Your bug spray might be messing with your brain—here’s what to use instead
- Ilona
- May 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 10
You know that sticky, chemically smell that clings to your clothes after a day outdoors? That’s not just the scent of summer. That’s DEET—a neurotoxic chemical that’s been absorbing into our skin and bloodstreams for over 70 years, all in the name of keeping bugs away. It might stop mosquitoes from biting, sure. But at what cost?
As warm weather rolls in and bugs come out in full force, it’s time to take a serious look at what we’re spraying, rubbing, and slathering on ourselves—and our kids, and our pets. Because while the insect threat is real (hello Lyme disease and West Nile virus), the solution shouldn’t be more dangerous than the problem. Let’s break it down.
DEET: the chemical war zone in your bug spray
DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) was invented by the U.S. military in the 1940s for use in jungle warfare. It’s been the go-to repellent ever since—showing up in everything from camping sprays to backyard repellents and even wristbands.
But what most people don’t know is that DEET is a registered pesticide. It confuses insect neurons—and unfortunately, it doesn’t stop there. In lab studies, DEET has been shown to:
Disrupt the central nervous system
Cross the blood-brain barrier
Cause skin blisters, rashes, and irritation
Trigger mood changes and behavioral issues (especially in children)
Be toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats
And yet, it’s marketed as "safe" when used correctly. The problem is, nobody reads the fine print—and few people follow the warnings to wash it off after use or avoid reapplying it too frequently.
So why are we still using this stuff? Simple: because it works. But here’s the kicker—so does nature.
How plants protect themselves (and why that matters for your skin)
Long before chemists in labs cooked up synthetic bug repellents, plants were already outsmarting insects. Many aromatic plants—like lemongrass, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and cedarwood—naturally produce volatile compounds that repel pests.
Why? Because plants can’t run away. Their only defense is chemistry.
These essential oils serve as nature’s own bug spray—deterring mosquitoes, ticks, and other herbivorous invaders by overloading their sensory systems, masking human scent, and in some cases, even disrupting egg-laying cycles. And when these plant compounds are extracted into pure essential oils (not synthetic fragrances), they retain their powerful properties—without the side effects of chemical repellents.
This is exactly why we use essential oils instead of DEET. They're effective, safe for skin, and even offer skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Plus, they actually smell good.
What we trust for ourselves—and our family
At Malina, we’re all about clean, functional skincare made with ingredients that do more than one thing. Why settle for a product that only repels bugs when it can also soothe and nourish your skin?
So when it came to creating a bug repellent we’d trust on ourselves, our kids, and our pets, we kept it simple: powerful plants, no chemicals. The result? Natural repellents that protect beautifully, smell fabulous—and feel amazing on the skin.
🌿 Malina Organic Natural Bug Spray
A lightweight, non-greasy mist made with a proprietary blend of organic geranium, citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary and tea tree essential oils—all known for their insect-repelling properties.
✔ 100% plant-based ✔ Alcohol-free ✔ Kid-safe ✔ Smells fresh, not chemical
Use it for daily protection on arms, legs, neck, ankles—wherever bugs love to bite.
🧴 Malina Organic Natural Bug Repellent Balm
Think of this as your portable bug armor. This rich, long-lasting balm is made with organic hemp seed oil, shea butter, castor oil, and a blend of citronella, tea tree, lemongrass, lemon eucalyptus, geranium, lavender and peppermint essential oils.
✔ Great for concentrated protection ✔ For face and body ✔ Nourishes the skin while repelling bugs
Bonus: The balm is especially great for kids and anyone with sensitive skin.
And don’t forget your fur baby 🐾
Most pet owners don’t realize that DEET is highly toxic to dogs and cats. And yet, many of us apply it without a second thought before going on hikes, walks, or even just playing in the yard.
That’s why we created a special version of our spray under our sister brand, inspired by our beloved pet, Hunter:
🐶 Organic Bug Spray for Pets by Prince Hunter the Handsome
Made with organic geranium, citronella, cedarwood, lemon eucalyptus, lavender and rosemary essential oils in a gentle, pet-safe dilution, this spray helps repel:
✔ Fleas ✔ Ticks ✔ Mosquitos ✔ Biting flies
All without irritating their sensitive skin or triggering respiratory issues. It’s safe, effective, and smells downright royal.
The final buzz 🐝
There’s no question—we need protection from bugs. But we don’t need chemical warfare to get it.
Nature has already given us what we need. Essential oils offer real, proven protection in a way that works with your body, not against it.
Want to keep your whole family bite-free—without the chemical baggage? Try Malina Organic Natural Bug Spray, Bug Repellent Balm, or Prince Hunter's Pet Spray and experience the difference nature makes.
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