Treatments · Personal repellents
Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
A repellent ingredient listed by CDC for mosquito bite prevention.
Updated October 3, 2026 · Educational ingredient reference
Quick reference
- Chemical family: Personal repellents.
- Example forms: Spray, Other label-specific personal repellent forms.
- Example target groups: Mosquitoes.
- Use context: Personal bite prevention, not premise control.
- Targets and forms vary by product. The exact label governs permitted pests, sites and methods.
What is it?
Para-menthane-diol (PMD) is an active ingredient in personal insect repellents. CDC lists it among ingredients to look for in EPA-registered mosquito repellents.
Where does it fit?
Repellents help prevent bites. They do not eliminate larval habitats or treat an infestation in a home or yard. Protection claims, permitted pests and duration depend on the exact product label.
What cautions matter?
CDC says not to use products containing OLE or PMD on children under three. Do not substitute pure lemon-eucalyptus essential oil for an EPA-registered repellent. Do not use a human repellent as a pet treatment or household pesticide. Permethrin clothing treatments are a different use category and are not for direct use on skin.
What governs use?
The current product label controls permitted pests, sites, placement, protective equipment and restrictions. This is an educational ingredient reference, not a recipe, product endorsement or statement of Texas registration.