There is provided a topical composition that comprises (a) a substantially anhydrous insect repellent selected from the group consisting of ethyl 3-(N-butylacetylamino) propionate or a derivative thereof, p-menthane-3,8-diol, hydroxyethyl isobutyl piperidine carboxylate (1-piperidine carboxylic acid), and mixtures thereof, and (b) a non-volatile solvent. A second embodiment of the present composition includes the same insect repellent, and a volatile solvent, and, optionally, a film former. A third embodiment includes the same insect repellent, a non-volatile solvent, a volatile solvent, and, optionally, a film former.