Which is worse: the chemical smell of old school bug sprays or itchy mosquito bites? Now you don't have to choose, thanks to an array of bug repellents that get the job done without toxins like DEET—and happen to smell amazing while doing it. Here, our editor-approved picks.
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Hellin Kay
Aromaflage Botanical Fragrance and Insect Repellent, $65; aromaflage.com
Aside from its dainty dragonfly emblem, you'd never know this chic perfume is bug-related—especially after getting a whiff of its sweet and summery blend of vanilla, citrus, and cedarwood. But those very essential oils are what keep the mosquitoes away, mimicking a practice that's been the norm in tropical climes like Southeast Asia for centuries. A modern-day bonus? This formula also comes in candle form, which turns into a wine glass after the wax has burned away.
For those who love the lemony smell of citronella, this one's for you—it's the most discernible scent in an herbaceous blend that also includes rosemary, peppermint, and cedar.
This formula is the most diminutive in the bunch, leaving behind just a subtle trace of lemongrass, geranium, and peppermint. That's good news for those who aren't crazy about citronella—while it contains the natural bug repellent for maximum effectiveness, it's not very discernible to the nose.
This peppery scent is a luxe and even sultry option, with notes that include lavender, bergamot, marigold, cedar, and patchouli. Plus, while most natural formulas require a lot of reapplication, Outside's water base (rather than alcohol) makes it long-lasting.
This potion's delicate lemon scent lends itself just as well to linens and clothes as it does to skin—which is great, because there is nothing (nothing) worse than waking up with phantom bug bites that occurred magically overnight.
This isn't technically a spray, but a serum, meaning you get to really moisturize your skin while you protect it from welts. The main scent here is cinnamon, as well as clove, peppermint, cedar, and geranium.