The Bug Sprays I’ll Actually Use
I’m always amused when my oldest son visits from Salt Lake City and immediately starts complaining about the bugs.
Summer on the East Coast? Mosquitoes are just part of the package.
I’ve lived my whole life swatting them away, mostly avoiding bug spray because - let’s be honest - I hate the smell, the sticky skin feel, and the idea of rubbing something toxic all over me.
And seriously, what is in those cans?
Do we go with DEET or no DEET?
If it's toxic for bugs, is it toxic for us too?
And do those “natural” plant-based sprays even work?
But I think I'm going to think about it differently this season, and from now on. And I have my environmental health mentor, Lara Adler, to thank for that.
She recently shared her thoughts on this topic, that helped me reframe how I think about bug repellent.
Her takeaway? We can’t ignore the risk of diseases like West Nile, Zika, Lyme, or dengue fever - especially in certain parts of the country.
If you’re spending time outside in those areas, the benefits of protection may outweigh the risks of exposure to chemicals. It’s all about making an informed choice.
What’s the deal with DEET?
DEET is still considered one of the most effective repellents — and when used correctly, it can be both safe and long-lasting.
The EPA has stated that improper use (like over-applying) can cause side effects like dizziness or skin irritation (or even worse).
So if you do use DEET, use it with care, and here’s what to look for:
✅ DEET 30% concentration – This is the sweet spot for effectiveness (up to 10 hours of protection) and is safe for kids. It is NOT RECOMMENDED to exceed 30% DEET concentration.
If you’re not excited about using DEET, there are effective and safer alternatives:
✅ Picaridin (20%) – Picaridin is a synthetic compound modeled after pepper plants, and it works by blocking the insect’s ability to sense its target. It’s widely used, non-greasy, odorless, and effective against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and more.
✅ IR3535 (20%) – Manufactured by Merck, this is odorless, gentle on skin, and effective.
✅ Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or OLE (30–40%) – Not to be confused with the essential oil version (which doesn’t work), this plant-based option has solid evidence behind it.
✅ Key tip: Stay within the recommended concentrations (not more than 30% for DEET, 20% for Picaridin or IR3535, and 30–40% for OLE).
Here's some recommended products (from Lara Adler’s guide):
OFF! Unscented 7% DEET
Sawyer Family 20% DEET
Ben’s 30% DEET
OFF! FamilyCare Unscented Picaridin
Sawyer 20% Picaridin
Natrapel 20% Picaridin
Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus 30%
Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil 30%
Bottom line: If bugs love you — and you're in an area where they might carry disease — don’t just swat them away.
Use something that feels good on your skin, is proven to work, and gives you peace of mind.
Summer’s too short to spend it itching. 🦟☀️