When it comes to protecting your little ones from the harsh effects of the sun, the right sunscreen can be the difference between a worry-free day at the beach and a sunburned kid in tears. You want a sunscreen that not only provides excellent protection but also won't irritate their sensitive skin. The best sunscreens for kids are a game-changer for any parent, offering peace of mind and a clear conscience. Let's take a closer look at the top contenders.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum protection to safeguard against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Opt for a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure it stays in place even after a swim or a sweaty playdate.
- Select a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic option to minimize the risk of skin irritation.
- Consider a mineral-based sunscreen for its natural and chemical-free ingredients.
- Don't forget to reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Coppertone Kids SPF 70 Sunscreen
Top Pediatrician Recommended Sunscreen
View on AmazonCoppertone's Kids SPF 70 Sunscreen is the top choice for many parents. Its high SPF rating and water-resistant formula make it perfect for active kids. This sunscreen also contains no dyes or PABA, making it a great option for sensitive skin. One potential drawback is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period.
Coppertone has a long history of producing high-quality sunscreens, and this product is no exception. Its dermatologically tested formula has been shown to provide excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is also easy to apply and absorbs quickly into the skin.
If you're looking for a sunscreen that's easy to apply and provides excellent protection, Coppertone's Kids SPF 70 Sunscreen is a great choice.
- BRAND:Coppertone
- TYPE:Lotion
- SIZE/CAPACITY:8 fl oz
- MATERIAL:N/A
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:1
- Additional Feature:Dermatologically tested
- Additional Feature:No artificial fragrances
-
Blue Lizard Kids Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen
Reef-Friendly Mineral Sunscreen
View on AmazonBlue Lizard's Kids Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a reef-friendly sunscreen. Its 100% mineral formula provides excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays, and its water-resistant formula makes it perfect for active kids. This sunscreen is also vegan and infused with antioxidant-rich Blue Algae.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period. Additionally, some parents may find the application process to be a bit more involved than other sunscreens.
Overall, Blue Lizard's Kids Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a reef-friendly sunscreen that provides excellent protection.
- BRAND:Blue Lizard
- TYPE:Lotion
- SIZE/CAPACITY:5 fl oz
- MATERIAL:Zinc oxide
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:1
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant formula
- Additional Feature:Antioxidant-rich Blue Algae
-
Banana Boat Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
Tear-Free Sunscreen Spray
View on AmazonBanana Boat's Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's easy to apply and provides excellent protection. Its tear-free formula makes it perfect for kids who may experience irritation from traditional sunscreens. This sunscreen is also water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period. Additionally, some parents may find the application process to be a bit more involved than other sunscreens.
Overall, Banana Boat's Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's easy to apply and provides excellent protection.
- BRAND:Banana Boat
- TYPE:Spray
- SIZE/CAPACITY:6 fl oz
- MATERIAL:N/A
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:2
- Additional Feature:PowerStay technology
- Additional Feature:Pediatrician-tested
-
Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen
Clear Sunscreen for Kids
View on AmazonSun Bum's Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a clear sunscreen that's easy to apply and provides excellent protection. Its water-resistant formula makes it perfect for active kids, and its fragrance-free formula is gentle on sensitive skin. This sunscreen is also reef-friendly and free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period. Additionally, some parents may find the application process to be a bit more involved than other sunscreens.
Overall, Sun Bum's Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a clear sunscreen that provides excellent protection.
- BRAND:Sun Bum
- TYPE:Spray
- SIZE/CAPACITY:6 fl oz
- MATERIAL:N/A
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:1
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Reef-friendly
-
Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Face Stick
Easy-to-Apply Face Stick
View on AmazonSun Bum's Kids SPF 50 Face Stick is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's easy to apply and provides excellent protection for their child's face. Its clear formula is gentle on sensitive skin, and its fragrance-free formula is perfect for kids who may experience irritation from traditional sunscreens. This sunscreen is also reef-friendly and free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period. Additionally, some parents may find the application process to be a bit more involved than other sunscreens.
Overall, Sun Bum's Kids SPF 50 Face Stick is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's easy to apply and provides excellent protection.
- BRAND:Sun Bum
- TYPE:Stick
- SIZE/CAPACITY:0.53 fl oz
- MATERIAL:N/A
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:1
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Reef-friendly
-
Aveeno Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen
Sensitive Skin Essential
View on AmazonAveeno's Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's gentle on sensitive skin and provides excellent protection. Its mineral-based formula is free from oxybenzone and provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is also tear-free and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for kids who may experience irritation from traditional sunscreens.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period. Additionally, some parents may find the application process to be a bit more involved than other sunscreens.
Overall, Aveeno's Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's gentle on sensitive skin and provides excellent protection.
- BRAND:Aveeno
- TYPE:Lotion
- SIZE/CAPACITY:3 fl oz
- MATERIAL:Zinc oxide
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:1
- Additional Feature:Hypoallergenic
- Additional Feature:Pediatrician-recommended
-
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen
Gentle Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
View on AmazonLa Roche-Posay's Anthelios Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's gentle on sensitive skin and provides excellent protection. Its 100% mineral formula is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it perfect for kids who may experience irritation from traditional sunscreens. This sunscreen is also water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it may not be as effective on skin that's been exposed to water for an extended period. Additionally, some parents may find the application process to be a bit more involved than other sunscreens.
Overall, La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen is a great option for parents who want a sunscreen that's gentle on sensitive skin and provides excellent protection.
- BRAND:La Roche-Posay
- TYPE:Lotion
- SIZE/CAPACITY:N/A
- MATERIAL:Zinc oxide
- POWER/SPEED:N/A
- COUNT:1
- Additional Feature:Cell-Ox Shield Technology
- Additional Feature:Pediatrician-tested
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between chemical-based and physical-based sunscreens?
Chemical-based sunscreens absorb into the skin, whereas physical-based sunscreens sit on the skin's surface. Physical-based sunscreens are generally considered safer and more natural, making them a better option for kids.
Can I use adult sunscreen on my child?
While adult sunscreens may be suitable for children, it's essential to choose a sunscreen specifically designed for kids. Adult sunscreens may contain ingredients that are too harsh for young skin, increasing the risk of irritation.
How often should I apply sunscreen on my child?
Apply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Additionally, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before spending time outdoors.
Are mineral-based sunscreens the same as physical-based sunscreens?
Yes, mineral-based sunscreens are another term for physical-based sunscreens. They contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients, providing a natural barrier against the sun.
Can I use sunscreen sprays on my child?
While sunscreen sprays can be convenient, they may not be the best option for kids. Instead, opt for stick or lotion sunscreens that are easier to apply and provide a more even layer of protection.
