What should you apply to yourself so that bed bugs won’t bite? - briefly
Apply a skin repellent containing at least 20 % DEET or picaridin before entering bed. For extra protection, wear clothing that has been treated with permethrin.
What should you apply to yourself so that bed bugs won’t bite? - in detail
Applying a protective layer to the skin can deter bed bugs from feeding. Effective substances fall into three categories: chemical repellents, natural deterrents, and barrier creams.
- DEET‑based repellents – concentrations of 20 %–30 % provide reliable protection for several hours. Apply to exposed areas and re‑apply after washing or sweating.
- Permethrin‑treated clothing – garments pre‑treated with permethrin repel insects on contact. Use only on outerwear; avoid direct skin application as the compound can irritate.
- Essential‑oil blends – formulations containing tea‑tree, lavender, or citronella oil show limited efficacy. Apply a 2 %–5 % dilution to the skin; reapply every two hours for maintained effect.
- Silicone‑based barrier creams – create a physical film that makes it difficult for the insect to penetrate the epidermis. Apply a thin layer before bedtime; effectiveness lasts up to eight hours.
When selecting a product, consider the following criteria:
- Safety profile – verify that the ingredient is approved for topical use and that the concentration does not exceed recommended limits for adults or children.
- Duration of action – choose a formulation whose protective window matches the expected exposure period.
- Compatibility with personal skin type – perform a patch test to rule out allergic reactions, especially with essential‑oil preparations.
- Ease of reapplication – products that require frequent re‑dosing may be impractical for overnight use.
For maximal protection, combine a DEET‑containing spray on exposed limbs with a silicone barrier on the torso. This dual‑approach exploits both chemical repellent action and a physical shield, substantially reducing the likelihood of bites during sleep.