DEET: The Gold Standard Mosquito Repellent

DEET is considered the gold standard of mosquito repellents, providing several hours of protection when applied to the skin. It was developed in the 1940s and has been found to be safe for use by pregnant women and children over two months old. DEET can damage plastics and synthetic materials, so caution is advised. Although it is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is cleared from the body within a few hours with minimal adverse effects when used correctly.