CDC Suggests LANXESS's Picaridin Insect Repellent as Effective DEET-Alternative
Leading specialty chemicals manufacturer offers ingredient safe for human and environmental interaction
PITTSBURGH - February 25, 2009 - LANXESS Corporation's Picaridin insect repellent has been suggested by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as an effective alternative to DEET. The safe and reliable Picaridin (also sold under the LANXESS SALTIDIN® trademark) insect repellent combines effective protection with pleasant cosmetic properties.
"DEET has historically been the only option when it came to truly effective insect repellents. Thankfully, Picaridin has come along and received recognition by the CDC as an equally effective DEET-alternative," explained Randy Dearth, President and CEO, LANXESS Corporation. "Consumers have really been the force behind the success of Picaridin. They feel safe using it on themselves and in their environment."
Picaridin insect repellent has been shown to be safe for use on children as young as age two and is non-corrosive when it comes in contact with certain plastics. With long-lasting properties, Picaridin insect repellent is one of the few DEET-alternatives to offer users up to eight hours of protection. Picaridin insect repellent offers protection against various diseases caused by insects, including mosquitoes, flies, sand flies and ticks. The World Health Organization has also recommended Picaridin as the product of choice for malaria prophylaxis. Picaridin insect repellents are available throughout the world in various forms, including sprays, lotions, wipes and sticks, and come in concentrations ranging from five to 25 percent.
Cosmetically, Picaridin insect repellant is neither sticky nor greasy. Additionally, users have reported a pleasant skin feel after using products containing Picaridin insect repellant.
In terms of compatibility, Picaridin is considered safe for plastics, coatings, sealants, and has low toxicity to people and the environment.
Consumer Formulations
Picaridin can be found in consumer formulations including Tender Corporation's NATRAPEL® brand, currently available at leading food, drug and mass retailers.
About LANXESS
LANXESS is a leader in specialty chemicals with 2007 sales of EUR 6.61 billion and around 15,200 employees in 21 countries. The company is represented at 44 production sites worldwide. The core business of LANXESS is the development, manufacture and sale of specialty chemicals, plastics, rubber and intermediates.
