Popular Myths and Facts About DEET

Popular Myths and Facts About DEET

Between the sheer annoyance of insect bites and the potentially devastating diseases they can transmit, the effectiveness and safety of insect repellent continues to be a high-level concern for many people. DEET, an active ingredient found in insect repellents like NET effect, has made headlines due to its ability to protect you from pesky and potentially harmful insect bites. Since you may have concerns about the use of products containing DEET, we have compiled a list of the most popular myths and facts about the ingredient, so you can feel confident with your next purchase of NET effect insect repellent!

Myth

Insect repellents with higher percentages of DEET provide better protection against insects.

Fact

One of the main facts about DEET that consumers should know is that the percentage of DEET determines how long you are protected from insects, not the quality of insect protection. For example, products with 10% DEET provide protection for up to two hours. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advise that the efficacy of DEET plateaus at a concentration of roughly 50%.  Therefore, insect repellents above 50% concentration are not any more effective than those with lower concentrations.

Myth

DEET is unsafe to use on children and exposed skin.

Fact

One of the more important facts about DEET is that there is no age restriction for its usage. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the continual use of DEET repellents does not pose a health concern for children or adults. Consumers are advised to follow the instructions on the product label when applying DEET; parents are urged to apply the product for their children. DEET is safe to apply directly to skin or clothing in appropriate and instructed amounts.

Myth

DEET is effective because it kills mosquitoes.

Fact

DEET is not an insecticide, but rather a unique repellent that interferes with the sensory receptors on insects, preventing them from sensing chemicals released on human skin. Chemicals and scents that we excrete are what attract mosquitoes and other insects.  By blocking the smell of them, insects are unable to locate and land on our skin.

Myth

DEET only works on mosquitoes.

Fact

Don’t let this myth fool you. One of the most important facts about DEET is that it repels not only mosquitoes, but fleas, gnats, ticks, chiggers, biting flies and no-see-ums. With DEET repellents, you are not only protected from mosquito-borne diseases, but also other insect-borne illnesses like Lyme Disease, which is transmitted through ticks.

Now That You Know the Important Facts About DEET, Try NET effect Today!

You can never have too much insect repellent, especially if you reside in warmer climates or if you travel frequently. The beauty of NET effect is that it comes as a roll-on applicator rather than a spray-on bottle, while still incorporating all of the benefits of DEET. This makes it easy to apply anywhere, anytime. And, NET effect’s convenient compact-sized container lets it fit perfectly in suitcases and purses. Did we mention it smells great too?! Visit our website to order your supply of NET effect, and make applying insect repellent a safe and enjoyable task!