Insect repellent keeps biting insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and flies away from the skin and clothing. Its primary purpose is to prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of contracting insect-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus or Lyme disease. Using bug spray correctly ensures it works effectively to protect you outdoors. Understanding the different types of repellents and how to apply them maximizes protection while minimizing exposure.
Selecting the Appropriate Repellent
Choosing the right product starts with identifying the active ingredient best suited for your needs. The most effective options are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and include DEET, Picaridin, and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE).
DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is a widely used compound, with concentrations ranging from 10% to over 30%. The concentration level determines the duration of protection, not the overall efficacy. For instance, a 10% DEET concentration may provide protection for about two hours, while 30% can last up to eight hours.
Picaridin is a newer, nearly odorless alternative often preferred because it does not damage plastics or synthetic fabrics, unlike DEET. A 20% Picaridin formulation offers a duration of protection comparable to many DEET products. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), or para-menthane-diol (PMD), is a recommended plant-based option, but it should not be used on children under the age of three.
For an extra layer of defense, especially against ticks and mosquitoes, consider treating clothing and gear with Permethrin. Permethrin is an insecticide and repellent that bonds to fabric, killing insects that come into contact with the material. Permethrin is strictly for use on clothing, tents, and other gear, and should never be applied directly to the skin.
Proper Application Techniques
Applying bug spray correctly ensures that all exposed areas are covered with a thin, even layer of repellent. Start by holding the spray can or bottle six to eight inches away from the skin or clothing. Spray in a slow, sweeping motion to achieve light coverage, avoiding oversaturation. Using your hands to spread the repellent helps ensure all exposed skin is evenly moistened, including areas like the ankles and behind the ears.
When applying to the face, never spray the product directly from the container, as this risks getting the chemical into the eyes or mouth. Instead, spray a small amount into the palm of your hand first. Then, carefully apply the repellent to the face, avoiding the eyes and mouth entirely and using it sparingly around the ears. Once application is complete, wash your hands to prevent accidentally transferring the repellent to sensitive areas.
If treating clothing with a Permethrin product, apply it outdoors in a well-ventilated area according to the label directions. Pay close attention to areas like cuffs, collars, and socks, as these are common entry points for insects. Treated items must be allowed to dry completely before they are worn, which can take a few hours depending on humidity.
Safety Precautions and Use Limits
Important safety measures and age restrictions must be followed when using insect repellents, particularly for vulnerable populations. Repellent should not be used on infants younger than two months old; protection for this age group should rely on clothing and mosquito netting. For children over two months, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using products with no more than 30% DEET. Do not apply repellent to a child’s hands, as they frequently put their hands in their mouths and eyes.
Never apply repellent over cuts, wounds, irritated skin, or sunburned areas, as this can increase absorption into the bloodstream. Reapplication is necessary when the original application time limit has expired or if the repellent is removed by environmental factors. Heavy sweating, swimming, or bathing reduces the product’s effectiveness, requiring reapplication to maintain protection.
Avoid combination products that mix sunscreen and insect repellent. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, while insect repellent typically lasts for several hours. Reapplying a combination product at the frequency needed for sunscreen can lead to excessive exposure to the repellent chemical. Always apply sunscreen first, wait about 30 minutes for it to absorb, and then apply the insect repellent separately.
Post-Application Care and Storage
Once you return indoors, promptly wash the repellent off your skin. Use soap and water to thoroughly cleanse all treated areas to minimize unnecessary exposure. This is important if you have used the product repeatedly or on consecutive days.
Treated clothing should also be washed before being worn again. For items treated with Permethrin, follow the product’s specific instructions, which often recommend washing the treated clothing separately from other laundry. This helps maintain the insecticide’s effectiveness.
Proper storage is necessary to maintain the product’s effectiveness and keep it safe from children. Store all insect repellent containers in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can degrade the active ingredients. Ensure the container lids are securely fastened and keep the repellent out of the reach of children, such as in a locked cabinet or garden shed. Empty containers should be disposed of according to the directions on the product label.