DEET (diethyl-meta-toluamide) is an effective insect repellent developed in U.S.A.
It forms the active part in most modern insect repellents and is safely used by an estimated 200 million people each year.
Advantages: proven effectiveness at preventing bites, can remain effective for several hours.
Disadvantages: oily feel; less effective in low concentrations, strong smell.
IR3535 (used in our DEET free products) (3-[N-butyl-N-acetyl]-aminopropionic acid) is a chemical repellent that has been available in Europe for 20 years.
It is structurally similar to the amino acid alanine and is labelled for use against mosquitoes, ticks and biting flies.
Advantages: Proven equivalent to DEET, mild odour.
Disadvantage: Not proven in tropical climates.
