The Best Clean Bug Repellents + Bug Bite Care: What to Look For + My Favorite Swaps
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Most bug sprays on store shelves aren’t just repelling insects… they’re exposing you and your family to ingredients you probably wouldn’t choose if you actually knew what they did 👀
Here are a few to watch out for:
DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide)
Common, effective… but it’s been linked to skin irritation, neurological symptoms (especially with overuse), and it can be absorbed through the skin. Not something I personally reach for.
Permethrin
This one is a synthetic pesticide. It’s actually toxic to the nervous system of insects… and can be harmful to humans and pets with repeated exposure. It’s also extremely toxic to cats.
Pyrethroids (like cypermethrin, deltamethrin)
These are marketed as “safer” versions of natural compounds, but they’ve been associated with hormone disruption and neurotoxicity in higher or repeated exposures.
Fragrance (aka hidden chemicals)
This is a big one. “Fragrance” can hide dozens of undisclosed chemicals, including potential allergens and endocrine disruptors. If you see this on a bug spray label… 🚩
The truth is, many of these products were designed to kill or disrupt insects… so it’s not surprising they can also impact our bodies over time.
I’m not saying don’t protect yourself from bugs, but there are cleaner, more intentional options that actually work without loading your skin with questionable ingredients.
As always, it’s about being informed and making the best choice for YOU and your family 🤍
My Favorite Clean Bug Repellent Swaps
If you’re looking for cleaner options for bug protection, here are some of the brands I like:
- Purely Parson
- California Baby
- Earthley
- Sky Organics
- Primally Pure
- Aunt Fannie’s
- Nat Pat
- Cliganic
- Badger
- Wondercide
- Rowe Casa Organics
- Ecological Formulas
- Plant Therapy
- Lemongrass Farms
- Buzz Patch
I keep all of my current links and discount codes in one place so you don't have to hunt them down.
SHOP JASYRA’S CURRENT BUG REPELLENT FAVORITES + DISCOUNT CODES
Don’t Forget About Bug Bite After Care
Even when we do our best to avoid them, sometimes the bugs still win. 😂
That’s why I also like having a few things on hand for bug bite after care.
Here are some of the products I like to keep around:
- Active Skin Repair
- Bug Bite Thing
- Patch
- Badger
- Earthley
- Bite Away
- Plant Therapy
- Welly
- Boiron
- Motherlove
- Rose Casa
SHOP JASYRA’S CURRENT BUG BITE CARE FAVORITES + DISCOUNT CODES
What I Keep in Our Bug Kit
Especially during the warmer months, I like keeping a few things on hand so we're prepared when we head outside. Somehow the second you forget the bug spray is always when everyone comes home covered in bites. 😂
My bug kit includes:
- Bug repellent
- Bug bite after care
- Something for itchy bites
- A few easy options to throw in a bag for outdoor days
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.