Sure, itchy bug bites are a nuisance. But for those living in parts of the country where mosquito or tick-borne illnesses are common—and these days, that’s most of us—bug-repellent sprays and liquids ...

Some worry that this active ingredient is toxic. Here’s what we know about its effect on human health. Credit...Eric Helgas for The New York Times Supported by By Isobel Whitcomb Q: Everyone says that ...

DEET is a chemical that is used in most bug sprays. It repels insects by producing a smell that drives bugs away and makes your skin taste bad to critters. DEET is not toxic to humans when used ...

Over the years, one thing has become clear from Consumer Reports’ testing of insect repellents: When in doubt, go with deet. Repellents that use deet as an active ingredient make up the majority of ...

During the warmer months, bug bites — like sunburns — are sometimes an unfortunate consequence of spending time outdoors. But bites from mosquitoes, ticks and other insects can be much more than just ...

A new study indicates that mosquitoes can become habituated to the smell of DEET over time, reducing its effectiveness as a repellent. Image via CDC If you’re someone that’s naturally irresistible to ...

With the pros of the outdoors—hiking, camping, bonfires, you name it—come the cons: bug bites. And this year, those itchy, blotchy, and uncomfortable bites may be more dangerous than ever. More than ...

Rebecca Coffey is an award-winning science writer with over 35 years of experience. DEET is one of the most effective and common flea, tick, and mosquito repellents in the world. The active ingredient ...

Emily Dennis has spent hours, if not days, watching mosquitoes buzz around her bare, outstretched arm. Carefully, she's observed the insects land, stab their mouthparts through her skin and feed. But ...

Editor's note: This story was originally published in 2016 and has been updated. People do the darnedest things in hopes of avoiding mosquito bites. They burn cow dung, coconut shells or coffee. They ...