Picaridin is generally about as effective as DEET as a mosquito and tick repellant, but without the nasty odor and greasy feeling on the skin.

DEET has a tendency to damage synthetic clothing such as spandex and rayon, and at higher concentrations can actually melt plastic and paint. Even lower concentrations can mess up your sunglasses.

Permethrin is an insecticide that's applied to clothing, tents, packs, etc. It's effective for a month or so depending on exposure to UV and number of washes. Picaridin is a repellent that's a applied in lotion or spray form.

Use both for best protection.

Use permethrin for clothing and shoes and picaridin for exposed skin. Both should be used always.