How to Apply Mosquito Repellent Correctly

Even the best mosquito repellent won't protect you if it's not applied correctly. Many people unknowingly reduce their protection by applying too little product, missing key areas, or washing it off prematurely. This guide covers everything you need to know about proper repellent application to ensure maximum effectiveness while minimising waste and skin irritation.

Before You Apply: Preparation

Read the Label

Every repellent product is different. Before using any repellent, read the label instructions thoroughly. Pay attention to:

• Age restrictions (some products aren't suitable for young children)
• Application frequency recommendations
• Any specific warnings or precautions
• Coverage instructions (some products specify amount per application)

Timing Your Application

Apply repellent approximately 15-20 minutes before potential mosquito exposure. This allows the product to establish on your skin and begin working before you need protection. If you're heading out at sunset—peak mosquito time—apply repellent while still indoors or in a mosquito-free area.

Sunscreen First

If you need both sun and mosquito protection, always apply sunscreen first. Wait 15-20 minutes for the sunscreen to absorb before applying repellent. Applying repellent first reduces sunscreen efficacy, while applying sunscreen over repellent can dilute the repellent and reduce protection.

Application Techniques

For Spray Products

Spray repellents are the most common type. For proper application:

1. Hold the can or pump 15-20cm from your skin
2. Apply in a sweeping motion to create even coverage
3. Use your hands to spread the product and ensure complete coverage
4. Don't overspray—a light, even coating is sufficient
5. For face application, spray into your hands first, then apply to face

Avoid applying spray directly to your face, as this can result in eye and mouth exposure. In windy conditions, spray into your cupped hands and then apply to skin to prevent product waste and drift.

For Lotions and Creams

Lotion-style repellents offer more controlled application:

1. Squeeze a small amount onto your hands
2. Rub hands together to distribute the product
3. Apply to skin using smooth, even strokes
4. Work methodically from one area to the next to ensure complete coverage
5. Don't forget between fingers and around ankles

For Roll-On Products

Roll-on repellents are excellent for targeted application and travel:

1. Roll the applicator directly over exposed skin
2. Use overlapping strokes to ensure no gaps in coverage
3. Allow to dry before touching treated areas
4. Wash hands after application if you've touched the roll-on ball

Key Areas to Cover

Mosquitoes are opportunistic—they'll bite any exposed skin. Pay particular attention to commonly missed areas:

Often-Missed Areas

• Ankles and feet: Mosquitoes fly low and ankles are prime targets, especially when wearing shorts
• Back of neck: Particularly when hair is tied up or cut short
• Behind ears: A favourite spot for many mosquito species
• Backs of hands: Often exposed even when wearing long sleeves
• Inside elbows and behind knees: Areas with thinner skin that mosquitoes target
• Between fingers: Frequently missed during application

Areas to Avoid

• Eyes and mouth: Never apply directly; use hands to apply carefully around these areas
• Cuts and irritated skin: Repellent can cause stinging and increased irritation
• Under clothing: Only apply to exposed skin; repellent under clothing isn't necessary and wastes product
• Children's hands: Kids put hands in mouths; apply to their bodies but avoid hands

When to Reapply

No repellent lasts forever. Several factors affect how long protection lasts:

Follow Product Guidelines

Each product has specific duration claims based on its formulation. A 20% DEET product might claim 4 hours of protection, while a 50% DEET product claims 10+ hours. These times assume normal conditions—actual protection may vary.

Factors That Reduce Protection Time

• Sweating: Heavy perspiration dilutes and removes repellent
• Swimming: Water removes most repellent (even "water-resistant" products)
• Towelling off: Physically removes repellent from skin
• High temperatures: Accelerate evaporation of active ingredients
• Wind: Can accelerate evaporation, particularly for volatile ingredients
• Physical activity: Increases sweating and skin friction

Applying Repellent to Children

Children require special consideration when applying repellent:

Application Method

Adults should always apply repellent to children rather than letting them apply it themselves. This ensures proper coverage and prevents children from getting repellent in their eyes, mouth, or on their hands (which often go straight to their mouths).

Step-by-Step for Children

1. Apply repellent to your own hands first
2. Spread onto child's exposed skin, avoiding face initially
3. For face, use minimal product dabbed carefully on cheeks and forehead
4. Avoid eye area, lips, and inside ears
5. Do not apply to children's hands
6. Wash your hands after application

Age-Appropriate Products

• Under 3 months: No repellent—use physical barriers only
• 3-12 months: Products with 10% DEET or less, applied sparingly
• 1-12 years: Products up to 30% DEET, applied by adults
• 12+ years: Adult products can be used

Applying to Clothing

While skin application is primary, treating clothing can provide additional protection:

Spray Repellents on Clothing

Most DEET and Picaridin products can be applied to clothing. However, DEET may damage certain synthetic fabrics, plastics, and some leather. Picaridin is safe for all fabrics. Apply to outer surfaces of clothing, particularly areas near exposed skin (cuffs, collars, sock tops).

Permethrin Treatment

Permethrin is an insecticide (not a repellent) that can be applied to clothing for long-lasting protection. It bonds to fabric fibres and remains effective through several washes. Permethrin-treated clothing kills mosquitoes on contact, adding a layer of protection beyond skin repellents.

After Your Outdoor Activity

Proper post-activity care is often overlooked:

Remove Repellent When No Longer Needed

Once you're back indoors, wash repellent off with soap and water. There's no benefit to leaving it on, and prolonged skin contact can increase the chance of irritation for some people.

Wash Treated Clothing

If you've applied repellent to clothing, wash it before wearing again. This removes residue that can transfer to skin or furniture and refreshes the garment for next use.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Skin Irritation

If you experience skin irritation from repellent, try switching to a Picaridin-based product (less irritating than DEET) or reducing application frequency. Never apply repellent to irritated, cut, or sunburned skin.

Still Getting Bitten

If you're still getting bitten despite using repellent, consider: coverage gaps (missed areas), need for reapplication, or trying a higher concentration product. Some mosquito species are more persistent than others, and very heavy mosquito pressure may require maximum-strength products.

Product Feels Unpleasant

If you dislike the feel of your current repellent, try different formulations. Picaridin feels lighter than DEET. Lotions absorb differently than sprays. Finding a product you're comfortable wearing increases the likelihood you'll use it consistently.