How different is DEET from DDT?

In my environmental science class, we discussed the negative effects of the insect repellent DDT. I even read the book Silent Spring by Rachel Carson about the damages it cause (Silent Spring led to the ban of DDT). I never liked any chemicals like that, and it scares me that there is proof of the impacts on the environment even human health. So I was looking at our insect repellent “Cutter bug spray” (similar brand to the famous “Off!”) and it said it contained DEET. Now from my knowledge, I don’t trust any chemicals like that. So I was just wondering how different are they? I mean, they could work, but they are still chemicals that are toxic. I prefer being bit by bugs then having something that big corporations tell us is good for us and bad for insects.

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Answer #1

I guess, on a larger scale, DEET is safer. That is, using it isn’t causing the compounded environmental harm that DDT would. However, to a person’s body, well … it’s a chemical, and when you introduce a chemical into your body, it’s bound to take negative effects. Using it very occasionally is probably fine, but if you’re someone who requires it on a daily basis, I strongly recommend searching for a natural alternative - there are many natural and effective options out there.

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How different is DEET from DDT?

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