Mosquito Repellent

Mosquito repellent — Picaridin, DEET-free

The insect repellent market has long been dominated by products containing DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide), but growing awareness of its downsides — including damage to plastics and general toxicity concerns — has pushed consumers toward proven, safer alternatives. Our range uses Picaridin, gentle on the skin, non-greasy, pleasant smelling, and it won't melt plastics.

Backed by independent testing

The Australian Army Malaria Institute compared repellents containing Picaridin and DEET against pest and vector mosquitoes at Cowley Beach Training Area in April–May 2001. In night-time testing, 19.2% Picaridin provided greater than 95% protection for at least nine hours. The World Health Organisation lists Picaridin among its recommended active ingredients for insect bite prevention.

What it protects against

Our Picaridin repellents, at 20% concentration, are formulated to protect against Aedes, Culex and Anopheles mosquito species, as well as sandflies, midges, black fly and ticks.

Repellent and a net — complementary, not either/or

A repellent and a mosquito net do different jobs. The net is a physical barrier while you're under it; the repellent covers the hours you're out and about. Using both together covers more of the day than either alone.

Mosquito Repellent FAQ

What is Picaridin, and how is it different from DEET?

Picaridin is a DEET-free repellent ingredient — gentle on the skin, non-greasy, pleasant smelling, and it won't melt plastics or synthetic fabrics the way DEET can. It's become a preferred alternative for people who want an effective repellent without DEET's known downsides.

Is Picaridin safe to use on the skin?

Picaridin is formulated as a gentle, non-greasy skin repellent, which is one of its main advantages over DEET. As with any repellent product, follow the directions and any warnings on the product label, and if you have specific skin sensitivities or health concerns, check with a pharmacist or doctor before use.

Will this repellent damage plastics, sunglasses or synthetic fabrics?

No — unlike DEET, Picaridin won't melt plastics. That makes it a practical choice around sunglasses, watch straps, camera gear, tents and other synthetic outdoor equipment where DEET-based repellents can cause damage.

How long does a single application last?

In independent testing by the Australian Army Malaria Institute at Cowley Beach Training Area, 19.2% Picaridin provided greater than 95% protection for at least nine hours in night-time trials. Real-world results can vary with conditions like heat, sweat and water exposure, so follow the reapplication guidance on the product label for your specific situation.

Which insects does Picaridin protect against?

Our Picaridin repellents, at 20% concentration, are formulated to protect against Aedes, Culex and Anopheles mosquito species, as well as sandflies, midges, black fly and ticks.

Can I use insect repellent as well as a mosquito net?

Yes — they're complementary rather than a choice between one or the other. The net is a physical barrier while you're under it; the repellent covers the hours you're out and about, whether that's an evening on the deck or a walk at dusk.

Is this repellent suitable for children?

Follow the age guidance and directions printed on the specific product label — different formulations and concentrations can have different age recommendations. If you're at all unsure, check with a pharmacist before use on children.

How do I apply Picaridin repellent correctly?

Apply evenly to exposed skin following the directions on the product label, and reapply as directed there — reapplication timing can vary by formulation, activity level and conditions like heat, sweat and swimming. Avoid contact with eyes and broken skin, and wash hands after application.