It’s bug season! Here are the bug bite tips and recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on how to avoid getting bitten:
- Read the label. DEET (in 10 to 30 percent concentration) is the best defense against biting insects, but picaridin in concentrations of 5 to 10 percent can work as an alternative.
- Don’t use combo products with both DEET and sunscreen. DEET may make the sun protection factor (SPF) less effective and because sunscreen must be reapplied, you may overexpose your child to DEET.
- Dress your child in lightweight long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and closed shoes for activities such as nature hikes (we know it’s hot, but this is what’ll best protect her).
- Do a skin check at the end of the day (ticks can be as tiny as poppy seeds!) in areas such as armpits, ears, the belly button and scalp.
