Your Guide to the Best Sunscreen for Kids
*This post features the best sunscreens for kids. It may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you.
Are you planning a family beach vacation and looking for the best sunscreen for kids? Keep reading to discover my handpicked selection of safe and non-greasy sunscreens for kids!
As you prepare for your next family adventure, one essential item you mustn’t overlook is sunscreen for your kids (for you too, to be honest!).
As you explore a new city or build sandcastle on the beach, it’s essential to protect their sensitive skin from harmful UV rays.
No matter what type of trip you’re planning, whether it’s a traditional cultural trip, a day at the theme park, a beach getaway or a camping trip, a good sunscreen for kids is one of the must-have essentials that should be on your packing list.
So, let’s dive into the world of sunscreens for kids and find the perfect match for your little one’s skin.
Why Sunscreen Matters for Kids?
First thing first, why is sunscreen so important for our little ones? Children’s skin is more delicate and susceptible to sunburn than adults’.
Plus, sun exposure during childhood can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. So, lathering up kids with sunscreen is not just about preventing painful sunburns, but also about safeguarding their long-term health.
Choosing the Best Sunscreen for Kids
When searching for the best sunscreen for kids, consider the following factors to ensure you’re selecting the most suitable option for your little ones:
Sun Protection Factor (SPF):
Choose a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher to ensure adequate protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Higher SPF values offer greater protection, but no sunscreen provides 100% protections, so reapplication is crucial.
Broad-Spectrum Protection:
Look for sunscreens for kids labelled “broad-spectrum”, indicating they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. This ensures comprehensive coverage against different types of sun damage, including sunburn and premature aging.
Gentle Formulation:
Opt for sunscreens specifically formulated for children’s delicate skin. These are often hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin.
Mineral-Based vs. Chemical Sunscreens:
Consider whether you prefer mineral-based or chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin’s surface and physically block UV rays. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Some parents prefer mineral sunscreens for their gentleness and broader spectrum of protection, while others may opt for chemical sunscreens for their lighter texture and easier application.
Water Resistance:
If your kids will be swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen that can withstand moisture for a certain period, typically either 40 or 80 minutes. Remember to reapply after swimming or sweating, as water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof!
Application Method:
Consider the ease of application, especially if you have young children who may be resistant to sunscreen application. Sunscreen sticks, sprays, and lotions each have their advantages, so choose the option that works best for your family’s needs and preferences. We have included options for all types of sunscreens for kids in our list below.
Sunscreen Expiration Date:
Check the expiration date on sunscreen bottles before purchasing and using them. Expired sunscreen may be less effective at protecting against UV rays, so it’s essential to use fresh products for optimal sun protection.
By considering these factors, you can confidently select the best sunscreen for your kids, ensuring they stay protected while enjoying outdoor adventures under the sun.
➡️ Read Next: Best Sunscreen Sticks for Kids: 7 Safe and Reliable Options
DON’T FORGET THE LIPS
Lips are an ultra-sensitive area for sunburn and are all too often forgotten. Remember to buy a sun cream lip balm to protect your children’s lips while you’re out and about!
We particularly like this one from Sun Bum, which isn’t too greasy and doesn’t leave a big white film on the edges of the lips. A great choice for the whole family!
The 9 Best Sunscreens for Kids
With shelves stocked with an array of sunscreens, selecting the right one for your child can feel like navigating a maze. Luckily, we’re here to simplify the process. From sunscreen sticks to spray sunscreen (and everything in between), we’ll help you choose the best one for you child.
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Overall Best Sunscreen for Kids: Blue Lizard
Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
Blue Lizard’s Mineral Sunscreen is a trusted choice among parents for its gentle formula and high SPF of 50+.
With zinc oxide as its active ingredient, it provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, making it ideal for delicate baby and kid skin.
We also LOVE the innovative feature of this bottle: the bottle changes color (it turns pink), when harmful UV rays are present. It’s a great reminder to apply more sunscreen or to take a break from the sun in the shade.
This sunscreen for kids is also fragrance and paraben-free.
SPF rating: 50+ | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Sunscreen Stick for Kids: Neutrogena
Neutrogena Kids Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Stick is perfect for kids who are always on the move.
Its convenient stick form allows for mess-free application, while its sheer zinc oxide formula provides powerful sun protection without irritating sensitive skin.
Sunscreen sticks for kids are a great travel option. They’re compact and fit easily into a beach bag, carry-on or purse. What’s more, the fact that they won’t leak into luggage is a big plus.
It may also be easier for young children to use sunscreen sticks rather than traditional sunscreen lotion. In any case, this sunscreen stick is very useful for protecting sometimes neglected areas, such as the nose, cheekbones and ears.
SPF rating: 50 | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
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Best Sunscreen for Kids with Sensitive Skin: Aveeno
Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
The Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Lotion also stands out as the best sunscreen for kids with sensitive skin or eczema.
It offers long-lasting sun protection, making it a perfect option for active kids.
Parents love this sunscreen for kids for its gentle mineral-base formula and SPF of 50. As it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it’s a safe one to add to your beach essentials bag.
SPF rating: 50 | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Sunscreen for Babies: Thinkbaby
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen is a safe choice for parents seeking a safe and effective sunscreen for their kids.
With an SPF of 50+ and free from harmful chemicals, it offers reliable sun protection without irritating sensitive skin.
The Thinkbaby sunscreen for kids doesn’t feel sticky and contains hydrating ingredients that help moisturize your kids’ skin.
The only thing that some parents might consider a drawback is that it’s scented.
SPF rating: 50+ | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Lightweight Lotion Sunscreen for Kids: Sun Bum
Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
If you’re looking for the best sunscreen for kids and love the traditional lotion type, we highly recommend the Sun Bum’s one.
This one is a favourite among parents for its gentle, mineral-based formula.
With an SPF of 50 and a hypoallergic formula, it’s perfect for babies and kids with sensitive skin.
We absolutely love that this lotion sunscreen is non-greasy and super lightweight. It’s easy to apply and has a comfortable texture for children.
Both of my kids love when we use this one!
SPF rating: 50+ | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Hydrating Kids Sunscreen: CeraVe
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Like all CeraVe products, this sunscreen for kids is fragrance-free. The CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 50. Its non-greasy formula is enriched with ceramides and provides all-day hydration.
It’s a great sunscreen for kids with dry or sensitive skin.
Since it can leave a white cast, it’s suggested to massage the cream 15 minutes before sun exposure. If you’re in a hurry, or if you child isn’t keen on a sunscreen massage, you can also opt for the stick sunscreen version.
SPF rating: 50 | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Lotion Kids Sunscreen: Coppertone
Coppertone Pure and Simple Sunscreen SPF 50
The Coppertone Pure and Simple Sunscreen for babies is a remarkable option for parents looking for effective sun protection for their kids.
Although the label states that this is a sunscreen for babies, it is nonetheless highly effective for kids.
What’s more, the fact that it’s gentle enough for babies’ skin is an advantage for children!
With a gentle formula that is free from fragrances, dye, and oxybenzone, it’s suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
It’s one of the best values when it comes to sunscreen for kids: affordable and super reliable.
SPF rating: 50 | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Spray Sunscreen for Kids: Babyganics
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Spray
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Spray is a convenient option for active kids who love to play outdoors. Its tear-free, sting-free formula offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, making it suitable for sensitive baby skin.
The spray application ensures easy, mess-free coverage, making it a go-to choice for hassle-free sun protection during family adventures.
Some kids (and parents) prefer spray to lotion sunscreens as it’s easy to apply. We love that this sunscreen for kids absorb quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy feeling on the skin.
It’s a must-have for families on the go.
SPF rating: 50 | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Sunscreen for Kids and the Whole Family: La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
La Roche-Posay is renowned for its quality skin care products for both adults and children.
La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 50.
Its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s the perfect sunscreen for kids who love to splash around and stay protected.
It’s a gentle and non-greasy sunscreen that can safely be used both by kids and adults.
SPF rating: 50 | Type of protection: Mineral | Water resistance: 80 minutes
Conclusion – Best Kids Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most important beach item (or travel item) you should pack for your kids to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
By choosing the right sunscreen and pairing it with other sun-safety essentials (such as hats), you can ensure your family enjoys endless fun in the sun while staying protected.
These 9 sunscreens for kids are all great options as they are non-greasy, easy to absorb, and safe. With these top-notch kids’ sunscreen options, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your little ones are protected from the sun’s harmful rays during all your family adventures!
Looking for additional beach essentials? HERE ARE OTHER RELATED POSTS THAT MAY INTEREST YOU:
– Best Sunscreen Sticks for Kids: 7 Safe and Reliable Options
– Baby Beach Essentials: 19 Must-haves for Babies at the Beach
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