Did you know that mosquitoes are the deadliest animals on Earth because of the diseases they carry? You likely reach for insect repellent before a hike or a backyard barbecue but do you know how bug spray actually works? Understanding the science behind these products can help you stay comfortable and healthy outdoors.

How Repellents Keep Bugs Away

You’re not just a random target for a hungry insect. These creatures use their senses to find their next meal, tracking the breath you exhale and the heat your body produces. Repellents act as a shield between your skin and biting insects. When you apply a repellent, you create a vapour barrier on your skin. This smell is very strong to the insect and confuses their ability to locate you. Some products do more than just hide your scent, they make the surface of your skin feel unpleasant to the bug. If a mosquito lands on you, the chemicals trigger a reaction that makes it want to fly away immediately. This prevents the insect from biting even if it manages to find you.

Ingredients That Actually Work

You’ll see many different labels at the store but a few specific ingredients are the most common. Repellents are tested extensively to ensure they’re effective and don’t harm people when used correctly. The duration of protection usually depends on how much of the active ingredient is in the bottle.

These are the primary ingredients you’ll find in commonly available products:

• DEET
 – This is the most common ingredient and works against a wide variety of biting pests.
• Picaridin
 – This is a synthetic version of a compound found in pepper plants and has no oily feel.
• IR3535
 – This is a man made amino acid that is very gentle on the skin.

Picaridin is often a favourite because it doesn’t have a strong smell and won’t damage plastics or synthetic fabrics like DEET sometimes does. Choose a product based on how long you plan to be outside and which bugs are active in your area. Your Super Thrifty pharmacist can help you select the right insect repellent for your family.

Is DEET safe for children?

Yes, products with up to 30 % DEET are safe for children older than two months. You should avoid putting it on their hands because babies often put their fingers in their mouths.

How to Apply Products Safely

Applying repellent correctly is just as important as the ingredients inside. You only need to cover the skin that is showing. There’s no reason to spray the skin under your shirt or pants. Using too much doesn’t make the product work better, it just wastes the liquid.

Follow these steps for the best results:

1. 1. Spray the product onto your hands first when applying to your face.
   2. Avoid your eyes, nostrils and mouth.
   3. Wash your hands after you finish so you don’t get it in your food.
   4. Wash the product off your skin with soap and water once you come back inside.

If you are also using sunscreen, put the sunscreen on first. Let it dry for a few minutes before you add the insect repellent. This order allows both products to sit correctly on your skin so they can do their jobs at the same time.

How often should I reapply my spray?

Check the label for a specific time frame. Generally, if you start getting bitten again or if you’re sweating heavily, it is time for another light layer.

Can I use these sprays on my dog?

You should never use human repellents on pets. Some ingredients, especially certain essential oils besides DEET, are toxic to animals if they lick their fur. Use products specifically made for pets instead.