The weather is warming up and people up and down the northeast will be spending more and more time outside, but they won’t be alone. Billions of mosquitoes will want to join the outdoor party. For protection, many folks turn to DEET. It’s the best repellent on the market, but it’s not for everyone.
Some people are allergic to DEET and cannot tolerate it, even in small amounts. While others prefer to avoid DEET due to its potentially harmful side effects when absorbed through the skin in large amounts. However, that doesn’t mean they have to stay indoors all summer. Let’s explore some alternatives to DEET.
DEET Alternatives
Picaridin: This is a relatively new active ingredient. It is approved by the CDC and offers nearly the same level of protection as products with DEET. People have commented that picaridin is “lighter and feels cleaner” on the skin. It is a synthetic repellent that mimics the effects of piperine. Piperine is found in plants that produce black pepper. Formulas that use picardin as the active ingredient can also be used on children 2 months and older.
Oil of Eucalyptus: This natural oil offers up to two hours of protection from mosquitoes. It has a pretty strong odor and can leave its scent on your clothing (even after washing.) It is also not recommended for children under 3 years old. The Environmental Protection Agency has listed this ingredient as effective against mosquitoes BUT it’s considered about half as effective as DEET.
Soybean Oil: This oil provides up to 90 minutes of protection and is actually available in a line of products called Bite Blocker.
Citronella Oil: This oil has long been lauded as an insect repellent. However, it only works in 20-minute spurts. It can be found in several commercial insect repellents and even some sunscreen products. It tends to work by masking other scents that attract mosquitoes.
Neem Essential Oil: Lamps containing this oil tend to keep mosquitoes away. If a small amount of neem oil is mixed with coconut it can keep mosquitoes away for about an hour. However, this treatment becomes less effective when used as a spray. It should be rubbed on the skin and reapplied often.
Treatment Plan
Repellents work best in tandem with an outdoor treatment plan. Have your yard professionally treated. If you enjoy your outdoor area and can’t tolerate DEET, this is a must! There are organic and synthetic methods that can prevent mosquitoes from taking over your yard, without harming your family or pets. Also be sure to dump all standing water on your property, mosquitoes need water to breed, and avoid going outside at dusk and dawn.