When mosquitoes swarm around the house in the evening, or when we hear about a dengue epidemic, one thing that comes to our minds is using an insect repellent, that is, a 'bug spray'. This is an indispensable thing when going on a fun trip or going near a forest. But how many of us actually use it properly? Sometimes, due to ignorance, small mistakes we make can damage our skin or not provide the expected protection. So today, let's talk about how to use this insect repellent correctly and safely.
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What really happens with these bug sprays?
Simply put, the chemicals in these sprays make it impossible for animals like mosquitoes to "recognize" us. It's like they can't see us. This stops them from coming and biting us. This is especially important for protecting against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya.
But one thing to remember: These only provide protection against biting insects like mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. They generally do not repel stinging insects like wasps and hornets.
Here's how to use it safely for best results!
The most important thing is to follow the instructions on the label of the spray you buy exactly . In addition, be aware of these points. Let's look at this in a table to make it clearer.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Check the DEET concentration: DEET is a commonly used chemical. A concentration of about 30% is more than enough. Higher concentrations do not provide additional protection. | Do not apply under clothing: Apply only to exposed skin and over clothing. Applying under clothing can cause the skin to absorb unnecessary chemicals. |
| Be careful when applying to your face: First spray the spray onto your palms, then carefully apply it to your face with both hands. | Do not spray directly on your face: If you do, there is a high chance that it will get into your eyes, mouth, and nose. It is very dangerous. Even when spraying around your ears, only apply a very small amount. |
| Use in a well-ventilated area: If using indoors, open the windows and doors, or use outdoors. | Do not spray near food: The chemicals in the spray can leach into food. |
| Wash after coming home: After coming home from outside, wash the sprayed skin thoroughly with soap. | Do not apply to wounds, scratches, or areas with eczema: Doing so can cause skin irritation, allergies, and chemical substances to be easily absorbed into the body. |
| Use separately: Use sunscreen and bug spray separately. | Avoid products that combine sunscreen and bug spray (2-in-1): The reason is that sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, but bug spray shouldn't be applied so frequently. If you apply a combination of both, you'll be unnecessarily exposing yourself to the chemicals in the bug spray. |
Think twice about this when using it on young children!
Because children's skin is very sensitive, we need to be very careful when using these on them.
- For children under 3 years of age: It is recommended not to use products containing Lemon Eucalyptus Oil.
- Apply it to your child yourself: Never let a small child spray it on their own. Spray it on your hands first, then use both hands to apply it to the child's body.
- Do not apply to your child's hands: Young children often put their hands in their mouths. So if you apply this spray to their hands or fingers, it can get into their mouths. So avoid applying it to their hands and fingers.
- Store safely: When finished using, store in a safe place out of reach of children.
What to do in an emergency?
Although most of the time it's not a big problem, sometimes things like allergic reactions or skin irritation can occur. What should you do if that happens?
If you have a skin allergy or inflammation:
Stop using the product immediately. Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. If the condition is severe or persists, see your doctor immediately.
The most important thing:
- If in eyes: If the spray gets in your eyes, immediately flush your eyes with clean water for about 15 minutes. Then, be sure to go to a doctor or the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU). Don't forget to take the spray bottle with you when you go.
- Accidental ingestion (drinking): If anyone, especially a child, drinks this, it is an emergency. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Also, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) as soon as possible. Be sure to take the spray bottle with you.
If you follow these instructions carefully, you can get the maximum protection from insect repellents without any harm.
💡 Take-Home Message
- Read the label: Before using any insect repellent, read the instructions carefully.
- Apply correctly: Apply only to exposed skin and over clothing. Never apply under clothing.
- Do not apply directly to the face: Spray onto hands first, then carefully apply to face. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and nose.
- Be especially careful with children: Spray on your hands before applying to the child's body. Do not apply to children's hands.
- Wash when you return: After coming back from outside, wash the sprayed areas thoroughly with soap.
- In case of emergency: Know what to do if it gets into your eyes, has a skin reaction, or if someone drinks it. Seek medical advice immediately.
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