What if I am allergic to DEET?

There are many repellents that do not contain DEET that can be applied to the skin. Products with citronella (an oil extract from a lemon-scented grass) or eucalyptus can be purchased in health-food or camping/outdoor stores. Avon’s Skin-So-Soft, is widely used as a repellent but it is not effective for all people. These are good choices for children, although they must be reapplied more frequently. All of these are much less effective than DEET.


If your child is under the age of 5 years old, always check with your family doctor before you apply any repellent.

Show All Answers

1. What attracts female mosquitoes to humans?
2. What purposes do mosquitoes serve?
3. Why can't mosquito control programs spray during the day?
4. When can I expect to see a spray truck?
5. Is the spray harmful to people or pets?
6. Do mosquitoes carry AIDS?
7. What criteria are used when deciding when and where to spray?
8. Who oversees pesticide applications?
9. What if I am allergic to DEET?