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Can You Use Insect Repellent with Sunscreen? What the CDC Recommends

From beach days to tropical travel, outdoor adventures often require protection from both the sun and biting insects. In locations such as the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas, travelers should know that repelling biting insects is important not only for comfort but also for reducing the risk of insect-borne illnesses, while sunscreen helps protect the skin from harmful UV exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both sunscreen and insect repellent are essential for outdoor protection. Their guidance recommends avoiding combination products, as sunscreen typically requires more frequent application than insect repellent. The CDC advises: “In general, travelers should use separate products, apply sunscreen first, and then apply repellent.” Choosing the right repellent to pair with sunscreen is key to achieving safe and effective protection in tropical environments and maintaining an active outdoor lifestyle.1

IMPEDE repellent is designed for safe and consistent use alongside sunscreen. Because sunscreen is absorbed into the skin to provide UV protection, it should be applied first, followed by IMPEDE to effectively repel insects. IMPEDE is sweat and water-resistant, though not waterproof, and should be reapplied – along with sunscreen – after swimming, showering, or prolonged physical activity. The DEET-free formula of IMPEDE avoids the potential for interference with SPF performance. Instead, IMPEDE uses IR3535®, an active ingredient with a well-established safety profile and is suitable for frequent use. Paired with STAYTEC™ technology, IMPEDE is designed to repel insects for up to 14 hours, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. Safe for a wide range of users, including children and pregnant women, IMPEDE is designed to complement your sun protection routine. With IMPEDE, you can confidently layer protection – helping you stay safe from both UV exposure and biting insects without compromise.

 

1. https://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/environmental-hazards-risks/mosquitoes-ticks-and-other-arthropods.html