Avoid Ticks with Insect Repellent

The best way to avoid tick bites is to use an insect repellent containing 20% to 30% of the active ingredient DEET. Other effective repellents are available, but DEET is easily recognized on the label in the list of ingredients.“In addition to using DEET, people should do careful tick checks of their whole body after being outdoors and exposed to ticks,” Feder says. “Clothing can also be treated with non-DEET insect repellents, but these lose their efficacy after washings.”