Photographed by Michael D. Wilson
DownEast Magazine is a Maine institution. Mainers and Maine-lovers look to DownEast for all things beautiful, scenic and iconic about Maine, loved about Maine, and top-rated by Maine enthusiasts.
In the June 2022 issue, DownEast rated six Maine-made all-natural insect repellents, and Frenchies’ Maine Woods Bug Dope was rated at the top of the group!
Nothing is more important than protection from biting insects when you are in the woods and on the coast of Maine, so this was an essential review for their readers. They confirmed what Frenchies’ Maine Woods Bug Dope users have known for years—Frenchies’ is highly effective at providing protection from biting mosquitoes, black flies and ticks without any chemicals, toxins, or perfumes – using a high concentration of only natural essential plant oils.
We Rated 6 Maine-Made Bug Sprays
How well do these all-natural repellents ward off mosquitos, blackflies, and ticks?
By Adrienne Perron
Photographed by Michael D. Wilson
From our June 2022 issue
When north-woods–loving pals Lou Demers and Matt Dubois got attacked by mosquitoes on a camping trip 10 years ago, they slathered on cedar essential oil. When it worked, they set out making Maine Woods Bug Dope, with cedar oil as the main ingredient, which the pair says “neutralizes the carbon-dioxide signature” that attracts flying insects to humans. 2 oz., $8.50…
Our tester said: “I felt totally protected from mosquitoes. Doused myself at my son’s early-evening Little League game…”
Scent: 5
Effectiveness: 4
Longevity: 3