What is SPF?

The sun protection factor, or SPF, of sunscreen is a multiplier that tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun than normal without burning your skin. If you can tolerate 10 minutes in the sun without a burn, an SPF of 50 will provide 50 times that length of time, or 500 minutes of protection without burning.

What are UVA and UVB rays?

Both UVA and UVB rays cause damage to your skin. UVA rays are the main cause of skin aging and wrinkling, while UVB rays cause burning. Both contribute to the development of skin cancer. For the best protection, use a sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

It's cloudy outside--why do I need sunscreen products?

UVA rays are present throughout the year and can penetrate glass and clouds. They account for up to 95 percent of UV rays on the Earth's surface. UVB rays vary by season, location, and time of day and are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in April through October.

How often should I reapply?

For maximum protection, reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming, excessive sweating or towel drying. Banana Boat UltraMist Sport Performance Clear Spray Sunscreen SPF 50 is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Are there any other Banana Boat sunscreen products recommended for complete coverage?

Yes, Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Stick is ideal for spot application around the ears, nose, and eyes, while Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Lip Balm protects and moisturizes your lips.

1. Apply sunscreen at least 20 to 30 minutes before you hit the slopes, waves or trail. Be sure to coat those spots that will get prolonged exposure, like the back of your neck and shoulders. If you plan on being active, use a water-resistant sunscreen, like Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.

2. Reapply sunscreen frequently, at least every two hours. If you're in the surf or if you're breaking a good sweat, reapply more often.

3. One ounce of sunscreen should cover you from head to toe if you're wearing a swimsuit. That dollop's about the size of a golf ball.

4. The "farmer's tan" is especially likely when hiking, climbing or biking. So put sunscreen on before you dress, ensuring that you cover those often-forgotten spots, like ears, and the backs of hands and arms. If possible, carry a spray-on sunscreen with you, like UltraMist Sport Continuous Spray SPF 30, so you can keep moving.

5. Doesn't matter whether it's football or baseball season. If we're lucky, the sun's rays beam down on us every day. So use Banana Boat' Sunscreen all year round.

6. Just because it's cloudy doesn't mean you should skip the sunscreen. Dispersed sun rays still reach our skin, so you should still use sunscreen. If you're on the court or the course under clouds or haze, use at least a mid-range SPF like Banana Boat' Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 15.

7. Love the snow? Know that the higher you go, the stronger the sun. If you're skiing or snowboarding on a mountain, experts recommend a sport sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.

8. Remember that water acts as a lens, reflecting the sunlight to your skin and magnifying the effect. So whether you're on a board or a boat, use a high SPF sunscreen that's also water-resistant for more hard-hitting protection.

Trademark Information:

Banana Boat® UltraMist® Sport Performance®