How Mosquito Repellent Works: The Science Behind the Protection

Mosquitoes are more than just an itchy annoyance, they are vectors of serious diseases like malaria, dengue, and Zika. Protecting yourself from bites is not only about comfort but also your overall health and wellbeing.

At Hysses, we believe in combining science, nature, and conscious wellness to create safe, effective solutions that protect your skin while respecting the environment. Understanding how mosquito repellents work helps you make informed choices about which formulas to trust and how to use them safely.

This guide explores the fascinating science behind mosquito repellents, how they confuse mosquito senses, which ingredients truly work, and how to get the most protection from every application.

What Is Mosquito Repellent?

A mosquito repellent doesn’t kill mosquitoes, and that’s a key distinction. While insecticides are designed to eliminate insects on contact or ingestion, repellents are formulated to prevent bites altogether.

They work by making you invisible or unattractive to mosquitoes. When used correctly, repellents act like an invisible shield, reducing the chances of bites and disease transmission.

Repellents come in many forms , sprays, roll-ons, lotions, wipes, or even wearable patches. Some are chemical-based (like DEET or picaridin), while others use plant-derived ingredients such as Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE or PMD). Modern innovations include electronic devices that vaporise repellent actives or release ultrasonic tones.

Choosing the right repellent depends on your activity, duration of exposure, local mosquito risks, and whether children or pregnant individuals are involved.

According to Cheryl Gan, founder of HYSSES, “Repellents are not one-size-fits-all. Your choice should reflect your environment and your body’s needs, especially if you’re sensitive to synthetic ingredients. That’s where natural, skin-safe alternatives shine.”

Decoding the Ingredients: The Heroes Inside the Bottle

The magic behind every effective repellent lies in its active ingredients. These molecules work by interfering with the mosquito’s sensory system - specifically, its ability to detect human cues like CO₂, body heat, and skin odour.

1. DEET — The Long-Proven Workhorse

DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) remains the most extensively studied and proven mosquito repellent in history. Contrary to old assumptions that it simply masks human scent, research now shows DEET activates aversion pathways in mosquitoes, making you smell repulsive to them.

It binds to receptors on their antennae that detect “bad” odours, effectively warning them that you’re dangerous to approach. This is why DEET remains a top choice for travellers visiting high-risk mosquito zones.

However, DEET can sometimes feel heavy or harsh on the skin, and it may damage certain fabrics or plastics.

2. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE/PMD) - The Plant-Based Contender

Derived from the Corymbia citriodora plant, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (and its refined form, PMD) offers one of the few naturally sourced repellents officially recognised by public health agencies.

When formulated correctly, OLE/PMD provides protection comparable to lower concentrations of DEET, offering a gentler, nature-powered alternative.

Explore: HYSSES Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray – a DEET-free, skin-safe formula powered by essential oils such as Citronella, Lemongrass, and Eucalyptus.

3. Picaridin, IR3535 & Modern Synthetic Formulas

New-generation synthetic repellents like picaridin (icaridin), IR3535, and 2-undecanone were created to balance safety, pleasant texture, and lasting protection.

Like DEET, these compounds interfere with mosquito chemoreceptors, preventing them from identifying you as a target. They’re often preferred for their mild scent and non-greasy feel - making them popular for everyday use.

How Mosquito Repellents Work at the Chemical Level

On a microscopic scale, repellents work through a chemical lock-and-key interaction between molecules in the air and receptors on mosquito antennae.

When applied, repellent molecules evaporate into the air and form a protective barrier around your skin. As mosquitoes approach, these molecules enter their sensory organs (called sensilla) and either:

1. Block attraction receptors - stopping the mosquito from detecting cues like lactic acid or CO₂.

2. Activate aversion receptors - triggering an instinctive “danger” response that drives the mosquito away.

Formulation also affects performance.

• Alcohol-based repellents dry quickly but may offer shorter protection.

• Oil or polymer-based formulas create a longer-lasting film, allowing gradual release for extended defence.

Do Repellents Work on All Mosquitoes?

Most repellents provide broad-spectrum protection. While some mosquito species have slightly different receptor sensitivities, all rely on similar attraction mechanisms.

The key difference is not which species you’re facing, but how concentrated your repellent is. A higher concentration ensures longer-lasting protection rather than a broader range of effectiveness.

Debunking Common Myths About Mosquito Repellents

Myth 1: Repellents Kill Mosquitoes

False. Most repellents only deter or confuse mosquitoes, they do not kill them.
(Products like permethrin are insecticides, not repellents, and are meant for clothing, not skin.)

Myth 2: Natural Always Means Safe

Not necessarily. While natural options like OLE/PMD are proven, not all essential oils have been tested for safety or efficacy. Homemade blends may cause irritation or provide unreliable protection.

Myth 3: DIY Sprays Are Just as Effective

Homemade recipes often lack consistent concentration or stability. For short backyard use, they may help, but for travel or tropical areas, choose registered repellents with verified protection.

Maximizing Your Defence: How to Use Mosquito Repellent Correctly

• Apply evenly: Cover all exposed skin, including ankles, ears, and the back of your neck.

• Reapply as directed: Protection fades over time or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

• Combine layers: Use repellent with other barriers, permethrin-treated clothing, bed nets, and timing your activities to avoid dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does mosquito repellent last?
A: Duration varies by ingredient. A 10% DEET formula lasts ~2 hours; 20% lasts ~4 hours. Picaridin and OLE/PMD offer similar timelines. Always reapply as needed.

Q: Is natural repellent as effective as chemical ones?
A: Some natural actives like OLE/PMD can be comparable, but many essential-oil blends wear off faster. For high-risk areas, use tested, certified formulas.

Q: Can I bring mosquito repellent on a plane?
A: Yes. Follow the 100ml (3.4oz) limit for carry-ons and store them in a clear, zip-top bag.

Q: Are electronic repellents effective?
A: Plug-in vaporizers that release metofluthrin can work indoors. Ultrasonic devices, however, have no proven effectiveness against mosquitoes.

Q: What’s the best mosquito repellent overall?
A: It depends on your needs. DEET and Picaridin are strong general options; OLE/PMD is ideal for natural users; IR3535 works well for sensitive skin. Choose a product verified by your local health authority.

Final Thoughts

Mosquito repellents work by disrupting how mosquitoes detect humans — effectively hiding you from their radar. Whether you prefer a synthetic formula or a plant-based natural blend, the key lies in consistent, correct application.

Stay one step ahead of mosquitoes.
Choose HYSSES Natural Mosquito Repellent for safe, effective, and eco-conscious protection, so you can enjoy every outdoor moment, bite-free.