What Is DEET Exactly—And Is It Safe To Use?

The chemical isn't nearly as scary as it sounds.

With the pros of the outdoors—hiking, camping, bonfires, you name it—come the cons: bug bites. And this year, those itchy, blotchy, and uncomfortable bites may be more dangerous than ever. More than triple the amount of people have gotten sick from mosquito, flea, and tick bites from 2004 to 2016, according to a report by the CDC.

They speculate that climate change has something to do with this. Because winters have been shorter, and summers are hotter and longer, the climate is more inviting for these "vectors" (the disease-carrying bugs). Oy.

All of this potential for sickness calls for a heavy-duty bug spray. The pesticide DEET, studies have shown, is an insect-repelling powerhouse. iI’s known to be stronger in repelling and longer-lasting than any other ingredient—but many people have questions and concerns about putting the chemical on their skin.

Here’s what medical and environmental experts have to say about using DEET to ward off the bugs.

See the full article by Mara Santilli on Women's Health's website here.

IMESASISHWA MWISHO

October 21, 2024

Imeandikwa na
Mwandishi wa Blogu ya Picha

Afya ya wanawake

Media Mentions from Women's Health

Women's Health offers the latest news in workouts, nutrition, health, and sex and relationships.

Chunguza Maudhui Zaidi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

The Sawyer Mini is super lightweight, fits in your pocket, and filters up to 100,000 gallons of water.

Menachem Kossowsky
Mwandishi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer’s picaridin spray works up to 12 hours, and the company’s picaridin lotion is effective up to 14.

Bruce Ingram
Mwandishi wa Kuchangia

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter earns our top pick for its unbeatable mix of weight, longevity and versatility.

Meg Carney
Mwandishi wa Kuchangia