How to choose the best tick repellent: practical tips

The number of tick-borne diseases has doubled in the United States over the past 20 years. Therefore, choosing an effective repellent for these parasites has never been more important. Such blood-sucking arthropods penetrate the skin and are capable of infecting dangerous infections, in particular tick-borne borreliosis (Lyme disease), alpha-galactose (alpha-gal syndrome) and rickettsia (anaplasmosis). Therefore, when going outdoors, it is very important to use a high-quality repellent, writes CNN.

Photo: Shutterstock

The publication asked several entomologists to give advice on choosing the most effective repellents.

Which active ingredients are more effective?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using only repellents that are registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Check the packaging for the EPA registration number and look for a graphic showing the repellent's effectiveness, which indicates how long it will last after application.

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The repellent must contain approved active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, p-menthane diol, or 2-undecanone. However, the CDC warns that "oil of lemon eucalyptus and some p-menthane diol products should not be used in children under 3 years of age." Always read labels carefully for safety information.

Dr. Angela M. Tucker, a vector-borne and vector-borne disease specialist at the University of Tennessee, says:

“It is difficult to recommend one repellent, or even several, as each person has different needs.”

She suggests using the information on EPA website for a selection of tick and mosquito repellents that are EPA registered.

“It is very important to always check yourself after walking or working if you have been in an area where ticks may be present,” she said. “If you remove the tick in time before it starts drinking blood, this will reduce the risk of diseases transmitted by these insects.”

The most proven active ingredient in tick repellents is DEET. Although its effectiveness is undeniable, it can damage plastic and synthetic fabrics. The drug has a strong odor that some people do not like. The repellent is greasy and oily and may cause irritation for people with sensitive skin.

An alternative is picaridin, a non-greasy and odorless synthetic substance available as a repellent since 2005.

“Studies show that picaridin is as effective as DEET against ticks,” said Dr. Goodaraz Molai, director of the Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance Program at Yale University School of Public Health. “However, because picaridin is relatively new to the market, there is not yet enough information available about its potential long-term side effects and health risks. It all comes down to whether we want to give preference to an old proven product or a relatively new one.”

Molai suggests choosing a repellent with a concentration of 30% DEET or 20% picaridin. For children, he recommends using a DEET concentration of 30% or 5% to 10% picaridin.

If you find a parasite on yourself, a child or a pet, we remind you: how to remove ticks correctly.

The best repellents for blood-sucking insects

Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion ($10 on Amazon)

This is one of the most durable repellents on the market. A light lotion containing 20% ​​picaridin is effective for up to 14 hours against ticks and mosquitoes, the spray version is effective for up to 12 hours. The small bottle is convenient for air travel and walking. The disadvantages of the lotion are that it is difficult to apply while moving, and the concentration of picaridin may be too high for children.

Ben's 30% DEET Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent ($10 at Walmart)

This formula contains the recommended concentration of DEET 30%, which provides protection for up to 8 hours. There's 5% more DEET here than the cheaper Off! Deep Woods. If your skin is not too sensitive and the strong smell does not bother you, then DEET is a proven product that has been used for over 60 years. The spray bottle makes application easy and is suitable for air travel. Ben's also offers versions with higher concentrations of DEET, but Kate Chapman, an entomologist and professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, says 30% is the maximum that provides the most effectiveness.

Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus Expedition SPF 30 Insect Repellent ($35 at Walmart)

Screenshot from Walmart website

This Avon formula is one of the few EPA-approved repellents that is combined with sunscreen. It's also water-resistant, which is great for wet conditions or outdoor activities. This product will repel mosquitoes and ticks for up to 10 hours, but is not suitable for children.

Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment ($14 on Amazon)

This product should not be used directly on the skin. Its permethrin formula is designed to be sprayed onto camping or hiking equipment and clothing without damaging the materials. The product can last up to six washes, or six weeks for items like tents that likely won't be washed as often as clothing. Follow directions for use carefully, as permethrin is classified as a partial pesticide by the EPA.

How to apply tick protection

Read the repellent label to determine how often and where to apply it, and whether it is appropriate for your age and purpose. Always avoid contact with eyes and mouth, do not touch them with your hands after applying the product, and wash them thoroughly before eating.

“When using sprays, do not spray directly into the face,” warns Jeff Landis, media communications specialist at the EPA. “First, spray the product onto your hands, then use your palms to apply it to your face and the skin around your ears.”

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“Parents should apply sunscreen to their children's skin, avoiding their hands, eyes and mouth,” said a spokesperson for the Ohio Department of Health. Molai advises “not using products that combine repellents and sunscreens” on children. “It is important to wash children’s skin with soap and water after using repellents and returning home,” he emphasized.

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