Choosing the Best Insect Repellent: DEET, Picaridin, or Natural Repellents?

January 29 2025, by Tatianna Gerard, 14 min reading time

Whether you're heading out for a weekend hike, enjoying a beachside barbecue, or simply relaxing in your garden, there’s one thing that can quickly turn a peaceful moment into a frustrating experience—mosquitoes and other biting insects. They're not just an itchy nuisance; in some cases, these tiny pests can transmit serious diseases, making insect repellents an essential item for any outdoor activity.

However, with so many options available, choosing the right repellent can be overwhelming. Two of the most commonly used repellents, DEET and picaridin, are well-known for their effectiveness. Yet, their use often sparks debate. DEET has raised concerns over its potential for skin irritation, long-term safety, and its environmental impact. Picaridin, a newer alternative, is gentler on the skin and gear but also has some questions around its safety and environmental effects.

Then there are natural insect repellents, made from plant-based ingredients like citronella or eucalyptus oil. These options are often favoured by those looking for a chemical-free solution, but their effectiveness and duration of protection can be variable, leading some to question if they offer reliable protection for more intense outdoor use.

If you're unsure where to start, you're not alone. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of DEET, picaridin, and natural insect repellents. Let’s dive into the facts and help you choose the best repellent for your needs.

What is DEET?

DEET, short for N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, has been a household name in insect repellents for decades. Developed by the US Army in 1946 for soldiers in insect-heavy regions, it became commercially available in the 1950s and remains one of the most widely used and studied insect repellents in the world. Its primary function is to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects by interfering with their ability to detect human scent, making it an effective shield against bites.

Effectiveness and usage

One of DEET’s main strengths is its proven effectiveness. Studies show that products containing DEET provide longer-lasting protection compared to most alternatives, including natural repellents. Depending on the concentration, DEET can repel insects for several hours. For example:

A product with 10% DEET typically offers about 2 hours of protection.
A 30% concentration provides up to 6-8 hours of coverage, making it a preferred choice for long outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

Is 80% DEET too much?

For most people and everyday activities, concentrations of DEET higher than 50% offer little additional benefit. Research indicates that products with 30-50% DEET can already provide protection lasting up to 8-12 hours, depending on environmental factors. Beyond this concentration, the increase in duration of protection tends to plateau, meaning that an 80% DEET product does not necessarily provide significantly longer coverage than one with 50%.

When should 80% DEET be considered?

Products with 80% DEET are primarily intended for:

Military personnel or researchers working in remote, high-risk areas.
Extreme environments with intense insect activity and limited reapplication opportunities.

For the average user, such as those engaging in hiking, camping, or outdoor leisure activities, lower concentrations (10-30%) are typically sufficient and much safer for regular use.

How do you use DEET repellents safely?

DEET is generally considered safe when used as directed, but like any chemical, it has its limitations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities recommend using repellents with DEET concentrations of 10-30% for most people, including children over two months old. However:

Concentrations over 30% are not recommended for young children.
Prolonged or excessive application, especially on broken or sensitive skin, may lead to irritation or rare cases of more serious side effects like neurotoxicity.
DEET should not be ingested, and care should be taken to avoid application near the eyes or mouth.

Is DEET safe for the environment?

Once in the environment, DEET behaves differently depending on where it ends up:

In the air: When sprayed into the air, DEET doesn’t linger for long. It breaks down relatively quickly through chemical reactions with other molecules. Studies suggest that half of the DEET released into the air will degrade within approximately five hours.
In water: Unlike in the air, DEET doesn’t evaporate when it enters water. Instead, it is gradually broken down by microorganisms. In aquatic environments, half of the DEET present is typically broken down within four weeks or less, meaning it doesn’t persist in the water for extended periods.
In animals: One reassuring finding is that DEET does not accumulate in animals, reducing the risk of long-term harm to wildlife.

What is picaridin?

Picaridin, also known as Icaridin or Hydroxyethyl Isobutyl Piperidine Carboxylate, is a relatively new player in the world of insect repellents. First developed in the 1980s by Bayer and introduced to the market in the early 2000s, picaridin was created as a synthetic alternative to DEET. Its formula is modelled after naturally occurring compounds found in pepper plants, making it an effective yet less harsh option for repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects.

How picaridin works

Similar to DEET, picaridin works by blocking the receptors insects use to detect human scent, effectively “hiding” you from them. This mechanism makes it highly effective in repelling a broad spectrum of biting insects, including:

Mosquitoes (including species that carry diseases like malaria and dengue fever)
Ticks (which can transmit Lyme disease)
Flies, gnats, and midges

Interestingly, while its effectiveness is well-documented, the exact mechanism by which picaridin works remains somewhat unclear. Some research suggests that, much like DEET, picaridin may not only deter insects by masking odours but could also work as a direct contact repellent, preventing mosquitoes from landing on treated skin or clothing.

Effectiveness

Picaridin offers long-lasting protection, with studies showing that a 20% concentration can repel mosquitoes (especially Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex mosquito species) and ticks for up to 8-14 hours, comparable to DEET. The 10% concentration, however, is effective for 3.5-8 hours.

Why some people prefer picaridin

Picaridin has gained popularity for several reasons, particularly among users seeking a gentler yet effective alternative to DEET:

Skin-friendly: Unlike DEET, Picaridin is less likely to cause skin irritation or a greasy feeling, making it more comfortable for prolonged use.
Non-damaging to materials: Picaridin does not harm plastics, fabrics, or other synthetic materials, a common issue with DEET-based products.
Odourless: Many users appreciate that Picaridin is nearly odourless, making it a more pleasant option for those sensitive to strong chemical smells.

Picaridin is widely regarded as a safe and effective insect repellent when used as directed, with a strong safety profile for both humans and the environment. However, as with any synthetic chemical, it’s important to understand how it interacts with the world around us.

Environmental impact

In wastewater and soil: Picaridin has been detected in wastewater that flows into treatment plants. Scientists believe it binds to soil, where bacteria can break it down over time. This reduces the likelihood of picaridin seeping into groundwater, making it less of a concern for long-term contamination.
In aquatic environments: While picaridin does not persist in treated water, it may have some effects in untreated water systems. For instance, it has been shown to inhibit the growth of green algae in water, although its overall environmental persistence is relatively low.

Effects on wildlife

Fish: Picaridin is considered moderately toxic to fish and has the potential to accumulate in their tissues, which may affect aquatic ecosystems, particularly in areas with high levels of usage.
Birds: On the positive side, picaridin is not toxic to birds, making it less harmful to certain parts of the ecosystem.

Human safety

For humans, picaridin is generally well-tolerated:

It is non-irritating to most skin types and has a low risk of causing allergic reactions.
Picaridin is considered safe for use on children over two years old. It should not, however, be recommended to be used in children under 2 years of age.

While its safety profile is excellent, picaridin may not appeal to those who prefer completely natural solutions. In the next section, we’ll explore natural insect repellents as an alternative for those seeking chemical-free protection.

Natural insect repellents

For those who prefer a more eco-conscious and chemical-free approach to keeping biting insects at bay, natural insect repellents offer a compelling alternative. Made from plant-based ingredients, these products appeal to individuals seeking gentler solutions for their skin, health, and the environment. But how effective are they, and what are the trade-offs? Let’s explore.

What are natural insect repellents?

Natural insect repellents are products derived from plants and other naturally occurring substances that are known to deter insects. They often rely on the scents and oils of plants that insects find unpleasant or overwhelming. Unlike synthetic repellents such as DEET and Picaridin, these formulations are usually free from synthetic chemicals, making them a preferred choice for those with sensitive skin, young children, or environmental concerns.

Benefits of natural insect repellents

Eco-friendly: Made from renewable resources, these repellents have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic options.
Gentle on skin: Natural formulations are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin or young children.
Pleasant aromas: Many natural ingredients, like lavender and peppermint, offer appealing scents compared to the chemical odour of synthetic repellents.
Biodegradable: These ingredients break down quickly in the environment, reducing the risk of pollution.

Limitations of natural insect repellents

While natural insect repellents have clear advantages, they also come with some limitations:

Shorter protection time: Most natural repellents do not last as long as DEET or Picaridin and may require frequent reapplication.
Lower efficacy: They may not provide sufficient protection in areas with high insect populations or against particularly aggressive species.
Skin sensitivity: Although generally milder, some natural oils (like clove or cinnamon) can cause irritation if applied directly without proper dilution. Similarly, citronella, one of the most popular ingredients in natural repellents, may be too harsh for the delicate skin of babies and younger children. Opting for gentler alternatives like lavender or soybean oil-based repellents, can help minimise the risk of irritation while still providing effective protection.

Are natural repellents effective?

Research shows that some natural ingredients, such as oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD), can rival synthetic repellents like DEET in effectiveness, with up to 3.7 hours of protection (compared to 5.6 hours with DEET). Others, like citronella, may only provide protection for a shorter period, typically 1-2 hours, depending on the brands. This makes them ideal for casual use but less suitable for long-duration activities in high-risk areas.

Who should use natural insect repellents?

Natural repellents are a great choice for:

Families with young children, as they avoid synthetic chemicals.
Individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to synthetic ingredients.
Eco-conscious users who want to reduce their environmental footprint.
Casual outdoor activities where shorter protection times are sufficient.

Comparison of DEET, picaridin, and natural insect repellents

Whether you’re seeking maximum protection for a jungle expedition or a mild solution for a garden picnic, understanding how DEET, picaridin, and natural repellents perform can help you make the right choice. Here’s a breakdown of how these three categories stack up against each other.

Trusted brands for natural insect repellents

When it comes to natural insect repellents, certain brands stand out for their innovation, effectiveness, and commitment to sustainability. One such brand is Good Riddance, a trusted name in Australia for offering high-quality natural repellents that cater to a wide range of users.

Why Good Riddance

1. Pure essential oils for targeted protection

Good Riddance is crafted using pure essential oils tailored for different needs.

The Tropical Range, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, combines citronella and Australian lemon-scented tea tree oils to repel insects effectively.
For those with delicate skin, including babies, pregnant women, and individuals prone to sensitivity, Good Riddance offers the Sensitive Range, made with calming lavender and geranium essential oils.

Both ranges are blended with a luxurious cream base enriched with shea butter and sustainably sourced beeswax, which helps to also hydrate and nourish the skin.

2. Scientifically approved and safe

Good Riddance insect repellents are approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), ensuring they are scientifically tested for safety and effectiveness. The family-friendly formulations provide peace of mind for those looking for natural yet reliable protection.

3. Sustainability commitment

The brand’s products use biodegradable formula and packaging, making them a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Good Riddance is also Australian-made and owned, meaning that by choosing the products, you’re not only supporting local businesses but also helping to reduce your carbon footprint. This commitment to local production ensures shorter supply chains and a smaller environmental impact, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious users.

4. Reliable protection

Good Riddance repellents offer protection for up to 4 hours, making them a practical solution for moderate outdoor activities, picnics, and casual outings.