Did you know that mosquitoes are the deadliest animals on Earth because of the diseases they carry? You likely reach for a spray bottle before a hike or a backyard bonfire to avoid itchy bumps but most people don’t know how these products actually function. Understanding the science behind these sprays helps you stay comfortable and healthy when you spend time outdoors.

How Repellents Keep Bugs Away

You are not just a random target for a hungry insect. These creatures use their senses to find their next meal. They track the breath you exhale and the heat your body produces. Repellents act as a shield between your skin and the pests that want to bite you. 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 will see many different labels at the store but a few specific ingredients are the most common. Scientists test the chemicals extensively to ensure they are effective and do not 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 will find in commonly available products:

• DEET
 – This is the most common chemical 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 does not have a strong smell. It also will not damage plastics or synthetic fabrics like DEET sometimes does. You should choose your 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 is no reason to spray the skin under your shirt or pants. Using too much does not 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 do not get it in your food.
   4. Clean 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 are 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.