Unveiling the Reality of DEET
Many folks rely on commercial insect repellents to avoid annoying bites and prevent diseases like West Nile Virus and Lyme disease. Most of these repellents contain DEET, a common active ingredient.
DEET has garnered much attention lately, with debates about its effectiveness and safety. While some consumer groups caution against its use, many experts consider it safe, although opinions remain divided. So, what’s the real deal with DEET, and should you be using it?
**How Does DEET Work?**
Originally developed by the US Army as a pesticide, DEET is great at repelling insects. It was once thought that DEET worked by jamming insects’ ability to smell the chemicals in human sweat and breath that attract them. However, recent studies suggest that insects simply dislike the smell of DEET.
DEET is typically found in topical ointments, lotions, and aerosol sprays, which can be applied to the skin and clothes. The protection period depends on the DEET concentration: higher concentrations provide longer-lasting protection. Disease control agencies often recommend DEET to help stop the spread of insect-borne illnesses.
**The Effects of DEET on Health**
DEET can sometimes irritate the skin, especially in high concentrations. However, it can also be sprayed on clothes to minimize direct contact. Like other chemicals in the toluene family, DEET gets absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream and can travel to internal organs. It inhibits an enzyme related to muscle control in both insects and mammals. Some studies show that prolonged exposure to DEET may cause insomnia and affect cognitive functions. There have even been rare cases of seizures and fatalities linked to DEET ingestion.
**Is It Safe to Use DEET?**
Despite these concerns, the US Environmental Protection Agency notes that DEET-related seizures are extremely rare, with an estimated rate of about one in 100 million users. The American Academy of Pediatrics deems DEET safe for children and adults but advises against using it on infants under two years old.
DEET is very effective at preventing insect bites, which can be both bothersome and a means of disease transmission. If you choose to use DEET, opt for a lower concentration (around 20%), which offers protection for 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Apply it to your clothes rather than your skin to avoid irritation, and wash your clothes between applications. Avoid applying DEET on broken skin and limit prolonged use.
In summary, DEET is a powerful tool against insect bites and the diseases they can carry, but it should be used carefully and sparingly to minimize potential health risks.
