to prevent infections. Applying hydrocortisone cream or ointment can help reduce irritation, but it should not be used on broken skin.

By choosing the right mosquito repellent and taking care of any bites properly, you can enjoy the outdoors without the nuisance and health risks associated with mosquito bites.