Should You Use A DEET Insect Repellent?

DEET insect repellent has been proven to be the most effective solution to the problem of insect bites and their potential consequences. It is, of course, a synthetic chemical based solution, which means that there are potential side effects to its use, and there are people who will have a skin reaction when they try to use it. People who are against the use of chemicals in any product of this type can find a natural alternative, but as of now there is no natural solution which offers the same strength as DEET.

It does appear, based on the results of surveys carried out across the USA, that the immediate toxicity risk of DEET insect repellents is extremely small. The number of seizures which could be attributed to the use of DEET was only double figures, yet the substance is used by a large percentage of the American population ever year without problem. Only four deaths were reported, and the risk was estimated as being less than one in one hundred million. There is less risk with DEET than with most types of food which are linked with allergies.

Of course this does not take into account the effects of persistent long term use, and the possible degenerative effects over many years. It also does not consider the effect of the chemical on mood, sleep, or other intangible factors. Surveys carried out in National Park facilities where employees have a continuous exposure to DEET did suggest that there was a considerable negative effect on mental processes. There is clearly a hazard in prolonged use of DEET, so it should be kept to times and places where it is genuinely needed.

The greatest concern amongst many people traveling to places where a DEET insect repellent may be necessary is the effect it may have on children. DEET based solutions are always recommended for use with children, to prevent any problems from insect bites which could be long lasting or troublesome for years to come. Many are concerned about the risk. It does have to be pointed out based on the results given above that there is some degree of risk in the use of DEET, but the vast majority of children use it for the short term with no ill effect.

Of course the other major factor in deciding whether to use a DEET insect repellent is considering what the practical alternatives are. There are a few, including some entirely natural products. Of these, eucalyptus oil is the one which has proven to most closely match the properties of DEET, without the same potential for side effects. The disadvantage of any natural solution is that it needs to be applied far more often, so be sure to set reminders if you are switching to a natural substance from DEET insect repellent.






 

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