I recently read an article comparing insect repellents published by The Medical Letter. I have decided to summarize that information, since insect season is fast approaching.
The CDC recommends insect repellents to prevent West Nile virus infections, as well as to protect against ticks which transmit Lyme disease.
DEET - the topical insect repellent with the highest documented effectiveness; varies in concentration of DEET between products. DEET is considered safe in children and infants over the age of 4 months, and the AAP recommends using formulations containing no more than 30% DEET in children. A long-acting formulation originally developed for the Armed Services contains 34% DEET and has been shown to be effective for 6-12 hours (Ultrathon lotion). Sawyer manufactures controlled release products in both 20% and 30% concentrations, and states that the 30% Liposome Controlled Release product protects up to 11 hours. DEET can cause side effects of skin rash and irritation; serious side effects are rare. DEET can damage clothes made from synthetic material, plastics and watch crystals. Obviously, one should wash hands well after applying.
Picaridin - pesticide used against flies, mosquitoes, chiggers and ticks; studies have shown 19.2% picaridin was as effective as Ultrathon with 34% DEET in preventing mosquito bites. Picaridin does not cause as many local reactions on the skin as DEET, and does not damage fabric or plastic.
IR3535 - Available in concentrations of 7.5% and 20% in combination with sunscreen (includes Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR 3535 and Bull Frog Mosquito Coast). Several studies found the 7.5% concentration to be ineffective, and the 20% concentration to be effective for several hours. The CDC does not recommend its use because of the included sunscreen, which would need to be applied more often for sun protection. IR3535 is effective for both mosquitoes and ticks.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) - In studies against mosquitoes, may provide up to 6 hrs of protection; should not be used in children under age 3. Several sources suggest OLE may be effective against ticks as well, and I found one study that concluded that 30% OLE was as effective as 10-15% DEET in preventing mosquito bites.
Citronella - provide short-term protection against mosquitoes, and are probably not effective against ticks.
Essential Oils - including clove, geraniol and patchouli, provide limited and variable protection against mosquitoes.
Permethrin - A contact insecticide used commonly in head lice remedies, it is used on clothing, mosquito nets, tents and sleeping bags for protection against mosquitoes and ticks. It remains active for several weeks, through repeat laundering.
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