Frequently Asked Questions
- How do insect repellents work?
- Why do some people get bitten and when others don't?
- Which insect repellent should I use?
- How do I apply insect repellent?
- Are natural formulations best?
- Is citronella oil a good insect repellent?
1. How do insect repellents work?
Mosquitoes home in on their victims by following the trail of chemicals given off by their target and repellents work by interrupting the honing organs in the female mosquito.
A variety of insect repellents are available in a number of formats to ensure the best option for you, including those designed with children in mind.
2. Why do some people get bitten and when others don't?
The key attractors to the mosquito are skin temperature, moisture, sweat, body odour and CO2 from breathing. These factors vary from person to person, which is why some people are more susceptible to being bitten than others.
3. Which insect repellent should I use?
There are a number of active materials on the market including DEET (diethyl toluamide) and IR3535 (ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate). DEET is the most well established effective repellent and it is very effective at higher levels (50%) in high-risk destinations. However, it can damage certain materials e.g. plastics, vinyl's etc so with this in mind, we would suggest using a more gentle active such as IR3535 for those with sensitive skin.
4. How do I apply insect repellent?
Insect repellents should be applied to exposed areas of the body. Do not spray directly onto your face, rather apply to your hands and smooth over your face avoiding your eyes, nose, mouth and lips.Adults should always apply to children avoiding their hands.
Remember to wash your own hands after use.
5. Are natural formulations best?
Not necessarily. Independent testing shows that synthetic actives such as DEET and IR3535 are equally as or more effective than natural actives.
6. Is citronella oil a good insect repellent?
Citronella oil is now illegal to be sold as an insect repellent in the EU.