How to Choose an Insect Repellent

Insect repellents can keep the bugs away when you're outdoors. Many will repel ticks, chiggers and mosquitoes. But how do you know which insect repellent is right for you?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide whether you need an insect repellent. When will you be outside? Will you be in the woods or near standing water?

2. Choose a repellent that contains ingredients that have been shown to be effective. These ingredients include DEET and Picaridin and are used most often in repellents that are applied to the skin.

3. Not sure that you're comfortable using a chemical insect repellent? Choose a repellent that includes oil of lemon eucalyptus, which has been shown to be effective.

4. What about your clothing? Repellents with DEET or Picaridin are for use on the skin; permethrin can be used to treat clothing and will continue to work through a number of wash cycles.

5. How often do you want to re-apply the product? This determination will help you to choose the concentration of the insect repellent that you buy.

6. Choose an insect repellent that you will use. This may sound like common sense, but it is important to choose an insect repellent that will provide protection and that you will use--that you will apply and re-apply as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn; if you are going to be outdoors during these times, it may make sense to use an insect repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay.
• Always wash off the insect repellent once you are no longer outdoors.
• Always follow the label instructions on the insect repellent you choose.
• Insect repellents that use DEET are not always safe for children. If you have kids, be sure that you read the label carefully and choose a kid-friendly insect repellent.
• Do not apply permethrin to the skin.
• Only use insect repellents on areas of exposed skin, and be careful not to spray on cuts and scrapes.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.