Tick season heats up: 4 easy tips to help protect against these biting pests and the rise of Lyme disease

As rising temperatures and humidity signal the start of tick season, many Americans remain unprepared for the risks ahead. A recent survey commissioned on behalf of OFF!^® brand insect repellents reveals that 80% of U.S. adults are concerned about the diseases ticks and mosquitoes may carry, and yet 26% are not confident they're taking enough precautions to avoid tick bites when outdoors*.

These tiny pests are easy to miss but can cause big problems, transmitting potentially harmful diseases like Lyme disease, which the CDC reports is the most common vector-borne disease in the U.S. Whether hiking through the woods, relaxing in the backyard or forging through tall grass or forested areas, ticks can easily latch on, often without notice.

"Ticks are known for being stealthy opportunists that can survive on blood and can spread diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and alpha-gal syndrome," said Dr. Tom Mascari, principal entomologist at the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health^®. "Many ticks can be found in wooded areas, but even grassy environments — like backyards — are suitable for some species."

Dr. Mascari emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant about tick protection and being especially mindful of tick species known for carrying disease. "There are more than 90 tick species in the U.S., however, people should be especially wary of black-legged ticks — which commonly carry Lyme disease — and Lone Star ticks, that are associated with alpha-gal syndrome or the 'red meat allergy.' While most cases of Lyme disease are found in the Northeast and Upper Midwest, taking preventative measures in any region is imperative for staying protected from biting insects and the diseases they may carry."

To help stay protected against tick bites, consider these tips from Dr. Mascari and SC Johnson's Center for Insect Science^®.

1. Dress to Protect. Dressing smart can help prevent tick bites. Light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot ticks. If weather permits, wear a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toed shoes, socks that cover the shins and long pants for an added layer of protection.

2. While Outdoors. Minimize time spent walking through tall grasses and heavily wooded areas where ticks thrive. When hiking or walking, stay in the center of trails and stick to well-maintained paths. Remember, ticks don't just live in the woods — they can also be found in backyards and other outdoor areas, so don't assume a manicured lawn is tick-free.

3. After Being Outdoors. Conducting a thorough tick check can greatly reduce the risk of infection. Ticks prefer warm, hidden areas and can be as small as a poppy seed, so pay close attention to spots like behind the knees, between the toes, around the waistband and along the hairline. If a tick is found on the skin, remove it immediately with tweezers and clean the bite area. Showering within two hours of exposure further reduces the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses by washing off unattached ticks. Wash clothes in hot water to help eliminate any ticks that may have latched onto clothing, then toss the clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10-15 minutes to kill any remaining ticks.

4. Adopt a "PREtection" Routine. It's essential to take precautions to prevent tick bites. Understanding tick behavior — and knowing which active ingredients, like DEET and picaridin, are effective in repellents — helps support ongoing protection. Incorporating "PREtection," the act of applying insect repellent before heading outdoors, into a daily routine is a simple yet important step while spending time outdoors. Several OFF!^® products contain these tick-repelling active ingredients, offering protection for a range of use occasions. Below, see two great product options that are the perfect fit for the outdoors. For more information visit the OFF!^® brand's website.

• OFF!^® Deep Woods^® Insect Repellent V Tick Aerosol: For effective, long-lasting protection, this repellent is formulated with 25% DEET to repel ticks (including ticks that may carry Lyme disease), mosquitoes, stable flies, black flies, sand flies, deer flies, chiggers and gnats. Ideal for extended outdoor adventures, it provides uninterrupted protection from biting pests. For on-the-go protection, OFF!^® Deep Woods^® Insect Repellent Towelettes offer the same 25% DEET formula in individually wrapped wipes that are easy to carry and provide up to 8 hours of coverage.
• OFF!^® Clean Feel Insect Repellent I Aerosol: Perfect for everyday use, this is a fragrance-free repellent that provides non-sticky, non-greasy protection from mosquitoes and ticks. Formulated with 20% picaridin, it's lightweight and won't damage fabrics. With up to 8 hours of protection, this repellent is ideal for daily outdoor activities.

Remember: Ticks are tiny parasites that can hide almost anywhere, not just in the woods or tall grass. Whether exploring the wilderness or simply taking a walk around the block, it's important to stay protected. By following these tips, the outdoors can still be enjoyed with peace of mind.

For more information, check out the CDC guidance on preventing tick bites. To explore the full range of OFF!^® products, visit OFF.com.

*Survey Methodology: This online survey was fielded in the United States between January 16 and January 21, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 3,051 adults above the age of 18. It was conducted by the market research company The Harris Poll. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level.