The 3 Best Mosquito Repellent Lotions

Originally designed to protect military troops, Ultrathon Insect Repellent with DEET helps keep mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, chiggers, gnats, fleas and deer flies at bay and protects against diseases like Zika virus, West Nile virus, Dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Lyme disease. It has a high amount of DEET — 34.34% DEET — that promises to work for up to 12 hours. This formula is also designed with a polymer that releases DEET slowly over time, helping to create a barrier for longer periods than most competing lotions.

This repellent has 1,500 reviews, with the majority of reviewers raving about how it keeps bugs away, but some noted it does give off a slightly potent smell.It stays put through sweat and water, but reviewers note that also means it’s more difficult to remove. This lotion is ideal for hikers, campers, and trips to areas with prevalent mosquitos and insects.

Helpful Review: "I applied a thin layer, and voila - the bugs buzzed off instantly, and I was able to enjoy the rest of my beach vacation in peace, bite-free. One application was sufficient for an entire day, unless I went for a long swim in the ocean or took a shower ... The small size of the container makes it one of the few bug [repellents] out there that are ok to take in your carry-on. I would highly recommend this to anyone ..."