Fend® Insect Repellant Review

This product review is based on my personal experience, and the opinions expressed are solely my own.

Fend® has quickly become my go-to insect repellent. It is highly effective and is safe for the whole family. This DEET-free option utilises ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (IR3535®) as its active ingredient, allowing it to repel insects without harsh chemicals. The lotion applies smoothly and dries quickly, without feeling sticky. It’s great for people with sensitive skin, and Fend® is suitable for babies two months and above, as well as for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

A representative from Fend® approached me and asked if I would like to try their insect repellent. I was eager to try this product because a significant portion of our travel is in Southeast Asia, where mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue fever are a concern. Additionally, I have a severe reaction to midge bites and usually rely on DEET for protection. However, when you see the damage that DEET can do to your thongs (flip-flops) and sunglasses, it raises concerns about its safety.

Fend® is DEET-free, and I was initially sceptical about whether a product without DEET could effectively protect me from midges. However, I decided to give it a try. I started using Fend® two months ago when we arrived in Bali and have continued to use it in Phuket. I have tested Fend® in various situations, and I am now ready to share my thoughts.

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Protects against mosquitoes for 14 hours

Fend® is clinically proven to provide 14-hour protection against mosquitoes. Unlike many repellents that are quickly absorbed into the skin or evaporate under the sun, Fend’s active ingredient is encapsulated in natural microcapsules made from algae and mushroom extracts. These tiny “bubbles” slowly release the repellent over time, providing extended protection throughout the day.

The active ingredient in this product protects against bites from various insects, including mosquitoes, midges, sand flies, ticks, black flies, and wasps. However, Fend® has only undergone clinical testing for its effectiveness against mosquitoes, which is why it is stated to provide 14 hours of protection specifically against them.

Not oily or greasy

The lotion feels more like a lightweight moisturiser than a heavy-duty insect repellent. When I first tried it, I thought, “There’s no way this will work.” It didn’t feel greasy or heavy like the repellent I usually use. However, I was pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness.

A small amount goes a long way

A small amount goes a long way. It truly does. In the past, I would apply big globs of DEET, slathering it on to ensure I was completely covered. However, with Fend®, I find that the lightweight repellent is easy to apply, and I don’t use nearly as much as I thought I would need.

It is hypoallergenic

Fend® is a nature-based, hypoallergenic product that utilises an active ingredient called IR3535®. This ingredient is a gentle amino acid derivative, serving as an alternative to harsh chemical pesticides. Research has shown that Fend® does not cause adverse skin reactions, achieving a primary irritation index of 0.0.

Safe for the whole family

Fend® is a safe product suitable for the whole family, including infants as young as 2 months old. Its formulation is designed with safety in mind. However, it’s important to exercise caution when applying it, as the product can cause stinging if it comes into contact with the eyes. Therefore, when applying Fend® to babies, avoid putting it on their hands in case they rub their eyes.

Environmentally friendly

Ahoy Sailors! This product is ideal for cruising sailors (aka Yachties). It is environmentally friendly; therefore, when you are snorkelling the fragile reef systems, be assured that the insect repellent will not harm them.

But does it really work?

I have found that Fend® works exceptionally well against mosquitoes and midges (no-see-ums, gnats, and sand flies). I can confidently say that Fend® is highly effective. For instance, I have used it while sitting on beaches in Bali at sunset, walking through jungles, dining under trees in Thailand, and even staying in a hotel that had a mosquito problem. After thoroughly testing this repellent, I absolutely love it and will continue to use Fend® in the future.