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To avoid being bothered and bitten by mosquitoes, we each have our own tricks: repellents, plugs, smoke spirals… But are we putting our own health at risk by using them? A pharmacist takes stock.
Along with sunscreen, mosquito repellents are probably the second best-selling product in summer. To avoid being bitten, we don’t skimp on solutions, especially since the dengue and chikungunya viruses are now present in mainland France. Repellents, smoke bombs, plugs or tablets are part of our daily lives. But what is the risk?
What is the impact of repellents?
The most common method of protection is the one we apply to the skin, in the form of sprays or lotions (30% of cats according to a UFC Que Choisir survey). A method of application that is not perceived as dangerous, but which requires some precautions.
- DEET. In this respect, the best-known molecule is DEET, present in the majority of chemical proposals, at different concentrations depending on the formulas and the destinations (tropical). This molecule acts by modifying the olfactory perceptions of the mosquito, which is disturbed by it. But this molecule can sometimes be irritating. According to Dr. Daniel Caroll, general practitioner, naturopath quoted by Marie ClaireDEET can also disrupt the nervous system. Regular studies show that the active ingredient has proven toxicity to the nervous system of mammals. However, research has not yet proven that DEET is harmful to human nerve cells, but future studies are needed.
- The IR3535 (or 35/35). This other repellent based on synthetic active ingredients is slightly less effective but less toxic and can be used by pregnant women.
- Icaridin (or KBR3023) is a much more recent synthetic molecule and is also less irritating to the skin than DEET, but is not suitable for children under three years old.
Quoted by the magazine, pharmacist Pierre Fenet nevertheless advises “never spray these products directly on the face, near the eyes, mucous membranes (nose, mouth) or skin lesions. We also avoid inhaling them.
Fabric sprays and electrical outlets are more at risk
Another solution for a peaceful night is to buy a mosquito repellent plug that releases active ingredients into the air throughout the night.
“But you have to make sure to air the room constantly so as not to sleep locked in with these fumes.”underlines Pierre Fenet.
In risk areas, it is also advisable to soak your clothes with sprays suitable for fabrics, based on IR3535 or eucalyptus oil, which act for a few hours. Those based on permethrin are very effective but potentially toxic, and are not recommended by Public Health France.
Also beware of pyrethroid insecticides (PYR) which according to the World Health Organization are the leading class of insecticides used in the world. Again, further studies need to be conducted on their effects on the human nervous system.
Are natural methods risk-free?
You may also be tempted to use more natural methods without DEET, and based on essential oils (eucalyptus, geranium, lemongrass, etc.). For experts, these solutions are less effective in avoiding bites, but less toxic as well.
The best known is Java citronella to keep away unwanted people. However, natural does not mean without risks, and precautions exist: we avoid using it pure on the skin because they can be irritating and some are photosensitive. On the other hand, we can use them in diffusion, or “by applying a few drops in a shower gel” advises the naturopath.
Most oils are also not recommended for children, so it is important to obtain the correct information from a pharmacist.
In case of nocturnal infestation, one can also think about long clothing and mosquito nets on the beds. Faced with the tiger mosquitoes that affect all our regions, it is also advisable to be vigilant.
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