Banana Boat Sunscreen Comparisons: My Favorite Products

I am naturally very fair-skinned with my Irish roots, so every summer I seek a little color. I do not want direct sun exposure, though, so I always look for something with at least an SPF 15. I want a nice glow, but at the same time, I don't want to contract skin cancer.

A few weeks ago I went to the local Target and picked up a few Banana Boat products to try. The first one that caught my eye was Protective Tanning Oil SPF 15. This is not just a sunblock, but a tan intensifier with some UV protection. It smells amazing with oils of banana, coconut and carrot, but beware of bees because it is very sweet smelling and they seem to be attracted to it. It comes in an 8 ounce spray bottle and it very easy to apply especially to hard to reach areas such as the back.

Another benefit of this product is that it is very moisturizing as well as waterproof. It is an oil, but it doesn't get sticky and when I took a shower afterwards my skin was silky smooth. I did notice that you need to be careful to apply it evenly or you will get an uneven tan. Also, be careful around joints such as the elbow and knee because these areas naturally seem to get darker. Do not use on your face especially if you are already prone to acne, instead try an oil free sunblock which Banana Boat does carry.

Now when I am outside walking, working or just hanging out I use an actual sunblock. I have been using this product for a little while and for me it works great. Banana Boats Sport Performance Continuous Clear Spray SPF 15 is a great alternative. It is not at all greasy, it is hypo-allergenic and is fragrance free. This is a great option for people with allergy problems, sensitive or oily skin and those who are trying to avoid bees. It is also waterproof as well as sweat proof which is great for those super hot days and days at the beach. This sunblock also lasts a long time. I was outside the other day for over 6 hours in the sun coaching a children's soccer camp and I didn't have to reapply it even once and it was almost 90 degrees.

Another Banana Boat must have for me is the Aloe After Sun Lotion. It is soothing if you get a bit burned and it also helps to develop a great tan. It is not greasy and it is a great moisturizer especially if you are prone to dry, chapped skin. Be careful not to use it on a bad sunburn though, it is only meant for slight sunburn. This can be used all over the body even on the face.

For my face, since it seems to burn quickly I like to use an oil free sunblock with at least an SPF 30. I just got and love Banana Boat's Sun Wear Faces Oil-Free Daily Sunblock Lotion SPF 30. It comes in an 3 ounce squeeze tube and a little goes a long way. It contains anti-aging botanicals as well as botanical extracts for light moisturizing. It is oil free, non-comedogenic, dermatologist tested, has a nice, light and clean scent and is very light and does not feel heavy on the face.

A few tanning tips I have learned throughout the years to get the deepest most natural looking and healthy tan are:

Moisturize like a maniac. I moisturize in the sun, after and at least 3 times a day.

Drink plenty of water. You need it anyway and it helps keep skin beautiful inside and out.When tanning don't just lie, flip, lie, flip get up and move around for a more even tan.

Be careful not to burn, but if you do aloe is a great sunburn soother. I love Banana Boat's Soothe-A-Caine Aloe Vera Gel. It is very cool and refreshing. Also be sure to shower or bath in lukewarm water and not ice cold to avoid bad blisters.