Yes, neem oil mosquito repellent works well and can keep mosquitoes away from your skin for several hours. Studies show neem gives you 70 to 100% protection against mosquito bites when you apply it the right way. The oil offers a natural choice for people who want to avoid chemical bug sprays.
I started using neem oil for mosquitoes two summers ago during a camping trip. My friends used DEET sprays while I tried my neem blend. We all got about the same level of protection through the evening. The only real gap was that I had to put on more neem every couple of hours.
Neem works by hiding your scent from mosquitoes looking for blood meals. The compounds in the oil mask the signals your body sends out that attract biting insects. Mosquitoes cannot find you as well when neem covers your exposed skin. They may land on you but often fly away without biting.
DEET still beats neem for how long each coat of spray lasts on your skin. A single DEET coat can work for 4 to 8 hours while neem needs a fresh coat every 1 to 2 hours. But many folks prefer the trade off for natural mosquito protection without the harsh chemical feel and smell of DEET.
My cousin got bad reactions from DEET sprays that made her skin red and itchy. She switched to neem blends last year and has not had those problems since. The extra work of putting on more coats is worth it to her for the comfort. She brings her neem lotion everywhere now.
To make your own neem insect repellent, mix neem oil with a carrier at a 2 to 5% strength. That means about 12 to 30 drops of neem per ounce of carrier oil or lotion. Coconut oil works great as a base and adds its own mild bug fighting power. Stir it up well before each use.
You can also add neem to your regular body lotion for an easy blend. Just squeeze out a palm full of lotion and add a few drops of neem oil. Rub it together in your hands and apply to your arms, legs, and neck. This works great for quick trips outside when you do not want a full spray routine.
Apply your neem blend to all exposed skin before you head outside. Focus on your ankles, wrists, and neck where mosquitoes like to bite most. Rub it in well so the oil absorbs into your skin surface. Set a timer on your phone to remind you when to put on another coat.
Neem also works in oil burners and diffusers to keep mosquitoes out of outdoor spaces. Add some neem to a candle warmer near your patio table during dinner. The scent spreads out and makes the area less inviting for biting bugs. This helps protect your whole group without everyone having to wear oil on their skin.
Store your neem repellent blend in a dark bottle away from heat and sunlight. The active compounds break down when exposed to these things. A small bottle fits well in a purse or backpack for trips to the park. Check your blend every few months and make a fresh batch if it starts to smell off.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Neem Oil Uses You Should Know
