Prevention (personal): DEET on skin

01

DEET is the most-studied skin-applied repellent and is effective against ticks at concentrations of roughly 20% and above. CDC recommends EPA-registered repellents with at least 20% active ingredient for tick protection.

02

Apply to exposed skin and over light layers of clothing, avoiding eyes and mouth.

03

Concentrations above 50% provide no additional protection - they only extend duration.

04

Safe for use on infants 2 months and older. For children, use products with no more than 30% DEET.

05

Wash off with soap and water when you come indoors.

06

Apply sunscreen first, then DEET on top.

07

DEET works by interfering with the tick's ability to detect human odor and CO2 via Haller's organ. It does not kill ticks; it makes you harder to find.