Summer in Hong Kong can be beautiful, however the sheer number of mosquito and midge bites can often be unbearable! Whether you prefer to use all natural repellents or try something with a bit more oompf. We’ve rounded up our favourite insect repellents for you.
Although this oil spray is technically not an insect repellent, users swear by its ability to keep those pesky little critters away! DEET free with jojoba oil and a fresh herbal scent ‘Skin So Soft’ is suitable for the whole family to use. There is currently an Avon distributor based out of Discovery Bay and her page can be found here.
Neutrogena Body Oil Light Sesame Formula
Not marketed as an insect repellent Neutrogena Body Oil is used by many to keep mosquitoes and midges at bay. It has a light sesame formula which also moisturizers the skin and best applied on slightly damp skin. This is a non toxic option and available in most pharmacies in Hong Kong and also available to buy on iherb.
PARA’KITO® offers a range of products in its arsenal to protect you and your loved ones against insect bites. The ‘Derm’ range includes water and sweat resistance spray or roll-on, and the moisturising dry oil spray with coconut oil extracts nourishes the skin. The ‘Diffuz’ range offers no skin-contact in a range of bands and clips for easy wearing. The neoprene bands are worn around the wrist or ankle and come with two pellets (15 days diffusion) filled with their essential oil formula. There is also a relief range to soothe and reduce inflamation of bites. Available to buy in pharmacies and grocery stores in Hong Kong.
Using citronella, rosemary, and wintergreen essential oils to naturally repel insects, Badger’s anti bug products are organic, DEET free with no synthetic chemicals, or petroleum products. Available as a spray and also balm, Badger is safe and effective for the whole family to use. Available to buy on iherb.
All Terrain, Herbal Armor, Natural Insect Repellent
All Terrain Herbal Armor is an effective and safe solution that uses a mixture of six essential oils (soybean, citronella, peppermint, cedar, lemongrass and geranium), to repel mosquitoes and other insects. DEET and GMO free its proven 100% effective for 2 hours and 95.8% effective for 3 hours. Safe to use on children and those with sensitive skin. Available to buy at baby central.
Around since the mid-1950’s RID® is part of Australian heritage. RID® effectively controls and repels mosquitoes, flies and other insects by using the highest quality DEET combined with a fly repellent and healing medicinal ingredients containing antiseptic to prevent inflammation. Available to buy at baby central.
Mentholatum Insect Repellent Ultra Strength
Mentholatum uses picaridin as it’s active ingredient and studies have shown that picaridin can be just as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes and unlike DEET it is odorless, non-greasy, and does not dissolve plastics or other synthetics. Picaridin does not carry the same neurotoxicity concerns as DEET. Mentholatum products comes in spray form, patches and also sunscreen! It’s very effective in repelling mosquitoes and midges. By far the most effective repellent we’ve used. Available to buy in many 7Eleven’s and pharmacies in Hong Kong and also available on hktvmall.
Prefer to make your own? Why not try this recipe by Mindbodygreen
- ½ Cup Water (or apple cider vinegar, for a more potent blend)
- ½ Cup Witch Hazel20 Drops Citronella Essential Oil
- 10 Drops Rosemary Essential Oil
- 15 Drops Lemongrass Essential Oil
- 10 Drops Holy Basil Oil
- 20 Drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Glycerin
Combine all ingredients in a 16 oz. spray bottle and shake them up. Douse any exposed skin diligently, and reapply every couple of hours for maximum effect. Please note that essential oils should be patch-tested first, and should not be used on children under 2 years old.
Related articles:
