Question:
My daughter turns 6-mo on Monday. With nice weather approaching --
actually it's here in southern Iowa -- I really would like to get
out with my daughter and enjoy it. But, with the humidity levels in
Iowa, with have problems with mosquitos, ticks, and chiggers, just to
name a few. Is there an insect repellent especailly formulated for
infants, or one that is safe to use on them? Also, what kind of
sun screens are best for infants?
Answer:
-As far as insect repellent goes, I'd ask my pediatrician. Anything you put
on the kid is pretty likely to end up in their mouths, as you know. You
might look into getting mosquito netting for your stroller or playpen, if
you use it outdoors.
Good luck and enjoy the nice weather!
-"ending up in their mouths" is only part of the problem. DEET (active
ingredient in many insect repellents) is apparently absorbed through
the skin. My pediatrician (who doesn't tend to be too fussy about
most things), says: not at all under 6 months, after that try to find
a brand with low (<20%) concentration of DEET, apply it sparingly, and
wash the baby after you're done playing outside. A hassle to be sure,
but, in her opinion, worth doing to avoid excessive exposure.
-When we had our daughter about two years back we had asked our pediatrician
about it and he categorically rejected the idea of using a insect
repellent. He suggested an AVON bath oil (I don't remember the name; I will
have to ask my wife- if you call the local AVON rep you will probably get
the answer or send me a mail message). Infact we bought the oil and it
works to a certain degree. I will recommend it, though I might warn that
the smell is not that pleasing !
