What You Need To Know About DEET And Its Safety

DEET based repellents are among the most effective in providing longlasting and broadspectrum protection. It operates by disrupting mosquitoes’ capacity to sense the scent of humans, thereby preventing them from approaching. Due to its established safety and efficacy, DEET-based repellents are always recommended by health authorities and should be automatically considered by travelers for all ages when used as directed.

DEET is safe for most people, but make sure to follow usage guidelines. Over application or using too strong of a product on sensitive skin, such as that of young children, can lead to irritation. Do not apply DEET to cuts or open wounds, or to the area around eyes and mouth. Reapply as directed on the product label when outdoors for long periods to stay protected while avoiding overexposure.

For parents wary of using chemical repellents on their children, other ingredients might keep them safe with less chance of irritation, including picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. In the end, DEET is still a pretty good option that is safe to use in moderation; there’s no reason you can’t add it to other preventive measures that work: long sleeves and disposing of standing water, to name two.