DIY Moisturizing Bug Block Bar
Last updated on March 12, 2026 by Jessica Healey
Originally published on June 12, 2015
Summer evenings should be about enjoying the outdoors, not swatting away mosquitos. But if you’re anything like me, stepping outside feels like an invitation for an all-you-can-eat bug buffet.
For years, I relied on conventional bug sprays filled with DEET, applying them liberally—even to my face. But once I started making my own skincare products, I took a closer look at what I was putting on my skin. The EPA advises washing off DEET as soon as you go indoors, avoiding use under clothing, and keeping it away from open cuts or the mouth (source). That didn’t sit well with me.
Instead, I wanted a natural solution—one that moisturizes while helping keep pesky bugs at bay. That’s how this DIY Moisturizing Bug Block Bar came to be!
Why Make a Bug Block Bar?
Lotion bars are a fantastic way to nourish the skin while delivering beneficial ingredients, including plant-based oils known for their protective properties. Essential oils play a key role in this recipe, offering a naturally derived way to help make your skin less appealing to bugs.
Not only do these bars work well for outdoor protection, but they are also creamy, deeply moisturizing, and a joy to use. The smooth texture glides effortlessly over the skin, melting slightly with body heat for easy application. Unlike traditional sprays, which can feel sticky or drying, a lotion bar hydrates while creating a light protective barrier. Plus, the compact, solid form makes them travel-friendly and mess-free.
There are lots of essential oils out there to choose from, but I like using tea tree, geranium and citronella. This Scratch Mommy bug spray uses tea tree and geranium essential oil, (which I love!), but my husband isn’t too fond of the flowery geranium. I’ve found that if I add more earthy scents, like citronella, it reduces the floral scent, but still has a nice balance.
I experimented with different oil combinations, applying them to different areas of my skin to see how they performed. My husband noted that mosquitos weren’t even landing on the arm with this blend, which is a major win!
DIY Moisturizing Bug Block Bar Recipe
Equipment
- Double-boiler or a heat-safe glass bowl over a pot of simmering water
- Metal spoon or spatula avoid wooden utensils, as they absorb oils
- Molds, paper-lined muffin cups, or deodorant tubes
Ingredients
- 1 oz coconut oil
- 1 oz beeswax
- 1 oz shea butter
- 30 drops tea tree essential oil
- 10 drops geranium essential oil
- 10 drops citronella essential oil
Instructions
- In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax over low heat, stirring until fully liquefied.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly (but not solidify).
- Stir in the essential oils, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the mixture into molds, muffin cups, or deodorant tubes.
- Let the bars cool at room temperature until fully solidified.
- To use, rub the bar over exposed skin before heading outdoors.
Note: I love certified organic essential oils from Plant Therapy.
Final Thoughts
This DIY Bug Block Bar offers a simple, natural alternative to conventional sprays. It’s easy to make, deeply moisturizing, and packed with plant-based ingredients that help make outdoor adventures more enjoyable. The luxurious feel of the lotion bar makes application a treat, leaving skin soft, smooth, and protected.
For an extra layer of protection, consider pairing this bar with Jessica’s DIY Bug Spray Recipe for full-body coverage!
Hi,
I’m impressed about your DIY Products.
I’m going to try the homemade foundation. I bought all ingredients. But for beeswax I didn’t get organic. It contains petroleum jelly. Could it be work for the foundation? Awaiting for your reply. Next I’m going to try this bug blocker bar. Super!
Hi jasmine! I’ve never heard of beeswax with petroleum jelly in it. I’m not sure how it would work in this lotion bar recipe, and petroleum jelly is an ingredient I never use in products. Jessica may be able to chime in on her foundation recipe.
Hi there!
This year is apparently bad for Lyme’s disease in our area. Do you know if this works for ticks as well? That’s the only thing keeping me from totally ditching DEET.
As a side note, I’m also upset with myself because I THOUGHT I ordered Citronella in my last EO order. Apparently not. Is there anything else that might work?
The essential oil reference book I have says that lavender works well against ticks. You could replace the citronella with lavender in this recipe.
It also references a study that found lavender oil was comparable to DEET in its ability to repel ticks.
I promised myself just a quick peek at your DIY Products……3 hours later I finally forced myself to quit and resume my chores……lol
Made the bug block bars and spray and have not had a “bite” yet…..
my husband is usually the one bugs focus on but even after digging out a large new flower bed……no bites. Can’t wait to try some of your other products.
I do not have geranium or citronella. Are there any other oils you would recommend along with lavender? Thanks!
I had very good results with a repellant blend I got from a company. Patchouli is also supposed to be good against mosquitos. I love my geranium though! It works well and I even use it in my destress oil blend.
where do you buy organic beeswax and beeswax pellets can’t find them
Thanks
Hi Elaine, mountain rose herbs sells high quality beeswax pellets, you can find the link in the article! I’ve also bought organic beeswax pellets from bulk herb store before.
well I have all the ingredients a little worried about how strong the tea tree oil will be but here goes… i’ll post an update once I make it- or is there a different oil I can use- or cut done on the tree oil?
Hi Millie, I’m not sure if you’re worried about the tea tree being too strong on the skin, or if you don’t like the smell? Tea tree is one that can be used undiluted on skin from the research I’ve done. Also Robert Tisserand had said that a 7% dilution of oils in a bug block bar was safe and this recipe uses less than that. You can always add another oil though if you’d like, I just found this recipe to be very effective from the ones I tested.
I am allergic to perfumes/colognes and react to citronella. Can this be made with tree tea oil and lavender? I bought the beeswax. I have to try something as I get bit up really bad. What is best to use on mosquito bites?
I’ve found lavender oil eliminates itching with bug bites really well. You could just increase the tea tree and geranium in this, or try other bug repellant oils.