Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the answers to your frequently asked questions about our products and services.
Fend feels more like a moisturiser than a typical oily repellent. It spreads on smoothly, then dries in seconds leaving almost no trace.
In fact, in development the test users weren't even able to tell whether they had it on, so a subtle and fresh fragrance was added as a reminder.
Once dry, the scent is faint and pleasant. It is difficult to describe, but we can assure you it's not overpowering.
No. FEND is completely DEET-free.
Instead, FEND uses IR3535®, a globally recognised active ingredient that provides long-lasting protection whilst remaining gentle on skin. This allows FEND to deliver up to 14 hours of mosquito protection without the strong smell or greasy feel often associated with traditional DEET-based repellents.
Fend is safe for use on babies as young as 2 months, but we recommend not putting any on the back of their hands as they tend to rub their eyes which can sting.
Yes, Fend is the ideal travel companion for tropical environments such as far north Queensland, Bali, Fiji, Vietnam, Singapore and other exotic destinations. Fend has been tested on Mosquito species that carry diseases like Zika, Japanese Encephalitis, Dengue Fever and Malaria.
Always check local health advice before travelling and follow recommendations regarding insect bite prevention.
FEND combines four key benefits:
- 14 hours of mosquito protection
- DEET-free formulation
- Suitable from 2 months of age
- Lightweight, non-greasy feel
Combined with exclusive StayTec™ technology, FEND was developed for people who want powerful protection without compromising comfort.
FEND provides up to 14 hours of protection against mosquitoes under normal conditions. However, if you have been swimming, sweating heavily or towel drying, we recommend reapplying to maintain optimal protection.
Yes. FEND is designed for everyday use, whether you're heading outdoors, travelling overseas, enjoying a summer barbecue or simply spending time in your backyard.
Yes, Fend is safe for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women. The active ingredient is designed to remain primarily on the surface of the skin where it repels insects, rather than relying on significant absorption into the body. This contributes to the excellent safety profile of FEND.
Yes you can. Just apply your sunscreen first, let that absorb and then add your layer of Fend. Fend will not affect the efficacy of the sunscreen.
Yes, Fend can be used on all skin types, including sensitive and eczema prone skin. FEND is the first and only insect repellent approved by the Eczema Association Australasia for use on eczema-prone skin.
Whilst Fend repels Mosquitoes for 14 hours, the active ingredient is also known to protect against bites from sandflies, ticks, black flies and wasps.
Instead of quickly being absorbed into the skin or evaporating in the sun, the active ingredient is held in natural microcapsules, formed from algae and mushroom extracts. This technology is called StayTec, and is exclusive to the Fend brand in Australia and New Zealand.
These tiny "bubbles" burst over the course of hours, smoothing out the release of the repellent over time.
We're not going to beat up on the competition, but it is worth noting a few ways that Fend is different to other natural repellents.
1. Effectiveness: It is the longest-lasting DEET-free repellent available anywhere.
2. Feel: Most alternatives use an oily active ingredient, leaving the skin feeling a bit icky after. Fend applies smoothly and dries residue-free.
3. Safety: Although the ingredients are safe, the fact that Fend holds the repellent on the skin (rather than in it) reduces the amount that is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream.
Traditional insect repellents often rely on ingredients that have a strong, recognisable odour. FEND was developed differently.
Its advanced formulation and StayTec™ technology allow FEND to deliver long-lasting protection with a light, fresh fragrance and a skin feel more like a moisturiser than a traditional repellent.
Not going to lie, it doesn't taste great. But we assume you won't be licking it for fun. It can also sting the eyes, so keep it clear of them. Otherwise, it does what it says it does - safely repels mosquitoes for long periods!
Despite the intimidating name, IR3535® was inspired by a naturally occurring amino acid found in the Averrhoa bilimbi tree (commonly known as the cucumber tree). It is a colourless and odourless extract that is globally recognised for its efficacy in repelling bites and stings from mosquitos, ticks, and other insects.
Yes, FEND can be applied to the face, however we recommend applying the lotion onto your hands first and then applying carefully. Avoid contact with the eyes, lips and inside of the nose.
Unlike some traditional insect repellents, FEND is designed to be gentle on both skin and belongings. When used as directed, FEND is less likely to damage clothing, plastics or synthetic materials than many high-concentration DEET products.
Shop The Fend Range
Protection on the go
Fend Insect Repellent - 50ml Travel Pump
Mess-free kids protection
Fend Insect Repellent - 50ml Kids Roll-On
Everyday outdoor protection
Fend Insect Repellent - 120ml Personal Pump
Family size protection
