What are the negative effects of using DEET?

There have been sporadic reports over the last several decades of an association between excessive use of repellents containing DEET and adverse effects. These effects included seizures, uncoordinated movements, agitation, aggressive behavior, low blood pressure, and skin irritation.

Can DEET cause health problems?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved DEET for use in people of all ages, including children. Some people experience rashes or irritated skin after using DEET, and it can irritate eyes if you spray it too close. More alarming, there have been rare reports of seizures associated with DEET.

Is it safe to use DEET everyday?

Generally, repellent with DEET should not be applied more than once a day. DEET can put on exposed skin, as well as clothing, socks, and shoes. But don't use it on your child's face, under clothing, on cuts or irritated skin, or on the hands of young children.

Why is DEET banned?

DEET-related health problems include skin rashes and scarring in adults and, in a few cases, reports of neurological problems in children. A ban would affect products that are more than 30 percent DEET. New York is the first state to propose such a ban.

Is DEET a neurotoxin?

Summary: The active ingredient in many insect repellents, deet, has been found to be toxic to the central nervous system. The active ingredient in many insect repellents, deet, has been found to be toxic to the central nervous system. …

Which is safer DEET or picaridin?

Picaridin has been shown in many studies to be just as effective as DEET. That being said, it has not been shown to be more effective than DEET. … Scientists have plenty of data on which to base the safety of long-term exposure to DEET.

Can DEET cause numbness?

DEET can also cause temporary numbness if it gets onto your lips or into your mouth. “But it's safe when used properly,” he adds. To use DEET properly, spray it on your hands first, and then rub it on the parts of your body you wants to protect and that mosquitos like to bite—like ankles, wrists and neck.