DEET (diethyl-m-toluamide) is generally recognised as the most effective agent for keeping bugs at bay.
It is ideal for use in a concentrated form in serious, disease infested areas, but it can also be used on a regular basis at a lower concentration in less challenging environments. |
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Icaridin (also known as Picaridin, Saltidin or Bayrepel) was developed as an alternative to DEET that is more pleasant to use - it is odourless, with a light, clean feel - and it doesn't damage synthetic fabrics which can be a problem with DEET sometimes.
IR3535 is another alternative that is said to be as effective as DEET when both are used in low risk areas, but in more serious, disease infested environments DEET is still recommended by most authorities. |
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DEET is all very well, but sometimes it's nice to be able to use a more natural alternative. Some of these can be very effective and are great for everyday use, such as Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (also known by the trade name Citriodiol). There are many others that aren't always quite so effective, but they may still be worth a try... |
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Insect repellent is particularly important for children and people of all ages with sensitive skin that is more likely to react to bites. Unfortunately though some of the more potent formulations can also be a cause for concern, but there are milder products available that strike a good balance between the level of protection and concern about what you might be applying. |
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What do you do when you need to use both Insect Repellent and Sunscreen at the same time? If you're not careful they can cancel each other out, so try one of the products that combine the two. |
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Long sleeved shirts are great for keeping insects at bay, and even better still when combined with a pair of Insect Repellent Wrist Bands to protect any exposed skin. They can also be worn around your ankles too - perfect for evening use when there could be lots of bitey things hopping around your feet... |
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Most people quickly see the need for insect repellents when they're out and about - but you often need them when you're inside as well. Plug-in devices are compact and easy to use, whilst insect killing sprays and smoke bombs can also be very effective.
In high risk areas you should also consider using a mosquito net as well because - as the saying goes - it only takes one bite! |
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Citronella has been used in candles for many years and whilst it should never be relied on in high risk areas it can be quite helpful in some situations. It seems to be particularly effective against midges and some of the candles can be used both inside and out. Mosquito Coils can be used in a similar way, and they are particularly good for use when camping. |
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Mosquitoes and malaria can be a deadly combination and should always be taken seriously, but for truly abject misery on the spot you have to go a long way to beat a cloud of Scottish Midges on the warpath and out for blood..... |
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Spiders very rarely come looking for you just to bite you - generally they will do their best to keep out of your way. They can become a problem though if they decide they want to share your living quarters, whether it be a house, tent or boat, or outside on your decking or patio... |
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If you you already know what you want, just click on the link to go to your favourite brand...
Autan, Ben's, Bugproof, Care Plus, Design Go Travel, EcoGuard, Incognito, Jungle Formula, Mosiband, Mosi-Guard, Natural Patches, Repel, Skitostop, Strikeback, Totally Herby and Ultrathon. |
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