1. Introduction
Bugs and sunburns can ruin any outdoor adventure. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to protect yourself from the sun and pesky biting bugs like mosquitoes and noseeums.
2. Natural Protection
If you are looking for a natural bug repellant and sun protection, there are several herbal-based potions and lotions available. One of the best ways to keep the bugs away and enjoy a comfortable experience is to use natural products, specifically cactus juice-based bug repellents.
3. Benefits of Cactus Juice
According to Cactus Juice, “Many people use cactus juice products as a topical pain killer for sunburns, ant bites, bee stings, minor cuts, and burns. All Cactus Juice products contain natural cactus extract, making them naturally anti-inflammatory and effective topical pain killers. Additionally, Cactus Juice products do not contain DEET, making them safe for children, animals, and daily use, as well as safe for the reef.”
4. Product Experience
We have experience using the SPF20 Cactus Juice Sun and Skin Outdoor Protectant, which is designed to provide protection against a broad range of insects: mosquitoes, no-see-ums, yellow flies, sand fleas, black flies, greenheads, deer flies, chiggers, and ticks.
5. The Bottom Line
The Cactus Juice Sun and Skin Outdoor Protectant effectively repels mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and noseeums. It is available with or without SPF 20 sunscreen and helps moisturize dry, chapped skin. The product’s formulation avoids DEET and other harmful chemicals, making it safe for kids. It is made from a blend of prickly pear cactus extract, emollients, and moisturizers and comes in both 8 oz. and 2.5 oz. bottles.
Best Features:
- Effective protection against mosquitoes, flies, and noseeums
- Lotion offers moderate sun protection with SPF 20 sunscreen
- Spray option available without sunscreen, ideal for evening use
- Moisturizes and soothes rough, dry skin
- Safe for kids; contains no DEET or harmful chemicals
- Leaves no oily residue
6. Personal Experience
During a surf fishing trip on the Outer Banks of NC in September four years ago, the green flies were relentless. I soon became their target. However, after seeing another fisherman unaffected by them, we learned he was using Cactus Juice, a product that had just landed in the local tackle shop. After trying it, the flies and mosquitoes left us alone. Cactus Juice truly works.
7. Additional Tips to Keep the Bugs Away
- Avoid overly scented lotions and perfumes, as these attract bugs.
- Wear long sleeves and pants for added skin protection.
- Camp away from stagnant water, as bugs are attracted to moist areas.
- Keep your camping area clean to minimize food odors that attract insects.
- Consider starting a campfire or using mosquito coils during peak bug hours like dusk and dawn.
