When protecting our loved ones from pesky insects, OFF! Family Care Bug Spray is one of the most commonly used bug sprays. Much like any remedy, before we consider dousing our little ones in the bug repelling product, it’s important to know if it is OK to use on our smallest family members and little understand the age limits and guidelines for its use.
Below is an in-depth guide about OFF! Family Care Bug Spray, its ingredients, its age limits, and how to apply it safely.
What is OFF! Family Care Bug Spray?
OFF! Family Care Bug Spray is one of many insect repellents, some of which are the most globally marketed insect repellents, recognised as excellent in providing protection against mosquitoes, ticks and other biting insects seeking blood from the body. This insect repellent belongs to the OFF! brand of insect repellents that have provided most families with confidence and peace of mind for decades. OFF! Family Care Bug Spray is part of a line that is formulated specifically for use on skin that is gentler when compared with other OFF! products.
Key Ingredients and Their Safety
Before you give the OFF! Family Care Bug Spray to your family to prevent mosquito bites, it’s a good idea to know what it’s made of, since if the ingredients aren’t safe for some members, it might not be appropriate. The principal active ingredient in OFF! Family Care is DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide), which is effective in driving away insects. DEET is now understood pretty well, and is considered safe when used according to the guidelines.
Recommended Age Limits for DEET-Based Products
As clear language from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) makes plain: DEET-based insect repellents:
Babies under 2 months: Apply DEET-based products sparingly to the parts of the body that aren’t covered by clothes This guidance reflects the fact that small amounts of chemical might seep through clothing. For babies under 2 months, alternative measures such as protective clothing and mosquito nets are preferable.
Children 2 Months to 2 Years: Up to 30 per cent DEET-containing repellents can be used, but applied sparingly and not around the eyes and mouth.
Children Aged 2 Years and Older: For older children, DEET concentrations between 10 to 30 per cent are considered safe. Higher concentrations don’t necessarily protect any better, but may last longer.
Application Guidelines for Different Age Groups
Ensure that everyone is protected and our OFF! Family Care Bug Spray works best when applied as follows, based on age:
Infants (Under 2 Months)
Avoid DEET: Do not use DEET-based repellents on infants. Opt for alternative protective measures.
Protective Clothing: Dress infants in long sleeves, pants, and socks to minimize exposed skin.
Mosquito Nets: Stretch nets over strollers and cribs to give yourself additional protection.
Toddlers (2 Months to 2 Years)
Use Lower DEET Concentrations: Choose products with DEET concentrations up to 30%.
Apply judiciously: Iritate the repellent on exposed skin and clothing, except for the hands, eyes, and mouth.
Supervision: Adults should apply the repellent, and children should not be allowed to handle the product.
Children (2 Years and Older)
Appropriate DEET Concentrations: Use products with DEET concentrations between 10% and 30%.
Avoid Over-Application: Apply the repellent in a well-ventilated area and avoid over-application.
Reapplication: Follow the product instructions for reapplication intervals, especially after swimming or sweating.
Additional Safety Tips
Avoid Broken Skin: Do not apply bug spray to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
Wash Hands: After using the product, wash your hand thoroughly to avoid contact with the face.
Wipe Off Inside: Once indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water to remove as much of the repellent as possible.
Store Safely: Keep bug sprays out of the reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or use.
Alternatives to DEET-Based Repellents
There are other insect repellents, such as those with active ingredients Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), or IR3535, which can avoid the use of DEET, but we always recommend consulting Mosquito Squad at mosquitosquad.com to make sure these options are appropriate and the correct usage parameters, including by age, are adhered to.
Picaridin
Effectiveness: The effect of picaridin as a repellent is similar to DEET’s; it’s considered safe to apply it to children.
Age Limit: Generally, Picaridin-based products are safe for children over 2 months of age.
Advantages: It is odorless and less likely to irritate the skin compared to DEET.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE)
Effectiveness: OLE is effective against a variety of insects, including mosquitoes.
Age Limit: Not recommended for children under 3 years of age.
Advantages: It is derived from natural sources and has a pleasant scent.
IR3535
Effectiveness: Provides effective protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects.
Age Limit: Generally considered safe for children over 2 months of age.
Advantages: It is odorless and gentle on the skin.
Understanding the Risks of Insect-Borne Diseases
One of the key reasons for use of an insect repellent such as OFF! Family Care Bug Spray is to prevent insect-borne illnesses. Mosquitos and ticks can carry and transmit deadly viruses including West Nile, Lyme and Zika. Parents should be mindful of the risks and take preventive actions, especially if they have young children.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
West Nile Virus: Transmitted by mosquitoes, it can cause severe neurological diseases.
Zika Virus: Especially concerning for pregnant women, as it can cause birth defects.
Malaria: Although rare in the United States, travelers to endemic areas should take precautions.
Tick-Borne Diseases
Lyme Disease: Contracted through the bite of black-legged ticks that carry the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi; left untreated, it frequently results in chronic illness.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: A serious, tick-borne sickness, treatable with medication if caught in time.
Preventive Measures Beyond Bug Spray
Finally, besides use of insect repellents we offer the following suggestions to families to decrease risks of insect bites and diseases caused by them:
Get Rid of Standing Water: Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. Empty and clean containers that collect water (such as vases, cans and gutters) around your home.
Use Screens: Ensure windows and doors have screens to keep insects out.
Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and socks can minimize exposed skin.
Avoid Peak Hours: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
Conclusion
OFF! Family Care Bug Spray is an excellent family bug-repeller, but only when used within age limits and those highest-risk individuals are using it in the proper ways. Following expert guidelines, and a few watch-outs, mean that families can stay safe, together, and bite-free. Use insect repellents that contain 30 per cent DEET on children according to the instructions on this popular commercial Off! poster, but only after heeding current health recommendations and consulting with your paediatrician or other physician if you have questions.
But you don’t want to drop out of civilization! Here are some things to know – and be sure to do – to make sure insects don’t keep your family awake while enjoying the out of doors.