The percentage of DEET recommended is dependent on the type of insect and the length of time you need protection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using products with 20% to 30% DEET for adults and children over 2 months of age. For children younger than 2 months of age, the CDC recommends using products with 10% DEET or lower.

Is 40% DEET too much?

Generally, the recommended concentration of DEET for protection against mosquitoes is 30% or less. Concentrations of 40% or higher are not recommended, as they can cause skin irritation and other side effects. In addition, DEET is not effective against ticks, so it is best to take additional measures such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and tucking in pant legs to prevent tick bites.

What percentage of DEET is effective?

DEET is an effective insect repellent and is available in concentrations ranging from 4% to 100%. Studies have shown that concentrations of 20-30% are most effective in repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. Higher concentrations may offer longer protection times, but may also cause more skin irritation. It is also important to note that DEET is not effective against all types of insects.