Midge Off Oil

Midge Off Barrier Oil 

Bugs Off | Australia’s Best Natural Repellent

A potent, silky barrier oil crafted for Australia’s harshest midge and sandfly environments. Infused with powerful lemon-scented botanicals and cooling mints, this formula creates a long-lasting aromatic shield that midges actively avoid.

The combination of Australian eucalyptus citriodora, FNQ lemon myrtle, lemongrass, and peppermint delivers proven natural repellent activity, while nourishing barrier oils—sunflower and raw coconut—lock the formula in place on the skin.

Made in FNQ and packaged in a 100 mL Australian-made RPET bottle, this formulation is deeply aligned with the ethos of the Bugs Off range:

✔ Naturally tough on bugs

✔ Gentle on skin, kind to earth

✔ Powered by Australian botanicals

✔ Backed by studies on natural repellent compounds

INGREDIENTS & HOW THEY WORK

1. Cold Pressed Australian Sunflower Oil

Botanical name: Helianthus annuus

Region: Australian-grown

Role: Base oil, skin barrier support

Creates a breathable protective layer on the skin, helping essential oils adhere longer (crucial for midge protection). Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, helping soothe inflammation caused by sandfly bites.

2. Raw Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil

Botanical name: Cocos nucifera

Region: Sustainably sourced

Barrier oil, skin-conditioning, Forms a rich, moisture-locking shield that slows the evaporation of volatile essential oils, increasing longevity. Natural lauric acid content offers mild antimicrobial action, supporting skin integrity after bites.

4. Australian Eucalyptus Citriodora Essential Oil

Botanical name: Corymbia citriodora

Region: Australian-grown

Primary repellent component

• Contains PMD (p-menthane-3,8-diol), one of the most researched natural mosquito & midge repellents.
• Numerous studies (including ones summarised by the CDC & WHO) show high repellent activity comparable to low-dose DEET when properly formulated.
• Strong lemon-fresh aroma specifically masks CO₂ and lactic acid signatures midges use to detect humans

5. FNQ Organic Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil

Botanical name: Backhousia citriodora

Region: Far North Queensland

Antimicrobial, aromatic masking. One of the highest natural sources of citral — highly effective for scent-based deterrence of biting insects. Supports skin recovery due to its antimicrobial profile, ideal for tropical FNQ environments.

6. Lemongrass Essential Oil

Botanical name: Cymbopogon flexuosus 

Region: Global, often Australian-processed

Stimulating citrus-fresh repellent. High in geraniol and citral — compounds shown to repel midges and mosquitoes. Enhances the aromatic “cloud” of the barrier layer, confusing biting insects.

7. Australian Peppermint Essential Oil

Botanical name: Mentha x piperita

Region: Australian-grown

Cooling, masking, deterring. Strong menthol content delivers a cooling sensation, reducing itch + inflammation. Masks skin-emitted attractants and provides a crisp aromatic sharpness insects dislike.

8. Black Pepper Essential Oil

Botanical name: Piper nigrum

Region: Typically non-Australian, but small-batch distilled locally

Enhances repellent synergy. Contains beta-caryophyllene and piperine — compounds that heighten the effectiveness of citronella-type oils. Adds warmth and depth, creating a more complex aromatic deterrent that biting insects find confusing.

HOW TO USE

Shake gently before use.

• Apply liberally to exposed skin—arms, legs, neck, ankles, and behind knees.
• Reapply every 1–2 hours in heavy midge conditions or after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
• Safe for ages 2+ when used externally.
• Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive areas.

Tip: Midges love ankles & behind the legs — massage the oil well into these hotspots for best results