Nikwax Launches DEET-free Repellent

New from Nikwax Travel Solutions is a range of DEET-free insect repellent products called Skitostop which are suitable for children, fabric friendly and kind to skin.

DEET, the active ingredient in most commonly available insect repellents, has a bad reputation on all three counts, particularly in highly concentrated form, and has been linked to skin irritation, to neurological effects in a small number of cases and is toxic to birds and aquatic life.

Finally DEET can damage synthetic fabrics and plastics when used in concentrated form. Not good news for technical outdoors clothing and equipment, much of which is made from synthetics.

The Skitostop range comprises five protective products that are made from natural ingredients, water resistant and, according to Nikwax, will repel mosquitoes, midges, gnats, fleas, flies, horseflies, sand flies and other biting insects for up to six hours.

Variations include an easy to use spray-on insect repellent, a sun screen with insect repellent with an SPF rating of 20 providing protection from both UVA and UVB rays, an after sun version with insect repellent and including Aloe Vera and finally, Bite Relief Gel which uses natural ingredients to sooth and reduce swelling and itching from insect bites.

More information from www.nikwax.com