First written in September 2022. Updated in September 2025 with latest information.
A bug bite balm or essential oil roll-on is just what the doctor ordered for summertime. Not only can they help deter mozzies and bugs from biting you, they also takes the sting out of the ones through get through, calming that itchy, red "I must scratch" feeling!
Here's two easy, make-once, use-often recipes to keep in the car or day pack. Gentle, handy, and just right for an Aussie summer with fewer itchy moments.
Why these ingredients work
- Coconut oil brings light moisture and a clean glide that softens skin.
- Shea butter adds a comforting richness with vitamin E to settle irritated areas.
- Beeswax (or candelilla for a vegan version) creates a breathable barrier, so the balm stays put.
- Cocoa butter lends firmness and a subtle chocolatey note.
- Kaolin clay gives a silky, non-greasy finish.
- Rosemary is naturally astringent, which helps quieten that angry-red look.
- Peppermint cools the spot and freshens the scent.
- Lemongrass brings a bright, lemony lift that bugs don’t love.
- Eucalyptus is a clean, herbal note that helps keep skin clear if you’ve scratched.
Recipe 1:
Soothing Bug Bite Balm in a Jar
Makes: ~120 mL
Texture: firm balm that melts on contact
Ingredients
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- 2 tbsp shea butter
- 1 tbsp cocoa butter
- 1 tbsp kaolin (white) clay
- 2 tbsp beeswax, or 1 tbsp candelilla wax for a vegan version
-
Essential oils — 10 drops each of:
- rosemary
- peppermint
- lemongrass
- eucalyptus
Find suitable glass jars, pots and aluminium containers here.
Method
- Add wax, shea, cocoa butter and coconut oil to a heat-safe glass jar. Sit the jar in a saucepan with approx. 6 cm of water to make a simple double boiler.
- Warm on medium heat until melted, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the kaolin clay until smooth.
- Let the mixture cool for a minute or two (so it’s warm, not hot), then add the essential oils and stir gently.
- Pour into a clean glass jar. Leave undisturbed for a couple of hours to set.
How to use
Before heading out: smooth a liberal amount over exposed arms/legs (avoid the face) to create a protective layer with a fresh, herbal scent. Reapply as needed.
After a bite: dab a small amount onto the spot to help ease itchiness and redness. The anitseptic properties of the balm will help prevent infections developing from scratching.
Storage & shelf life: keep out of direct sun and heat. Use within 6–9 months.
Tip: if you prefer a softer balm for winter, reduce wax by ½–1 tsp. For a firmer summer balm, add ½–1 tsp more wax.
Recipe 2:
Quick Essential Oil Roll-On Bug Bite Soother
For the park bag or glovebox: a neat little roller that cools, settles and is easy to apply on the run.
Makes: 15 mL glass roller bottle
Texture: lightweight oil
Ingredients
- 9.5 mL jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil (carrier)
-
Essential oils (choose one of these gentle blends):
- Fresh & herbal (about 1% total): 2 drops rosemary, 1 drop lemongrass, 1 drop eucalyptus
- Cooling (about 1% total): 1 drop peppermint, 1 drop rosemary, 1 drop lemongrass, 1 drop lavender
For very sensitive skin, halve the drops for a ~0.5% dilution. Always patch-test. Avoid use on babies and keep all essential oils well away from eyes.
Method
- Add carrier oil to a clean 15 mL roller bottle.
- Add the essential oils from your chosen blend. Cap and roll between your palms to combine. Label with the blend and date.
How to use
- Roll once over a bite, then pat in. If needed, cover with a breathable adhesive strip to help little hands resist scratching.
Simple safety notes
- External use only. Avoid eyes, lips and broken skin.
- Patch-test on the inner forearm 24 hours before first use.
- Essential oils are potent—store out of reach of children and use as directed.
- If irritation occurs, stop using and seek advice. For any concerns about bites or reactions, speak with your pharmacist or GP; in an emergency call 000.
