Understanding Banana Boat Cool Colorz Sunscreen
Banana Boat Cool Colorz sunscreen is a popular suncare product designed for children. It provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection while also depositing a fun, colorful tint onto the skin. However, some batches of the spray-on formula were recently recalled due to the presence of benzene, a chemical that can have carcinogenic effects with repeated exposure.
Active Ingredients in Cool Colorz
The active ingredients in Banana Boat Cool Colorz sunscreen spray include:
- Avobenzone - 3% - absorbs UVA rays
- Homosalate - 15% - absorbs UVB rays
- Octocrylene - 10% - absorbs UVB rays
- Oxybenzone - 6% - absorbs UVB and short UVA rays
Together, these active ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This protects skin from sunburn, early skin aging and skin cancer risks.
Added Colorants
In addition to the active sun filtering ingredients, Banana Boat Cool Colorz contains added cosmetic colorants to provide the fun color effect. As the formula is rubbed into skin, it deposits temporary pigments that wash off later.
The color additives approved by the FDA for this use include substances like Red No. 33, Yellow No. 5 and Blue No. 1. They provide vibrant but safe hues like pink, purple and blue.
Benzene Contamination
In July 2022, manufacturer Edgewell Personal Care issued a voluntary recall of 3 specific production lots of Banana Boat Cool Colorz sunscreen.
Sample testing by Edgewell found trace levels of benzene present in those batches. Benzene is a chemical that can have carcinogenic effects with repeated, long-term exposure through inhalation or ingestion.
The recall was issued out of an abundance of caution, as the benzene levels detected were quite low. Only specific lot codes of the Cool Colorz spray sunscreens were affected.
FDA Guidance on Benzene
The FDA has provided guidance to sunscreen manufacturers regarding trace levels of benzene contamination. Key points include:
- Benzene is not an ingredient in sunscreen or cosmetic products.
- It can inadvertently be introduced through manufacturing errors or from raw ingredients.
- FDA guidance limits benzene to 2 parts per million (ppm) in products.
If benzene above 2 ppm is detected, companies are advised to issue recalls. Edgewell's testing found results up to 3 ppm, triggering the Cool Colorz recall.
Using Banana Boat Cool Colorz Safely
Banana Boat Cool Colorz sunscreen remains a recommended product for UVA/UVB protection when purchased from lots not affected by the recall. Here are tips for safe use of this sunscreen:
Check the Lot Code
Check your bottle of Banana Boat Cool Colorz against the lot codes listed in the recall before use. The affected codes are:
- 20016AF December 2021
- 20084BF January 2022
- 21139AF April 2022
If you have a bottle from those lots, discontinue use and request a refund from Banana Boat.
Follow Application Directions
Apply Cool Colorz in an even layer and reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Pay attention to often missed spots like the ears, feet and back of the neck.
Spray from a distance of 6-8 inches from the skin to avoid inhalation. Do not spray directly into faces or near eyes, nose and mouth.
Supervise Children's Use
While fun for kids, supervise children using Cool Colorz. Ensure they follow application instructions and do not ingest any of the product. The colorants and oils may cause upset stomach or irritation if swallowed.
Rinse Off Completely
Rinse skin thoroughly after outdoor play sessions where Cool Colorz was applied. Use soap and water and scrub gently to remove all residual colorant and oils.
This rinses away any buildup of ingredients and allows fresh application next time sun exposure resumes.
Alternatives to Banana Boat Cool Colorz
While Cool Colorz remains widely available from non-recalled lots, here are some alternatives to consider:
Banana Boat Kids Max Protect & Play
Banana Boat Kids Max Protect & Play has similar water resistance and UVA/UVB protection to Cool Colorz, without the added colors. It provides SPF 100 protection with a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula.
Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Spray
Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray provides SPF 70 protection that holds up even after 80 minutes of water play. It is a fast-absorbing spray-on formula suitable for children over age 6 months.
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen is a plant-based, reef-safe formula free from common chemical sunscreen actives. The SPF 50+ mineral-based version is tear-free and suitable for children over 6 months old.
Enjoying Sun Protection Peace of Mind
Banana Boat Cool Colorz sunscreen remains a beloved and recommended product for UVA/UVB protection when purchased from unaffected lots. Proper use and sun-smart habits provide children with fun in the sun safely.
FAQs
Why was Banana Boat Cool Colorz sunscreen recalled?
Some batches were found to contain trace levels of benzene, which can have carcinogenic effects with repeated long-term exposure.
What are the active ingredients in Cool Colorz sunscreen?
The active ingredients are avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene and oxybenzone. Together they provide broad spectrum SPF 50 sun protection.
How should you apply Banana Boat Cool Colorz safely?
Spray from 6-8 inches away, avoid eyes and inhaling, and rinse off completely after outdoor play sessions. Follow all directions.
What sunscreens are good alternatives for kids?
Some good alternatives are Banana Boat Kids Max Protect & Play, Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids and Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+.
Can I still use my Cool Colorz if it's not from a recalled lot?
Yes, Cool Colorz is safe to use if not from the specified lot codes affected by the voluntary recall.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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