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What is DEET?

N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide or DEET is the most common active ingredient found in insect repellents. DEET is also used as a solvent and can dissolve plastics, fabrics, and even painted surfaces like nail polish. DEET is absorbed into the body through the skin, passes into the bloodstream, and is excreted through urine within 24 hours.

Why is DEET harmful?

DEET is proven to melt plastics, erase permanent markers on skin, and remove nail polish. Bite Block Insect Repellent line has the lowest amount of DEET in the Philippines with just 3% compared to other brands that have as high as 30%. Highly concentrated DEET can cause a number of adverse reactions like skin irritation, rashes, hives, irritation to eyes, lips, and other sensitive areas. Bite Block Kids and the Naturals line contain no DEET at all.

How effective are other alternatives to DEET: Picaridin and Citronella?

Bite Block Kids contains the active ingredient Picaridin. It is as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes, however, Picaridin does not dissolve plastics, erase permanent markers on skin, and remove nail polish. Bite Block Naturals contains the active ingredient Citronella. Citronella oil is a natural insect repellent. It works by masking body odor and carbon dioxide to discourage mosquitoes, thereby repelling them. It provides protection in different formats: spray, lotion, and patches. Lotion is applied onto the skin while the spray and patches can be applied to clothes, strollers and beddings. Use Bite Block Citronella Spray to recharge the scent of the Bite Block Citronella Patches for prolonged effectivity. Bite Block Naturals is paraben-free and non-toxic.

Is a high concentration of DEET important in warding off mosquitoes?

DEET concentration is associated with its duration of protection and not effectivity, therefore, a 3% concentration is as effective as a 30% concentration which varies only in time. Since presence of mosquitoes varies in time and place, high concentration is usually unnecessary. Make sure to wash off repellents when no longer needed.

How long does Bite Block Insect Repellent last?

Bite Block Naturals lines effectively repel mosquitoes up to 4 hours, while the Kids line, up to 6 hours. If your child is active and always sweating, reapplication is advised.

Does it cure mosquito bites?

Bite Block, or any other mosquito repellents, does not cure mosquito bites. They are used for repelling mosquitoes only.

At what age can my child use Bite Block?

All Bite Block products (naturals and kids) are mild and hypoallergenic, making them safe for babies 6 months and up. Bite Block Sand Mite Spray is safe for kids from 1 year up. However, it’s still recommended to consult your pediatrician before using any product on children. Kindly check “Directions for use” for more information on how to apply Bite Block products.

My child has G6PD. Is Bite Block safe for him?

Yes. Bite Block does not contain any substance that may be harmful for children with this deficiency.

What is the difference between regular insect repellent vs. sand mite repellent?

Bite Block Sand Mite Spray is specificallly made for beachgoers. It not only repels mossquitoes but it also prevents you from getting sand mite or "niknik" bites. It contains Picaridin making it safe on sensitive skin yet tough in repelling sand mites, sand flies, mosquitoes, and other beach pests.

Is Bite Block Sand Mite Spray safe to use for sensitive skin?

All Bite Block products are formulated to be hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.

Can I use Bite Block Sand Mite Spray at the same time with my sunscreen?

It is recommended to spray after applying sunscreen. Re-apply every 3 hours if necessary.

Can I use Bite Block Sand Mite Spray when I got bitten by sand mites already?

Altough Bite Block Sand Mite Spray is meant to be used as protection, you may still use it to prevent further bites.

Can I use Bite Block Sand Mite Spray as a replacement of my regular insect repellent?

Bite Block Sand Mite Spray is formulated with a higher concentration of Picaridin to effectively repel sand mites and mosquitoes. But you may still use your favorite Bite Block Insect Repellent for daily use.