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How Do I Choose the Best Tick Repellent?

Christina Edwards
Christina Edwards

When choosing a tick repellent for you or your family, you should first look at the active ingredient in each. Typically a chemical known as diethyltoluamide (DEET) is considered the best insect and tick repellent. This has an unpleasant smell, though, and a natural tick repellent is typically more pleasant and less toxic. For pets, you will want to choose a natural repellent or a repellent specifically formulated for pets.

Not all tick products are created the same. Tick repellents can be purchased for both humans and pets. If an insect or tick repellent is designed for humans, it should not be used on pets. Additionally, tick repellents for pets should never be used on humans.

A brown dog tick.
A brown dog tick.

If you are looking for a tick repellent for humans, you should look at the active ingredients. Most insect and pest repellents for humans will contain DEET. This chemical is considered one of the most effective at repelling insects, including ticks and mosquitoes. Generally, the more DEET that a tick control product contains, the more effective it will be.

Citronella candles can help deter ticks.
Citronella candles can help deter ticks.

Besides being potentially harmful to the environment, DEET also has a rather unpleasant odor. It can also possibly cause skin irritation in some individuals. In this case, a natural tick repellent can be used, although it will most likely not be as effective.

Certain essential oils can be used as tick repellents. These usually smell better than DEET, and they are considered to be less toxic to the environment. Citronella, rose geranium, and lemongrass oils can all be used as insect repellents. These will usually need to be diluted with another oil or alcohol, however, before being applied to the skin.

Apple cider vinegar and garlic are also considered to be tick repellents. Like DEET, these also smell rather unpleasant. Instead of applying them to their skin, many individuals choose to use these as organic tick repellents for their pets.

Apple cider vinegar is considered to be a tick repellent.
Apple cider vinegar is considered to be a tick repellent.

A commercial tick repellent for your pet can also be purchased from a local pet store. There are several different types of tick repellents for pets. Tick spray or powder can be applied directly to your pet's coat to repel ticks. Some tick shampoos can also be used to prevent ticks. Flea and tick collars can also be worn by pets to help prevent a tick infestation.

Repellents containing DEET are effective at preventing ticks, but so are some natural oils, such as Citronella, rose geranium and lemongrass.
Repellents containing DEET are effective at preventing ticks, but so are some natural oils, such as Citronella, rose geranium and lemongrass.

Certain clothing can also help protect you from ticks, especially when paired with a quality tick repellent. Long sleeves and pant legs should always be worn when walking in wooded areas. You should then cover your clothing and skin with the tick repellent. Special care should be taken when applying it to the head and face to avoid getting it in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most effective active ingredients in tick repellents?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) are effective active ingredients in tick repellents. Products containing 20-30% DEET can provide several hours of protection, while picaridin at similar concentrations is equally effective and may be more pleasant to use due to its odorless nature.

How can I choose a tick repellent that's safe for my children?

When selecting a tick repellent for children, look for products with lower concentrations of DEET (around 10-30%) or picaridin (no more than 20%). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that repellents should not be used on infants younger than 2 months, and oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years old.

Are natural tick repellents as effective as chemical ones?

Natural tick repellents, such as those containing oil of lemon eucalyptus, can be effective but may require more frequent application compared to synthetic chemicals like DEET or picaridin. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology, natural repellents may provide protection for a shorter duration, typically around two hours.

How often should I reapply tick repellent?

The frequency of reapplication depends on the active ingredient and its concentration. For example, a repellent with 20% DEET may last up to 5 hours, while one with 30% DEET can last up to 8 hours. Always read the product label for specific reapplication instructions, as sweating and water exposure can reduce effectiveness.

Can I use tick repellent on my clothing, or is it only for skin?

Some tick repellents are designed for use on clothing and gear, such as those containing permethrin. Permethrin-treated clothing can provide excellent protection against ticks and is especially useful for outdoor activities. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and never apply permethrin directly to the skin.

What precautions should I take when using tick repellent on my skin?

When using tick repellent on your skin, apply it sparingly and avoid over-application. Do not apply under clothing, on cuts, or on irritated skin. After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water. Additionally, avoid applying repellent to children's hands, eyes, mouth, and any areas they may put in their mouths.

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    • A brown dog tick.
      By: Carolina K Smith MD
      A brown dog tick.
    • Citronella candles can help deter ticks.
      By: Bert Folsom
      Citronella candles can help deter ticks.
    • Apple cider vinegar is considered to be a tick repellent.
      By: Comugnero Silvana
      Apple cider vinegar is considered to be a tick repellent.
    • Repellents containing DEET are effective at preventing ticks, but so are some natural oils, such as Citronella, rose geranium and lemongrass.
      By: Viktor
      Repellents containing DEET are effective at preventing ticks, but so are some natural oils, such as Citronella, rose geranium and lemongrass.