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

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

Since these products come into direct contact with the skin, the choice must be made carefully. Especially if they are intended for young children or pregnant women, it is important to know the composition of each product.

The Active Ingredient: What’s inside the bottle?

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

• DEET (High-potency synthetic ingredient): It is the oldest and most powerful synthetic ingredient. It offers top-level protection in extreme conditions (e.g. trips to tropical countries, dense forests, or swamps). However, be careful: It has a strong odor, often leaves a greasy feel, 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): A safe synthetic ingredient with a good skin-tolerance profile. It is commonly found in quality children’s mosquito repellents and in everyday urban-use products, offering long-lasting and reliable coverage.

• Citriodiol / PMD (Plant-derived active ingredient): It comes from eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus citriodora) and is an approved ingredient of natural origin. If you are looking for protection comparable to chemical products but without synthetic ingredients, it is a top choice.

• Natural Essential Oils (Citronella, Geraniol, Lavender): They are ideal for a short afternoon walk or for people with hypersensitive skin. ? Their downside: They evaporate very quickly from the skin, so their effect 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 (doesn’t stick, smells nice, protects for hours).

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

• Are you going for camping, hiking, or an exotic trip? Strong spray with DEET (20-30%) for high protection.

• Do you want an option with plant-based essential oils 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.

Use biocidal products safely. Always read the label and product information before use.