PMD came to the attention of U.S. scientists in the 1990s after they learned that a Chinese insect repellent called Quwenling was performing better than many other plant-based repellents.

To find the best mosquito repellents to keep the bugs and bites away this summer, we spoke to experts and tested bug-repellent sprays and lotions — both with and without DEET.

To create a long-lasting mosquito repellent, scientists began looking for ways to address these attractors and turn them against the mosquitos instead. Image source: mycteria/Adobe.

Best budget buy – Superdrug buzz off insect repellent: £4.50, Superdrug.com; Best for kids – Puressentiel bite and sting spray repellent + soothing: £7.34, Amazon.co.uk; 1.