From the Guidelines
For babies, it's generally recommended to avoid using insect repellents (chasse moustique) before 2 months of age. From 2-6 months, you can use products containing DEET at a concentration of 10% or less, but apply sparingly and only once per day. For babies 6 months to 2 years, DEET products at 10-30% concentration can be used once daily, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1. Alternatively, products containing picaridin or IR3535 are also suitable for infants over 2 months. When applying, put the repellent on your hands first, then apply to exposed skin areas, avoiding the baby's hands, eyes, mouth, and any irritated skin. Don't apply under clothing. These age restrictions exist because young babies have thinner skin and less developed metabolic systems to process chemicals, making them more vulnerable to potential side effects, as noted in the guidelines for preventing tick bites and Lyme disease 1. Physical protection methods like mosquito nets, appropriate clothing, and avoiding peak mosquito activity times are safer alternatives for very young infants. Some key points to consider when using insect repellents on babies include:
- Using the lowest concentration of DEET necessary for the desired level of protection
- Applying repellent sparingly and only once per day
- Avoiding application on broken or irritated skin
- Washing skin with soap and water after returning indoors
- Considering alternative methods of protection, such as physical barriers and avoiding peak mosquito activity times.