Use Insect Repellent to Avoid Tick Bites
Always follow product instructions. Apply repellent lightly to exposed skin and to clothing. Never use over cuts, wounds and sunburned or irritated skin. Avoid applying to children’s hands, face and eyes. If repellent gets in the eyes, rinse with water right away. When using a spray, avoid breathing it in, and always spray in a well-ventilated area. Don’t spray near food. Avoid prolonged use and wash repellent off daily.
Insect repellents containing DEET can be used safely when applied as directed and in the right concentration, depending on age.
DEET Products
Adults and children older than 12 years old
- Any product containing up to 30% DEET safe for persons 12 years of age and older.
Children aged 2 to 12 years is up to 10%
- Any product containing up to 10% DEET.
- You can apply the product up to 3 times daily
Children aged 6 months to 2 years old
- Any product containing up to 10% DEET.
- You should not apply the product more than once a day
Children younger than 12 years old
- Do not use a DEET product on a daily basis for more than a month.
Infants younger than 6 months old
- Do not use an insect repellent containing DEET.
Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
- There is no evidence that the use of DEET by a pregnant woman harms the fetus or affects a nursing child through breast milk. However, non-chemical methods to reduce mosquito bites can be considered.
Icaridin products
Mosquitoes and ticks can be repelled by using an icaridin product. These products should not be used on infants younger than 6 months old.
For more specific information on insect repellents visit the Government of Canada website.
