What Can You Use on Babies For Mosquitoes?
WouterThousands of people die every year from mosquitoes and the diseases they can carry. The best defense against mosquitoes is to minimize skin exposure. The more you can protect your child’s skin, the less likely he or she will be to be bitten.
A simple way to do this is to wear light, airy clothing. Dark colors attract insects, so choose clothing that is light in color. You can also use a physical barrier, such as a net, over your child’s crib.
Another alternative is to use a chemical repellent. Several types of insect repellents are safe for babies. These products include permethrin, p-Menthane-3, 8-diol (PMD), and picaridin.
When choosing a repellent for your child, you should read the label carefully to make sure it is appropriate for your child’s age. If the product contains more than 30 percent DEET, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends it should be avoided.
If you do decide to use a repellent on your child, you should apply it only when needed and not throughout the day. Wash the treated area with soap and water before reuse.
If your baby is under two months old, you should avoid using DEET or other natural repellents. They are not as effective as chemicals and can cause allergic reactions.
If you want to use a bug spray, you should try one that contains botanical ingredients such as oil of lemon eucalyptus. This oil has been proven to repel mosquitoes, but it can irritate the skin of children with sensitive skin.
