Glossary
N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, commonly called DEET, is a synthetic chemical used as the active ingredient in most commercial insect repellents. While effective, DEET has a strong odor, can irritate sensitive skin, and may damage certain plastics and fabrics.
DEET was developed by the U.S. Army in the 1940s and registered for public use in 1957. For decades, scientists believed DEET worked by blocking insects' ability to detect the carbon dioxide and lactic acid that humans exhale and excrete through their skin. More recent research suggests DEET actually works by producing a smell that insects find repulsive, rather than masking the human scent.
DEET is available in concentrations ranging from 5% to nearly 100%. Higher concentrations do not repel more effectively; they last longer before needing reapplication. A 30% DEET product provides protection for about 6 hours, while a 10% product lasts about 2 hours.
DEET is generally considered safe when used as directed, but it is not without drawbacks. It has a distinctive chemical odor that many people find unpleasant. In rare cases, particularly with prolonged or excessive use, DEET can cause skin rashes, blistering, and irritation. Children are more susceptible to adverse reactions, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using products with no more than 30% DEET on children and avoiding application to their hands.
DEET also dissolves certain plastics, synthetic fabrics, and watch crystals. Spilling DEET-based spray on a car dashboard, a pair of sunglasses, or a nylon jacket can cause permanent damage. These material interactions make DEET inconvenient for everyday use, especially outdoors where you are handling gear, food, and drinks.
The growing demand for DEET-free insect repellents has driven research into plant-based alternatives. Essential oils like citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and cedar have shown measurable repellent activity in studies. The challenge with most essential oil sprays is duration: they evaporate quickly from the skin and need frequent reapplication.
This is where the solid bar format has an advantage. Our Bug Bar delivers essential oils in a beeswax carrier that adheres to the skin and releases the active scent compounds slowly over time. The beeswax also creates a physical barrier on the skin surface, adding a layer of protection beyond scent alone. The result is longer-lasting repellency without the drawbacks of DEET.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends DEET products with no more than 30% concentration for children over 2 months old. DEET should not be applied to children's hands, and products should be washed off once the child is back indoors. For parents seeking alternatives, essential oil-based repellents offer a synthetic-free option.
DEET is classified by the EPA as slightly toxic and is not classified as a carcinogen. Long-term epidemiological studies have not established a link between DEET use and cancer. However, some users choose to avoid it due to concerns about chronic chemical exposure.
DEET provides longer-lasting protection per application, but natural repellents work well for everyday outdoor activities like walking, gardening, and attending farmers markets. For casual outdoor use in no-see-um territory, our customers report that the Bug Bar provides effective protection for several hours per application.
Keep Learning
Browse hundreds of terms covering honey, beekeeping, and natural skincare.