PMD vs DEET: Can a Natural Repellent Be as Effective?

For decades, DEET has been the go-to choice for protection against mosquitoes and biting insects. However, with concerns about its impact on skin, the environment, and even your travel gear, many people are seeking a safer, more sustainable option.

Enter PMD—a natural, plant-based active ingredient that delivers tropical-strength protection without the drawbacks of DEET. But is it truly as effective? The answer is yes, and incognito®’s range of PMD-based repellents proves it.

What is DEET, and Why Has It Been So Widely Used?

DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) was developed in the 1940s and remains a common choice for repelling mosquitoes and other biting insects. While effective, it has some notable downsides:

• Harsh on Skin: DEET can cause irritation or allergic reactions, particularly for sensitive skin.
• Gear Damage: It’s known to melt plastics, damage watches, and stain fabrics—hardly ideal for travellers.
• Environmental Concerns: DEET is non-biodegradable and has been shown to harm aquatic life.

These drawbacks leave many looking for a cleaner, safer alternative—without compromising on effectiveness.

What is PMD, and How Does it Compare to DEET?

PMD (p-menthane-3,8-diol) is a natural compound derived from plants such as Citronella. However, not all PMD is created equal. To be classified as a tropical-strength repellent, PMD must be used at a minimum concentration of 20%. Many natural repellents fall short of this, meaning they may not offer the same robust protection needed for high-risk areas.

At incognito®, we go above and beyond by sourcing PMD from Java Citronella, a more potent variety compared to regular Citronella plants. This ensures our repellents provide maximum efficacy while remaining natural, eco-friendly, and gentle on your skin.

PMD vs DEET: The Benefits

When it comes to choosing between DEET and PMD, here’s why incognito®’s range comes out on top:

Critically, PMD is the only natural active ingredient recommended by:

• The World Health Organisation (WHO)
• The Centres for Disease Control (CDC)
• The NHS

PMD (at a concentration of over 20%) and DEET (at minimum 50% concentration) are the only two ingredients officially approved for use in areas where mosquitoes transmit diseases such as:

• Dengue Fever
• Zika Virus
• Chikungunya
• Yellow Fever
• West Nile Virus

Why incognito® PMD-Based Repellents Are Different

While PMD is widely recognised for its effectiveness, not all PMD repellents are formulated to the same high standards. At incognito®, we use:

1. The Purest Form of PMD – Sourced from Java Citronella, known for its superior potency.
2. Tropical-Strength Concentration – Our repellents meet and exceed the 20% threshold required to be classified as tropical strength, offering robust protection in high-risk areas.
3. Clinically Tested Effectiveness – Providing 100% protection* for a minimum of 4 hours against mosquitoes, including those that carry life-threatening diseases.

This makes incognito® the trusted choice for adventurers, families, and travellers heading to tropical or mosquito-heavy destinations.

What to Pack for High-Risk Areas

If you’re travelling to regions with a risk of mosquito-borne diseases, packing reliable protection is essential. incognito®’s PMD-based range includes:

• incognito® Insect Repellent Spray – Immediate, full-body coverage.
• incognito® Roll-On – Easy to apply, perfect for face and pulse points.
• incognito® Mineral Sunblock & Insect Repellent – Dual protection against harmful UV rays and biting insects.
• incognito® Luxury Loofah & Soap – Removes skin bacteria while cleansing and reducing body odours that attract insects.

Follow these 3 steps for full protection in high-risk areas. 

Conclusion

PMD proves that you don’t need harsh chemicals like DEET for tropical-strength protection. With the same level of effectiveness but added benefits for your skin, your gear, and the environment, incognito®’s Java Citronella-derived PMD repellents offer premium protection in harmony with nature.

Whether you’re exploring rainforests, relaxing on tropical beaches, or tackling high-risk areas, incognito® keeps you safe, naturally.

Shop the PMD-Based Repellent Range Now