. Permethrin: Permethrin although known as a repellent is actually a contact insecticide. That is, it kills ticks or other insects that come in contact with it. Because... it is deactivated by contact with skin within fifteen minutes it is used for treatment of clothing and gear. When applied to clothing, tents, sleeping bags, or bed nets permethrin is very... effective at reducing the mosquito population in your campsite or sleeping quarters. Where ticks are a concern permethrin on clothing or gear will kill ticks who travel across as little...