Is DEET Safe?

Is DEET Safe?

With the warmer weather, more people are spending time in the great outdoors, exploring and enjoying the wonder that nature has to offer. From long hikes along the Blue Ridge mountains to short runs through your neighborhood, the outdoors is calling, and we all must go.

While it may be time to begin spending more time outdoors, ticks and mosquitoes will also be enjoying the opportunity to get out of their nests and feed on unsuspected humans. These obnoxious pests are not only frustrating but can carry diseases that can cause serious problems in humans and pets.

With that said, finding ways to prevent ticks and mosquitoes is imperative to having an enjoyable spring and summer season outside. One of the most well-known ways to prevent ticks and mosquitoes is DEET.

With sprays, lotions, and wristbands available for consumers, you may be concerned whether or not they are safe to use.

In this article, we will explain DEET and its uses, as well as some of the misconceptions and concerns about DEET.

What Is DEET, And What Is Its History?

DEET, or diethyltoluamide, is the oldest and most effective common active ingredient in most commercial insect repellents. It is slightly yellow in appearance and is intended to be applied on your skin or clothing. DEET is used to prevent pests such as mosquitoes, flies, ticks, fleas, chiggers, leeches, and many other biting insects. 

Chemically called “diethyltoluamide,” DEET is prepared by converting 3-methylbenzoic acid to acyl chloride and allowing it to react with diethylamine. The development of DEET can be attributed to US Department of Agriculture scientist Samual Gertler. It was originally used by the United States Army to provide protection from disease-carrying insects found in the jungles of Japan and Vietnam. Before that, farmers used it as a pesticide on fields. By the year 1957, manufacturers were selling insect repellants containing DEET to the general public. 

Its original form, which is also known as “bug juice,” was 75% DEET and 25% ethanol. Over time, scientists adjusted the formula to extend its release and reduce its evaporation rate by utilizing a mixture of polymers. 

How DEET Works:

  • Interfering with Receptors: Insects, including mosquitoes, rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate potential hosts for feeding. They have specialized olfactory receptors on their antennae that detect chemical cues, such as carbon dioxide and sweat, emitted by humans and animals. DEET interferes with these receptors, making it difficult for the insects to detect the presence of a host.
  • Masking Odors: DEET doesn't necessarily repel insects by emitting a strong scent that drives them away, as is commonly believed. Instead, it works by masking the odors emitted by humans, making it harder for insects to detect their presence. This effect essentially "hides" the individual from the insect's senses, reducing the likelihood of being bitten.
  • Confusing the Insect's Navigation: In addition to masking odors, DEET may also interfere with the insect's ability to navigate effectively toward a potential host. By disrupting the insect's olfactory system, DEET may confuse the insect's sense of direction, causing it to become disoriented and less likely to find its target.

It's important to note that while DEET is highly effective at repelling a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and flies, it does have some limitations and potential drawbacks. Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using products containing DEET, especially at higher concentrations.

Additionally, DEET may not provide complete protection against all insect species and may need to be reapplied periodically for optimal effectiveness.

Is DEET Safe To Use?

Because DEET is a lab-created chemical compound it is fair to assume that there could be some health and environmental issues that may arise with its use.

However, according to this statement by the  EPA

“The normal use of DEET does not present a health concern to the general population, including children. As always, consumers are advised to read and follow label instructions when using any pesticide product, including insect repellents.

Currently, registered uses of DEET are also not expected to result in adverse effects for listed and non-listed endangered species or critical habitats. As such, EPA concludes “no effect” for listed species and no adverse modification of designated critical habitat for all currently registered uses of DEET.”

Good news, right? Well for the most part, yes DEET is a fairly safe and effective way to prevent biting insects from bothering humans that use it. Most issues related to DEET poisoning are due to “ingestion or application that is not consistent with label instructions.” So as long as you are following directions while using products that use DEET you are most likely fine. 

Tips For Using DEET Safely

  • Read and Follow Instructions: Always read the label and follow the instructions provided on the DEET product. Pay attention to the concentration of DEET in the product and apply it according to the recommended usage guidelines.
  • Apply Sparingly: Apply DEET sparingly to exposed skin areas and clothing. Avoid excessive use or over-application, as this may increase the risk of skin irritation or adverse reactions.
  • Avoid Contact with Eyes and Mouth: Keep DEET away from your eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Do not apply DEET to areas of broken or irritated skin, and avoid applying it under clothing.
  • Wash Off After Use: After returning indoors, wash off DEET with soap and water. This can help reduce the risk of skin irritation and minimize exposure to the chemical.
  • Consider Alternatives: If you have concerns about using DEET or experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, consider using alternative insect repellents containing different active ingredients, such as picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Is DEET The Answer?

Bug bites are not only annoying but can also transmit serious diseases such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever or Lymes Disease. While not the only way to keep biting insects away, DEET has proven to be safe and effective. 

Ultimately, DEET is not always the best option for everyone. If you have any concerns, then some thorough research and a quick chat with your doctor should help you make an informed decision. Another great resource is the Environmental Working Group’s skin deep guide to the safety of ingredients at products at https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/.  

What Are Some Alternatives?

A few alternatives include: 

  • Picaridin: Has a long history of effectiveness against mosquitoes in other parts of the world, has now been approved in the U.S. (It’s a synthetic compound made similar to “piperine,” a compound found in plants used to produce black pepper.) 
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus: Derived from eucalyptus leaves.
  • IR3535: similar to a naturally occurring amino acid. 
  • Others include oils of citronella, peppermint, cedar, and lemongrass.

Worried About Biting Insects? Rid-A-Bug Can Help

One of the best ways to keep pests of all kinds at bay is by working with a pest control company that focuses on eco-friendly practices and touts the use of Integrated Pest Management or IPM. If you need a pest control company or have questions about how to prevent pests from bothering you and your family, contact Rid-A-Bug today! We are here to help.