insect spray© Photo: iStock

11 best insect repellents: From sprays to candles and the popular Mosi-Guard

Protect yourself against insects

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TV Writer
Updated: August 16, 2022

There's nothing worse than an itchy insect bite, so we've rounded up the best insect repellents to buy for the summer months.

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Whether you're shopping for adults or children, looking for a citronella candle or a gentle formula for your skin, there's a range of options at your disposal. 

La Jolíe Muse Citronella Candle, £5.59, Amazon

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Infused with citronella oil, this insect-repelling candle combines a top note of green citrus with bottom notes of a fresh and clean fragrance. Harmless to humans, pets and the environment, it’s also biodegradable and eco-friendly.

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Alfresco Anti Bug Bite Moisturiser, £11.50, Cult Beauty

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Alfresco Natural Insect Repellent has a two-fold effect, not only does it keep annoying bugs at bay but the botanical extracts make it the most heavenly smelling moisturiser. Fun fact – it's so effective that it has been personally requested on location by stars like Kristin Scott Thomas, Penelope Cruz, Robert Redford and Jude Law.

Bite Away, £16.99, Amazon

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This medical device is hugely popular, and it's received over 500 glowing reviews on Amazon. Clinically proven to relieve itching, pain, and swelling caused by bites and stings, Bite Away works solely through heat technology - all you have to do is place the device onto the affected area and gently press it onto the skin. Then, after clicking the button, the ceramic contact surface heats up to approximately 51°C for a maximum of five seconds.

Citronella Incense Sticks Insect Repellent, £3.79, Amazon

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If you're a fan of incense, then why not try out these Citronella sticks that are specially designed to repel insects? An affordable and helpful addition to your home, each use will last up to 12 hours. 

Mosi-Guard, £7.76, Amazon

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Mosi-Guard's natural insect repellent stick is often recommended for adults and children from three months of age. Made with 32 percent citriodiol, this formula will protect you for up to eight hours. 

Avon Mosquito Insect Repellent, £12.40, Amazon

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It might not be sold as a repellent but Avon's oil body spray is raved about for doing the job. Infused with natural oils to help lock in moisture, it contains citronella which helps to protect against insects. Best applied on damp skin, this light and non-greasy formula won't leave any marks on your clothes either. 

Jungle Formula Maximum Insect Repellent Spray, £7, Amazon

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Providing up to nine hours of total protection for adults and children over 12 years of age, Jungle Formula is one of the UK's No.1 selling insect repellent brands in the UK.

Smidge Insect Repellent, £8.37, Amazon 

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Smidge's novel, water and sweat-resisting formula protects against insects for up to eight hours. It's also recommended by the World Health Organisation and Public Health England. 

Inecto Pure Coconut Oil Moisture Cream, £4.97, Amazon

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While it's not exclusively an insect repellent, some research suggests that the fatty acids and compounds found in coconut oil may help repel biting flies and mosquitoes for up to two weeks. So, if you opt for a moisturiser that contains coconut oil, you'll be able to combat dry skin and insects all at the same time – winning!

Incognito Insect Repellent, £9.35, Amazon

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This scientifically tested insect repellent spray protects against mosquitoes, midges, sandflies, horseflies, ticks, and more for up to five hours. It's also been chosen as one of the stand-out nature-friendly mosquito repellent products by the vegan society.

Basil Pot, £1.49, Morrisons

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If you're looking for a natural alternative, mint and basil can be used to keep creepy crawlies and unwanted pests at bay – yes, really. Mint is known to repel lots of insects including mosquitoes due to its strong smell and it can even keep mice away. Another great insect repellent is basil, which can be planted around doors and windows to keep bugs from entering your office space.

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