What is better, repellent cream or spray?

This January there was an invasion of mosquitoes unprecedented which combined with the lack of repellent in stores, due to extraordinary demand.

While many people were looking for a particular container, others were content with what they had. At this point the question arose: what is better in cream or spray?

The types of products sold in Argentina are lotions, creams, aerosols and spraysthe latter two similar, but not the same.

THE repellent Human insect repellents are products that are applied to various areas of exposed skin to protect it from insect bites.

As one of the most popular brands that sells these products writes on its website, the format to be applied “must be chosen based on consumer preferences“.

That is, one or the other is not more or less effective and the choice depends on the user’s taste.

What is the best repellent cream or spray?

Juan Jose Garciaspecialist at the Insect Vector Pathology Laboratory of Center for parasitological and vector studies (CEPAVE, Conicet-UNLP) he explained to the news agency Telam that “repellent with any of the three active ingredients (DEET, IR3535 and Icaridin) are equally effective.

Coincidentally, on the website of Worn outcompany brand SC Johnsonwrote: “Some may prefer using creams, others may prefer sprays because their application is quicker and more convenient.”

“All of them effectively repel mosquitoes, including those that can carry the dengue virus,” they explain.

For his part, the National Administration of Medicines, Food and Medical Technologies (ANMAT) provides a number of tips and precautions when thinking about insect repellents for use on humans.

First of all, he assures us that “they serve to scare away insects and help us avoid o reduce bites“, and that since they are applied directly to the body “it is important to follow some recommendations and use products registered” with that body.

According to him, this type of product is part of the set of measures that must be taken to prevent insect-borne diseases, which include dengueZika and Chikunguya.

This type of product is used in situations where there is a high density of mosquitoes and you have to stay outdoors for a long period of time.

However, it is not necessary to use them inside homes. However, it is of great importance that homes are protected mosquito nets on doors and windows.

“An important point is the time during which the repellent maintains its effect, which is generally reported on the label”, indicates ANMAT.

So, once this period has passed, “it is important to reapply the product if it will continue to be exposed to the elements.”

“At the same time, reapplication is required after being exposed to water or going through situations of excessive sweating“, the explanation continues.

If you want to use sunscreen in addition to insect repellent, you need to apply it first, wait 30 minutes and then apply the repellent, thus maintaining sun protection. effectiveness of both products.

Measures to prevent mosquito bites

• Avoid areas where mosquitoes are present.
• Place rigid mosquito nets, whether metal or plastic, on doors and windows, making sure they are intact.
• Protect your baby’s crib or stroller with mosquito nets when you are outdoors.
• Wear closed shoes, hats and light clothing that covers both arms and legs.
• Eliminate sources of standing water by emptying, covering or inverting containers that may contain it.