Flea repellent for humans?… You might not know this, but you can be attacked by fleas too!

While fleas are known to be more problematic for pets than humans, we can still become a victim of their bites. After all, fleas are blood-sucking insects, and we are also warm-blooded mammals just like our pet cats and dogs.

But don’t fleas like a hairy environment? You might ask.

Now, it is true fleas aren’t too common in humans because of the lack of body hair. But ‘not common’ doesn’t mean it’s not possible for fleas to cling to your body.

How do humans get fleas?

Image of fleas bite human info

Nine times out of ten, we get flea bites because of our pets being infected. When your pet becomes a target of a flea infestation, they start functioning as a carrier. So, you need to battle the fleas while also protecting your house from future pest problems in the form of unhatched eggs and larvae.

Plus, not only can flea eggs and larvae are able to hide in your pet’s fur; they can also be buried in furniture, thick carpeting and fleas can live in your car. Moreover, fleas can live in your backyard and suck blood from other outdoor animals. They can also find a source of food in your neighbor’s yard.

Do I have fleas?

It might be possible you have fleas, especially if a pet has them, and if you’re experiencing bites.
There are three kinds of fleas; human fleas, dog fleas, and cat fleas. Human fleas appear to be quite similar to the other kinds of fleas. However, the human flea is not too discriminating when it comes to the species it sucks blood from. Apart from humans, these also feast on bats, rats, rodents, birds, monkeys, cats, and dogs.

In general, fleas have a tear-shaped body, and adult fleas can measure anywhere from 1 mm to 4 mm in length. They are wingless, and their hind legs are very long, and they have a black or dark brown color. The only difference in human fleas and other fleas is the number of mouth bristles; however, these can’t be noticed with the naked eye so differentiating between the different kinds is difficult.

Where do fleas hide?

Image of flea bed

As mentioned earlier, fleas love to live in dark, moist, and warm places. One perfect example is socks.

For a flea to survive, humidity is essential. Eggs must live in areas where the humidity levels are between 70%-75%. Meanwhile, flea larva must live in areas with 50% humidity levels. When fleas get the optimum humidity levels, 20% of them become mature adults and lay more eggs, thus making your infestation bigger.

Pupae, larva, and eggs hide in cracks and carpets between the tiles on the floor. Flea eggs don’t have a sticky substance which is needed to keep them latched on the host. As a result, they fall off the host and into the bed, couch, or your carpet.

Moreover, since flea larva eats the feces of mature fleas as well as other decrements on the ground, you will also find larva on the ground, in the carpet, as well. The larva can also be present between the tiles where they can find a food supply.

Flea bites on humans

 Flea Bites
Bites
Series of red bites (in exposed area)
Small bites surrounded by red halo
Bite Duration
Up to one week
Symptoms
Itchiness
Discomfort
Remedy
Natural Oils & Repellents

Symptoms of flea bites on humans
Image of Chigger Bites

Similar to bed bug bites, flea bites appear either in clusters or large groups. Some people are quite sensitive to such bites and are at risk of getting particular kind of hives which look like many red bubbles or bumps clustered together on the bitten areas.

The actual bite from the flea itself isn’t itchy. However, the saliva that the flea injects into the body is what makes it itch. Excessive itching of flea bites can lead to an infection. Sometimes these bites can also appear in a line. They are very small and have a central red spot. The bites also often form a small scab which is surrounded by a light red halo.

If you got fleas from your pet cat or dog, then you will see the bites often below the knee as it’s an easy target. In most cases, the bites start from the ankles and then move upwards since the fleas are close to the ground. You might also see flea bites on your forearms if you have held or stroked your pet.
If the bites are not controlled, then the fleas can spread all over the body and bite at any place, particularly on people that have dense hair on their chest and legs.

Allergies to flea bites

Humans that have been bitten by fleas can suffer from allergic reactions because of the flea saliva. The condition is called flea allergy dermatitis and can take up to a day to occur.

In the worst case, people are known to react dangerously to flea bites. They have even gone into anaphylactic shock; however, it’s not something to worry about too much since it occurs quite rarely.

Due to the allergy, one can experience chest pain, nausea, swelling of the tongue and lips, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing. Other allergic reactions include:

Itchy skin
Hives Rash
While allergic reactions vary from one individual to another, flea allergy dermatitis is usually accompanied with itchiness. While flea bites do cause itching, flea allergy dermatitis comes with a whole-body itching sensation.
Flea bites leave a singular red bump which is similar to the bite of a mosquito. However, those suffering from flea allergy dermatitis might experience an outbreak of hives around the affected area instead of a single bump. These hives are sensitive and swollen, and frequent scratching aggravates the symptoms.
Another symptom of the allergy in humans is a purplish-red rash. The rash originates in the bite area; however, it can spread all over the skin because of persistent scratching.

How to get rid of fleas

There are two basic methods of getting rid of fleas. You can either use insect repellent sprays, or you can use home remedies.

Top 5 Flea Repellent for Humans (Products)

Product model
RatingPrice
Repel Insect Repellent

4.5
3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent

4.7
Avon Aloe Vera Spray Pump


4.1
Bugs BeGone Insect Repellent


3.8
Natural Oils Insect Repellent


4.0

1. Repel Insect Repellent

Image of repel insect repellent

With Repel Insect Repellent, you can enjoy effective and long-lasting protection. The spray promises hours of protection not only from mosquitos, but also from fleas, sand flies, no-see-ums, chiggers, gnats, black flies, and ticks.

Offers a range of protection from pests and insects such as fleas, mosquitoes, ticks, and more!

This flea repellent for humans is non-greasy, plus resists perspiration as well. It has particularly been developed for active outdoor enthusiasts like ballplayers, joggers, hikers, bikers, golfers, hunters, fishers, backpackers, and campers.

Apart from being effective against fleas, Repel insect repellent also repels mosquitos that carry the West Nile, Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya viruses. It can last for up to 8 hours and has 40% DEET, making it pretty effective.

Pros

• Offers long-lasting protection.
• Is non-greasy.
• Can be used for outdoor activities.

2. 3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent

Image of ultrathon flea repellent

Another great choice for getting rid of fleas is the 3M Ultrathon lotion. It contains 34.34% DEET which provides excellent protection against insect bites. It repels a number of insects including mosquitos, deer ticks, chikungunya, dengue, zika, and West Nile virus.

This light-feeling lotion is perfect for use, both out and indoor!

The lotion comes with a unique time-release technology that provides long-lasting protection. Meanwhile, the controlled release technology offers a constant protection shield which lasts up to 12 hours.

Since it comes with time release protection, this means that DEET takes time to evaporate, thus providing protection for a longer period. This lotion is all about offering you the perfect mix of long-lasting protection and DEET concentration. It’s also sweat and splash resistant so that you stay protected while enjoying your outdoor activities.

Pros

• Features time-release technology for lasting protection.
• Doesn’t feel heavy on the skin.
• Doesn’t smell strong.

3. Avon Aloe Vera Spray Pump

Image of insect repellent

The Avon Aloe Vera repellent comes with Picardin which is an effective ingredient that’s used in place of DEET. Picardin has a low odor as well as a light and clean feel. The spray is also enhanced with vitamin E and provides protection against insects for up to 8 hours.

Uses Picardin instead of DEET for lighter-feeling application!

Not only does the Avon spray provide dependable and strong repellency against mosquitos, but it also works against biting midges, sand flies, fleas, gnats, and no-see-ums. Moreover, the pump spray is easy to apply and can be carried around wherever you go to ensure complete protection.

Pros

• Easy to apply.
• Has Picardin instead of DEET.
• Doesn’t have a strong odor.

4. Bugs BeGone Insect Repellent

Image of amrita flea repellent

The Bugs BeGone insect repellent is a DEET-free natural repellent which consists of six different oils that have an attractive and pleasing aroma. These oils have the ability to keep insects away effectively. It’s also effective against those mosquitos that might carry the West Nile virus as well as deer ticks that can cause Lyme’s disease.

A great flea and another insect-repelling natural choice!

Unlike Mosquito killers, The essential oils are combined in such a way that their effectiveness is magnified. They are then mixed with water, polysorbate, and aloe vera. Apart from keeping you safe from mosquitos, this insect repellent repels ticks, chiggers, and ants as well. It’s also an excellent flea repellent for humans.

The Bugs BeGone insect repellent has an easy and quick travel-sized bottle that you can use to get rid of those annoying creatures anywhere and at any time. The repellent doesn’t stain clothes or leave the skin feeling greasy. This spay, being DEET free, has a fresh and sweet lemon-like fragrance.

Pros

• Makes use of natural oils.
• Has a very pleasant smell.
• An effective natural flea-repelling choice.

5. Natural Oils Insect Repellent

Image of bugs begone flea repellent

This Synergy Blend has a natural mixture of effective oils. This unique blend of essential oils repels not only fleas, but also other creatures including ticks, chiggers, ants, and mosquitos.

The unique essential oil blend offers effective yet light-feeling application!
The oils present in the mixture include citronella, catnip, peppermint, eucalyptus citriodora, and rosemary essential oil. While on its own, each of the different oils used in this blend are an effective repellent, however, when they are combined, they are able to repel a wide variety of insects.

The oils are mixed in a perfect proportion which means that this repellent has a pleasant, citrusy smell.
With this flea repellent for humans, you would no longer have to experience the annoyance and discomfort that comes with bugs while enjoying the delightful smell.

Pros

• Made of natural essential oils.
• Has a very pleasant smell.
• Offers effective protection.

Top 4 Flea Repellent For Humans (Home-remedies)

You should know that there are numerous home remedies which can be used for getting rid of fleas. These home remedies are as effective as insect repellents are when it comes to eliminating fleas.

Want to know more?

Here are the best 4 home remedies for killing fleas.

1. Eucalyptus Citriodora

This oil contains such a natural chemical which repels fleas.
Here is how you can use the oil for fleas:

Instructions:

• You can use this oil and make a spray. Add a quarter teaspoon of the oil in 10 oz. of warm water and fill it in a spray bottle.

• Next, shake the mixture well and then spray it on cushions, mattresses, carpets, and other areas where you think fleas can hide.

• Continue spraying the mixture for a few weeks until there is no evidence of fleas left.
This oil can also be used as a mopping solution for the areas of your houses that aren’t carpeted.

• Make a solution of the oil and warm water and mop the house with it to keep it free from fleas. Not only will the aroma repel the fleas and other insects, but the mixture will also kill any eggs present around the house.

• Add this oil to your fabric cleaner for killing the fleas present on your clothes or other fabrics around the house. Add 2 teaspoons of the oil to you washing solution. To make sure that the fleas are completely dead, you can also put the fabrics in a hot dryer for up to 20 minutes.

2.Catnip oil

Catnip is a strong herb, well known for its numerous benefits. Research suggests that this herb is ten times more effective than DEET for repelling insects including fleas. Use it to make a spray and use it around the house.
Here is how to make a spray:

Instructions:
 • Mix one tablespoon of catnip oil with two cups of apple cider vinegar along with one tablespoon each of dried organic peppermint leaf, lavender buds, and neem leaf. Let the mixture steep for two weeks.

• Shake the mixture daily and use a coffee filter or cheesecloth to strain the mixture.

• Put at least half a cup of this mixture in an 8-ounce spray bottle and then mix it with distilled water. Spray it generously around the house. Make sure to cover all carpeted areas after they have been vacuumed to remove the larva and the eggs that might be hiding in the fibers.

3. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is considered to be a multipurpose flea control remedy. It’s effective and safe to use as a flea repellent for humans as well.

Instructions:
• Make a spray using peppermint oil to repel the fleas. Mix one-quarter of the peppermint oil with 3 cups of rubbing alcohol. Then, let the solution settle.

• Finally, pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray your house to make sure no flea survives.
You can make a peppermint oil sachet to get rid of the larva and the flea eggs hiding around the house.

• Take cotton balls or pads and soak it in peppermint oil. Then, allow the extra oil to drip off. Place the sachet around the house to get rid of these annoying little beings.

• Alternatively, place the oil sachet in your vacuum and then clean the whole house. As a result, you will clean the larva and the eggs taking refuge in the bedding and carpets.

4. Rosemary Water

Another natural solution that you can easily use to kill fleas is rosemary water.
You only need to follow the steps below to get rid of these pesky creatures:

Instructions:
• You must first make a rosemary wash by using two pints of water. Once the water comes to a boil, add two cups of rosemary leaves, preferably fresh, and let it boil for half an hour.

• After half an hour, switch off the heat and let the water cool down. Now strain and throw away the rosemary leaves while saving the water.

• Once the water cools down, put it in a container with a lid. When it cools down completely, use it to spray it around your house.

Wrapping up

Image of house fleasYou can become susceptible to fleas, usually, when you come into contact with a flea-infested pet. While flea bites are not painful, they are extremely itchy and can be easily spotted as small red dots surrounded by a halo.

Getting rid of fleas along with their larva and eggs is a tough job; however, it can be easily done using a mixture of essential oils sprayed, especially by using peppermint oil, around the house or a reliable commercial flea repellent for humans.