Bug Off!
When summer rolls around, bugs love to make a guest appearance. Many are not wanted by people outside to enjoy the warm weather, so many get insect repellent. Bug spray is an everyday necessity for summertime fun and protects you from insect-borne diseases. However, many do not understand what bug spray does to protect us from insects. How does it work, what is in it, and what are the best picks?
How does bug spray work?
Insects like mosquitoes find animals by smelling for lactic acids and carbon dioxide. With the use of bug spray, the indicators mosquitoes use to detect animals become hidden. Lactic acid, the main component of human sweat, is covered by bug spray. This helps hide the scent of the sweat. One common misconception is that bug spray kills insects. While this may be true for applying pest control products for infestations, using body bug spray is used to confuse and repel insects, not kill them.
What is in bug spray?
Bug spray has many chemicals that are designed to protect you from insects. All of these chemicals have been EPA approved as safe and effective. The main ingredients in bug spray are DEET, IR3535, Picaridin, and various oils such as lemon eucalyptus oil. Many people are concerned that these chemicals may harm themselves, though many are either safe or slightly toxic, such as DEET, which can lead to rashes or irritation if used for prolonged periods. However, with proper use, these problems should not arise.
Best bug sprays as of 2023:
EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes insect repellent.
Coleman Skinsmart insect repellent spray (DEET free)
Natrapel 12-hour tick and insect repellent.
Off Active insect repellent