N,N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET)

• Insect repellent products in many forms, such as sprays, sticks, lotions, and towelettes.

DEET is a widely used insect repellent with very little indication of health concerns when used as directed.  However, there is some information that DEET:

• • May increase the potential for some pesticides to affect the nervous system if you apply DEET and spray pesticide(s) in your house or yard at the same time.

• Reduce your use of insect repellents by wearing long sleeves, long pants, socks, and a hat.  Tightly-woven materials are more protective.  Use mosquito netting when appropriate.
• Reduce mosquitos around your home and garden by:
  • • Installing or repairing screens on windows and doors.
    • Emptying standing pools of water, such as in buckets, wheelbarrows, and tarps.
• If you use products containing DEET:
  • • Always read and follow all directions on the label.
    • Use just enough DEET to cover exposed skin and, if needed, the outside of clothing.  Using more repellent does not increase its effectiveness.
    • Apply sprays in well-ventilated areas or outside.  Do not spray directly onto your face.  Spray on hands first and then apply to face.
    • Do not apply on cuts or irritated skin.
    • Parents should apply DEET to children’s skin.  Do not apply to children’s hands or allow children to handle DEET products.  Do not use on infants younger than 2 months of age.
    • Wash off DEET once it is no longer needed.
    • Wash clothing sprayed with DEET before wearing it again.
• If you use both DEET and sunscreen:
  • • It is generally recommended to apply sunscreen first. Follow directions on how often to reapply the two products.
    • Wash off DEET and sunscreen when they are no longer needed.