Bug repellents do more than just prevent itchy bites and save your camping trip — in regions where mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue fever are endemic, repellents literally save lives.
Among today's bug repellent options, the active ingredient DEET, with its decades-long track record for safety and effectiveness, is still widely considered the gold standard for bug spray. Repellents that contain compounds like picaridin and IR3535 are also effective against mosquitoes and other biting insects, though both of these options lack DEET's very long history on the market. And oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), not to be confused with lemon eucalyptus essential oil, is common in so-called natural products.
What's the best active ingredient? That depends on you — after all, repellent only works as long as you're willing to wear it. DEET has the most well-established safety profile, but can feel greasy on the skin and some find the scent unpleasant. Picaridin offers similar long-lasting protection without the oily texture or distinctive scent, but isn't yet old enough to have been studied as extensively as DEET. IR3535 is odorless, blends well into lotion-based repellents, and is generally proven effective against many biting insects, but may not protect as well against some types of mosquitoes. OLE also provides strong protection against biting insects, but requires more frequent application and can irritate sensitive skin.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), DEET, picaridin, and IR3535 are safe to use as directed on children as young as two months old. Avoid repellents that contain OLE for children under three years old, and skip homemade essential oil mixes or unproven products like stickers or bracelets.
Some other key AAP recommendations when choosing bug repellent for kids:
* Repellents with DEET or IR3535 should contain no more than 30 percent of the active ingredient.
* DEET repellent should only be applied once per day.
* Picaridin is considered safe for young children up to the maximum allowable concentration of 20 percent.
* Look for stick, lotion, and unpressurized spray formulations instead of aerosol cans, and apply as directed.
* Avoid products that combine sunscreen with insect repellent.
