Body Insect Repellents – Sprays, Lotions and Bracelets Against Mosquitoes and Ticks

Body insect repellents are sprays, lotions, gels, sticks and roll-ons applied to the skin or clothing so that mosquitoes and ticks bite less often. This category, part of Insects – mosquito protection and repellents, offers repellents for adults and children (Autan Family Care and Autan Junior, Xibiz Strong Protection with icaridin and Xibiz Natural Protection, Repelin, Zig Zag, Anticulex, Chicco Zanza, Mosquito, Mapez, AVE Citronella, Maxlab, Dr Lukić Help), as well as anti-mosquito bracelets, badges, clips, stickers and wipes.

A repellent does not kill insects – it creates a scent barrier on the skin that makes it harder for mosquitoes and ticks to find you. For protecting a bedroom or terrace at night (plug-in devices, mats, liquids, UV lamps) see the category for mosquito protection indoors, and if you have already been bitten, see our after-bite products.

How to choose a repellent – the active ingredient matters most

Every repellent label states the active ingredient and how many hours of protection the manufacturer claims. Comparing products by this information, rather than by scent or packaging, is the simplest way to choose.

Repellents for children and babies

For children, choose products that clearly state the minimum age on the pack. Our range includes Autan Junior gel, Anticulex Kids spray, Mosquito Baby spray, Xibiz Natural Protection gel, Mapez spray and Chicco Zanza roll-on, wipes, clips and stickers.

• Always check the minimum age – it differs from product to product
• An adult applies the repellent: first onto their own palms, then onto the child's skin
• Do not apply to a young child's hands (they put them in their mouth), around the eyes, mouth or on damaged skin
• For babies, the first line of protection is a net over the pram and cot and long-sleeved clothing
• When the child comes back indoors, wash the repellent off with soap and water

Repellents against ticks

Ticks are usually picked up in tall grass and woodland. Choose products that clearly state protection against ticks – for example Zig Zag anti-tick lotion, Repelin 5+ spray, Maxlab Anti-insect spray, Dr Lukić Help spray or the Mosquito anti-tick bracelet. Apply repellent to socks and trouser legs too, and check your whole body after the walk.

How to apply a repellent correctly

• Apply evenly to all exposed skin – mosquitoes will find even a small unprotected area
• If you also use sunscreen, apply it first and the repellent last
• Apply to the face using your palms, never spray directly
• Reapply after swimming, heavy sweating or when the protection time on the pack has passed
• Do not use sprays indoors or near food

Tips and useful guides

• See the whole Insects – mosquito protection category
• After-bite products for insect bites