Apply Sunscreen First and Then Insect Spray for Better Protection
Mosquitoes and other biting insects are such pests ( at least more for some of us than others ), and a good insect spray can be a strong line of defense against these critters, but it’s important to make sure you apply it correctly when using it with other skin products such as sunscreen.
Luckily, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has some tips for using insect repellent in combination with sunscreen. Among its tips, the CDC recommends:
- Use both sunscreen and insect repellent outdoors. Apply sunscreen first, followed by insect repellent.
- Avoid one product that combines sunscreen and insect spray because insect spray doesn’t need to be reapplied as often as sunscreen does. Better to keep them separate and watch the labels on each.
- Do not build up insect spray . Heavy applications do not provide better or longer lasting protection.
- Reapply insect spray as directed , but if you start noticing bites, reapply as needed.
Insect bites suck not only because they make us itch crazy, but because they can carry potentially deadly diseases like West Nile and Zika viruses , so make sure you are protected. As additional measures (those of us who enjoy ourselves should do our best!), You can try these DIY pest control methods or these strategies to keep insects away without insect spray.
Insect Repellent Use and Safety | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC )