Sunscreen and Bug Spray 101

Fall is right around the corner. That means after-school sports, clambakes, wine tours, hiking and camping. Enjoying the outdoors means protecting yourself against the elements.

People ask us all the time how to best use their sunscreen but also protect themselves against pesky mosquitoes, ticks and black flies. Here are our professional tips:

1. Always apply sunscreen first as a base layer, as directed.

• Sunscreen needs to have UVA/UVB coverage and should be SPF 30+.
• Sunscreen may need to be reapplied. While insect repellent can last for hours, continue to reapply sunscreen as directed.
• When applying to your face, put a small amount of lotion or spray in your hands before spreading. Avoid getting the product into your nose, eyes or mouth.
• Allow skin to dry before applying insect repellent.

2. Apply insect repellent second on exposed skin, as directed.

• Insect repellents containing DEET have been proven effective.
• Different bugs require different concentrations of DEET. Ticks are repelled by DEET content of 20% or more.
• Be wary of unproven products such as oral supplements, candles, fans or other methods.
• Pay attention to instructions on how frequently to reapply insect repellent.
• Use just enough to cover your exposed skin.
• Wash off the repellent once you return indoors.

3. Combination sunscreen/insect repellent sounds appealing, but we do not recommend it.

• Both sunscreen and insect repellent are effective and safe when used separately.
• In combination formulas, the sunscreen's ability to screen out ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be decreased by the repellent.

Now go enjoy the outdoors!