Popular Q&A's for Natural Insect Repellent

1. How do I know natural insect repellents are effective?

In Australia, natural insect repellents must be approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). This regulatory body scientifically assesses all insect repellents for safety and efficacy before they can be legally sold. Products approved by the APVMA have been scientifically proven effective when used according to label instructions. All of the insect repellents listed in this section are APVMA approved. 

2. What are Outdoor Body Creams and how do they differ from insect repellents?

Outdoor Body Creams offer a complementary approach to outdoor activities. These products can be found in our bodycare and body lotion sections using the Outdoor Body Cream filter. These body creams are not marketed as insect repellents but as body lotion designed for outdoor use. Products like Vanilla Mozi Outdoor Body Cream are designed to work like a typical body moisturiser, but include specific essential oils and botanicals that help to mask your natural scent profile and that mosquitoes find unappealing. Unlike APVMA-registered products that actively repel insects, these creams create an environment around your body that's simply less attractive to mosquitoes. For complete outdoor protection, these creams should be used together with registered insect repellents.

2. What's wrong with DEET and other conventional insect repellents?

DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is a common active ingredient found in many insect repellents, and it’s a chemical that has been in use since it was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for use by military personnel in insect-infested areas. It is a is a powerful chemical part of the toluene family of chemicals, the same category used in paint removers and solvents for rubber and plastic cements. This potent chemical can actually dissolve the clear coat on cars when applied nearby. As Clean Nectarine only sells natural alternatives to everyday health & beauty products, all of the insect repellents we sell are DEET free. 

4. Why are some people more attractive to mosquitoes than others?

Mosquito preference for certain individuals comes down to biology and body chemistry. These insects are more inclined to bite someone who "smells good" to them based on the unique olfactory signals produced by your skin's bacterial flora. Your body's biochemistry breaks down components of sweat differently from others, creating a personalised scent profile that mosquitoes either find irresistible or unappealing. Several factors influence this attraction: carbon dioxide production, body temperature, lactic acid levels in sweat, genetic factors that determine skin microbiome, and even blood type (with Type O often preferred). Consuming certain foods or beverages like bananas or beer can temporarily alter your scent profile, potentially making you more attractive to mosquitoes. 

5. How should natural insect repellents be applied for maximum effectiveness?

For optimal protection from natural insect repellents, proper application is essential. Always read the label and follow the directions on the pack. As a general guide, begin with clean, dry skin before applying evenly to all exposed areas, paying special attention to ankles, wrists, neck, and behind ears, common mosquito target zones. Apply approximately 15-20 minutes before outdoor exposure to allow the essential oils to activate. These natural formulations typically require more frequent reapplication than DEET-based alternatives, generally every 2-4 hours depending on the product directions, and immediately after swimming or heavy perspiration. For extended outdoor activities, always carry your repellent for convenient reapplication. Remember that natural repellents work best as part of a comprehensive approach to insect protection, complementing physical barriers like appropriate clothing and environmental controls.