OFF!® Frequently Asked Questions
General product questions
Apply repellent whenever you are going to be outdoors. Be aware that mosquitoes often can be most active at dusk and at dawn. Always remember to read and follow the label directions on the package.
Choosing the right repellent depends on the situation. Generally, the higher the concentration of the active ingredient, the longer you will be protected.
Do not use under clothing. Spray shirts, pants, socks, and hats. OFF!® repellent will not damage cotton, wool, or nylon. Do not apply OFF!® repellent with DEET on or near acetate, rayon, spandex or other synthetics (other than nylon), furniture, plastics, watch crystals, leather, and painted or varnished surfaces including automobiles.
All OFF!® insect repellents can be used on your face. We encourage you to apply the product to your hands and then to your face, being sure to avoid your eyes and mouth. Do not allow children to handle this product. Do not apply to children’s hands. When using on children, apply OFF!® repellent to your own hands and then to the child. Always remember to read and follow the label directions on the package. To learn more, view our article How to Correctly Apply Insect Repellent.
No, OFF!® personal repellents are made for human use only. There are other, safe ways to keep your pets happy during pest season.
Active ingredients questions
Most OFF!® personal repellents include products that contain varying amounts of DEET. To learn more about DEET or our other active ingredients, visit Active Ingredients.
Originally developed in 1944 by the US Department of Agriculture, diethyltoluamide, or simply DEET, is an active ingredient in many insect repellents. DEET is effective in repelling mosquitoes, ticks, fleas and many other biting insects. It works to confuse and interfere with the receptors on a mosquito’s antennae, which deters mosquitoes from landing on the skin and biting.
When applied correctly, DEET is appropriate for use on children. Products containing DEET can be used on children. Always read product label instructions, and when applying on children, spray on your hands first, and then apply to their skin.