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10 Best Picaridin Mosquito Repellent 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, 1-Quart Lotion Pump Dispenser,White

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,237
Formulation Type
Duration of Protection
Skin Sensitivity

Most important from
47552 reviews

Formulation Type
The lotion dries quickly, feels much more comfortable on the skin than bug spray, and doesn't smell nearly as bad.
Duration of Protection
This stuff is awesome. I've been using the same quart for three years, and it still works great.
Skin Sensitivity
This product is far superior to other sprays and lotions we've tried. No smell, no rashes, no side effects, and no mosquitoes or ticks.
Additional Features
Unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your camera gear or other equipment.

The Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent is a potent option for keeping bugs at bay, featuring a 20% concentration of Picaridin. This choice of repellent offers a non-greasy, fast-drying lotion that is both fragrance-free and odorless, making it comfortable for extended use on the skin. It's safe to use on a variety of items, including clothing and gear, which adds to its versatility for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and sporting events. One major strength is its long-lasting protection, providing up to 14 hours of defense against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against other pests like flies and gnats.

This makes it particularly useful for all-day excursions and family outings. Additionally, it's noted for being very effective, even more so than DEET, in repelling biting flies and protecting against disease-carrying insects. The product's larger 1-quart size might be cumbersome for some users to carry around. Also, while it’s fragrance-free, some users might prefer a scented option. Finally, being manufactured in China might be a consideration for those who prefer domestically produced products. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sawyer SP565 stands out for its comprehensive and long-lasting insect protection.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,237
Formulation Type
Duration of Protection
Skin Sensitivity

Most important from
47552 reviews

Formulation Type
The lotion dries quickly, feels much more comfortable on the skin than bug spray, and doesn't smell nearly as bad.
Duration of Protection
This stuff is awesome. I've been using the same quart for three years, and it still works great.
Skin Sensitivity
This product is far superior to other sprays and lotions we've tried. No smell, no rashes, no side effects, and no mosquitoes or ticks.
Additional Features
Unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your camera gear or other equipment.
#2

Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - Packaging May Vary

Rating
9.8
Additional Features

Most important from
47552 reviews

Additional Features
It doesn't smell bad and isn't greasy or sticky, making it pleasant to use.

The Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent stands out for its high 20% picaridin concentration, making it a robust choice for those seeking effective protection against a variety of pests. The repellent is non-greasy, dries quickly, and is fragrance-free, which makes it comfortable for extended use. Additionally, it won't damage plastics or synthetic materials, so it is safe to apply on clothing and gear, which is a significant advantage for outdoor enthusiasts.

It offers up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours for flies, gnats, and chiggers, ensuring you stay protected during long outdoor activities. Another bonus is that it’s suitable for the whole family, providing a versatile solution for various age groups. However, while it is highly effective against biting flies, some users might find the need for reapplication after several hours to maintain protection.

Recognized as a top-rated bug repellent by WireCutter/New York Times, the only drawback might be for those with very sensitive skin, who should test it before extensive use to ensure no irritation occurs. It’s a reliable choice for anyone needing a potent and long-lasting insect repellent, especially suited for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing.

Rating
9.8
Additional Features

Most important from
47552 reviews

Additional Features
It doesn't smell bad and isn't greasy or sticky, making it pleasant to use.
#3

Sawyer Products SP5432 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray, 20%, Pump, 3-Ounce, (Pack of 2) (Packaging may vary)

Rating
9.6
Formulation Type
Additional Features

Most important from
47552 reviews

Formulation Type
Picaridin is highly effective, providing robust protection without leaving the skin oily.
Additional Features
Perfect for travel, offering exceptional protection even in mosquito-heavy regions like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bangkok.

The Sawyer Products SP5432 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray offers a potent 20% concentration of Picaridin, which is effective against a wide range of pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and chiggers. This makes it a strong contender for anyone looking to protect themselves from insect-borne diseases like Lyme, West Nile, Dengue, and Zika viruses.

The formulation is non-greasy, fragrance-free, and dries quickly, which makes it comfortable to wear on the skin and suitable for use on various synthetic materials without causing damage. This versatility allows it to be safely used on clothing, backpacks, and other gear, making it ideal for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing. It is also safe for the whole family, which is a significant benefit for those with sensitive skin or those seeking a family-friendly option.

The spray provides up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks and up to 8 hours against other pests, which is impressive for most outdoor scenarios. However, the product comes in a relatively small volume (3 fluid ounces per bottle), which might require frequent re-purchasing for prolonged or heavy use. Some users might find the pump spray mechanism less convenient compared to continuous spray bottles. Additionally, while it's great for personal use, it may not be sufficient for larger groups without multiple bottles.

Rating
9.6
Formulation Type
Additional Features

Most important from
47552 reviews

Formulation Type
Picaridin is highly effective, providing robust protection without leaving the skin oily.
Additional Features
Perfect for travel, offering exceptional protection even in mosquito-heavy regions like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bangkok.

Buying Guide for the Best Picaridin Mosquito Repellent

Choosing the right picaridin mosquito repellent can make a significant difference in your comfort and safety, especially in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Picaridin is a popular active ingredient in mosquito repellents due to its effectiveness and lower skin irritation compared to other chemicals like DEET. When selecting a picaridin mosquito repellent, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
Concentration of PicaridinThe concentration of picaridin in a mosquito repellent determines its effectiveness and duration of protection. Higher concentrations, such as 20%, offer longer-lasting protection, typically up to 12 hours, making them ideal for extended outdoor activities or travel to areas with high mosquito activity. Lower concentrations, around 10%, provide shorter protection, usually up to 4-6 hours, and are suitable for shorter outings or everyday use. Choose a concentration based on how long you need protection and the intensity of mosquito presence in your area.
Formulation TypePicaridin mosquito repellents come in various formulations, including sprays, lotions, wipes, and aerosols. Sprays are convenient for quick application and covering large areas of skin, while lotions can provide more controlled and even coverage. Wipes are portable and easy to use, making them great for travel or on-the-go protection. Aerosols offer a fine mist that can be applied to both skin and clothing. Consider your personal preference and the context in which you'll be using the repellent to choose the best formulation for you.
Duration of ProtectionThe duration of protection is how long the repellent will effectively keep mosquitoes away. This is closely related to the concentration of picaridin. Products with higher concentrations generally offer longer protection. If you need all-day protection, opt for a repellent that advertises 10-12 hours of effectiveness. For shorter activities, a product with 4-6 hours of protection may suffice. Assess your typical exposure time to mosquitoes to determine the appropriate duration of protection you need.
Skin SensitivitySome people have more sensitive skin and may react differently to mosquito repellents. Picaridin is generally well-tolerated, but it's still important to consider any skin sensitivities or allergies you may have. Look for products that are labeled as hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin. If you have a history of skin reactions to insect repellents, it might be wise to do a patch test before full application. Choose a product that balances effectiveness with comfort for your skin type.
Additional FeaturesSome picaridin mosquito repellents come with additional features such as water resistance, pleasant scents, or added moisturizers. Water-resistant formulas are beneficial if you plan to be active or in humid conditions, as they will stay effective even if you sweat or get wet. Pleasant scents can make the repellent more enjoyable to use, while added moisturizers can help keep your skin hydrated. Consider these extra features based on your lifestyle and preferences to enhance your overall experience with the product.

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