DEET is used in registered insect repellents designed to provide tested, longer lasting protection. Bush Balm is a plant-based insect deterrent designed for everyday outdoor use and needs more frequent reapplication.
Different products. Different jobs.
What DEET is built to do
DEET is an synthetic chemical compound used in registered insect repellents. It has a long history of use and can provide longer lasting protection against biting insects.
If you're travelling somewhere with a significant risk of mosquito borne disease, use an insect repellent recommended by the relevant health authorities for your destination.
What Bush Balm is built to do
Bush Balm is made with citronella, neem and lemon eucalyptus oils in a nourishing cocoa butter and shea butter base. These oils are traditionally used to deter insects.
It's designed to help naturally deter pesky insects during everyday outdoor life, including camping, gardening, fishing, hiking and backyard evenings.
The aroma typically lasts around one to two hours, depending on your environment and body chemistry, so regular reapplication is part of using it.
It's also vegan, palm oil free, plastic free and packaged in a home compostable push up tube.
So, which should you choose?
Choose based on the protection you need, not whether something is labelled natural or chemical.
For situations where maximum, tested protection matters, particularly in areas with significant insect borne disease risk, use an appropriate registered repellent recommended by health authorities.
For everyday outdoor life, Bush Balm is a plant-based option for people who are happy to reapply regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bush Balm as effective as DEET?
No. Bush Balm shouldn't be considered equivalent to a registered DEET repellent for duration or tested protection. It's designed as a natural insect deterrent for everyday outdoor use.
When should I use DEET instead of a natural balm?
If you're travelling somewhere with a significant risk of insect borne disease or need maximum, tested protection, use an appropriate registered repellent recommended by the relevant health authorities.
Why doesn't Bush Balm last as long as DEET?
Bush Balm relies on essential oils like citronella and lemon eucalyptus, which naturally evaporate faster than the synthetic compound in DEET. That's why the aroma, and the deterrent effect, typically lasts one to two hours rather than several hours.
Is DEET bad for you?
DEET is a widely used, long-tested repellent that's considered to be safe when used as directed. Some people find it irritating on skin or dislike the smell, and it can degrade certain plastics and synthetic fabrics. It remains by many sources a recommended option for high-risk travel.
Can I use Bush Balm and DEET together?
There's no need to combine them for the same outing. Choose based on your personal beliefs and skin sensitivity, but always seek expert medical advice if travelling to high-risk environments.
The bottom line
We could tell you Bush Balm is a natural replacement for DEET. It isn't.
DEET is built for longer lasting, tested protection. Bush Balm is built for everyday outdoor life, with plant based ingredients, plastic free packaging and regular reapplication.
Neither needs to pretend to be the other. Choose the one that fits the job.