Life outside should feel good, not like you’re layering on a bunch of mystery chemicals just to be prepared. These are my picks for safer sun, bug, and outdoor essentials that let you have fun and stay safe in the sun.
Bugs & bites
When it comes to DEET-free insect repellents that actually work, they all have one thing added to them in common..sesame oil or soy bean oil. When you use sprays and repellents that are made solely of water and essential oils, they stop becoming effective at around 30 minutes. If you don't mind re-applying every 30 minutes, that's great! But..when I spend 2 hours out in the woods, I need something that lasts. The most effective formulas contain Sesame Oil, Soy Bean Oil or Lemon of Eucalyptus (this is different than an essential oil).
INGREDIENTS MATTER MORE THAN YOU THINK
This is what I use. It is made with sesame oil, citronella and other essential oils. It is a clean repellent that was clinically proven to repel mosquitos, fleas and ticks. It WORKS. This one bottles last forever, you only need a little bit. It is oily! That's why it works. This comes in individually packaged wipes as well that are so convenient that throw in your backpack or pocket.
Young Living
other NON-toxic options:
bug | REPELLENT
IN STORE FINDS:
In a 2 ounce glass spray bottle, sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt and add 7 drops each of Citronella, Lavender, Purification, Cedarwood and Lemongrass. Let is sit for 5 minutes so the salt soaks up the oils and then fill with distilled water. Shake & spray on any exposed skin while outside and re apply every 30 minutes.
Use code SHAREYL if it's your first order & get all the oils HERE. (click "add all to cart" and you'll see the discount). These oils will last you a very, very long time.
Make Your Own:
It is so important that you know that these options will only last 30-45 minutes and MUST be reapplied regularly.
use code shareyl for 10% off your first order
other NON-toxic options WITH SESAME OIL :
uses Lemon of Eucalyptus
Cedarside comes in a large spray bottle and uses 10% soybean oil, so I'd be comfortable using up to 4 hours. They have a tickshield that is a higher strength as well. Easy to spray on pets.
I prefer Wondercide because it uses other essential oil repellents other than cedarwood as well, but with only .1% sesame oil, it won't last as long. I spray on my dog when walks are under an hour.
My favorite bug bite relief product because it actually removes the irritant instead of just covering up the itch. It’s chemical-free, reusable, kid-friendly, and gives fast, lasting relief from mosquito bites, bee stings, ants, and more - without messy creams or harsh ingredients. I keep one in my bag, in my car, a few at home, they're just kind of everywhere because they work so well.
Bug Bite Thing
bug | bite relief
shop BUG BITE THING
other non-toxic options:
This comes in a stick and is really great for bug bites & itching.
If you prefer a bug bite spray, I like this option.
shop my CLEAN bugs & bites amazon storefront
Bugs & Bites in the Amazon Shop
You can find all of the bug repellents and bite remedies featured here (plus a few extras!) in one place in my Shop.
