Frequently Asked Questions
1) What makes Impede repellent so special?
IMPEDE is DEET-free and made with a repellent inspired by nature. It has a light feel and a gentle scent. The formula has a patented technology (STAYTEC™) that helps the repellent lasts for up to 14 hours. IMPEDE is sweat- and water-resistant. (However, IMPEDE isn’t waterproof so it must be reapplied after swimming or showering.)
2) IS IMPEDE NATURAL?
The active ingredient in IMPEDE is IR3535®, a well-known repellent with a long history of safety and efficacy, made by Merck. IR3535® is derived from Beta-alanine, a naturally occurring amino acid. STAYTEC™. showering.)
3) WHY IS STAYTEC™ IMPORTANT?
STAYTEC™ protects by creating a long-lasting barrier to insects that stays on the skin. With STAYTEC™, absorption through the skin is minimized resulting in reduced potential of systemic toxicity – especially in pregnant women, breast-feeding women and young children. It also reduces the evaporation rate to allow for stronger, longer protection.
4) HOW DOES IR3535® WORK?
From the manufacturer, Merck KGaA: Insects use natural odors to navigate. There are various substances in nature which provide signals to insects. For example, there are substances which help male mosquitoes find females or guide females to a host where they can feed on blood. IR3535® is based on a natural amino acid called ß-alanine. It sends out a simple message to insects: Stay away! So IR3535® is a repellent that tells insects to move away from skin.
5) How long does IMPEDE protect against biting insects?
Studies conducted at the Laboratorios Ecolyzer, an independent accredited laboratory in Brazil, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine showed 14-hour protection times.
6) Can IMPEDE be used by everyone?
We don’t recommend IMPEDE for newborns less than two-months-old. The formula is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
7) Can IMPEDE be worn with sunscreen?
Yes, IMPEDE can be worn with sunscreen. Sunscreen is meant to seep into the skin, so it should be applied first. IMPEDE must be applied last – after sunscreens – to effectively repel insects.
8) How Should IMPEDE be stored?
IMPEDE should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat, flame or exposure to sunlight. Low temperatures increase shelf life.
9) Where is IMPEDE made?
IMPEDE is made in the USA.
10) Does IMPEDE cause irritation in the eyes or on the skin ?
IMPEDE can cause irritation if rubbed in the eyes. First, rinse the eye with water, then consult a physician or your local poison control center if eye irritation persists. Skin irritation is very rare. The formula has been tested for dermal irritability by a product testing laboratory in Texas. The test concluded the following: “…. there were no reports of adverse reaction/event or discomfort. The product did not cause irritation or sensitization to the skin.” The formula has also been tested for skin sensitivity and toxicity by a certified independent laboratory.
11) Apart from the active ingredient, IR3535®, what other ingredients are in IMPEDE?
IMPEDE contains other ingredients that are included to stabilize the formula and to provide a fresh but gentle scent. The formula is considered hypoallergenic and dye free. It has a light feel and gentle scent. No harsh chemicals or strong alcohol content is used.
