What’s Really in That Bug Spray? Ingredients to Watch Out For
As the weather warms up, we’re all spending more time outside — which means more bugs… and more bug spray. But have you ever looked at the label on your favorite repellent? Many commercial sprays are packed with chemicals that may do more harm than good — not just to pests, but to our skin, lungs, and even the environment.
At Real McCoy Soaps, we believe in protecting your skin naturally. So before you reach for that aerosol can, here’s a look at some of the common “bad guys” in conventional bug sprays:
🚫 DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide)
Powerful repellent, but linked to skin irritation and even neurological effects with heavy use.
Also harmful to aquatic life and wildlife.
🚫 Permethrin
Used on clothing and gear — not skin — but often misused.
Toxic to cats, fish, and even bees.
Can cause burning or tingling skin reactions.
🚫 Pyrethroids (like Allethrin and Cypermethrin)
Synthetic chemicals that attack the nervous system of insects — and potentially humans, too.
Associated with allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and long-term health risks.
Extremely toxic to pollinators.
🚫 Fragrance / Parfum
A mystery mix of undisclosed chemicals.
Can disrupt hormones and trigger skin allergies or headaches.
Definitely not “natural,” despite how it smells.
🚫 Petroleum Distillates & Solvents
Derived from crude oil. Yes — crude oil.
May include trace amounts of carcinogens like benzene.
Irritating to the skin and lungs.
🚫 High-Concentration Alcohols
Help sprays absorb fast — and dry your skin just as quickly.
May increase chemical absorption into your bloodstream.
🌿 A Gentle Alternative That Works
Don’t want to trade bug bites for chemical exposure? You don’t have to.
At Real McCoy Soaps, we offer a handmade Citronella Soap, crafted with all-natural ingredients. Citronella essential oil is a proven, plant-based repellent — and when combined with nourishing oils and gentle exfoliants, it offers a refreshing, skin-loving way to enjoy the outdoors bug-free.
Use it in your daily shower during mosquito season for a layer of natural protection that’s kind to your skin and the planet.
✨ Ready to ditch the chemicals?
Try our All-Natural Citronella Soap and embrace the outdoors with confidence.
👉 Shop Now at https://www.realmccoysoaps.com/shop/p/citronella-lemongrass-soap