Insect repellents, commonly known as bug sprays, are widely used household products designed to prevent insect bites and the diseases they transmit. While generally safe, these products contain powerful chemicals. Misapplication, particularly around the face, can lead to serious adverse effects, as the eyes are especially vulnerable to chemical exposure. Understanding the potential for injury and knowing how to respond quickly is important for all users.
Understanding the Risk to Vision
Direct contact with bug spray causes immediate and intense discomfort, resulting in symptoms like redness, stinging, tearing, and the sensation of a foreign object. This initial reaction is often temporary irritation that resolves quickly with proper first aid flushing. However, the chemicals are powerful enough to cause a more severe chemical injury to the delicate surface of the eye.
Aerosolized droplets or liquid spray can damage the cornea and the conjunctiva. Severe exposure can lead to chemical burns, known as keratitis (inflammation of the cornea). Although permanent total blindness is extremely rare, severe chemical burns can cause corneal scarring or irreversible damage, leading to permanent vision impairment if not treated immediately. Any exposure resulting in blurred vision or persistent pain requires immediate professional intervention.
Primary Ingredients Responsible for Ocular Irritation
The strong repellent action of bug sprays is due to specific chemical agents that are highly irritating to sensitive mucous membranes. N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, or DEET, is a common and effective ingredient that acts as a solvent. This solvent property allows DEET to damage certain plastics and synthetic materials, and it contributes to its potential to cause severe irritation and chemical burns upon eye contact.
Another widely used active ingredient is Picaridin, which is classified as a serious eye irritant. Even some natural alternatives, such as oil of lemon eucalyptus, contain p-Menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), which can cause significant eye irritation. The concentrated nature of these compounds means they all pose a risk of injury to the eye’s surface layers.
Immediate First Aid Procedures
Immediate action is paramount to minimizing potential damage following bug spray contact with the eyes. The most important step is to begin flushing the affected eye with clean, running water without delay. Use a shower, a faucet, or a gentle stream from a hose, holding the eyelid open to ensure the water reaches all surfaces of the eye.
This continuous flushing should be maintained for 15 to 20 minutes to wash away the chemical irritants effectively. Do not use eye drops or attempt to neutralize the chemical with other substances during the flushing process. After irrigation, contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical help if pain, burning, or vision changes persist. Provide the medical team with the exact name and ingredients of the product, found on the original container.
Safe Application and Storage Practices
Preventing eye contact is the most effective way to eliminate the risk of chemical injury from bug spray. Never spray the product directly onto your face. Instead, spray a small amount into your palm first, then carefully apply it to the face, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Also, avoid applying the repellent over any cuts, open wounds, or irritated skin.
When applying to children, the adult should apply the product to their own hands first and then rub it onto the child’s exposed skin. Do not apply it directly to the child’s hands. Children frequently touch their faces, which transfers the chemical directly to the eyes or mouth. Store all insect repellent products safely in a cool, dark location out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental exposure.