Defend Against Ticks Year-Round: The Top EPA-Approved Tick Repellents You Need to Know

By Jenny Lelwica Buttaccio

Whenever you head outside to enjoy the beauty of nature you must remember to prepare for the less pleasant aspects you may encounter. Ticks, those tiny yet formidable arachnids, are waiting to hitch a ride on a warm-blooded host and potentially spread diseases, such as Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases.

If you think there’s no chance you’ll wind up encountering a disease-carrying tick or contracting an illness, note that nearly 40 percent of Illinois deer ticks test positive for Lyme disease, according to data from the Illinois Natural History Survey at the Prairie Research Institute. Add to those other tick-borne diseases from blacklegged ticks and the Lone Star tick that carries such diseases as alpha-gal syndrome and Rocky Mountain spotted fever and you can begin to see the need to protect your health.

Gear of hiking including a map, compass, backpack, cameras, a warm coat, boots, and a notebook are arranged on a wooden plank background. — Photo by Alice Donovan Rouse, Unsplash.

The good news? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved several effective tick repellents. Here’s a rundown of the top EPA-approved tick repellents to help you enjoy the great outdoors with greater peace of mind.

1. Permethrin

Permethrin stands out as one of the most effective tick repellents available. Unlike other repellents that are applied to the skin, permethrin is designed to treat clothing, gear and camping equipment. When ticks come into contact with permethrin-treated fabric, they are either repelled or killed.

As a repellent, 0.5 percent permethrin offers long-lasting protection, remaining effective through several washings. For those who spend extended periods in tick-prone areas, wearing permethrin-treated clothing can be a game-changer. When using permethrin, be sure to follow the instructions on the product and apply it in a well-ventilated area.

Want more information on how to apply permethrin? Watch this video from Illinois Lyme Association.

2. DEET

DEET is possibly the most well-known insect repellent. It has been used for decades and offers protection against a range of biting creatures, including ticks. According to the EPA, DEET works by confusing the ticks’ sense of smell, making it harder for them to recognize humans as potential hosts. The EPA recommends using products with DEET concentrations between 20 percent and 30 percent for optimal protection. It’s important to follow the application instructions carefully, particularly for children, to be sure you’re using the product safely and effectively.

3. Picaridin

Picaridin is a newer repellent that has gained popularity due to its effectiveness and user-friendly qualities. Unlike DEET, picaridin is odorless, non-greasy and less likely to irritate the skin. It provides long-lasting protection, making it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts. Picaridin works by forming a barrier on the skin that deters ticks and other biting insects. Products containing 20 percent picaridin are recommended for tick protection, offering up to 12 hours of defense.

4. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus

For those who prefer a more natural approach, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) may be an excellent option. Comprised of leaves from the lemon eucalyptus tree, OLE contains p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), which is effective against ticks. It’s important to note that products labeled as oil of lemon eucalyptus should contain at least 30 percent PMD to provide adequate protection. While OLE has a more pleasant scent than some other repellents and is plant-based, it shouldn’t be used on children under three years of age.

5. IR3535

Sun peeks through a partly cloudy sky onto a rocky bend in a river. On either side of the river are trees. — Photo by David Sink, Unsplash.

IR3535 is another effective tick repellent that is gentle on the skin. It’s commonly found in lotions and sprays and provides protection for up to 8 hours. IR3535 is considered safe for use on children and adults, making it a versatile choice for families. It works by repelling ticks rather than killing them, reducing the risk of bites and the transmission of tick-borne diseases.

Helpful Takeaway

When you get ready for any outdoor adventure, make sure you’re equipped with an effective tick repellent. Whether you choose permethrin-treated clothing, DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535, each of these EPA-approved options will help keep ticks at bay. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature with better protection against ticks and the diseases they carry.

Resources

Deet. Environmental Protection Agency website.

How to Apply Permethrin. Illinois Lyme Association website.

Preventing Tick Bites. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Skin-Applied Repellent Ingredients. Environmental Protection Agency website.

Statewide Tick Surveillance Highlights Widespread Establishment of Ticks & Pathogens. Prairie Research Institute factsheet (2024).

Jenny Lelwica Buttaccio, OTR/L, is a health journalist based in Indiana and licensed occupational therapist. She lives with her husband and rescue dogs Emmi and Opal. When not writing, she can be found buried in a book, working out, or out in nature. Her work has been featured in HuffPo, Prevention, Men’s Health, Healthline and many other publications.