Consumer Reports: 'Don't spray sunscreens on kids'

WASHINGTON (WABC) -- Consumer Reports magazine is issuing a warning about spray-on sunscreens.

Consumer Reports released an article with the headline "Don't spray sunscreens on kids, at least for now." The article is in response to last month's announcement by the Food and Drug Administration that it is now investigating the potential risks of spray sunscreens.

The dangers of spray sunscreen include the risk that kids might inhale the ingredients. Another risk is that spray sunscreen may not coat every area like it should.

Consumer reports now recommends the following:

• Don't use sprays on children, unless you have no other product available. In that case, spray the sunscreen onto your hands and rub it on. As with all sunscreens, be especially careful on the face, taking care to avoid the eyes and mouth.
• Adults can still use sprays-but don't spray your face! Instead, spray on your hands and rub it on, making sure to avoid your eyes and mouth. And try to avoid inhaling it.
• Make sure you apply enough. Our tests have found that sprays can work well when used properly-but it is harder to make sure that you apply enough, especially when it's windy. We recommend spraying as much as can be evenly applied, and then repeating, just to be safe. On windy days, you might want to spray the sunscreen on your hands and rub it on-or just choose one of our recommended lotions instead.

Consumer Reports has also tested a number of sunscreens. You can see their ratings here.