Sawyer Products SP564 delivers up to 12 hours of dependable insect and tick protection using a gentle, fragrance-free formula with 20 percent Picaridin. Safe for both family and gear, its lotion applies smoothly and is favored for outdoor essentials from hiking to backyard gatherings. The main point to consider is the occasional oily texture some users report. Ideal for those seeking effective, long-lasting defense from mosquitoes and ticks without harsh scents or risk to clothing.
Reality Check
Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20 percent Picaridin is a topical lotion designed to keep a broad spectrum of biting insects at bay. Applied directly to the skin, it promises up to 12 hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks, and 8 hours against other pests like flies and gnats. It is safe for use on the whole family and won’t damage clothing, plastics, or synthetic gear. The non-greasy, fragrance-free formula makes it practical for camping, hiking, fishing trips, or any time spent outdoors.
In practice, this repellent delivers reliable protection—customers report minimal to zero bug bites and a pleasant lack of strong odor. However, there’s a consistent complaint about its texture: while some users experience a non-greasy feel, others find it oily or sticky, which can be off-putting in hot weather or for those sensitive to lotions. This inconsistency in texture is the main trade-off. If an occasional oily feel bothers you, or if you expect a totally weightless application, this could be a dealbreaker. Still, most agree the long-lasting and effective protection outweighs the minor annoyance, though the price may be steeper than some alternatives.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and families who prioritize reliable, long-lasting bug protection over texture concerns.
Not Recommended For: Those who dislike any potential oily residue or are highly sensitive to skincare product feel.
What Customers Say
Customers find the insect repellent effective against mosquitoes and other biting insects, with zero bites reported. They consider it better than DEET and appreciate its minimal scent, smooth application, and long-lasting protection that lasts for hours. The product receives mixed feedback about its greasiness, with some finding it non-greasy while others describe it as oily, and about its value for money, with some considering it well worth the price while others find it overpriced.
Key Features
- Non-greasy, fragrance free, odorless; dries quickly and won’t damage plastics or synthetic coatings — safe for use on clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing line, firearm finishes, and more
- Safe for use on the whole family, long-lasting insect and tick repellent spray deters a wide variety of pests — up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and up to 8 hours against flies, gnats, and chiggers
- Fragrance-free topical insect repellent with 20% Picaridin — more effective at repelling biting flies than DEET; repels disease-spreading ticks (Lyme, tick-borne encephalitis) and mosquitoes (West Nile, Dengue, Zikam and Chikungunya viruses), chiggers, and more
- Very comfortable to wear on your skin, it’s ideal for all your outdoor adventures, from camping, backpacking, hunting, and fishing to backyard BBQs, sporting events, days at the park, and more
- Top rated bug repellent by WireCutter/New York Times (May, 2020); maximize protection by pairing with Sawyer Permethrin tick and insect repellent spray for clothing and gear
