Bug Repellent Safety

Bug repellent safety refers to the proper use of chemicals applied to theskin or clothing to ward off insects. If they are not used correctly, these substances can sometimescause serious side effects.

What is the information for this topic?

Many products on the market keep away insects. The onesthat work the best contain the chemical diethyltoluamide, better known as DEET. DEEThas been used for over 40 years. It is very effective against bites by:

mosquitoes

fleas

ticks

chiggers

biting flies

Neither DEET nor other repellents are able to deter stinging insects suchas bees, hornets, and wasps.

DEET is available in the U.S. in strengths ranging from 5% concentrationto 100%. It comes in a variety of forms, including:

lotions

sprays

creams

gels

For the most part, DEET has a very safe record. An estimated 200 millionpeople around the world use it every year without reported problems. But the chemicalis absorbed through the skin, so it can cause a toxic reaction if used in high doses. Therehave been a few cases of neurologic problems in young children as a result of highdoses of DEET. For this reason:

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children not use bugrepellents containing more than 10% DEET.

For most purposes, adults using insect repellent should choose concentrationsof 30% or less.

The amount of DEET can vary from one product to the next, so it is important toread the label before choosing a bug repellent.

People should also be aware that:

Using DEET at the same time as a sunscreencan prevent the sunscreen from working as well.

DEET can damage plastics, synthetic fabrics, leather, and painted surfaces, so itshould be applied carefully.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, called EPA, offers these guidelines forthe safe use of all types of insect repellents.

Apply to exposed skin or clothing only as the package directs. Do not apply repellentunder clothing.

Do not apply to cuts, wounds, or broken skin.

Keep out of the eyes and mouth. Use only small amounts around the ears. Whenapplying repellent to the face, spray it first into the hands, then rub onto the face.

Do not let children handle the repellent or get it on their hands. Adults shouldapply it to children.

Do not spray in enclosed areas.

Use just enough to cover exposed skin. Avoid heavy application.

Wash with soap and water after returning indoors. This is especially important ifinsect repellent is used day after day. Wash clothes that have been treated as well.

Stop use and call the poison control center if a reaction is suspected.