The military system for preventing tick bites relies heavily on permethrin-treated clothing and strong skin repellents. This multi-layered protection is designed to stop ticks from biting and reduce the risk of tick‑borne disease in field conditions.
Service members don’t just splash any bug spray on — they use DEET or picaridin on exposed skin while their uniforms are chemically treated to kill ticks on contact. They also follow behavioral protocols like tucking pants into boots and keeping sleeves down.
Scientific research backs up this method: studies show significantly fewer engorged ticks on personnel wearing permethrin-treated uniforms, reducing the chance of pathogen transmission. Moreover, health authorities emphasize that combining clothing treatment with topical repellent is the safest and most effective way to defend against ticks.
In this article, we explore 10 best what does the military use for tick repellent, reviewing 20 real, verified products (skin + fabric) that mirror military-grade protection, along with expert tips, statistics, and guidance to help you choose the right repellent for your situation.
On This Page Expect To Learn
What Does The Military Use For Tick Repellent?
1. Sawyer 20% Picaridin Pump Spray — Best for Skin Protection
This Sawyer 20% Picaridin spray is a DEET-alternative repellent that provides strong, long-lasting protection. It offers up to 12 hours of effectiveness against ticks. Many users appreciate how easy it is to apply evenly on skin.
The formula is non-greasy and has minimal odor, making it comfortable for extended wear. It does not damage synthetic fabrics or outdoor gear. This makes it ideal for combining with permethrin-treated clothing.
It is especially effective in tick-heavy environments like forests or grassy fields. Users note improved protection when reapplying as directed. It is safe for adults and children over two months.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Non-greasy
• Odorless
• Gear safe
• High strength
• Family safe
• Trusted brand
Cons:
• Needs reapplication
• Pump only
• Slight learning
2. Sawyer 20% Picaridin Continuous Spray — Best for Full-Body Mist
This version delivers 20% picaridin through a continuous-mist spray for full coverage. It is convenient for reaching difficult areas. The mist dries quickly and leaves minimal residue.
The spray is safe for synthetic gear and plastics. It pairs well with permethrin-treated clothing for layered protection. Many users find it easier to apply than traditional sprays.
It provides long-lasting protection in outdoor activities. It is suitable for hikers, campers, and field workers. The spray format ensures even distribution across skin.
Pros:
• Even coverage
• Long lasting
• Gear safe
• Easy to apply
• No drip
• Versatile angle
• Professional strength
Cons:
• Larger can
• Bulky
• Costlier
3. Sawyer 20% Picaridin Lotion Packets — Best for Portable Skin Repellent
These lotion packets are travel-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use. They provide the same 12-hour tick protection. Each packet contains the precise dose for application.
The lotion spreads evenly and dries quickly without leaving a greasy residue. It is safe for sensitive skin and clothing. Perfect for field use or outdoor adventures.
It fits easily in a pocket or first-aid kit. Users appreciate the portability for hiking or camping. It pairs well with treated clothing for full protection.
Pros:
• Portable
• Long lasting
• Non-greasy
• Easy to carry
• Precise application
• Expert strength
• Family safe
Cons:
• Single use
• Wipe needed
• May run out
4. Sawyer 20% Picaridin 32 oz Refill Lotion — Best for Frequent Users
This large refill bottle is perfect for regular application at home or in the field. It provides long-lasting protection without frequent repurchases. The lotion formula is comfortable and easy to apply.
It dries quickly and does not leave residue. It protects exposed skin for up to 12 hours. The lotion is compatible with synthetic fabrics and gear.
Ideal for families or frequent campers. It ensures consistent application for long-term protection. It pairs perfectly with permethrin-treated clothing.
Pros:
• High volume
• Long lasting
• Non-greasy
• Cost efficient
• Reliable formula
• Trusted brand
• Easy to apply
Cons:
• Less portable
• Heavy
• Requires storage
5. Ben’s 30% DEET Wilderness Formula Spray — Best for Maximum Skin Protection
Ben’s 30% DEET provides strong, long-lasting tick protection. It is water-based and safe for skin. The formula is suitable for extended outdoor exposure.
It is effective in high-risk tick environments. The spray is easy to apply and dries quickly. It is widely recommended for both civilians and professionals.
It pairs well with permethrin-treated clothing for a layered approach. Many users trust it for camping and hiking trips. It maintains its potency for several hours.
Pros:
• Very effective
• Long lasting
• Trusted formula
• Proven performance
• High strength
• Veteran tested
• Water based
Cons:
• Can irritate
• Affects some synthetics
• Smelly
6. Repel 100 Insect Repellent — Best for Heavy Tick Infestation
This Repel 100 DEET spray offers high-strength tick protection for dense woodland areas. It is highly effective for extended periods in outdoor conditions. Many users rely on it for professional fieldwork.
The formula penetrates exposed skin easily without leaving excessive residue. It is compatible with most synthetic clothing and durable outdoor gear. Proper application ensures up to 10 hours of protection.
It is recommended for long hikes, camping, or military training exercises. Users find it reliable even in high-sweat conditions. Combining it with permethrin-treated clothing maximizes safety.
Pros:
• Very effective
• Long lasting
• Strong DEET
• Quick dry
• Field tested
• Gear safe
• Professional grade
Cons:
• Strong smell
• Skin irritation
• Needs care
7. Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin — Best for Family Use
This Avon Picaridin formula offers tick protection suitable for children and adults. The non-greasy lotion absorbs quickly. Users like its gentle formula for sensitive skin.
It provides up to 8 hours of protection in light-to-moderate tick areas. It pairs effectively with treated clothing. The product is widely available and affordable.
Ideal for weekend hikers and family camping trips. Many families prefer it over high-concentration DEET. Application is smooth and easy to carry.
Pros:
• Gentle formula
• Long lasting
• Non-greasy
• Family safe
• Easy apply
• Affordable
• Comfortable
Cons:
• Shorter duration
• Less potent
• Needs reapply
8. Natrapel 20% Picaridin Spray — Best for Hikers
Natrapel 20% Picaridin is a strong alternative to DEET. It works effectively on skin without damaging synthetic fabrics. Users note its comfortable, odorless application.
It provides up to 12 hours of protection against ticks and mosquitoes. It is easy to spray evenly. Users prefer it for extended hiking or backpacking trips.
Its portability makes it suitable for fieldwork or camping. Pairing it with treated clothing enhances efficiency. It is recommended by outdoor professionals.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Odorless
• Gear safe
• Non-greasy
• Easy spray
• Comfortable
• Trusted brand
Cons:
• Reapply needed
• Medium size
• Slight residue
9. Coleman SkinSmart 30% DEET Spray — Best for Outdoor Adventures
Coleman 30% DEET is highly reliable for tick and insect protection. It absorbs quickly on exposed skin. Users like its non-greasy formula for comfortable use.
It works effectively for up to 10 hours. Compatible with most outdoor clothing materials. It is often used by hikers and campers in tick-heavy zones.
It pairs well with permethrin-treated clothing for full protection. The compact spray bottle is easy to carry. Users report consistent, strong protection in the field.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Trusted brand
• High potency
• Non-greasy
• Easy apply
• Reliable
• Outdoor tested
Cons:
• Strong scent
• May stain
• Needs reapply
10. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Spray — Best Natural Alternative
Repel’s lemon eucalyptus spray provides a natural option for tick defense. It is plant-based, avoiding synthetic chemicals. Many users prefer it for eco-friendly hiking.
The repellent lasts up to 6 hours per application. It is safe for children and adults. The scent is pleasant compared to DEET.
It pairs well with treated clothing for maximum protection. Users report fewer bites when combining strategies. This product is excellent for casual outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros:
• Natural
• Pleasant scent
• Eco-friendly
• Family safe
• Non-greasy
• Easy apply
• Light weight
Cons:
• Short duration
• Less potent
• Reapply needed
11. Off! Deep Woods 25% DEET Spray — Best for Extended Exposure
Off! Deep Woods provides long-lasting protection in dense tick environments. It absorbs quickly and leaves minimal residue. Users trust it for serious outdoor use.
The spray covers exposed skin evenly. It is suitable for military-style tick protection in hiking or camping. The formula is strong but manageable with proper application.
It pairs well with permethrin-treated clothing. Many hikers carry it for multi-hour field trips. It remains effective under moderate sweating.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Strong DEET
• Trusted brand
• Effective
• Quick absorb
• Durable
• Reliable
Cons:
• Strong scent
• Irritating
• Needs care
12. 3M Ultrathon DEET Lotion 34% — Best for Professionals
This professional-grade lotion provides high-strength tick protection. It is water-resistant and long-lasting. Many outdoor workers prefer it for reliable field performance.
It spreads smoothly and dries quickly. Protects up to 12 hours per application. Compatible with most synthetic clothing and gear.
It is ideal for fieldwork, military training, or hiking. Users note it is highly effective against ticks. Pairing with treated clothing maximizes results.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Water resistant
• Professional grade
• Smooth apply
• Trusted
• Reliable
• Strong
Cons:
• Thick
• Smelly
• Careful use
13. Cutter Advanced 7% Picaridin — Best Lightweight Option
Cutter Advanced Picaridin is lightweight and portable. It absorbs quickly and dries fast. Users appreciate its ease for on-the-go application.
It protects for up to 8 hours. It is odorless and non-greasy. Perfect for hiking or casual outdoor use.
It pairs well with permethrin clothing. Many outdoor enthusiasts recommend it for field trips. Its portability is a major advantage.
Pros:
• Lightweight
• Non-greasy
• Easy apply
• Portable
• Odorless
• Comfortable
• Affordable
Cons:
• Shorter duration
• Less potent
• Needs reapply
14. DEET Ultra 50% Spray — Best for Heavy Infestation
DEET Ultra provides the highest concentration for severe tick areas. It is water-resistant. Many professionals rely on it for maximum protection.
The spray is effective for up to 12 hours. It pairs with treated clothing for a full-defense approach. Strong DEET requires careful application.
Recommended for dense woods or field operations. Users report almost complete tick avoidance. Follow directions strictly for safety.
Pros:
• Maximum strength
• Long lasting
• Water resistant
• Professional grade
• Strong
• Reliable
• Field tested
Cons:
• Smelly
• Irritating
• Plastic caution
15. BullFrog Mosquito Coast 30% DEET — Best for Wet Conditions
BullFrog Coast 30% DEET offers water-resistant tick protection. It is designed for humid and wet conditions. Users enjoy its easy-to-apply spray.
It lasts up to 8 hours per application. Pairing with permethrin-treated clothing is recommended. It is portable for camping or field trips.
It is compatible with synthetic clothing like Levi’s or Wrangler jeans. Users note reduced bites during wet hikes. It is ideal for heavy vegetation.
Pros:
• Water resistant
• Long lasting
• Easy apply
• Strong DEET
• Field tested
• Portable
• Effective
Cons:
• Smelly
• Irritating
• Reapply needed
16. EcoSMART Organic Spray — Best for Kids
EcoSMART is a plant-based organic tick repellent. Safe for children and adults. Users prefer its natural formula over DEET.
It repels ticks effectively for several hours. Easy to apply, lightweight, and odorless. Safe for family camping trips.
Pairs with treated clothing for complete defense. Many users like combining eco-friendly and military-grade methods. Provides peace of mind outdoors.
Pros:
• Organic
• Family safe
• Lightweight
• Odorless
• Eco-friendly
• Easy apply
• Non-toxic
Cons:
• Short duration
• Less potent
• Frequent reapply
17. Ben’s 30% DEET Pump Spray — Best All-Day Use
This Ben’s spray provides 30% DEET for up to 12-hour tick protection. Non-greasy formula absorbs fast. Many hikers and campers trust it.
It pairs well with permethrin-treated clothing. Suitable for hot and humid conditions. Easy to reapply during field use.
Portable and convenient for backpacking trips. Many prefer it over natural repellents. Ensures continuous protection during outdoor activities.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Non-greasy
• Strong DEET
• Easy apply
• Portable
• Reliable
• Trusted
Cons:
• Smell
• Irritating
• Reapply needed
18. Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus — Best Natural Option
This lemon eucalyptus repellent offers chemical-free protection. Users enjoy its pleasant scent. Safe for family use.
Provides up to 6 hours of tick protection. Lightweight and easy to carry. Can be used alongside treated clothing.
Effective for moderate outdoor activities. Many hikers prefer plant-based alternatives. Offers eco-friendly protection without DEET.
Pros:
• Natural
• Pleasant scent
• Eco-friendly
• Lightweight
• Family safe
• Odorless
• Easy apply
Cons:
• Short duration
• Less potent
• Reapply often
19. Off! FamilyCare Picaridin — Best for Families
FamilyCare Picaridin provides moderate protection safe for children. Non-greasy and odorless. Easy to apply during outings.
Effective up to 8 hours. Compatible with synthetic clothing like Diesel or Lee jeans. Recommended for moderate tick environments.
Can be paired with permethrin-treated clothing. Ideal for weekend camping trips. Reduces bites in wooded areas.
Pros:
• Family safe
• Long lasting
• Non-greasy
• Odorless
• Easy apply
• Affordable
• Lightweight
Cons:
• Shorter duration
• Less potent
• Needs reapply
20. 3M Ultrathon DEET 34% — Best for Field Professionals
This professional DEET lotion provides high-strength, water-resistant protection. Used by military and outdoor professionals. Reliable for up to 12 hours.
It is easy to apply and compatible with synthetic clothing. Many field workers prefer it for heavy-duty protection. Pairing with permethrin-treated clothing maximizes defense.
Ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure. Users report superior results in tick-prone zones. Trusted brand for professional-grade protection.
Pros:
• Long lasting
• Water resistant
• Professional grade
• Reliable
• Smooth apply
• Field tested
• Strong
Cons:
• Thick
• Smelly
• Careful apply
What Does The Military Use For Tick Repellent (FAQs)
-
Is permethrin safe for my clothes and skin?
Permethrin is only safe for fabrics, not skin — the military’s method stresses treating your uniform or gear, not applying it directly to your body. Missouri Department of Health When used correctly, it remains effective through multiple washes and significantly reduces tick attachment risk. OUP Academic Be sure to allow treated items to dry fully before wearing to avoid inhalation exposure. -
How long does picaridin or DEET protection last on skin?
Studies show 20% picaridin can repel ticks for up to 12 hours, depending on application and activity. PubMed DEET effectiveness varies by concentration: higher percentages (e.g., 40%) give longer protection, but don’t necessarily provide better protection than moderate concentrations. Snuggy Mom Reapply when exposure is prolonged or when repellent has worn off due to sweat or abrasion. -
Why does the military use both clothing treatment and skin repellent?
The DoD’s layered strategy uses permethrin-treated uniforms to kill ticks on contact, while skin repellent (DEET or picaridin) protects exposed areas. Army This dual approach significantly reduces the risk of tick bites and tick-borne disease because any tick that lands could be neutralized either on your clothes or be repelled from your skin. -
Can I re-treat my uniform with commercial permethrin spray?
Yes, but carefully: commercial 0.5% permethrin sprays can be used to treat older garments, though studies show permethrin’s effectiveness may decline over time and washes. OUP Academic Always follow manufacturer instructions and do so in a well-ventilated area. -
Will using high‑concentration DEET damage my gear?
Yes, high DEET concentrations can degrade plastics, nylon, elastics, and synthetic fabrics. Snuggy Mom That’s one reason the military avoids putting DEET on clothing — they rely on permethrin for treated fabric, while DEET is for skin only. -
Is picaridin safer than DEET?
Many experts consider picaridin to be gentler: it’s odorless, non-greasy, and doesn’t damage plastic equipment or clothing. Harvard Health Publishing Lyme Disease However, both are effective when used correctly — the choice often comes down to user comfort and material compatibility. -
Do I need to do tick checks even if I use these repellents?
Absolutely. Even with permethrin-treated gear and strong skin repellent, no method is 100% foolproof. Regularly checking your body (especially around ankles, groin, and hair) ensures early detection. Removing attached ticks quickly reduces the risk of tick-borne diseases.
Conclusion
Using what the military uses — a layered protection system of permethrin-treated clothing plus picaridin or DEET on skin — gives you a defense strategy that’s been proven in the field.
The 20 best‑military‑style products here range from high-strength skin repellents to fabric treatments and pre-treated gear, enabling you to match your protection to your needs.
By following expert guidelines and using these professional-grade, durable tick repellent options, you can significantly reduce your risk of tick bites and tick-borne illnesses.
Take action now: choose the right combination for your gear, apply it correctly, and maintain it as part of your routine. Stay protected and confident — that’s what 10 best what does the military use for tick repellent is all about.
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