Toxicity of Bug Repellents Toxic Bug Repellents: What You’re Really Spraying on Your Skin Most people reach for bug spray without a second thought, assuming it’s harmless. But many conventional insect repellents contain DEET (N,N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) , a chemical that has been studied for its potential effects on the nervous system, skin, and overall health. DEET isn’t just a surface chemical. When applied to the skin, it can be absorbed into the bloodstream , inhaled t
