Repellents can protect humans from mosquito bites for one to five hours, depending on the amount of perspiration and rubbing of the skin and abundance of mosquitoes. Cover evenly the area of skin to be protected, because mosquitoes will find and bite untreated spots. Spray on the outer clothing and on exposed parts of the body.
Keep repellents away from the eyes, nostrils and lips. Repellents may damage plastics, nail polish and certain painted or varnished surfaces. Repellents used in commercial products include N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide or DEET (in OFF), and dimethyl carbate. DEET is a very effective repellent but should not be used indiscriminately as severe allergies can develop.
Do not spray in enclosed areas (for aerosols).
Do not apply over cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
Do not apply to eyes and mouth.
Do not apply to the hands of young children.
On children, use a product containing less than 20 percent DEET.
Do not spray directly over the face.
Avoid breathing DEET aerosol.
Do not use near food.
Use just enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing. Do not use under clothing. Avoid overexposure. Frequent reapplication and saturation is unnecessary for effectiveness.
After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water. Wash treated clothing.
Use of this product may cause skin reactions. If you suspect that you or your child is reacting to this product, call your local poison information center. If you go to the doctor, take the repellent with you.
An important consideration to make in the selection of a repellent is the amount (percent) active ingredient present. This can be easily determined because the active ingredients and percent concentration are presented on the label. Different formulations of the same product may contain varying percentages of active ingredients.
To be sure that the product contains a sufficient quality and quantity of active ingredients to be effective, it should have an EPA registration number and list the active ingredients.
Several area repellents are currently available and can be used to protect patios or yards from mosquitoes. The active ingredients in these products may include napthalene or citronella.