Hong Kong’s humid climate is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. But while the threat of irritable bug bites and mosquito-borne diseases may cause serious concern, so might dousing yourself in insect repellent every day. Many popular sprays on the market contain pesticides as their active ingredient, which although the EPA deem safe to use in recommended doses, are still potentially harmful to the body when applied incorrectly or absorbed in high amounts through the skin.

The good news is that there are several natural bug repellent alternatives on the market formulated with natural essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus oil and soybean oil in the place of toxic pesticides and harmful chemicals. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best natural insect repellants — ranging from sprays to balms — from local Hong Kong imprints like Preface and Jiang Bao Zi and global skincare brands such as Burt’s Bees and All Terrain.

Mrs. White’s Unstung Hero Natural Spray Anti Mosquito Eau de Cologne; HK$300 at shen-beauty.com

Mrs. White’s Unstung Hero Natural Spray Anti Mosquito Eau de Cologne; HK$300 at shen-beauty.com

Burt’s Bees Herbal Insect Repellent; HK$89 at watsons.com.hk

Burt’s Bees Herbal Insect Repellent; HK$89 at watsons.com.hk

Badger Company Anti-Bug Balm, Citronella & Rosemary; HK$68 at iherb.com

Badger Company Anti-Bug Balm, Citronella & Rosemary; HK$68 at iherb.com

Shen Bug Off All-Natural Spray; HK$153 at shen-beauty.com

Shen Bug Off All-Natural Spray; HK$153 at shen-beauty.com

BabyGanics Natural Insect Repellent, Deet Free; HK$87 at iherb.com

BabyGanics Natural Insect Repellent, Deet Free; HK$87 at iherb.com

All Terrain Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellent, Deet Free; HK$115 at iherb.com

All Terrain Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellent, Deet Free; HK$115 at iherb.com

The Preface Eucalyptus Anti-Bugs Balm; HK$128 at zstore.com

The Preface Eucalyptus Anti-Bugs Balm; HK$128 at zstore.com

Smell Lemongrass Mosquito Repellent Liquid Spray; HK$70 at zstore.com

Smell Lemongrass Mosquito Repellent Liquid Spray; HK$70 at zstore.com

Jiang Bao Zi Natural Repellent Mosquito Balm; HK$39 at zstore.com

Jiang Bao Zi Natural Repellent Mosquito Balm; HK$39 at zstore.com