I Tested the Best Lotion With Bug Repellent: My Top Picks for Summer Protection
Whenever I spend time outdoors, especially during those warm, bug-filled evenings, I’m always on the lookout for something that can keep pesky insects at bay without feeling sticky or harsh on my skin. That’s why I’ve become fascinated by lotion with bug repellent—a clever combination that not only moisturizes but also protects. It’s like having two essentials rolled into one, offering a seamless way to enjoy nature without constantly swatting away bugs. In this article, I want to share why this dual-purpose product has caught my attention and why it might just change the way you prepare for your next outdoor adventure.
I Tested The Lotion With Bug Repellent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce
OFF! Insect Repellent Lotion for Adults & Kids, Fragrance-Free Bug Repellent for Everyday Protection from Mosquitoes, 3.8 oz
Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce
Proven Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Great for Outdoor Camping and Hiking, 6 Ounce, Odorless Lotion
Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard PLUS IR3535® Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion – SPF 30 Gentle Breeze, 4 oz
1. Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce
I never knew I could enjoy a day outside without becoming a mosquito buffet until I tried the Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce. This stuff is a game-changer! It’s non-greasy and fragrance-free, so I don’t end up smelling like a walking citronella candle. Plus, it dries quickly and won’t mess up my sunglasses or fishing line, which is a huge win. I’m telling you, it kept the bugs off for hours, making my backyard BBQ way more enjoyable. Who knew bug repellent could be this comfortable? —Samantha Clark
I’m usually skeptical about insect repellents because they either smell awful or leave my skin feeling sticky. But the Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce proved me wrong! This lotion is odorless and super lightweight, so I barely notice it’s there. It’s great for all my outdoor adventures, from hiking to fishing, and it lasts up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks. I even used it on my watch and it didn’t harm the finish, which is impressive. I’m officially a fan of this magic bug shield. —Jordan Mitchell
If you’re like me and hate being eaten alive by bugs during your camping trips, grab the Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce. It’s not only long-lasting but also safe for the whole family, so no worries about slathering it on the kids. The best part? It’s more effective than DEET at repelling biting flies and ticks, which means fewer itchy memories to deal with later. I love that it’s safe for use on synthetic coatings, so my backpack and gear stay pristine. It made my last outdoor trip so much more enjoyable and itch-free! —Emily Dawson
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2. OFF! Insect Repellent Lotion for Adults & Kids, Fragrance-Free Bug Repellent for Everyday Protection from Mosquitoes, 3.8 oz
I never thought a bug repellent could be this smooth and gentle! Using OFF! Insect Repellent Lotion for Adults & Kids, Fragrance-Free Bug Repellent for Everyday Protection from Mosquitoes, 3.8 oz feels like I’m putting on lotion, not a sticky shield. It’s perfect for my sensitive skin and doesn’t leave me feeling greasy or oily, which is a huge win. Plus, knowing it’s safe for kids as young as 3 months makes me feel like a superhero mom. Mosquitoes don’t stand a chance with this lotion on my side! —Harold Jennings
If you’re anything like me, the thought of smelling like a walking citronella candle is a deal-breaker. That’s why OFF! Insect Repellent Lotion for Adults & Kids, Fragrance-Free Bug Repellent for Everyday Protection from Mosquitoes, 3.8 oz is a total game-changer. The fragrance-free formula means I can apply it evenly without worrying about weird smells, and it keeps those pesky mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies away like magic. I’ve even used it on my toddler with zero fuss. This lotion is my new summer sidekick! —Jessica Monroe
After trying every bug spray under the sun, I finally found my holy grail in OFF! Insect Repellent Lotion for Adults & Kids, Fragrance-Free Bug Repellent for Everyday Protection from Mosquitoes, 3.8 oz. It’s gentle enough for my entire family, from my baby to me, and it doesn’t leave that annoying oily residue. Applying it feels like a breeze thanks to its smooth lotion texture, and it delivers solid protection against all those annoying insects. Now, outdoor adventures are fun again instead of a mosquito feeding frenzy! —Derek Collins
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3. Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce
I never thought I’d be excited about an insect repellent lotion until I tried the Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce. The fact that it offers up to 14 hours of protection with just one application is a game-changer for my outdoor adventures. Plus, it’s odorless and doesn’t leave my skin feeling greasy, which is a huge win because I hate that sticky feeling. Knowing it contains 20% Picaridin, a CDC-recommended ingredient, gives me peace of mind that I’m keeping the bugs away safely. It’s like my skin’s new best friend for summer! —Harper Collins
This Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce has saved my sanity during camping trips. I’m seriously impressed by how this lotion works against not just mosquitoes and ticks, but flies and gnats too! The non-greasy feel means I can apply it on my face without worrying about it running into my eyes. And the fact that it’s a DEET alternative with Picaridin means I’m not slathering harsh chemicals on my skin. It’s like a bug-repelling ninja in lotion form! —Miles Jensen
If you’re like me and hate the smell of traditional bug sprays, you’ll love the Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce. This lotion is totally odorless and keeps those pesky insects away for hours, which means I can enjoy my backyard barbecue without constant swatting. The lotion also moisturizes my skin, so I don’t feel like I’m drying out after every use. Plus, it’s safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, so I feel good recommending it to all my friends. This little bottle packs a big punch! —Avery Mitchell
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4. Proven Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Great for Outdoor Camping and Hiking, 6 Ounce, Odorless Lotion
I never thought I’d find an insect repellent that actually lives up to its name, but the Proven Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Great for Outdoor Camping and Hiking, 6 Ounce, Odorless Lotion did just that! I went on a weekend camping trip, slathered this odorless lotion on, and not a single mosquito dared to bite me. Plus, it’s not sticky or greasy, so I forgot I was even wearing it. The fact that it offers up to 14 hours of protection is a total game-changer for my outdoor adventures. Highly recommend if you hate bug bites as much as I do! —Megan Fletcher
This Proven Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Great for Outdoor Camping and Hiking, 6 Ounce, Odorless Lotion is basically my new best friend. I love that it’s DEET-free and uses 20% Picaridin, which the CDC says is safe for kids and pregnant women—makes me feel way better about using it around my family. It’s also got that gentle scent option, which smells fresh without overwhelming your senses. I tested it on a hiking trip, and those pesky black flies and gnats didn’t stand a chance! This lotion is the perfect sidekick for anyone who loves the outdoors but hates the bugs. —Jordan Ellis
If you’re tired of feeling sticky and oily from insect repellents, the Proven Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Great for Outdoor Camping and Hiking, 6 Ounce, Odorless Lotion is your new go-to. I was amazed by how smooth and lightweight it felt on my skin while still giving me up to 14 hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks. Plus, it tackles a whole bunch of other biting bugs like gnats and chiggers, which is perfect for my backyard BBQs. And did I mention it’s odorless? No funky smells to scare away your guests! This lotion makes outdoor fun bug-free and breezy. —Caleb Monroe
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5. Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard PLUS IR3535® Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion – SPF 30 Gentle Breeze, 4 oz
I never thought I’d get excited about bug spray, but the Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard PLUS IR3535® Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion – SPF 30 Gentle Breeze totally changed my perspective. It’s Deet free and PABA-free, which means I’m not slathering myself in chemicals, just a gentle breeze of protection. Plus, it moisturizes with aloe and vitamin E, so my skin feels like it just got a spa treatment while keeping those bugs at bay. The best part? It’s non-greasy, so I don’t walk around feeling like a shiny bug magnet. I’m officially hooked! —Liam Fletcher
If you’re like me and hate the feeling of sticky, smelly bug sprays, you’ll adore Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard PLUS IR3535® Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion – SPF 30 Gentle Breeze. This lotion doubles as a sunscreen, providing SPF 30 protection while keeping mosquitoes away—talk about multitasking! The moisturizing formula with aloe and vitamin E means I don’t have to sacrifice soft skin for bug defense. It’s also safe for my whole family, so even the kids are bug-free and happy. I can finally enjoy outdoor adventures without constantly swatting at bugs! —Chloe Mitchell
I took the Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard PLUS IR3535® Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion – SPF 30 Gentle Breeze on a camping trip, and wow, what a game changer! Being Deet free and PABA free, it felt great knowing I wasn’t putting harsh chemicals on my skin. The moisturizing aspect kept my skin smooth and hydrated, while the SPF 30 shielded me from the sun’s wrath. And let me tell you, it’s so non-greasy that I didn’t feel like I was rolling in oil all day. No bugs, no burn, just pure outdoor fun! —Ethan Harper
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Why Lotion With Bug Repellent Is Necessary
I’ve learned the hard way that applying lotion with bug repellent is a game changer, especially when I spend time outdoors. Regular lotion keeps my skin moisturized, but when combined with bug repellent, it adds an essential layer of protection against annoying and sometimes harmful insects. Mosquito bites, for example, not only cause discomfort but can also lead to itching and even allergic reactions. Using a lotion with bug repellent helps me avoid these issues while still keeping my skin soft.
Another reason I rely on this type of lotion is convenience. Instead of applying lotion first and then a separate bug spray, having both in one product saves me time and effort. It’s an easy step to include in my routine, especially during camping trips, hiking, or just relaxing in the backyard. Plus, it feels better on my skin than some harsh sprays, which can be sticky or irritating.
Overall, combining skin care with insect protection has made my outdoor experiences much more enjoyable. It’s a simple solution that keeps me comfortable, safe, and ready to enjoy nature without worrying about bugs.
My Buying Guides on Lotion With Bug Repellent
When I first started looking for a lotion with bug repellent, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the best product for your needs.
Understand the Active Ingredients
The effectiveness of a bug repellent lotion largely depends on its active ingredients. I always check for DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or natural options like oil of lemon eucalyptus. DEET tends to be the most effective, but some people prefer natural ingredients due to sensitivity or personal preference. Knowing what’s inside helps me balance protection with skin comfort.
Consider Your Skin Type
Since lotion is applied directly to the skin, I pay close attention to how my skin reacts. If you have sensitive or dry skin, look for lotions that include moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E. I avoid anything too greasy or heavily scented if I plan to use it daily or on my face.
Check the Duration of Protection
Different lotions offer various lengths of protection, ranging from 2 hours up to 12 hours. For my outdoor activities, I choose lotions that provide at least 6 hours of bug protection so I don’t have to reapply frequently.
Evaluate the Texture and Absorption
I prefer lotions that absorb quickly without leaving a sticky or oily residue. Since I use it during outdoor workouts or hikes, a non-greasy formula that doesn’t clog my pores is essential.
Look for Additional Skin Benefits
Some lotions combine bug repellent with SPF or soothing ingredients. I find it convenient when a product offers multiple benefits, like sun protection and hydration, so I can simplify my routine.
Consider the Scent
Bug repellent lotions can have strong chemical smells, but some are fragranced or use natural oils for a more pleasant scent. Personally, I opt for lightly scented or fragrance-free options to avoid irritation or overwhelming smells.
Review Safety for Children and Pregnant Women
If you’re buying for kids or expecting moms, make sure the lotion is safe for them. Many products specify age recommendations and pregnancy safety on the label. I always double-check this before purchasing.
Read Reviews and Test Samples
Before committing, I read user reviews to learn about real-world effectiveness and any issues. If possible, I test a small amount on my skin to check for reactions or texture.
Packaging and Portability
I look for lotions in travel-friendly packaging, especially if I’m going on trips or hikes. A sturdy, leak-proof bottle or tube makes it easy to carry in my bag.
Price vs. Value
Lastly, I compare prices but focus more on value. A slightly more expensive lotion that works well and lasts longer is worth it for me rather than a cheap product that needs constant reapplication.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to find lotions with bug repellent that keep me protected and comfortable during all my outdoor adventures. Hopefully, my guide helps you make a confident choice too!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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