It is not easy to find a mosquito repellent, and yes, we all would like a simple solution against these annoying insects that have now obsessed us several months a year! It seems impossible to get rid of it.
Then there are the staples and, of course, we cannot forget the nights in which the buzzing haunts us right near the ear. We’re not telling you anything new, right?
In our article, we will try to help you find the best mosquito repellent for your needs to try to put an end to this problem, not only in summer. If you finally want to rest peacefully, continue reading the information we have collected, you will not regret it!
Right below we had selected some of the best mosquito repellents.
Buying Guide to Select the Best Mosquito Repellents
With climate change, the presence of mosquitoes has continued. Moreover, these seem to have adapted to more hostile climates and are therefore more resistant.
You have to protect yourself from their bites, but it is not always easy. Among the various remedies, there is the repellent whose correct use can significantly stem the problem.
To Keep Threats Away
Unlike insecticides and electric lamps, which mainly aim at the physical elimination of insects, mosquito repellents only serve to keep them away, at least for the duration allowed by the type of product.
The repellents available on the market are of various types, each with its advantages and disadvantages; moreover, in this particular production sector, the most effective products are often the cheapest ones.
The use of mosquito repellent is indicated where the presence of this insect is a real plague, especially where the presence of the notorious tiger mosquito, carrier of viruses responsible for high-risk diseases, such as yellow fever, chikungunya, dengue, zika, and St. Louis encephalitis.
Spray Lotions
Although the use of mosquito repellants in the form of spray lotions is somewhat controversial due to the main substance of which they are composed,
Dietiltoluamide is, however, the only truly effective solution against the problem represented by these insects; this substance, commonly known with the abbreviation DEET, is considered harmful to humans even if it has been regularly used in the civilian field, now, since the late 1950s.
Repellent lotions based on pure essential oils, therefore completely free of DEET, are slightly less effective than those containing the substance, especially as regards the duration of protection.
Moreover, being 100% natural products, they tend to be much more expensive than chemical synthetic mosquito repellents.
Alternative Repellents
However, other types of repellents do not require direct application to the skin, and the most common among these are patches and ultrasounds.
The patches are ideal especially for protecting newborns, especially if they are of natural origin and without DEET, just apply them near one of the cradle slopes and let the scents of essential oils being released into the surrounding air.
Ultrasound devices, on the other hand, have the advantage of being effective even against mice and rats, but they are expensive. They must be kept constantly in the sockets of the premises to be protected without ever being removed; otherwise, their use is frustrating.
How to Use a Mosquito Repellent?
Read Before Applying
It is a good idea to get information on how much you are going to apply yourself. All we need to know is printed on the packaging or possibly on a leaflet.
There are two most important information to look for, namely, on which species of insects the repellent has been tested by demonstrating its effectiveness.
Very importantly, the active ingredient and the excipients because you could be allergic. However, if you experience any reaction, immediately rinse the affected part of the body and contact a doctor.
Children and Pregnant Women
Generally, repellents can be applied to children over the second year of age. As for pregnant or breastfeeding women, there are no contraindications for the use of repellents, although it is preferable to limit the applications. In any case, always follow what is written on the package.
How to Apply the Repellent?
There are a few small rules to follow when applying repellent. This should be put on the exposed areas of the body and the clothes but not on the part of the skin that is under these. Absolutely to avoid applying the product on cuts, wounds, and irritated areas.
If you use a spray repellent, do not spray it directly on the face but the palms of the hands and then transfer the product to the face, taking care to avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
If you put the product to a small child, make sure not to put it on his or her hands because it could lead to the mouth or rub the eyes. Do not use more repellent than needed; just cover the exposed part.
A larger quantity of the product no longer means protection. If you notice any irritation on the skin, stop using the product immediately and, as mentioned above, rinse the red part.
The Frequency of Applications
One of the most frequently asked questions concerns the number of daily applications. This depends primarily on the percentage of the active ingredient: the higher it is, the fewer applications are required. Keep in mind that effectiveness and duration are influenced by factors such as ambient temperature, sweating, etc.
