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When you live in a tropical country like the Philippines, one of the perennial problems you’ll have to deal with is the presence of pesky bugs and mosquitoes. With mosquito-caused diseases like dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya always looming on the horizon, it’s best to include an insect repellent product in your essentials, especially if you have babies and kids.
With so many products in the market, choosing the right insect repellent for you and your family can be confusing. But don’t worry, our buying guide is here to give you some points to consider when making your purchase, and our list of the 10 best products can point you to the right direction.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Insect repellants are no longer just add-ons; they are vital in keeping you and your family safe from disease. In the Philippines, dengue fever is responsible for a large number of hospitalizations, especially during the rainy season, when gutters and waterways are blocked, turning them into breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
It’s not just mosquitoes. Other insects like ticks and flies also bring with them an array of infectious diseases. If you like outdoor activities, you also need to arm yourself against bugs that bite and cause allergic reactions.
These insects detect the presence of a human or animal host through skin odors and the carbon dioxide we exhale. They also use other indicators like visual cues, movement, and heat. Insect repellants work by affecting insects’ sense of smell and taste. This helps to prevent them from zeroing in on unsuspecting hosts like us.
There are several factors that affect the performance of an insect repellant product. Let our buying guide below walk you through these different points to consider.
Insect repellant formulations differ in the active ingredients used. The type of ingredient directly affects the protection time it offers. Whichever type you choose, it is best to use one with ingredients that have been registered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The most commonly-used ingredients in chemical insect repellant products are DEET and picaridin. These two ingredients are EPA-registered and are safe to use within the parameters set by the agency.
DEET is a colorless liquid with a faint odor that does not dissolve easily in water. It has undergone many studies that prove its safety. Generally, a formulation with 10% DEET is effective for about two hours. People living in tropical areas are recommended to use repellants with 20-50% DEET.
Picaridin is available in 5% to 20% formulations. A 20%-formulation would give you about 4 to 5 hours of protection. Picaridin is odorless, non-greasy, and unlike DEET, does not have the ability to dissolve or degrade certain materials like plastics or synthetics.
Generally, natural ingredients in insect repellant products give you protection from insect bites for considerably less time than chemical ingredients. You will have to reapply more often to stay insect-free.
However, the main advantage it has over chemical insect repellants is that it has less potential to trigger allergic reactions or skin irritations, so it could be the better choice for babies and kids. Some examples of plant-based ingredients are essential oils like lemon eucalyptus, soybean, citronella, peppermint, lavender, and thyme.
However, while these are gentler on the skin, they are not as regulated for safety or effectiveness by the EPA. With this in mind, if you want to go the natural route, it is best to choose products from reputable brands. Established brands are more likely to have certifications of quality assurance.
Insect repellant products come in various forms that will fit different lifestyles and concerns. They each have their own pros and cons, so make sure to pick one that is most compatible with your needs.
Repellant sticks or balms are typically made with beeswax or a carrier oil like coconut oil or shea butter. They are much denser than other types of insect repellants, and the consistency is similar to lip balm. Because of this dense form, you get more control over the amount you use.
They are non-staining and won’t leave any streaks or stains on your clothes as well. However, they can feel sticky on the skin, especially outdoors. It’s also wise to store them in a cool place because high temperatures can cause them to melt and lose their form.
Spray types are very convenient to use. One spritz and you can cover a wide area right away. The liquid formulation in spray types may be water-based or oil-based, and they are much easier to spread. However, you also won’t be able to have much control over the amount you use and risk wasting product as is the case in aerosol types.
Another point to consider is the possibility of inhalation. It can be tricky to use with children since they tend to squirm or move around as you apply. Liquid forms also pose the danger of kids rubbing the product into their mouths or eyes.
Some ways you can avoid these risks are to spray in an open area and to spray the product onto your palm instead. You can then rub it onto your child's skin for greater control.
Insect repellent creams or lotions offer greater control because you can pour the product onto your palm and spread it where needed. They also offer the most long-lasting and complete coverage among personal insect repellant products. However, they do tend to feel greasy or sticky since the product is thicker.
Some products can also leave stains on your clothes. They also take longer to dry so make sure that your kids give the product a little time to dry before touching food or sensitive areas like their eyes and mouths. Some products also contain sunscreen in the formulation. While this can seem convenient, experts advise against using these.
Sunscreen formulations are weakened by insect repellant chemicals, and in turn, you won’t be getting as much sun protection. Sunscreens also increase the absorption of DEET, possibly exposing you to toxicity. So while both sunscreens and insect repellants are safe and effective separately, they must not be used together.
Accessories refer to insect repellent products like clips, wristbands, stickers, and patches that you can stick on clothing. These are infused with nonsynthesized plant oils to keep you safe from insect bites. They are convenient to use and won’t leave any stains, nor are they likely to cause an allergic reaction.
However, the formulations are less concentrated and tend to work only within the areas that you put them. If you wear a wristband, for example, the parts of your body away from that, like your legs, will be left unprotected.
If you want to keep your home or office bug-free, then one way to do that is by using aerosol insecticides. Bug sprays usually cover large areas at a time and provide protection for long periods of time. When spraying, use a sweeping motion, then make sure to keep the room closed for at least 15 minutes to keep the air inside.
It’s also important to steer clear of the treated area for a while to avoid inhaling toxic chemicals. If you’re using it in a kitchen, all food processing surfaces and food should be covered or removed.
One of the more recent innovations in pest control is the plug-in. Mosquito repellent plug-ins are a reliable way of keeping your place pest-free. Plus, they are quite convenient, too. One type of plug-in is the ultrasonic plug-in. This type uses high-frequency sound to repel mosquitoes and other insects.
With the chemical type of plug-in, you simply plug it into a socket, switch it on, and it will slowly release an insecticide. The insecticide itself comes from tiny mats or liquids that turn to vapor when heat is applied.
While plug-ins are generally safe, it is advisable to use them with caution when you have a baby inside the house. If you have a baby below two months old, make sure that he or she sleeps in a different room to avoid exposure to chemicals.
If you want to go old-school, the mosquito coil, also known as katol, is one option for you. It is an incense typically curved into a spiral and made using dried pyrethrum powder. When lighted, the smoke produced by the coil repels mosquitoes and other insects.
However, many concerns about its impact on one's health have been raised. While the mosquito-repelling ingredient itself might be safe, the smoke produced by burning poses health risks.
If you decide to use a mosquito coil, it’s best to light it outdoors. This is perhaps a good choice if you like to go camping or spend most of your time in your outdoor spaces at home.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Chemical or Natural | Active Ingredient | Net Weight | ||||||
1 | Human Nature Skin Shield Oil | ₱195 Mid | An All-Natural Insect Repellent for the Whole Family | Oil Spray | Natural | Citronella Oil、Eucalyptus Oil、Orange Oil | 100ml | ||
2 | Philips Mosquito Killer Lamp | ₱389 High Mid | Zap Mosquitoes Effectively With This UV Lamp | Lamp | None | None | Not Specified | ||
3 | OFF! Overtime Insect Repellent Lotion | ₱228 Mid | Dermatologically-Tested and Gives Reliable 8-Hour Protection | Lotion | Chemical | DEET | 100ml | ||
4 | Baygon Multi-Insect Killer Water-Based | ₱393.7 High | A Water-Based Spray to Eliminate Different Types of Insects | Aerosol | Chemical | Tetramethrin、d-Phenothrin、d-Allethrin | 600ml | ||
5 | Tiny Buds Tiny Buds Gone Away Stick Ons | ₱199 Mid | Cute DEET-free Patches For Your Little Ones | Patch | Natural | Citronella Oil | 24 Pieces | ||
6 | Baygon Liquid Vaporizer Starter | ₱296 High Mid | A Convenient and Effective Electric Diffuser for Eliminating Mosquitoes | Plug-In | Chemical | Prallethrin | 19.8g | ||
7 | Bite Block Kids Insect Repellent Lotion | ₱182 Low Mid | A Hypoallergenic Repellent Lotion For Your Kids | Lotion | Natural | Citronella Oil、Soybean Oil、Picaridin | 100ml | ||
8 | Tiger Balm Mosquito Repellent Patches | ₱167 Low Mid | For a Mess-free and Effortless Protection | Patch | Natural | Citronella Oil | 10 Patches | ||
9 | Baygon Mosquito Coil | ₱153 Low | Live Bite-Free With This Mosquito Coil | Coil | Chemical | Transfluthurin | 10 Coils, 12 Coils | ||
10 | Natureganic Citronella Lotion + Balm | ₱200 Mid | Natural Insect Repellent from a Small Local Brand | Lotion Balm | Natural | Citronella Oil、Coconut Oil | 40g, 80g |
This DEET-free insect repellent is made with 100% natural ingredients, making it safe for the whole family, including pregnant and breastfeeding moms, and even young children. It provides effective protection against mosquitoes and other insects with its key ingredient, citronella oil. Plus, soybean and eucalyptus oil add an extra layer of defense for your skin.
Human Nature Skin Shield Oil is more than just an insect repellent! It also doubles as a moisturizer, thanks to nourishing sunflower seed oil and coconut oil. These leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and smelling fresh with a pleasant citrus scent from citronella and orange oils. And the best part? Human Nature sources their citronella oil from local farming communities, supporting their livelihood with every purchase.
Type | Oil Spray |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Natural |
Active Ingredient | Citronella Oil、Eucalyptus Oil、Orange Oil |
Net Weight | 100ml |
Tired of pesky mosquitoes ruining your evenings? Look no further than the Philips Mosquito Killer Lamp! This innovative device utilizes ultraviolet (UV) light technology to effectively attract and eliminate mosquitoes, creating a relaxing, bite-free environment for you and your family.
The lamp works silently, so you can enjoy a peaceful night's sleep without any buzzing interruptions. Multiple reviewers have praised its effectiveness in eliminating mosquitoes, making it a reliable choice for your home. Plus, unlike chemical sprays and insecticides, the Philips Mosquito Killer Lamp offers a safe and eco-friendly solution for pest control. It requires minimal maintenance, making it incredibly user-friendly. Breathe easy and enjoy a restful night's sleep with the Philips Mosquito Killer Lamp
Type | Lamp |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | None |
Active Ingredient | None |
Net Weight | Not Specified |
OFF! has been a household name due to its reliability. It offers protection for the whole family, from young children to adults. With a formula that delivers up to 8 hours of protection, it is one of the longest-lasting repellants on this list. The product might initially feel heavy upon application, but it has a Dermcool component in its formulation that will leave it feeling light on your skin after a while. Plus, the refreshing scent adds to the feeling of lightness!
The formulation also includes a proprietary surfactant blend that ensures even distribution so you won't miss any spots. With this dermatologically tested insect repellant, you don't have to worry about pesky mosquito and insect bites anymore!
Type | Lotion |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Chemical |
Active Ingredient | DEET |
Net Weight | 100ml |
Baygon Mosquito Multi-Insect Killer Water-Based Spray Aerosol is your ultimate weapon in getting rid of pesky insects! This powerful formula eliminates crawling, flying, and even garden insects, leaving you with a truly pest-free environment.
Unlike traditional sprays with harsh smells, Baygon's water-based formula leaves no unpleasant odors, making it perfect for indoor use. Plus, it's safe for your houseplants and won't damage carpets, draperies, or no-wax floors when used as directed. Baygon tackles a wide range of insects and offers long-lasting protection with a single application.
Type | Aerosol |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Chemical |
Active Ingredient | Tetramethrin、d-Phenothrin、d-Allethrin |
Net Weight | 600ml |
Looking for a safe and convenient way to protect your little one from mosquitoes? Gone Away Stick Ons are the perfect solution! These adorable patches come in 24 fun designs and are made with plant-based ingredients, so they're gentle on your child's sensitive skin.
Gone Away Stick Ons are DEET-free and utilize the power of citronella to provide long-lasting protection for up to 6 hours. Simply stick a patch on your child's clothes, stroller, or crib for a worry-free day!
Type | Patch |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Natural |
Active Ingredient | Citronella Oil |
Net Weight | 24 Pieces |
Tired of restless nights swatting at mosquitoes? Baygon Liquid Vaporizer provides a convenient and mess-free solution for a peaceful sleep. This electric diffuser plugs right in and utilizes a prallethrin-based liquid to effectively repel mosquitoes for up to 30 nights.
As the device heats up, the liquid transforms into a vapor that disrupts mosquitoes' senses, keeping them away from you and your family. Plus, Baygon Liquid Vaporizer boasts a clean and easy-to-use design with a light indicator and requires only a single refill for a month of protection.
Type | Plug-In |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Chemical |
Active Ingredient | Prallethrin |
Net Weight | 19.8g |
Type | Lotion |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Natural |
Active Ingredient | Citronella Oil、Soybean Oil、Picaridin |
Net Weight | 100ml |
Tired of dealing with greasy lotions and messy sprays when you head outdoors? These innovative mosquito repellent patches offer a convenient and natural solution. Made with a gentle formula, these patches provide long-lasting protection against mosquitoes and other pesky insects, keeping you comfortable on your adventures.
Each patch effectively repels mosquitoes for up to 8 hours, allowing you to enjoy extended hikes, camping trips, or backyard barbecues without worry. Simply stick the patch onto your clothing or gear for mess-free application. Plus, the odorless formula makes them perfect for adults and children, ensuring everyone can enjoy the outdoors comfortably.
Type | Patch |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Natural |
Active Ingredient | Citronella Oil |
Net Weight | 10 Patches |
Looking for effective protection against mosquitoes in your home? Baygon Mosquito Coils offer a reliable solution to create a peaceful, dengue-free environment. Backed by lab-tested science, their Fast Knockdown Formula effectively eliminates mosquitoes and other insects, keeping your family safe.
Each Baygon Mosquito Coil burns for up to 8 hours, providing continuous protection throughout the night. Simply place the coil in a low, well-ventilated area, making sure it doesn't touch other objects to avoid fire hazards.
Type | Coil |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Chemical |
Active Ingredient | Transfluthurin |
Net Weight | 10 Coils, 12 Coils |
Made by a small, local business, this balm offers powerful mosquito protection with a natural twist. The hero ingredient, citronella oil, repels pesky insects, while coconut oil keeps your skin hydrated. Plus, soothing cocoa butter and vitamin E calm any irritation.
Don't like applying it directly to your skin? No worries! This versatile balm works just as well when applied to your clothes. Users love the pleasant aroma, making it a convenient and effective choice for your outdoor adventures. Support local and experience the natural power of this citronella balm!
Type | Lotion Balm |
---|---|
Chemical or Natural | Natural |
Active Ingredient | Citronella Oil、Coconut Oil |
Net Weight | 40g, 80g |
Now that you know how to keep yourself safe from insects, you might want to check out how to keep your family and your home totally pest-free. Check out our other article reviews of products you can use to get rid of those nasty little bugs!
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Human Nature|Skin Shield Oil
No. 2: Philips|Mosquito Killer Lamp
No. 3: OFF!|Overtime Insect Repellent Lotion
No. 4: Baygon|Multi-Insect Killer Water-Based
No. 5: Tiny Buds|Tiny Buds Gone Away Stick Ons
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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