Is Mosquito Repellent Safe for My 9-Month-Old Baby?

Mosquito repellent lotion

Hello Dr.
Hsiao: My baby is over nine months old.
I have not applied any mosquito repellent products on him, but he often gets bitten by mosquitoes or fleas.
I would like to ask whether it is more harmful to apply mosquito repellent lotion or to use ointment for insect bites after he has been bitten.
As a mother who is unsure about whether to buy mosquito repellent lotion, thank you!

Mama, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/10/15

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

To prevent mosquito bites in infants, mosquito repellent should not be the first line of defense.
Instead, focus on environmental control (maintaining cleanliness, using screens, mosquito nets, and when outdoors, wearing hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants).
Use mosquito repellent only as a supplementary measure when necessary.
Apply the repellent only to skin that is exposed outside of clothing, and avoid applying it to the infant's hands to prevent accidental ingestion.
It is advisable to use a lower concentration of repellent and to avoid excessive or prolonged use.
Some creams for insect bites may contain steroids, so they should be used cautiously and preferably after consulting a physician.
Therefore, there is no definitive answer as to which method is better.

Reply Date: 2013/10/15

More Info

When it comes to the safety of using mosquito repellent on a 9-month-old baby, there are several important factors to consider. Mosquito bites can be bothersome and may lead to itching, discomfort, and in some cases, transmission of diseases. However, the safety of the products you choose to use on your baby’s skin is paramount.

First and foremost, it is crucial to select a mosquito repellent that is specifically formulated for infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends using insect repellents that contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) in concentrations of no more than 30%. Products with lower concentrations of DEET are generally considered safe for infants over 2 months old. However, for babies younger than 2 months, it is advisable to avoid using DEET altogether. Instead, consider using physical barriers such as mosquito nets or clothing that covers the skin to protect your baby from bites.

In addition to DEET, there are other active ingredients in mosquito repellents, such as picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Picaridin is considered safe for use on children over 2 months of age, while OLE should not be used on children under 3 years old. Always check the product label for age recommendations and active ingredients.

If you decide to use a mosquito repellent, apply it sparingly and only on exposed skin. Avoid applying it to your baby’s hands, as they may touch their face or mouth, leading to accidental ingestion. After returning indoors, wash the treated skin with soap and water to remove the repellent.

In terms of comparing the risks of using mosquito repellent versus treating mosquito bites after they occur, it is generally better to prevent bites in the first place. While topical treatments for mosquito bites, such as hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines, can alleviate itching and discomfort, they do not prevent the initial bite. Moreover, some babies may have allergic reactions to mosquito bites, leading to more severe symptoms that could require medical attention.

If your baby has already been bitten, you can apply a soothing cream or ointment to relieve itching and discomfort. Calamine lotion or a topical antihistamine may help, but always consult your pediatrician before applying any medication to your baby’s skin.

In conclusion, using a mosquito repellent that is safe for infants can be a good preventive measure against mosquito bites. However, always prioritize products that are specifically designed for young children, and follow the application guidelines carefully. If you have any concerns about specific products or your baby’s reactions to bites, it is always best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice. Keeping your baby comfortable and safe from both mosquito bites and potential adverse reactions to products is the ultimate goal.

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