Summer fun can come to a buzzing, swatting halt when insects find their way into your outdoor activities. Insect bites from mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and bees can cause pain, discomfort and a potential risk for disease.
The thought of you and your family being covered in insect bites can discourage outdoor fun this summer. However, using insect repellent is a great way to keep pesky insects off while you have fun in the sun. There are several options you can select to protect you and your family.
What To Look For When Buying Insect Repellent
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Store-bought repellants are a top choice for many families who enjoy the great outdoors. There are so many to choose from so, what should you be looking for?
When buying an insect repellent, you should read the label for active ingredients. The active ingredients determine the types of insects the product repels and how long you are protected from those insects. Here are some active ingredients commonly used in insect repellents and the length of time they provide protection:
1. DEET
DEET is considered as the best repellent to use if you are going to be exposed to disease-carrying insects. If you will be spending time outside in another country or your own backyard, DEET protects against mosquitos, ticks, biting insects and chiggers. DEET is applied to the skin in a spray, foam or a wipe. Depending on the concentration, it can protect for 2 to 5 hours.
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not recommend the use of products with DEET on babies less than 2 months old. Although DEET is considered safe for children, caution should be taken when applying.
DEET should not be applied underneath clothing or applied more often than what is recommended on product labeling. If not used properly, DEET can cause skin rashes, redness, and swelling.
2. Picaridin
Picaridin repels mosquitos, ticks, chiggers and a wider range of flies than DEET. Picaridin can be applied directly to the skin as a spray, wipe, or foam. Products with picaridin have only been available in the US since 2005.
Its repellant effects can last from 3 to 8 hours depending on the concentration. Picaridin can be used on babies 2 months and older. However, you should always use caution when applying any chemical onto a child’s skin. Following the instructions on the label can help prevent misuse of the product.
3. Permethrin
Permethrin is a chemical that kills ticks on contact. It is used on clothing, livestock and pets, feed crops, restaurants, and other buildings. It can be found in sprays, powders, liquids, and pre-treated clothing.
Permethrin should not be applied directly to the skin. However, it is a good option for applying to sleeping bags and tents on your summer camping trips. When Permethrin is applied to clothing, the effectiveness lasts after several washes.
Natural Insect Repellents
The chemicals in store-bought repellants can cause irritation if you or your children have sensitive skin. Natural and homemade insect repellents made with essential oils can be an effective option to prevent bug bites this summer.
1. Eucalyptus Oil
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approves eucalyptus oil as an effective repellent against mosquitos. Eucalyptus oil can protect you for up to 3 hours, but it is not recommended for children under the age of 3. You can dilute eucalyptus oil with sunflower oil and witch hazel to create an effective repellent.
2. Soybean-Based Products
A soybean-based product can provide protection from mosquitos. There are insect repellent products on the market made from soybeans that many parents use for their children. You can combine soybean oil with one of your favorite essential oils like lavender or lemongrass for a DIY mosquito repellent.
3. Citronella
Citronella candles have been a common mosquito repellent used at summertime barbeques. Along with an insect repellent applied to the skin, citronella candles can provide up to 50 percent more protection during your family’s outdoor activities. Citronella can be combined with coconut or olive oil and applied to the skin to repel mosquitoes. Citronella can provide up to 2 hours of mosquito blocking protection.
Other Essential Oils
Lavender, thyme, tea tree, catnip, and cinnamon oils are also an option when looking for natural mosquito and insect repellents. There are tons of DIY recipes for insect repellent sprays and oils that can be made using a combination of these essential oils.
Summertime doesn’t have to be ruined by insects and bug bites. Grab your favorite drink, apply your insect repellent, and enjoy the great outdoors this summer!
Dr. Candace McMillon-Dantley is the health-empowering creator of The Doc Knows and she’s on a mission to motivate you to a life of health. She has a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. When she’s not health writing, she is health motivating and educating during her interactive presentations on healthy nutrition, self-care and conditions of the body. Her experiences as a business owner, chiropractor, wife and mom of two resonate and relate with her audiences. Connect with Dr. Candace on Instagram @drcandace.
