Mosquitos get me everywhere. But with Sofia around, and still breastfeeding, now more than ever I want to use a safe repellent option, that is still effective.
Before heading out to Costa Rica, I did some deep research and I summed up a list of the best mosquito repellants which avoid those with parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, or other harsh ingredients and that only use the top 4 active ingredients in bug spray recommended by the EWG, in low quantities: Deet, picardin, ir3535, and oil lemon eucalyptus.
Please note, all bug spray should not be used on babies under 6 months. And any oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years old.
ESSENTIAL OIL MOSQUITO REPELLANT
With no deet, picardin or other synthetics.
- Babyganics natural repellant shop
- Badger anti-bug shake and spray repellant shop
- Badger Sunscreen All Natural Insect Repellent Cream Water Resistant shop
DEET MOSQUITO REPELLANT
With low concentration of DEET. Best for areas where Zica, West Nile and Lymes are a thread.
OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent IV, Unscented shop
PICARDIN MOSQUITO REPELLANT
Performs like DEET but with lower inhalation toxicity.
Natrapel 8 Hour Insect Repellent shop
OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS MOSQUITO REPELLANT
Not for children under 3 years old. Shorter protection time than DEET.
REPEL Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent shop
How to choose the best repellant for you and your family?
1. Consider where you live or are going. DEET is recommended where Zica, West Nile and Lymes are a thread.
2. However, there have been safety concerns from DEET because it is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (a neurotransmitter in the nervous system).
3. Check labels! Quantities recommended by the EWG are:
DEET: <10% to 30% (and 10% max to children)
Picardin: <20%
IR3535: <20%
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus: <30% to 40%
4. Eucalyptus oil is not recommended to children under 3, so I wouldn't use it around Sofia either, for example.
All of the above info is supervised by Dr. Chen from Plateful Health. Certified Integrative Health Practicioner.