Hong Kong’s humid climate is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. But while the threat of irritable bug bites and mosquito-borne diseases may cause serious concern, so might dousing yourself in insect repellent every day. Many popular sprays on the market contain pesticides as their active ingredient, which although the EPA deem safe to use in recommended doses, are still potentially harmful to the body when applied incorrectly or absorbed in high amounts through the skin.
The good news is that there are several natural bug repellent alternatives on the market formulated with natural essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus oil and soybean oil in the place of toxic pesticides and harmful chemicals. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best natural insect repellants — ranging from sprays to balms — from local Hong Kong imprints like Preface and Jiang Bao Zi and global skincare brands such as Burt’s Bees and All Terrain.
Editor
Joanna FuCredit
Lead image: Arthur Elgort/Conde Nast via Getty Images)