Summer Sprays Can Damage Camera Gear and Lenses

Summer essentials such as bug spray and sunscreen pose a risk to camera equipment. The active ingredient DEET in many bug sprays acts as a solvent, capable of damaging camera plastics and protective lens coatings. Residue from DEET on hands can also wear down camera buttons and labels. Aerosolized sunscreen can leave an oily film that harms lens coatings and camera grips. To protect gear, photographers should avoid spraying these products near cameras, keep cameras bagged while spraying, and wash hands thoroughly after application. Picardin-based bug sprays are suggested as a safer alternative to DEET.