DEET is toxic if ingested. It is a strong solvent which can damage many of the objects that are routinely handled by Anglers and Hunters, such as: plastics (watch crystals, electronic screens, sunglass lenses, sunglass frames, soft baits, plastic baits, fishing lines, etc.), most synthetic fabrics, any painted or varnished surfaces, and anything held on by adhesives. DEET can dissolve the gel coats and epoxies on boats and fiberglass and composite fishing rods. This is usually stated on the label of products containing DEET.  DEET formulas usually contain water soluble ethanol, or isopropanol which can put baits in livewells at risk.

An important side effect of DEET, due to its solvent characteristics, is that it readily defats or dries the skin (epidermis), and is usually combined with alcohols as a carrier which magnifies this effect. Swamp Juice contains the proven humectant, Glycerin, which moisturizes your skin while protecting you from the insects.

Products that contain DEET [N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide: a registered pesticide] have been used by consumers since 1957. DEET has recently been associated with dermal and neurological reactions in humans. DEET is absorbed readily through the skin into the blood stream. It accelerates the rate at which other materials soluble in DEET may enter the body. This combined exposure could be more dangerous than DEET alone. It is highly recommended by pharmacists that you should not use a product containing DEET if you are taking any medications. Even over the counter (OTC) antihistamines could interact with DEET to cause possible toxic side effects.

Although no definite “through the skin” toxicity has been proven for DEET products, in 1989 the U.S. ARMY dropped the allowable percentage of DEET used in products for the military from 75% to less than 35%. New studies seem to indicate that DEET concentrations in excess of 30%, with prolonged or repeated use, may cause health related problems. The American Society of Pediatrics recommends that repellent products used on young children contain no more than 10% DEET.

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