Always check the ingredients before using 'mosquito repellent' on your child.

 

When using mosquito repellent, it is important to be aware that the age restrictions for use vary depending on the ingredients.

 

Mosquito repellents use ingredients that mosquitoes dislike to block their approach to humans. They do not have a direct insecticidal effect to kill mosquitoes. Types of repellents include aerosol sprays in small particle form, spray liquids, and lotions, liquids, or gels that are applied to the skin.

The main ingredient of mosquito repellent is

 

There are ingredients such as diethyl toluamide, icardin, ethyl butyl acetylaminoproprionate, and paramethan-3,8-diol. The permissible age for use varies depending on the type or concentration of each ingredient, so appropriate products should be selected and used according to age.

Products containing diethyl toluamide at 10% or less can be used for more than 6 months. Products containing more than 10% up to 30% can be used by individuals aged 12 and older.

 

Icaridin should not be used on infants under 6 months old.

 

Ethylbutylacetylamino-propionate requires consultation with a doctor before use in infants under 6 months old.

 

Paramentan-3,8-diol can be used from age 4 and above.

When using mosquito repellent,

 

Apply to exposed skin on the arms, legs, neck, or to clothing, socks, or shoes. When used on the face, first put a small amount on your hand and apply while avoiding the eyes and mouth. Especially when used on children, first put a small amount on an adult's hand and have the adult apply it to the child.

In addition, mosquito repellents should not be used on wounds or inflamed areas that can be absorbed quickly, mucous membranes, around the eyes and mouth, or on skin that has been heavily sunburned. If allergic or hypersensitive reactions such as redness occur on the skin or if it gets into the eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Do not use in enclosed spaces where inhalation of the repellent ingredients is not desired. Spray products pose a fire hazard and should not be stored or used near open flames.

Typically, the antipruritic effect lasts for 4 to 5 hours after a single use. Overuse or prolonged use beyond what is necessary can cause side effects such as skin redness, allergic reactions, or hypersensitivity. Therefore, it is advisable not to use it too frequently or additionally.

After using mosquito repellent and returning from going out, you must wash the skin contaminated with the repellent thoroughly with soap and water. Clothes must also be washed before putting them back on.

 

There are no bracelet or sticker-type mosquito repellents among the non-pharmaceutical mosquito repellents approved by the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA). To ensure proper effectiveness and ingredient verification, it is recommended to purchase only products that are confirmed to be approved by the KFDA. Approved products can be checked on the Korea Pharmaceutical Information Center.