The sun can be a real pain in the, well, you know. But did you know that there's a sunscreen out there that can help your kids avoid those painful sunburns?
We've rounded up the best sunscreens for kids, so you can rest assured knowing your little ones are protected from the harmful rays of the sun.
Check out our list and find the perfect sunscreen for your kiddos!
The Importance of Sunscreen for Kids
Kids love to play in the sun and have fun, but it's important that parents give them the best sunscreen for kids so they can be protected from harmful UV-rays because kids' skin is more sensitive to sun exposure.
Sunscreen helps protect kids from developing wrinkles, age spots and other skin damage that can come with too much sun exposure. It also prevents sunburns which can be very painful and dangerous for young children.
That's why parents should always make sure their children have a good SPF30+ sunscreen when playing outside.
Sure, it may not seem like much fun lathering up your kid in sunscreen – but after all, we parents take the best care of our little rays of sunshine! So don't forget the best sunscreen for kids and let your children play happily in the sun.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Your Child
When it comes to sunscreen for your child, you should SLATHER like there’s no tomorrow! After all, sunscreen is the best way to protect your kid’s delicate skin from the sun.
When you’re at the store, look for products that are labeled as best sunscreen for kids. Many of these come with higher levels of protection and a gentler formula specifically designed for younger skin.
Make sure to check that it provides broad-spectrum coverage and has an SPF rating of 50 or higher. You also need to ensure that the sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, some only protect against UVA.
Finally, consider the type of sunscreen you choose. For example, lotion sunscreens are better for dry skin and may be easier to apply. But if your child is active, a spray sunscreen might be more practical for them.
Don't forget to reapply often - even if your kid is in the shade or wearing clothing!
The Top Three Sunscreens for Kids
Shopping for sunscreen can be a daunting task with so many choices out there, especially when you're shopping to protect your kids! But fear not — there are three top contenders that will help you keep your skin-guarding routine going strong.
Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
Best stick sunscreen for kids
Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion has SPF 50 for superior broad spectrum protection from harmful UV rays, you can hit up the beach with peace of mind. Plus, this sunscreen lotion from their pediatrician-recommended brand has a tear-free formula that’s non-greasy and hypoallergenic – which makes it perfect for your kid's sensitive skin.
Take them swimming in the pool or surfing in the sea without worrying about their skin health because this amazing sunscreen lotion will help prevent sunburns. And don't forget to reapply after every 80 minutes of swimming or sweating and also frequently throughout the day – like after towel drying and at least every two hours! Arm yourself with Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion and you're all set to have some serious sunset shenanigans!
Why Parents Love It
Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is a mom and kid approved sunscreen. Not only does it protect from burns, but its no-sting formula makes application a breeze (it comes in stick and lotion format so for wriggly kids, the stick is a great option).
Parents said their kids enjoy the lack of strong fragrance or smell - they've learned that good sun protection doesn't have to stink. Aveeno's lotion provides excellent coverage, and it's even great for under makeup for Moms too!
One parent says 'Aveeno saved us from my daughter's eczema flare ups, so I'd have to say we owe them a debt of gratitude!'
What You Need to Know
- Mineral-based sun protection for kids' sensitive skin
- Water- and Sweat-resistant for 80 minutes
- Comes in lotion and stick
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen offers the ultimate natural protection for your precious ones; it's suitable for everyday use on sensitive skin and is gentle enough for infants. Plus, rest easy knowing that it contains no parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone and a whole slew of other nasty things!
It's also fast-absorbing without leaving your little one with an oily or sticky feeling - no more tears from kids who don't like greasy lotions! Its clean mineral formula also provides active defense against the sun's harmful UVA & UVB rays. And if that weren't enough, this vegan product is also Leaping Bunny certified and passes Whole Foods Premium Care requirements too! As if that wasn't sweet enough, it's even made water resistant so your munchkin can go ahead and play in the pool while you enjoy some peace knowing they're as safe as can be.
Why Parents Love It
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen really can take on any sun-related challenge with ease. It works better than others parents have tried in the past, has a lovely scent, and does its job without fail. You'll never feel worried about your little one as Thinkbaby has got you covered with its perfect sun protection.
Parents say that, unlike some other sunscreens, it won't get absorbed by their skin while leaving behind a white sheen – thanks to zinc oxide being a component of Thinkbaby Spice 50+ but the clever combination of ingredients counteract this effect.
What You Need to Know
- Suitable for ages 6 months - 5 years
- Sun Protection 50 SPF
- Item Weight 70 Grams
- Certified Vegan by Leaping Bunny
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is perfect for protecting babies' delicate skin from the sun's harmful rays. With 100% mineral, non-nano zinc oxide and creamy plant extracts, this baby-friendly sunscreen is also reef-friendly, yet still totally powerful.
And as if that wasn’t enough, it's lightweight and fast absorbing – so toddlers can keep on toddling – and it's non-sticky! To top it off they've added in 100% sugarcane-derived squalane to help it glide on smoothly. It’s weightless and moisturizing, making it ideal for sensitive skin – perfect for day after day protection. So go out there in one piece with Pipette Mineral Sunscreen!
Why Parents Love It
Parents say Pipette Mineral Sunscreen is a total game-changer! They say that its formula has a decent helping of zinc oxide, yet the SPF value and texture are so nice that it didn't make them look like Casper the Friendly Ghost nor did it glue itself to their hairline.
Parents also say they swear their skin looks almost glassy after applying Pipette, and because the sunscreen contains nourishing ingredients, their skin also feels more hydrated. Pipette Mineral Sunscreen might just be something to put in Mom's permanent beauty routines!
What You Need to Know
- Sun Protection 50 SPF
- Item Weight 4 ounces
- Dermatologist tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Safe for sensitive skin
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Lotion UVA UVB Protection
Best baby sunscreen that works as a mosquito repellent
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Lotion UVA UVB Protection
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Lotion UVA UVB Protection is made with all mineral active ingredients, including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, so you can be sure it’s safe and gentle on your baby’s skin. Parabens and phthalates? No way—this baby sunscreen is completely free of those potentially damaging ingredients.
And if that weren’t enough, it offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, has been tested by both pediatrician and dermatologists (so you can stay worry-free), is non-allergenic and tear-free... Plus, it goes on white so you “don't miss a spot,” but rubs in fast and easy! It even stays put when water or sweat strike (it lasts up to 80 minutes).
Why Parents Love It
Surprisingly one of the things parents love most about this sunscreen for kids is that it works as a mosquito repellent! Alongside that they love this fragrance free blend and say it works great on kids with otherwise sensitive skin.
What You Need to Know
- Sun Protection 50 SPF
- Size 6 Fluid Ounces
- Pediatrician and dermatologist tested
- Non-allergenic and tear-free
- Water resistant 80 minutes
How to Apply Sunscreen Properly
Sunscreen is a must when headed out on any type of outdoor adventure, but it can be tricky to know how to best protect your skin! Don't worry though - with the right sunscreen and knowledge, you can rest assured knowing you're covered.
When choosing sunscreen, look for best sunscreen for kids that provides both UVA and UVB protection. Apply it liberally 15 minutes prior to heading outside and make sure to cover all exposed areas - ears, nose and even the tops of your feet if you plan on taking off your shoes!
Reapply every two hours for true peace of mind or after swimming or sweating. Now with these tips in mind, you'll have a blast soaking up the sun's rays without worrying about harmful effects later on!
Tips for Keeping Your Kids Safe in the Sun
Now that summer is officially here, it's time to get your kids outside and take advantage of the beautiful sunshine. However, since we all want to keep our kiddos safe, follow these tips to make sure they won't be vulnerable to sunburns: Make sure your little ones are wearing lots of sunscreen - SPF 30 and above! When in doubt, lather them up one more time. Have them wear hats with wide brims for extra protection and sunglasses for those squint-free eyes. Be sure to set a timer so they don't stay out playing in the sun too long - when that buzzer rings it's time to go inside! With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor fun without worrying about the dangers of UV rays this summer.
FAQs
Which Kids sunscreen is cleanest?
There are a lot of Kids sunscreens on the market, and it can be tough to figure out which one is the cleanest. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a great website where you can research different sunscreens to find the best one for your family.
The EWG rates sunscreens based on their toxicity and environmental impact, so you can be sure that the sunscreen you choose is both safe and environmentally friendly. Some of the factors they consider include whether or not the sunscreen contains toxic chemicals, whether or not it's biodegradable, and how harmful it is to marine life.
So far, EWG has rated over 2,000 sunscreens, so there's sure to be one that fits your needs.
What SPF is best for 12 year olds?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of 30 for children. It's important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Also, be sure to choose a sunscreen that is labeled as "broad spectrum" and is water resistant.
What sunscreens should kids avoid?
There are a few sunscreens that kids should avoid. One is oxybenzone, which can disrupt hormones and cause skin allergies. Another is retinyl palmitate, which may increase the risk of skin cancer. For the most part, though, any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen at all, so kids should always wear sunscreen when they're going to be in the sun.
What is the safest brand of sunscreen?
There is no one "safest" brand of sunscreen, as all sunscreens need to be reapplied frequently to be effective. However, some brands are better than others, and some have been known to contain harmful chemicals.
Some of the safest and most effective sunscreens available today are those that use mineral-based ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Mineral sunscreens usually provide broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB radiation, and they tend to be less irritating than chemical-based sunscreens.
It's always important to read the labels of any sunscreen product before purchasing it, as not all sunscreens are created equal. Some products may contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate, so it's best to steer clear of those. Additionally, look for products that are water resistant and offer broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB radiation.
What is the best natural sunscreen for kids?
There are a few natural sunscreens that are great for kids such as the ones listed above. All of these sunscreens are safe for kids and will protect them from the sun's harmful rays.
Is SPF 30 or 50 better for kids?
SPF 50 is better for kids. The reason being that a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 will filter out 98% of the UVB radiation, while a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 filters out 97%. So although the difference is small, it's still important to provide as much protection as possible for your child.
Furthermore, most people don't apply enough sunscreen to get the full benefits of the SPF rating. In fact, you need approximately 1 ounce (30 grams) to cover your whole body. So using a higher SPF sunscreen is only beneficial if it's applied generously and often enough. Sunscreen should be applied every 2 hours, or more often if you're sweating or swimming.
What are the worst sunscreens?
The worst sunscreens are the ones that don't work.
Sunscreen is important because it protects your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Sunscreen should be applied liberally and reapplied often, especially if you're going to be in the water or sweating.
Some of the worst sunscreens are the ones that don't work, because they can end up doing more harm than good. So make sure to choose a sunscreen that is labeled as "broad spectrum" and has an SPF of 50 or higher rather than chemical sunscreens.
What can I use instead of sunscreen for kids?
There are a few alternative options you can use instead of sunscreen for kids. Some people recommend using natural sunscreens like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. However, these sunscreens can leave a white film on the skin, so they may not be ideal for every child.
Another option is to use clothing to protect your child from the sun. Clothing with a tight weave will help block the sun's rays. You can also buy special sun-protective clothing that has a built-in sunscreen.
Finally, you can also try using hats and sunglasses to protect your child's skin and eyes from the sun.
Should kids wear sunscreen daily?
Yes, kids should wear broad spectrum sunscreen every day. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause skin cancer and other health problems down the road.
Kids' skin is especially vulnerable to the sun's rays, so it's important to make sure they're using sunscreen every day, even when it's cloudy or cold outside. There are a lot of great sunscreens out there that are designed for kids, so it shouldn't be too hard to find one that your child will like while avoiding chemical sunscreen. And remember: sunscreen should always be applied liberally and reapplied often!
Do you need special sunscreen for kids?
Yes, you need special sunscreen for kids. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children younger than 6 months old should not be exposed to the sun at all. And for kids older than 6 months, the AAP recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, along with other measures such as hats and sunglasses.
The reason for this is that kids' skin is much more sensitive to the sun than adults' skin, and they're more likely to get burned. Sunscreen helps protect your child's skin from UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer down the road. So it's important to make sure your child is protected from the sun every time they go outside.
Is 50 SPF or 100% sunscreen better?
50 SPF sunscreen blocks 50% of the sun's UVB rays, and 100% sunscreen blocks all of the sun's UVB rays. So, in theory, 100% sunscreen would be better. However, no sunscreen is perfect, and there is always some level of exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays.
So using a 50 SPF sunscreen instead of a 100% sunscreen may not make a huge difference in terms of protection from the sun. It's more important to find a sunscreen that you will use consistently than it is to find one with the highest SPF rating.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is a must for kids, but it can be tough to know which one to choose. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered. The top sunscreens for kids are listed above. When you have decided which one sounds best for your little one, click 'Check Price on Amazon' to shop today!
Apply sunscreen properly and your little ones will be able to have fun in the sun all summer long without worrying about getting burned!
