Which is safer, DEET or picaridin?
DEET and picaridin are insect repellents, but they work differently. DEET is a chemical absorbed through the skin and coats the skin to keep mosquitoes and other biting insects away. Picaridin works by irritating the smell receptors of mosquitoes, which helps them avoid humans.
Picaridin is safer than DEET because it’s less likely to cause skin irritation. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both products are safe when used as directed.
Which mosquito repellents contain picaridin?
You can find picaridin in the following mosquito repellents:
Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent
What are the side effects of picaridin?
Picaridin is a mosquito repellent used in many products and applied to the skin like a lotion. It’s also available as a spray, but it’s not recommended for children under 2 months old.
Some common side effects include:
- -skin irritation or rash
- -burning sensation on the skin
- -redness of the skin
- -itching or stinging sensation on the skin
Picaridin is generally considered safe for use every day. It’s a naturally-occurring insect repellant, and it’s used in many products that can be applied to the skin. However, if you have any concerns about the safety of picaridin, you should talk to your doctor before using it daily.
