Education
Great Outdoors Insect Repellent – Sunscreen or Repellent: Which Goes First?
When the sun’s warm and the days are long, who doesn’t enjoy spending time in the great outdoors with family and friends? To keep your outdoor adventures safe and enjoyable, don’t forget the essentials: sunscreen and insect repellent. Sunscreen helps shield your skin from sunburn, while insect repellent keeps the bugs away so you can focus on having fun.
But here’s the big question: should you put on sunscreen or insect repellent first?
The key to a great day outside is using both, but you may still wonder:
- Is it safe to use sunscreen and insect repellent together?
- Why should one go before the other?
- What if my insect repellent contains DEET?
Let’s dive into these questions so you can get back to planning your next outdoor adventure!
Can I Use Sunscreen and Insect Repellent Together?
Absolutely! Sunscreen and insect repellent can definitely be used together, but the order of application matters. You want to apply sunscreen first and then insect repellent.
There’s been a lot of buzz online about DEET (a common ingredient in insect repellents), with some older research suggesting that DEET could make sunscreen less effective. But here’s the good news: more recent studies, including research from the U.S. Army, found that applying sunscreen first and then repellent won’t reduce the effectiveness of either one!
Health Canada also agrees: “Sunscreen and personal insect repellents can be worn safely at the same time. Apply the sunscreen first and then the insect repellent.” Just make sure to give your sunscreen a few minutes to soak in before applying your bug spray.
What about reapplying sunscreen and repellent?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every couple of hours or sooner if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Insect repellent, on the other hand, typically lasts longer, but check the instructions on the label for exact reapplication times. The important thing is to stay protected all day – whether it’s from the sun or those pesky bugs!
Do I Need to Shower After Using Sunscreen and Repellent?
Good question. According to Health Canada, it’s always a good idea to wash off insect repellent with soap and water when you come indoors, especially if you’re done with your outdoor activities for the day. This helps avoid any skin irritation, especially if you’ve been wearing the repellent for a while. And don’t forget to wash your hands after applying it, especially if you’re handling food!
To Wrap It Up
Your safety is our top priority, so here’s the key takeaway: always apply sunscreen first, give it a few minutes to dry, then apply insect repellent. Reapply both as needed throughout the day, and remember to wash up once you’re done. Following these simple steps will help keep you and your family safe, so you can enjoy the great outdoors with peace of mind.
Have fun out there, and stay protected!