Our Story

More than a Repellent. A Hydrating Protectant.

Notch (a play on no-itch) began in the summer of 2024 in Austin, Texas, with a question: why are repellents, made to go on our skin, shelved next to household chemicals and insecticides? Why aren’t we treating them like skincare?

Our debut, Notch Nourish + Defend Botanical Insect Repellent, is our answer: a 5% geraniol lotion that repels mosquitoes and ticks and feels like skincare, built within the EPA’s minimum-risk framework for plant-based repellents.

Read the story from our founder, Shannon →

Close-up of flowers with a blurred background Close-up of flowers with a blurred background

Our Active Ingredient

Geraniol

At the heart of Notch is geraniol, a naturally occurring compound found in essential oils like rose, citronella, lemongrass and geranium. Geraniol is a monoterpenoid alcohol with a light floral scent. Chosen for its powerful yet gentle qualities, geraniol allows us to offer protection without compromise.
  • Cluster of pink flowers
    Naturally Derived

    Sourced from plants, geraniol is a safe, eco-conscious alternative to synthetic chemicals. It embodies our commitment to safe ingredients and caring for both your skin and the environment.

  • Sunlit forest path at golden hour
    Proven Protection

    Geraniol doesn’t just feel good, it works. Studies have shown that a 5% concentration of geraniol provides strong, long-lasting protection against mosquitoes and ticks, outperforming many other botanical repellents.

  • Pink rose
    A Fragrance You’ll Love

    Unlike traditional repellents, geraniol has a soft, floral aroma, light, elegant, and reminiscent of rose petals in bloom. It’s protection that feels like self-care.

Tube of Notch Nourish + Defend Botanical Insect Repellent lotion, front
Nourish + Defend Botanical Insect Repellent
$29.00 USD
$29.00 USD
Friends chatting around an outdoor table on a backyard patio Friends chatting around an outdoor table on a backyard patio
Shannon from the Notch team seated on a chair in a backyard garden Shannon from the Notch team seated on a chair in a backyard garden

Our Founder

Shannon Kolarik

Shannon spent more than 13 years in consumer products and retail, including six at Whole Foods Market, helping emerging brands bring products to market and tell their stories. She lives in Austin, Texas with her husband, Michael.

Why she made bug repellent feel like skincare →

The Notch Journal
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