Fire Risk Spurs Banana Boat Spray Sunscreen Recall

By Daniel J. DeNoon
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Oct. 22, 2012 -- At least five people have caught fire after using Banana Boat spray sunscreen products, spurring a recall.

The recall includes 23 Banana Boat spray sunscreen products sold from January 2010 through September 2012.

"If a consumer comes into contact with a flame or spark prior to complete drying of the product on the skin, there is a potential for the product to ignite," Banana Boat maker Energizer Holdings Inc. says in its recall notice.

Energizer says the problem is that the products' spray valve shoots out more sunscreen "than is typical in the industry for continuous sun care sprays." The product takes longer to dry -- and remains flammable until it's completely dry.

The company says it has received reports of four burn injuries in the U.S. and one in Canada.

Energizer asks people who have bought the recalled products not to use them.

All continuous spray sunscreen products carry warnings that they should not be used near open flames or sparks, and that people should not smoke while using the products.

The recalled products are:

Customers with questions may contact Energizer by calling 800-723-3786 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time, or by sending an email to SUNCARE@customerfollowup.info.

SOURCES: FDA web site. Energizer Holdings Inc. web site.

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