Beat the Bite: DIY Insect Repellent

They’re here! Yes, those pesky mosquitos have touched down for some summer fun (so they see it). But let’s not forget about their nippy friends flies and ticks, because they’re in town too.

So you know what’s next; biting, itching, burning, scratching. However, we’ve got a pretty surefire way to beat the inevitable bite -- and without relying on harsh insect repellents, which by the way can do some damage to your skin. The all-natural insect repellent answer? Essential oils.

Seriously, these oils deter mosquitoes, flies, and ticks all the while promoting optimal skin health.

When it comes to concocting an essential oil Do It Yourself Insect Repellent the main thing you need to remember is a little oil goes a long way , and also that you should never mix oils with water.

So with that in mind, just follow our recipe below being sure to include the essential oil that pertains to the insect you’re looking to avoid.

A Repelling Recipe

What you’ll need:
Essential Oil of choice
Carrier oil of choice ( jojoba, sweet almond, or avocado), if you’d like a cream-based repellent
Witch hazel, if you’d like a spray repellent

In a small bowl, place  2 tablespoons of carrier oil or witch hazel.
Add 10-25 drops of  essential oil. No more than 25 drops, as the repellent is meant to be 5-10% essential oil.
Stir, let sit for 3 minutes, and apply a test patch to your inner arm.

If redness occurs, discard the batch. If you react well to the mixture, you’re good to go.

When applying, be careful to avoid all sensitive areas. You’ll need to re-apply the repellent about every hour and definitely after swimming and exercise.

The Essentials
 

Beat The Bite: Dry Insect Repellent

Mosquitos: Aura Cacia Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil

Cinnamon may seem tantalizingly sweet to you, but to a mosquito? It’s scent, and taste, is downright awful. This essential oil has been shown to improve circulation, in turn increasing oxygen supply to cells (including skin cells) enabling them to renew and repair themselves more quickly. Cinnamon also has a way of reducing large pores and tightening the skin. Keep in mind though, this is a very strong oil, like chili oils it can get hotter and hotter within minutes, so make sure you dilute it properly.

Flies: Essential Oils Now Citronella Oil

If you’ve ever been to a BBQ after dark, you know it’s a around the tables where the citronella candles are fluttering that the real action is going down. Because well, the aroma, which stems from an oil found in a variety of lemon grass, keeps the flies away. So just imagine how well it’ll work when you mix it into a lotion or mist. Aside from repelling flies, citronella essential oil can ease headaches, break up dreaded summer colds, and -- thanks to its antibacterial properties -- remedy skin conditions including acne.

Ticks: Aura Cacia Rose and Geranium Essential Oil

Some days, you just have to tell yourself to go take a hike. With the stresses of summer, from scorching temps to sweat stained tanks, you really do deserve some relaxation, which hiking can offer. However, it also comes with the possibility of being bitten by a tick, that is unless you mist on some rose and geranium essential oils. Aside from keeping the insect at bay, this mood-boosting, floral-scented oil contains antiseptic and cicatrisant properties that can help manage oily skin.

Beat The Bite: Dry Insect Repellent

If you are pregnant or nursing, steer clear of essential oils, and any insect repellent for that matter.If you are on medication, check with your doctor before mixing up a DIY insect repellant. Certain medications, such as antidepressants and sleeping aids, may interact adversely with essential oils.If you have any pre-existing skin conditions check with your doctor before application.

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