How to Choose Between Mosquito Repellents

From spray on to lotions to mosquito bracelets, one might think there are as many choices for mosquito repellents as there are mosquitoes themselves. Choosing the right mosquito repellent seems like a daunting task, but it's really not that difficult.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check to see if the repellent contains deet. Many scientific studies found that repellents with deet are the most effective against insects.

2. Choose the concentration of deet you desire. Keep in mind how long your outdoor activity will last. If you're going to be outside for a longer amount of time, you'll want a repellent with a higher concentration of deet. However, if you will only be spending a short time outside, a repellent with a smaller concentration will provide adequate protection.

3. Compare the form of repellent with your outdoor activity. Maybe you need it combined with a sunscreen. Perhaps you need it to be waterproof. Maybe you want to wear it as a bracelet. Your outdoor activity should determine the form of repellent you select.

4. Apply the mosquito repellent. If you choose a spray, hold the bottle a few inches away from the skin or clothing and spray generously. Be sure the liquid has covered all exposed skin. If you use a lotion, again be sure that all exposed skin is covered.

Tips & Warnings

• Infants under 2 years of age are too susceptible to the ill effects of deet. Repellents containing deet should never be used on them.
• No more than 10 percent deet should be used on children.
• Repellents containing more than 35 percent deet are NOT recommended for adults.

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[tamarleigh]

on 7/4/2009 Did it occur to the anonymous author that not all of his/her readers might be comfortable with voluntary exposure to DEET, because of the seizures, deaths, mood disturbances, and impaired cognitive function associated with heavy DEET exposure?

The first step in MY process for choosing an insect repellent is precisely the OPPOSITE of what this article recommends. I first make sure it contains no DEET. What if nuclear waste repels mosquitos--are we going to start smearing that on ourselves next, turning a blind eye to the physical (and environmental) damage?

This is not a legitimate article. This is a thinly disguised advertisement for DEET-based repellants. It is almost entirely devoid of useful information, and the pro-DEET slant is so pronounced that it casts doubt on the integrity of anything else in the article.