After Sun, After Dark | Natural After-Sun & Insect Deterrent Body Oil

Three products in one · Small-batch Berkshire · DEET-free

After Sun, After Dark by Audere Pure is the body oil that replaces three things you probably already pack. One pump after a day in the sun and your skin gets everything it needs — deep nourishment that absorbs in seconds, a natural deterrent that keeps the biting insects away, and the kind of skin-repair ingredients that mean you wake up the next morning looking glowing rather than peeling. No greasiness, no synthetic chemicals, no compromise.

The formula is built around jojoba oil — technically a liquid wax that mimics your skin's own sebum so closely it disappears on contact. At 41%, it makes this a true dry oil in the way most products that use the term aren't. Alongside it, rosehip oil at 20% brings real levels of vitamin A, which research shows actively repairs UV-damaged skin cells and prevents peeling. Raspberry seed oil at 15% adds a powerful antioxidant layer that neutralises the free radical damage caused by sun exposure — the kind of damage that ages skin over time. Your skin gets all of this. Quickly. Without the film.

And then there's the bug side of the story. The essential oil blend — citronella, geranium, lemongrass and lavender — isn't a token drop of something that smells nice. Citronella is EPA-registered as an insect repellent. Geranium's geraniol content has been shown in peer-reviewed research to reduce mosquito feeding activity by 97% in controlled studies. Lemongrass is specifically recommended for the UK's most persistent biters — horseflies and midges. The jojoba base acts as a natural fixative, keeping these oils on your skin longer so the protection actually lasts. It works on mosquitoes, midges, horseflies and ticks. All from a bottle that smells like a spa, not a campsite. £36.00.

At a glance

· Price: £36.00 · 100ml

· Made in: Berkshire, UK — small batch, made to order

· Key actives: Jojoba oil, rosehip oil, raspberry seed oil — all cold-pressed, plant-derived

· What it does: After-sun skin repair · natural insect deterrent · fast-absorbing dry oil

· Insects deterred: Mosquitoes, midges, horseflies & ticks

· Suitable for: All skin types · adults · not for children under 3

· Use: Apply after sun exposure or as an evening body oil — pump, massage in, done

· Safety: UK Cosmetics Regulation SI 2020/1466 assessed · CPSR ref: MAF-0123-01 FBOi PA

· Fragrance: Natural essential oils only — citronella, geranium, lemongrass & lavender · no parfum · no DEET

· Cruelty-free & vegan: Yes — 100% plant-derived ingredients

· Allergens: Citral*, Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Limonene*, Linalool* — naturally occurring in the essential oils, declared on label

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Audere Pure

After Sun, After Dark | Sun repair · Insect deterrent · Glow

After Sun, After Dark | Sun repair · Insect deterrent · Glow

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EVERY INGREDIENT, EXPLAINED

If it's in the bottle, it's on the label — and here's exactly why it's there. Swipe through.

Jojoba Oil

Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil

The reason this is a true dry oil. Jojoba is technically a liquid wax — not an oil at all — and around 98% of its composition is wax esters, the same class of molecule that makes up roughly half of human sebum. That structural similarity is why it absorbs instantly without leaving a film. At 41%, it forms the base of this formula and acts as a natural fixative, keeping the essential oils on your skin longer so the repellent effect lasts.

Clinical evidence: A clinical study measuring transepidermal water loss — the gold-standard metric for skin barrier integrity — found that eight weeks of jojoba application significantly reduced moisture loss from damaged skin. A separate 28-day study showed jojoba reduced sebum secretion by 23%, with excellent dermatological tolerance. (Jojoba Desert Clinical Studies, 2022)

Rosehip Oil

Rosa Canina Fruit Oil

The after-sun hero of this formula, and the one most people underestimate. Rosehip seed oil contains naturally occurring trans-retinoic acid — the exact compound dermatologists prescribe for skin renewal, but delivered by the plant in a form skin actually recognises. It promotes cellular turnover, supports collagen production, and inhibits the enzymes that break existing collagen down. At 20%, it's a meaningful level, not a token inclusion.

Clinical evidence: A 2025 pilot study using VISIA advanced imaging found measurable reductions in UV spots and visible signs of oxidative skin ageing after 8 weeks of topical rosehip oil use. In a randomised controlled trial of 34 adults, topical rosehip significantly reduced crow's-feet wrinkles vs control. (Cosmetics, Oargă Porumb et al., 2025 / Klarity Health Library)

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride

The lightest, most fast-absorbing carrier in the formula. Fractionated coconut oil has had the long-chain fatty acids removed, leaving only the medium-chain triglycerides — caprylic and capric acid — which are exceptionally light, odourless, and stable. It distributes the essential oils evenly across the skin and improves absorption of the other, richer oils in the blend. What you feel is smooth, quick, and clean.

Clinical evidence: A peer-reviewed study published in PMC found that an emulsion containing 15% caprylic/capric triglyceride significantly improved both transepidermal water loss and skin superficial hydration (p<0.001), confirming its skin barrier-supporting properties. (PMC10143511, 2023)

Raspberry Seed Oil

Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil

The ingredient that delivers the "beautiful soft skin" part of this product's brief. Raspberry seed oil is exceptionally rich in vitamin E (tocopherols) and ellagic acid — two of the most potent antioxidants studied for skin. They work by neutralising the free radicals generated by UV exposure, the same process that causes skin to age prematurely and lose its texture. It's linoleic-dominant, which means it absorbs quickly and is completely non-comedogenic (rated 0 out of 5 — won't block pores).

How it works: Oils with a higher linoleic acid to oleic acid ratio have better barrier repair potential, according to a systematic review in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. Raspberry seed oil sits at one of the highest linoleic ratios of any plant oil — alongside rosehip and safflower. (AJCD, 2017)

Avocado Oil

Persea Gratissima Oil

At 5%, avocado plays a supporting role — barrier repair after sun stress. Its high oleic acid content (around 70%) makes it deeply conditioning and occlusive, which means it helps seal in the other ingredients and slow moisture loss. It's the richest oil in the formula and the one that adds just enough weight to make the product feel substantive on very dry or sun-stressed skin, without tipping it into greasy territory at this level.

How it works: Avocado oil is naturally high in alpha-tocopherol — the most biologically active form of Vitamin E — measuring 79–190 mg per kilogram. As an occlusive emollient it performs well at slowing transepidermal water loss and softening roughened skin. Used at 5% to benefit from its nourishing properties without affecting the formula's dry-oil feel. (northbiomedical.com)

Vitamin E

Tocopherol

Two jobs in one ingredient. First, it's a natural antioxidant preservative — it protects the oils in this formula (particularly rosehip and raspberry seed, which are prone to oxidation) from going rancid, extending the product's shelf life. Second, it works directly on sun-stressed skin: Vitamin E is lipid-soluble, which means it protects the fatty components of skin cell membranes — exactly the structures that UV radiation attacks first.

Clinical evidence: Human studies show topical Vitamin E lowers peroxidation of skin surface lipids, decreases UV-induced redness and limits immune cell activation after sun exposure. Combined with Vitamin C it enhances UV protection by fourfold. (Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University)

Citronella Essential Oil

Cymbopogon Nardus Oil

The primary repellent active. Citronella is one of only a handful of natural actives registered by the US EPA as an insect repellent. It works by confusing the olfactory sensors of mosquitoes — disrupting their ability to detect the carbon dioxide and lactic acid that humans emit. Boosted to 0.5% in this formula (from the 0.3% typically used in natural body oils), and with jojoba oil acting as a natural fixative to slow evaporation, so the protection lasts longer on the skin.

Clinical evidence: A 2024 in vivo study found citronella essential oil bath bomb formulations demonstrated 100% mosquito repellency at 3 hours, with 69% maintained at 6 hours, and no skin irritation in any test subjects. (PMC11344100, 2024)

Geranium Essential Oil

Pelargonium Graveolens Oil

The broad-spectrum repellent. Geranium oil's active compound is geraniol — a monoterpene alcohol that is effective against a wider range of insects than citronella alone: mosquitoes, ticks, flies, gnats and midges. It's the most evidence-backed of the four essential oils in this formula when it comes to sheer repellency rate, and it adds a beautiful fresh floral note to the scent that balances the citrus citronella.

Clinical evidence: In a peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Vector Ecology, geraniol diffusers demonstrated a 97% mosquito repellency rate indoors and 75% outdoors — outperforming both citronella and linalool. Researchers concluded geraniol had significantly more repellent activity than citronella. (Müller et al., Journal of Vector Ecology, 2009)

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Oil

The horsefly and midge specialist. While citronella and geranium handle the wider mosquito and tick picture, lemongrass is specifically known for its effectiveness against the UK's most persistent biting insects — horseflies and midges. It's from the same plant family as citronella (both are Cymbopogon species) and the two work synergistically: their active compounds target insect olfactory receptors through overlapping but distinct mechanisms. It also adds a bright, sharp citrus note to the formula's scent.

Clinical evidence: Studies show lemongrass oil is an active substance affecting the olfactory receptors of mosquitoes. A controlled study found that a 20% lemongrass extract achieved near-complete repellency within 30 minutes — with higher concentrations showing effects comparable to commercial synthetic repellents. (Ascendens Asia Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 2026)

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavandula Angustifolia Oil

The peacemaker of the formula — doing two things at once. As a repellent: lavender's linalool content disrupts the olfactory receptors that mosquitoes use to detect hosts. In the Journal of Vector Ecology study that benchmarked these actives, linalool diffusers demonstrated 93% mosquito repellency indoors. As a skin ingredient: lavender is one of the most studied essential oils for skin calming — it reduces inflammation and soothes irritation, making it ideal in a formula designed for use on skin that's had a day in the sun.

Clinical evidence: Linalool diffusers repelled 93% of mosquitoes indoors in a controlled study — second only to geraniol in repellency rate. A 2016 study also found Lavandula angustifolia essential oil repelled over 93% of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes for up to 3 hours in controlled laboratory conditions. (Müller et al., Journal of Vector Ecology, 2009)

The Allergen Declarations

Citral, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool

Not added ingredients — these occur naturally within the essential oils, and UK law requires them to be declared on the label above set thresholds. Citral is found naturally in lemongrass. Citronellol and geraniol in geranium. Limonene in lavender and citronella. Linalool in lavender. Brands using "parfum" can blur this; we list them plainly. If you have a known fragrance allergy, the full INCI is on the label and in our product information file.

Your questions, answered

  • Does natural bug repellent actually work, or is it just a nice smell?

    It works — but it depends entirely on what's in it and how much. After Sun, After Dark uses citronella (EPA-registered as an insect repellent), geranium, lemongrass and lavender. These aren't just added for scent.

    In a peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Vector Ecology, geraniol — the active compound in geranium — demonstrated 97% mosquito repellency indoors. Citronella is one of the only natural actives registered by the US EPA for insect repellency. Lemongrass is specifically effective against horseflies and midges. The jojoba oil base acts as a natural fixative, keeping the oils on your skin longer so the protection actually lasts rather than evaporating within minutes.

    It's not DEET, so it won't last 8 hours in a tropical rainforest. But for UK biting insects and holidays in Europe, it genuinely does the job.

  • What insects does it work on — does it work on horseflies?

    Yes — and horseflies are actually one of the harder insects to deter naturally, so this is worth explaining.

    Horseflies locate their targets using a combination of smell, heat and movement. Scent-based repellents work by masking the smell signals. The citronella in this formula has been shown in studies to reduce horsefly landings by over 90%. Lemongrass is specifically synergistic with citronella against horseflies and midges. Geranium covers mosquitoes, ticks, flies and gnats. Lavender's linalool content disrupts the olfactory receptors that mosquitoes use to find you.

    In short: mosquitoes ✓ midges ✓ horseflies ✓ ticks ✓. It covers the full range of UK summer biting insects.

  • Is it safe to use instead of DEET — why should I avoid DEET?

    After Sun, After Dark is a DEET-free alternative. DEET is effective but it's a synthetic chemical that can irritate skin, damage synthetic fabrics and clothing, and has raised questions about long-term neurological effects at high concentrations — though it is considered safe at typical usage levels.

    This formula uses plant-derived essential oils that are independently safety-assessed under UK Cosmetics Regulation SI 2020/1466 (CPSR ref: MAF-0123-01 FBOi PA). Every ingredient is named on the label. No synthetic chemicals, no aerosol propellants, no hidden 'parfum'.

    If you're travelling somewhere with a high risk of serious mosquito-borne disease (malaria, dengue, Zika), consult NHS travel advice for that destination — they may recommend a higher-strength product. For the UK and most European holidays, this is a genuinely effective and much gentler alternative.

  • Can I use this as my after-sun too, or do I still need a separate one?

    That's exactly the point of it — you don't need a separate one.

    Rosehip oil contains naturally occurring trans-retinoic acid (a form of vitamin A) that promotes cellular turnover and actively repairs UV-damaged skin cells. A 2025 clinical study using advanced VISIA imaging found measurable reductions in UV spots after 8 weeks of topical rosehip use. Raspberry seed oil adds a powerful antioxidant layer — rich in vitamin E and ellagic acid — that neutralises the free radical damage UV exposure causes. That's the damage that leads to premature ageing and uneven skin tone.

    Apply after your shower in the evening. It repairs the skin while you sleep. You genuinely don't need the aftersun lotion on the bathroom shelf.

  • Will it feel greasy — I hate oily products that don't absorb?

    This is built specifically to avoid that. Jojoba — which makes up the majority of the formula — is technically a liquid wax, not an oil. Around 98% of its composition is wax esters, the same class of molecule as human sebum. It disappears into skin on contact and leaves no film.

    The rest of the formula uses fractionated coconut oil and raspberry seed oil, both of which are exceptionally light and fast-absorbing. The only richer oil in the blend is avocado, which is included at a small amount specifically for barrier repair without compromising the dry feel.

    In practice: one pump, massage it in, dressed in two minutes. No waiting around.

  • Is it safe to use on children?

    After Sun, After Dark is independently safety-assessed for use by the general adult population. It is not assessed or intended for use on children under 3 years of age.

    For older children, the formula contains natural essential oils including citronella, geranium, lemongrass and lavender — all of which are widely used in natural products for children, but patch testing is always recommended for sensitive skin. If in doubt, speak to your GP or pharmacist.

    For a product specifically designed for children, our Bloom range is formulated and safety-assessed for younger skin.

  • Can I use it on my face as well as my body?

    The formula is assessed for use on the skin of the face and body. The oils — rosehip, jojoba, raspberry seed — are all used in facial skincare and are non-comedogenic (won't block pores).

    That said, this is primarily formulated and positioned as a body oil. For your face specifically, you might want to apply it more sparingly — a small amount on cheekbones and temples is plenty — and avoid the eye area. The essential oil blend is at a low, assessed concentration, but facial skin is more sensitive than body skin.

  • Is it safe during pregnancy?

    After Sun, After Dark contains no retinoids, no synthetic fragrance and no DEET — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. It has been independently safety-assessed under UK Cosmetics Regulation SI 2020/1466.

    That said, it does contain essential oils including citronella, geranium, lemongrass and lavender. Some essential oils are recommended to be avoided during the first trimester in particular. As with all skincare during pregnancy, we'd always recommend checking with your midwife or GP before use.

  • Will it help my tan last longer, or is it a tanning oil?

    It's not a tanning oil and won't darken your skin artificially. What it will do is keep your skin in better condition after sun exposure — properly hydrated skin holds a natural tan longer and peels less than dry skin. So yes, your holiday colour is likely to last longer — but because your skin is healthier, not because the product is doing anything synthetic to it.

    There are no bronzers, no SPF-boosting claims and no accelerators in this formula. It's straightforwardly a skin-repairing body oil that happens to have an insect deterrent and looks beautiful on post-sun skin.

  • Does it contain fragrance or parfum? What does it smell like?

    No parfum, ever. Every scent in this formula comes from named natural essential oils — citronella, geranium, lemongrass and lavender — each listed in full on the label and on this page.

    The scent is fresh, citrus-forward and slightly floral — closer to a spa product than a traditional bug spray. Citronella and lemongrass give the top note brightness; geranium adds a soft floral warmth; lavender rounds it out. It's pleasant enough to wear as your evening body scent. What you smell is the plant.

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A
Anonymous

This was just great for holiday and used by all the family. Its light scent was perfectly fresh, and you knew there was nothing harmful in the product. It just soaked into the skin after a few minutes and it wasn’t heavy or greasy.

No bites after we used the oil either!