Parents want to protect their children from bug and insect bites, but many times they have conflicted feelings about using bug spray on their kids, not wanting to expose them unnecessarily to harsh chemicals. Fortunately, there are insect repellents that are safe to use on children, sparing them from the misery of itchy bug bites.
DEET Products
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, insect repellents containing N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, or DEET, have been used for several decades to prevent bites from ticks, flies, mosquitoes, fleas and chiggers. These products are available as lotions, sprays, gels and creams. Though safe for children, you should not use repellent with DEET more than once daily, and you should not use it at all on infants younger than 2 months, according to Kids Health. Examples of insect repellents with DEET are Off, Deep Woods Off and Cutters.
Citronella
Citronella products are a natural alternative for insect repellent. Oil of Citronella has been used since the 1960s as an insect or animal repellent. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, when used correctly, citronella products are safe for people, pets and the environment. Burt's Bees, Triple J and Flysect make citronella products.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
Another chemical-free option, one that has that advantage of being more pleasant-smelling, is oil of lemon eucalyptus. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus comes from the leaves of the Eucalyptus citriodora tree, which naturally repels insects and does not irritate the skin. According to Picaridin.info, these products can be as effective as some repellents made with DEET. It is available under the brand name Repel, and is available as either a lotion or a pump.
