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DIETHYL TOLUAMIDE.

Valuable CAS 134-62-3 / 26545-51-7 / SKIN PROTECTING

DIETHYL TOLUAMIDE, commonly known as DEET, is a highly effective insect repellent that interferes with insects' ability to detect human attractants. It provides reliable and proven protection against various biting insects.

Summary

insect repellent

Science

Mechanism of Action

DEET primarily works by confusing or inhibiting insect odorant receptors, particularly those detecting L-lactic acid and carbon dioxide. This 'masks' human presence to biting insects, effectively repelling them without killing them.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 5–50%
Optimal

30%

Key findings

  1. 01 Completely effective for 24 hours against bed bugs.
  2. 02 Provided an average of five hours of general insect protection.
  3. 03 Delivered up to 12 hours of broad-spectrum insect bite protection, with higher concentrations offering no additional duration.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

DEET is stable to hydrolysis between pH 4-9, even at elevated temperatures up to 50°C, ensuring robust formulation integrity.

Conflicts

  • rayon clothing
  • acetate clothing
  • dynel clothing
  • plastics (can dissolve watch crystals, synthetic fabrics, painted/varnished surfaces, nail polish)
  • spandex and other synthetic fabrics
  • leather (may damage)
  • alcohol (can increase skin absorption)
  • sunscreen (can increase skin absorption)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
50%
Sensitization risk Moderate

Regulated by the EPA as a pesticide, not a cosmetic, and deemed safe for normal use without carcinogenic risk. Avoid application on irritated skin, open wounds, or near eyes/mouth, especially in young children (under 2 months: avoid; under 2 years: max 30%).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

DIETHYL TOLUAMIDE is a highly effective and extensively studied ingredient for reliable insect protection, essential in outdoor skincare formulations.

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