At Love Bites Only, we're big fans of our safe, effective and sweet-smelling insect repellent. We love that it's a chemical-free formulation, safe for sensitive skin and children, and that it doubles up as a soothing balm for itchy, bitten skin.
But we also acknowledge that in the world of insect repellents used in tropical climates, DEET formulations have long reigned supreme. It's known as the single most effective formulation for repelling mosquitos, and is the subject of countless studies. Yet it's also the subject of controversy and linked to several deaths - most of which were caused by ingestion or excessive use, but are associations we don't want to be rubbing into our skin on the reg.
And that's before we get into the smell, for which 'pungent' seems a kind description - it's no surprise that mosquitos aren't fans, because it seems to repel humans too.
The deets on DEET
DEET - a snappier way of saying N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide - is considered safe when used as stated on product packaging, but this doesn't mean there aren't risks associated with its use. You're recommended to wash hands after use, to wash it off once it's no longer required, and not to apply it under clothing, because the small amount which is inevitably absorbed into the body will be increased. That's quite a lot of stuff to remember, and tricky to implement in certain scenarios.
The UK government website recommends 50% DEET formulations when travelling to areas where there is a risk of contracting tropical disease. But there are several potential hazards associated with DEET use, the most common being skin irritation/rashes. In extreme cases, seizures (particularly in kids who have been exposed to high concentrations) have been reported, and systemic toxicity, mainly coming about through ingestion or application on broken skin, which can cause headache, dizziness, nausea and seizures (though these are thankfully rare).
What's the best way to use DEET?
Products typically contain DEET in concentrations ranging from 5% to 100%, so there's a lot of wiggle room, although as per the government advice, a higher concentration is more effective. Lower concentrations are recommended for children and for shorter durations of exposure, with an average concentration of 20-30% being the most widely used for efficacy and safety.
DEET should be applied sparingly and only on exposed skin and clothing, not under clothing. Never apply it on cuts, wounds, or irritated skin. Don't put DEET on young kids' hands, or anywhere near the eyes and mouth. It shouldn't be used over extended periods continuously without washing off, and should be washed off once it's no longer needed.
In other words, handle DEET with care. Which is not something you need to worry about when using Love Bites Only, and we're very grateful for that.
LBO x