Guide
Insect repellents against mosquitoes and ticks — how to choose
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Repellents reduce mosquito bites and the risk of tick bites, which matters in the warm months and outdoors. The choice depends on the active substance, the duration of protection and age. Below we explain how to choose and apply a repellent safely. Always read the leaflet/label for the age limit and how to use it.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
What repellents there are
Common repellents contain active substances such as DEET, icaridin (picaridin), IR3535 or plant oils (e.g. oil of lemon eucalyptus). They differ in the duration of protection and the suitable age. A higher concentration usually means longer protection, not stronger repelling.
Correct application
Apply the repellent to exposed skin and/or clothing as directed, avoiding the eyes, mouth, wounds and small children's hands. Reapply according to the product's duration, especially with sweating or bathing. If also using a sunscreen, apply the sunscreen first, then the repellent.
Protection from ticks
Besides a repellent, when walking in grass and bushes, light-coloured long clothing, tucking trouser legs into socks and checking the body after returning all help. If you find an attached tick, remove it carefully with tweezers close to the skin and disinfect the spot. Watch for spreading redness over the following weeks.
Safety in children
For children, choose a repellent labelled as suitable for the relevant age, and follow the recommended concentration and frequency. Some substances have age restrictions (e.g. oil of lemon eucalyptus is usually not recommended for the youngest). Apply it to the child yourself, do not give the product into the child's hands, and wash the skin after coming inside.
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Frequently asked questions
Which repellent is most effective?
Products with DEET and icaridin usually provide reliable and lasting protection; IR3535 and some plant oils also work, but often for a shorter time. The choice depends on the situation, the length of the stay and age. Check the concentration and the instructions for suitable protection.
How often should I reapply the repellent?
According to the specific product's duration of protection, which depends on the substance and concentration. Reapply more often with sweating, bathing or a long time outdoors. Do not exceed the recommended frequency stated on the label, especially in children.
Can I use a repellent on a baby?
Age restrictions differ by substance — some repellents are not recommended for the youngest. For babies, physical measures (nets, suitable clothing) are often also relied on. Check the label for the age limit and, if unsure, consult a paediatrician or pharmacist.
Repellent and sunscreen — in what order?
Apply the sunscreen first, let it absorb, then apply the repellent. Combined '2-in-1' products are usually not recommended, because the sunscreen is reapplied more often than the repellent. Follow each product's instructions.
What should I do about a tick bite?
Remove the tick as soon as possible with tweezers, gripping close to the skin and pulling steadily, then disinfect. Watch the spot and your general condition over the following weeks; for spreading redness or symptoms, see a doctor, as some tick-borne infections need treatment.