Natural vs DEET: Which Insect Repellent Really Works?

Whether you’re planning a camping trip, heading on a tropical holiday, or simply enjoying a summer evening outdoors, insect repellents are a must-have. The challenge is knowing which kind to use. Should you rely on DEET, the long-established chemical standard, or choose a natural alternative made from essential oils and plant-based ingredients?

It’s a common dilemma — and one that continues to divide opinion. DEET has been used for decades and is backed by strong evidence of effectiveness. However, some people are cautious about using chemical products on their skin, especially for young children or those with sensitivities. Natural repellents, on the other hand, are seen as gentler and environmentally friendly, but many consumers wonder whether they provide enough protection.

As Good Riddance points out, for children with sensitive skin, eczema or allergies, using DEET regularly can be “like putting petrol on a fire.” This highlights why many families are exploring natural options that are kinder to the skin while still aiming to keep biting insects at bay.

In this article, we’ll explore how DEET works, what defines a “natural” repellent, and how both options compare in terms of effectiveness, safety, and practicality.

What is DEET?

DEET, short for N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, has been the benchmark ingredient in insect repellents for more than seven decades. It was first developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 after soldiers battling mosquitoes and biting flies in tropical regions during World War II needed a reliable form of protection. The chemical was later made available for public use in 1957 and quickly became one of the most widely used active ingredients in consumer repellents across the world.

Its popularity comes down to one key factor: proven performance. DEET remains one of the few ingredients consistently shown through scientific research to repel a wide range of insects — not just mosquitoes, but also ticks, leeches, sandflies, midges, and other biting insects. It’s found in a variety of products including sprays, lotions, creams, and wipes, in concentrations ranging from mild (5–10%) for short-term protection to stronger formulations (up to 40%) for high-risk environments.

How DEET works

DEET doesn’t repel insects in the way many people imagine — it doesn’t create a physical barrier or a smell that insects dislike. Instead, it works on a chemical level by interfering with an insect’s ability to locate humans.

Mosquitoes and other biting insects rely heavily on their sense of smell to find hosts. They’re attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat, and the natural compounds our skin emits, such as lactic acid. DEET disrupts these scent signals by binding to the olfactory receptors in an insect’s antennae and mouthparts. This confuses their sensory system, making it much harder for them to detect and land on a person. Some studies have shown that even when insects come close, they struggle to recognise human skin as a food source.

The concentration of DEET determines how long this protective effect lasts. Lower concentrations (around 10%) may provide protection for about 2 hours, while formulations with 30% DEET can last up to 6 hours or more. Beyond that, higher concentrations don’t necessarily make the product stronger — they just extend its duration of protection.

Safety and skin sensitivity

When used as directed, DEET is considered safe by major health authorities. However, some people experience mild irritation, stinging, or redness, especially if applied to broken skin or near the eyes and mouth. DEET can also feel greasy and has a strong odour, which makes it less appealing for everyday use. It’s generally not recommended for babies under 12 months of age or for those with eczema or highly sensitive skin.

Practical considerations

Because DEET is a solvent, it can damage certain plastics, synthetic fabrics, and even painted surfaces — something to keep in mind when applying it around gear, clothing, or glasses. 

What are natural repellents?

Natural insect repellents are made from plant-derived ingredients rather than synthetic chemicals. They rely on the natural defensive properties of certain plants whose essential oils can help deter insects. These oils have evolved in nature to protect plants from pests, and when used in the right concentrations, they can offer humans a degree of protection too.

Common natural ingredients

Some of the most common natural repellent ingredients include:

• Citronella – one of the oldest and most recognised natural repellents, known for its fresh lemony scent.
  

• Lemon Eucalyptus Oil (OLE) – contains p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), one of the few natural compounds scientifically proven to repel mosquitoes for extended periods.
  

• Tea Tree Oil – has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to mild repellent effects.
  

• Lavender, Peppermint, and Geranium Oils – often added for scent and supplementary protection.
  

• Neem Oil – used traditionally in tropical regions; provides short-term repellency but has a strong, distinctive smell.

How they work

Unlike DEET, which interferes with an insect’s ability to detect humans, most natural repellents act by masking the smells that attract insects or by creating a scent barrier that insects find unpleasant. However, because essential oils are volatile and evaporate quickly, their effects tend to wear off faster than synthetic alternatives. Protection may last anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the formulation, concentration, and environmental conditions.

Some well-formulated products — such as those using stabilised essential oil blends or cream-based carriers — can last significantly longer. For example, Good Riddance’s natural range has been independently tested to provide up to four hours of protection, demonstrating that with the right formulation and ingredient balance, natural repellents can perform far better than the typical essential oil spray.

Effectiveness and misconceptions

While natural repellents are appealing for those seeking chemical-free options, not all are equally effective. As Good Riddance highlights, many products marketed as “natural” are simply essential oils diluted in water or alcohol. These may smell pleasant but provide very short-lived protection — often less than an hour — because the active ingredients evaporate quickly.

It’s important to note that “natural” doesn’t always mean “safe” or “effective.” Essential oils are potent substances that can cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially when used in high concentrations. Products that have undergone testing and are approved by regulatory bodies such as the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) are generally more reliable, as they must demonstrate both safety and effectiveness.

Which type of repellent is more effective?

When it comes to insect repellents, effectiveness is the factor that matters most. Scientific studies consistently show that DEET remains one of the most reliable active ingredients for long-term protection against a wide range of insects. However, advances in natural formulations have significantly narrowed the gap between chemical and plant-based options.

Comparing protection duration

The primary difference between DEET and natural repellents lies in how long they last before needing reapplication. Research indicates that products containing around 20–30% DEET typically offer four to six hours of protection, even in hot or humid conditions. In contrast, traditional natural repellents made purely from essential oils — such as citronella or lavender — generally protect for 30 minutes to two hours before evaporating or losing potency.

Yet not all natural options fall into that short-term category. Formulations that use stabilised plant-based actives, like oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD) or carefully balanced essential oil blends, have demonstrated much longer protection times. Good Riddance’s natural repellent range, for example, has also up to four hours of effective protection against mosquitoes — on par with many moderate DEET formulations.

Influencing factors

Effectiveness isn’t determined by ingredients alone. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, sweat, and wind can all reduce a repellent’s lifespan. 

The formulation base also plays a key role: cream-based repellents tend to last longer because they allow the active ingredients to release slowly and adhere better to the skin, whereas alcohol or water-based sprays evaporate faster.

To put things into perspective:

 

What are the safety and environmental impact of both types of repellents?

Choosing an insect repellent isn’t only about what keeps the bugs away — it’s also about what’s safe for your skin, your family, and the environment. Both DEET and natural repellents can be used safely when applied correctly, but there are important differences in how they interact with people and nature.

Safety for humans

DEET has undergone decades of safety testing and is approved for use by health authorities around the world, including the World Health Organization and the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). When used as directed, it’s considered safe for adults and children over two months old. However, reactions such as mild skin irritation, stinging, or eye discomfort can occur, particularly at higher concentrations or when applied to broken skin.

Natural repellents, on the other hand, are generally gentler on the skin and often preferred by those with sensitivities. However, natural doesn’t always mean risk-free. Essential oils can cause allergic reactions or irritation, especially when applied undiluted or too frequently. 

Products that are APVMA-approved, such as Good Riddance’s natural repellent range, have undergone safety testing to ensure they are suitable for regular use, even on children from three months old.

Environmental considerations

DEET’s chemical stability makes it effective — but it also means it can persist in the environment. Trace amounts of DEET have been found in waterways, where it can affect aquatic organisms in high concentrations. While these levels are typically very low, it highlights the importance of washing off repellents responsibly and avoiding overuse.

Natural repellents tend to break down more quickly because their active ingredients are biodegradable. This makes them a more environmentally friendly option, especially for people living near coastal or freshwater ecosystems. Additionally, cream-based formulations (like those offered by Good Riddance) often use plant-based waxes and natural emulsifiers, further reducing environmental impact.

Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. DEET has earned its reputation for reliability, offering long-lasting protection that’s especially valuable in high-risk areas or tropical conditions. Natural repellents, meanwhile, appeal to those seeking a gentler, eco-friendly alternative for everyday use.

Ultimately, the best repellent is the one that fits your needs, comfort level, and environment. For a short stroll, a family picnic, or daily use on sensitive skin, a well-formulated natural repellent can be the ideal choice.

The key is to read labels carefully, follow directions for use, and choose products backed by credible testing and approval. Whether you lean towards natural or DEET-based solutions, a mindful choice ensures you stay protected, comfortable, and confident — wherever your next adventure takes you. 

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