Sunscreen mist recalled as fire hazard

THIS SUNSCREEN prevents one type of burn — but could spark another.

The makers of Banana Boat sunscreen inadvertently invented a lotion that catches fire after it comes into contact with a flame.

Five people wearing the UltraMist sunscreen suffered serious burns as a result in the last year.

Banana Boat’s parent company, Energizer Holdings, is recalling more than a half-million bottles of its spray-on sunscreen. Twen- ty-three varieties are being yanked from the shelves.

One man was badly burned after he stood near a barbecue grill after applying the spray-on sunscreen. A woman working with welding equipment also was burned when her skin ignited.

The problem appears linked to the UltraMist spray valve, which is applying too much of the sunscreen, Energizer said in a statement Saturday. The lotion is taking longer to dry — increasing the chances of something sparking a blaze.

“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,” the company said in a statement.

Spray-on sunscreens, which have become popular in recent years, often contain aerosol, which is composed of several flammable products, including alcohol.

Among the products being recalled are UltraMist Sport, UltraMist Ultra Defense and UltraMist Kids.