How to layer sunscreen and insect repellent the right way

 

If you want to protect your skin from both sunburn and bug bites, you need both sunscreen and insect repellent—and the order matters. Apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent, so each product can do its job effectively.

 

Sunscreen vs. Repellent: Which goes first?

 

When using both products together, always apply sunscreen first, followed by insect repellent.

  • Sunscreen should go directly on clean, dry skin so it can form an even, protective layer.
  • Insect repellent goes on last, over your sunscreen, to create a barrier that keeps mosquitoes and ticks away.
  • Reapply sunscreen more often (about every two hours, and after swimming or sweating), but you usually do not need to reapply insect repellent more than once per day unless the product label tells you otherwise.

The same routine applies when you use plant-based repellents, such as oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen, let it absorb fully, then add a thin, even layer of OLE repellent on top.

Safety tips for being in the sun and preventing mosquito bites

To maximize the effectiveness of your sunscreen and insect repellent, consider the following tips.

SUNSCREEN SAFETY TIPS

  • Read all product instructions before applying sunscreen.
  • Limit your time in the sun between the hours of 10am and 3pm—this is when the sun is at its hottest.
  • Put on sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, as your skin can take up to half an hour to absorb sunscreen.
    Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re going into the water or sweating.
  • According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, physical or mineral sunscreens that contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are safe to use on young children or people with dry skin or eczema.
  • Consider wearing a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and face from sunburn.
  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays.

Insect Repellent Safety Tips

  • Read the product label before using the repellent and follow all manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Don’t use repellents on skin that’s broken, damaged, or irritated, and don’t apply repellent under clothing.
  • Instead of spraying a repellent directly on your face, spray it on your hands first before gently applying it to your face.
  • Avoid rubbing repellent around your eyes and mouth and use sparingly around the ears.
  • Never let a child spray repellent on themselves—help them out by spraying repellent in your hands first and applying it to their skin. Repellents that come in balm or towelette form may be more child-friendly than sprays.
  • Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), which is not the same as lemon eucalyptus essential oil, are natural, safe to use by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and protect against mosquitoes for up to six hours.

Why choose Murphy's Naturals

Murphy’s Naturals products are designed to protect people and the planet while helping you enjoy more time outside.

  • Made with plant-based ingredients and thoughtfully chosen active components.
  • Formulated not to damage your gear, clothing, or outdoor equipment.
  • A portion of every purchase supports environmental non-profits as part of 1% for the Planet.
  • Developed and tested for effective protection, with high concentrations of active ingredients where it counts.

Used together, a good sunscreen and a well-formulated repellent can help you stay outside longer with less worry about sunburn or bug bites.


 

— Jennings Ridout
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