Mosquito Repellent Creams and Sprays: How to Choose Safely

The repellent shelf is crowded: creams, lotions, sprays, roll-ons, wipes, natural and chemical. Choosing the right one means understanding what is in it, how long it lasts and who it is suitable for. A good repellent, used properly, is a useful part of mosquito protection.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Always read the label, and ask a doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, or choosing for a young child or someone with skin conditions.

The short answer

Look for a repellent with an active ingredient recognised as effective by health authorities, such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD), at a concentration suited to the person and the duration needed, with clear age guidance on the label. Higher concentrations generally last longer, not work better, so choose the lowest concentration that gives the protection time you need. Apply to exposed skin and clothing as directed, avoid eyes, mouth and broken skin, wash off when indoors and do not overuse. Combine repellent with screens, nets and removal of breeding sites.

Common active ingredients

• DEET: Long-established, effective against many mosquitoes. See our guide on DEET safety.
• Picaridin: Effective, with less odour and a lighter feel than DEET for many users.
• IR3535: A repellent used in many products, with a good safety record.
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD): A plant-derived option that may be effective, but is generally not recommended for young children, so check the label.
• Others, such as citronella and essential oils: Typically give shorter and less reliable protection.

How to read the label

1. Active ingredient and concentration.
2. Protection time claimed.
3. Age restrictions and warnings.
4. Directions for application and frequency.
5. Registration or approval information where applicable.

Creams, lotions and sprays

• Creams and lotions: Easy to apply evenly on skin, good for face (applied by hand), and often moisturising.
• Sprays and aerosols: Quick to apply, good for clothing, but avoid inhaling. Spray outdoors or in ventilated areas, and apply to hands before the face.
• Roll-ons and wipes: Convenient and targeted.
• Wearable bands and stickers: Evidence of effectiveness is limited.

Applying safely

• Apply only to exposed skin and outer clothing, not under clothes.
• Do not apply to cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
• Avoid eyes and mouth. For the face, apply to hands first.
• Do not let young children apply it themselves. Keep it away from their hands, eyes and mouths.
• If using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first, then repellent.
• Wash off with soap and water when you go indoors for the day.
• Do not use more often than directed.

Special groups

• Babies and young children: Follow age guidance and consult a paediatrician. See our guide on babies and toddlers.
• Pregnant women: See our guide on pregnancy and consult a doctor.
• People with sensitive skin or allergies: Test a small area first.

Natural and herbal products

Natural does not always mean safe or effective. Essential oils can irritate skin, and many herbal products offer short protection. Check evidence and labels, and do not rely on them in high-risk areas.

Combine with other measures

Use repellents together with screens, nets, fans, protective clothing and removal of breeding sites.

When to call a professional

If you need repellents all the time at home, a professional can find and treat breeding sites near your home.

Frequently asked questions

Is a higher concentration better?

It lasts longer, but is not more effective. Choose what you need.

Can I use a repellent every day?

Follow label directions. Wash off at the end of the day.

Do repellent wristbands work?

Evidence is limited. Do not rely on them.

Is a spray safe indoors?

Use in a ventilated space and do not inhale.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on mosquito control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full mosquito control guide for Bangalore.