Is IR3535® Natural?
Many consumers today prefer “natural” products, especially when it comes to substances applied directly to the skin. So what does “natural” mean in the context of insect repellents? Not all effective repellents are purely plant-based; many rely on active ingredients such as DEET, a fully synthetic compound, or other chemicals that would not be considered natural. The active ingredient IR3535®, however, is inspired by a naturally occurring compound. Developed by Merck in the 1980s, IR3535® is structurally similar to the naturally occurring amino acid b-alanine (a component of Vitamin B5). It is designed to inhibit an insect’s sense of smell and taste, impeding their interest in feeding off of human hosts. IR3535® is therefore a synthetic compound inspired by nature, developed to mimic natural biological processes. In this context, “natural” does not always have to mean plant-derived – it can also refer to compounds that are nature-inspired and biologically aligned.
What is a Biopesticide and Why IR3535® Qualifies
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), biopesticides are “certain types of pesticides derived from such natural materials as animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals”.1 Examples include materials such as canola oil and baking soda. So biopesticides are derived from natural materials or designed to mimic natural mechanisms; they are considered natural. IR3535® is classified by the EPA as a biochemical biopesticide. Why does this matter? Biopesticides are designed to be effective while minimizing risk to humans and the environment. They are generally associated with favorable environmental profiles, including low toxicity and limited potential for bioaccumulation.1 Because IR3535® functions by repelling insects rather than killing them, it provides targeted protection with a far lower toxicity profile compared to many traditional insecticide-based products. As an EPA-reviewed and approved biopesticide, IR3535® is considered suitable for use across age groups and safe for the environment.
IR3535® in IMPEDE
IR3535® is widely regarded as a more natural repellent compound that has a well-established history of safety, and is proven effective against biting insects. IMPEDE uses IR3535® as its active ingredient, offering an alternative to products that rely on more aggressive chemical formulations. By avoiding DEET and similar compounds IMPEDE provides a product designed for frequent and consistent use. Combined with STAYTEC™ technology, IMPEDE is designed for long-lasting, controlled-release insect protection. The IMPEDE repellent formula is considered hypoallergenic and dye free. Safe for children, pregnant women, those with sensitive skin, and everyday use, IMPEDE is built with care, quality, and trust in mind. IMPEDE is not just “natural” – it combines nature-inspired science with modern innovation to provide protection that is effective, safe, and environmentally responsible.
References:
1 https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/what-are-biopesticides