Summer strolls, camping holidays, and afternoons in the park are the best moments of the year, as long as they don’t end up with... countless bites.

Body insect repellents are our main shield of protection against mosquitoes (including the persistent “tiger mosquito”), gnats, and ticks.

However, since these products come into direct contact with our skin, the choice should not be made at random. Especially if they are intended for young children or pregnant women, you need to know exactly what each bottle contains.

The Active Ingredient: What’s Hidden Inside the Bottle?

The effectiveness of an insect repellent depends solely on its active ingredient. The 5 main substances that are officially approved and you will find on the market are:

• DEET (The powerful “chemical” champion): It is the oldest and strongest synthetic substance. It offers top protection in extreme conditions (e.g. trips to tropical countries, dense forests, or swamps). However, caution: It has a strong odor, often leaves a greasy feeling, and can melt certain plastics or synthetic fabrics (e.g. the frame of your sunglasses or your watch strap). It is mainly intended for adults.

• Icaridin / Picaridin (The modern evolution): It is the best alternative to DEET for most users. It is equally effective, but extremely skin-friendly and gentle, almost odorless, non-sticky, and does not damage plastic items.

• IR3535 (The safe everyday solution): An extremely safe synthetic substance with an excellent skin tolerance profile. It is commonly found in high-quality children’s mosquito repellents and in everyday products for the city, offering long-lasting and reliable coverage.

• Citriodiol / PMD (The power of nature): Derived from eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus citriodora) and is the strongest approved naturally derived substance. If you’re looking for protection comparable to chemical formulations but without synthetic ingredients, this is the top choice.

• Natural Essential Oils (Citronella, Geraniol, Lavender): Completely natural and extremely mild. They are ideal for a short afternoon walk or for people with hypersensitive skin. ? Their drawback: They evaporate very quickly from the skin, so their action lasts a short time and require frequent reapplication (every 1-2 hours).

Application Form: Spray, Lotion, Roll-on or Accessories?

• Spray / Aerosol: The fastest and most popular solution. Easily covers large areas (hands and legs).

  Application Tip: Never spray the spray directly on the face. First spray a small amount onto your palms and then carefully apply to the neck and face, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
  

• Emulsion (Lotion) & Roll-on: Allow for a more targeted and even application, ensuring that no product is wasted in the air. The Roll-on is extremely convenient to always have in your bag and to protect your ankles or wrists locally.

• Wipes: Soaked with insect repellent liquid, they offer absolute portability. They are ideal for air travel (they don't count as liquids) or for the school bag.

• Bracelets & Stickers: Gradually release the scent of citronella or other oils. The stickers can be placed on clothes, the stroller, or the crib. They are an extra protection for children who complain about applying products, but in areas with mosquito swarms they are not enough on their own for full body coverage.

Safety: Infants, Children, and Pregnancy (The SOS)

Children have thinner and more absorbent skin, so the rules here are strict:

1. Infants under 12 months: Completely avoid direct use of chemical insect repellents on the skin. Rely on physical barriers (mosquito nets) and stick special citronella stickers on their clothes or stroller, away from their hands.

2. Children 1+ years: Choose specialized children's products (they usually contain IR3535, Citriodiol, or Icaridin at a low concentration below 10-15%).

   ⚠️ Critical Rule: Never apply insect repellent to children's palms! Young children instinctively put their hands in their mouths or rub their eyes, risking serious irritation or ingestion.

3. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Prefer products with IR3535 or certified natural oils, as they are considered the safest options. In any case, check the label or consult your gynecologist.

The Ultimate Tip: Sunscreen or Insect Repellent First?

In the summer, whether at the beach or on an afternoon walk, we often need both. What is the correct order?

Apply Sunscreen First, Then Insect Repellent! Spread your sunscreen, wait 15 to 20 minutes for it to be fully absorbed by the skin, and then apply the insect repellent. If you do it the other way around, the sunscreen cream will "trap" the insect repellent, preventing it from evaporating into the air to keep insects away.

Duration of Action: How many hours does it last?

The duration depends on the concentration (%) of the active ingredient.

• A strong spray with 20% Icaridin or DEET gives you peace of mind for about 6 to 8 hours.

• A children’s spray usually protects for 3 to 5 hours.

• If you sweat a lot, exercise, or go swimming in the sea, the repellent washes off, so you will need to reapply it earlier than the time indicated on the packaging.

Summary: What should you choose in the end?

• Do you want the best and most comfortable protection for adults? Spray with Icaridin (non-sticky, pleasant scent, protects for hours).

• Are you looking for the most safe option for young children (1+ years)? Emulsion or lotion with IR3535 or Citriodiol.

• Going camping, hiking, or on an exotic trip? Strong spray with DEET (20-30%) for ultimate protection.

• Do you want something completely natural for the evening? Spray with citronella essential oils and additionally bracelets on the wrist or ankle.

The insect repellent is your main defense against insects, while after-bite relief is essential. For extra protection in your space, it is worth combining it with a suitable insect repellent solution for your home or space.