Insect repellent

I'm after a decent insect repellent, Today I was almost bitten to death up my arms and neck by some nasty tiny little fly like things plus horsefly and mosquito season is about to start!!

I love working outside and when I'm not working I'm usually walking but biting insects do spoil things and horseflys in particular I react too really badly. Short of smothering my self in clothing I need to find a repellant.

Ive tried a few repellents in the past before but none have worked. Working were I do I'm usually close to the river or close to woodland thus in prime biteing insect territory.

Anyone know of one that works?

 

Hi, PG.
According to the Science sites (physorg) the only useful ones are based on DEET. We use Brewers yeast tablets for a month before we go on holiday and they are effective. Maybe you could just use them as a supplement all year round, given your line of work

 

Thanks Caj, Ill try it.

I dont normally clock watch but Ive never been so glad to finish as this afternoon, never been bitten or itched like it either.

 

The only one I have used that has been any good Paul is "deet" also take anti histamines you will not react as badly if you do get bit,Tesco do a non drowsy hay fever and allergy relief tablet. The only sure way is to cover up especially working near water in Aus. I used to wear the hat with the netting it used to keep the head and neck area free of bites.

 

Tea tree oil?

 

Ive manadged to track down some 100% deet and will keep the bottle in the van handy for the horsefly and midge infested gardens and any walks along the river!

Repel 100 Deet Insect Repellent - 120ml: Amazon.co.uk: Kitchen & Home

 

Paul I always use Avon Dry Skin Oil. Just rub it on before going out for the day or evening. We started using it many years ago and have never been bitten here or abroad since.

 

Thanks for all the replies, hopefully i now shouldnt get bitten again.


Ps, im still itching like mad, ive never been bitten as badly before in my life even compared to nine years ago when i spent a summer strimming Cristmass tree plantaions across South wales!! Or when Ive visited Scotland!!!!!

 

Hi Paul this makes good reading.....
http://www.safariquip.co.uk/i_insect_repellent_information.html

 

I can concur with this, the stuff that had the initials SSS in green on the front Clematis do you mean??? It comes in a spray bottle, isn't in the least bit greasy, and doesn't smell girly, just very fresh.


I have also used this stuff for a very very long time, and it does keep them off me.


Failing that Paul, you could always borrow Johns wife, I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you asked nicely lol.

 

That's the one Claire - Skin so soft. Got to be the dry skin oil tho. It's the only one that contains the right stuff. Avon don't sell it as a repellant but it is often referred to in mags etc.