There are a lot of sunblocks and sunscreens for kids out there, so you’ll want to read the ingredients on the label to ensure it’s safe for your kiddo’s skin. “The ingredients recognized and generally recommended as safe and effective include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide,” Dr. Garshick explains. We carefully considered ingredients, application, age recommendations, and value when reviewing products. To save you from having to read through every ingredient list yourself, we’ve rounded up the best sunscreen options available. We named Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion our top pick because it’s a mineral and chemical sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum sun protection. It’s free of parabens, phthalates, and fragrance, and it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. This sunscreen is also safe for sensitive skin and won’t irritate the eyes, and many of the inactive ingredients used are certified organic. Even though it’s a lotion, it goes on smooth and rubs in well, so even the squirmiest kids are well protected without a buildup of white residue. Price at time of publication: $23 SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredients: Octisalate, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion Expert Notes: “Especially for young children, it is best to stick with mineral blockers, which contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These work by reflecting UV rays off the skin.” — Marisa K. Garshick, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and Clinical Assistant Professor at Cornell University While this sunscreen is marketed for babies, it should not be used on infants under 6 months old. “Babies under 6 months old should avoid direct sun and wear sun-protective clothing” such as hats and rash guards, Marisa K. Garshick, MD, FAAD notes. Price at time of publication: $22 SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion With SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection, this sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Even though it comes in a spray bottle, this is still a lotion spray, so you’ll need to thoroughly rub it into your child’s skin. Dr. Garshick reminds caregivers to apply a sufficient amount since the formula is thinner in order to work as a spray. Price at time of publication: $28 SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, octocrylene, octisalate | Application Type: Spray Price at time of publication: $9 SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion The SPF 50+ sunscreen offers UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection as well as hydration, thanks to the coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter in the formula, without being oily. Simply roll the sunscreen on using the stick and rest easy knowing your little one’s skin is safe for up to two hours. Price at time of publication: $14 SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Application Type: Roll-on stick Whether you use this sunscreen or another brand, Dr. Garshick notes, “It is important to check the label to see if it is water-resistant sunscreen and for how long, which indicates when to reapply if swimming or sweating.” If your child gets wet, you’ll usually have to reapply sooner than when their skin is dry. Price at time of publication: $9 SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, vitamin E | Application Type: Lotion In addition to zinc oxide, this sunscreen uses chamomile, beeswax, vitamin E, and other ingredients that will both protect and hydrate your child’s skin. This sunscreen is SPF 30, and it offers broad-spectrum protection for up to two hours when the skin is dry and up to 40 minutes when swimming or sweating. Price at time of publication: $40 SPF: 30 | Active Ingredient: Non-nano uncoated zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion The broad-spectrum lotion is SPF 50, and it is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s also tear-free, hypoallergenic, and does not leave the skin feeling greasy or oily after application. That being said, it is a rather thick formula that needs to be rubbed in well; otherwise, it will leave a white residue behind. Price at time of publication: $12 SPF: 50 | Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion The SPF 50 lotion provides broad-spectrum protection, is reef-safe, and comes in a “smart bottle” that changes colors in dangerous UV light. This formula is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes and is gentle on all skin types. However, it is very thick and will more than likely leave a white cast (without vigorous rubbing). Price at time of publication: $15 SPF: 50 | Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion The broad-spectrum sunscreen is SPF 50 and comes in a pump spray bottle. Its active ingredients include both chemical and mineral sunscreens, though it is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate. The insect repellant is made with essential oils and is free of DEET, parabens, artificial fragrances, sulfates, and dyes. Both products’ formulas won’t leave the skin feeling greasy and are hypoallergenic. SPF: 50+ | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, octocrylene, octisalate | Application Type: Spray While it is thick, the formula contains sugarcane-derived squalane to help it rub in easily without leaving a greasy or sticky residue behind. This sunscreen is also reef-safe and is great for sensitive skin because it’s free of fragrances and harsh chemicals and packed with soothing ingredients like antioxidant bisabolol. While it is not water- or sweat-resistant, it does offer dry skin up to two hours of protection. Price at time of publication: $12 SPF: 50 | Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Application Type: Lotion 4.5 to 4.7 stars: These best sunscreens for kids are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them. 4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great best sunscreens for kids, but others are better. 3.5 to 3.9 stars: These best sunscreens for kids are just average. 3.4 and below: We don’t recommend best sunscreens for kids with this rating; you won’t find any on our list.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Kids
SPF
Sun protection factor (SPF) can range depending on the sunscreen and the form it takes, and it’s recommended to go for a minimum SPF of 15 to 30. While it may seem like a higher SPF offers more protection, the Environmental Working Group cautions against choosing an SPF over 50. Having done independent testing, EWG found that “actual SPF values are significantly lower than what is on the label.” And if you’re using a high SPF, it shouldn’t be an incentive to spend as long as possible in the sun or an excuse to skip reapplying.
Chemical Sunscreen vs. Mineral Sunscreen
Chemical and mineral sunscreens are differentiated by how they interact with the sun. Chemical sunscreens work to absorb the sun’s rays, while mineral (also known as physical) sunscreens work to block the sun’s rays. According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, mineral sunscreens are recommended for children and those with sensitive skin. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens are best suited for older children and those without skin conditions. “While all sunscreens are effective for all skin colors, some people with darker skin prefer an option that won’t leave a white cast,” Dr. Garshick says. “Historically, chemical sunscreens have been able to rub in more easily, though more mineral formulations have been developed that are tinted and less likely to leave a cast behind. In general, it comes down to personal preference and making sure you find a sunscreen you like to apply.”
Ingredients
According to EWG’s 15th Annual Guide to Sunscreens, the two sunscreen ingredients that are recognized as safe are:
Titanium dioxideZinc oxide
A recent study found that chemical sunscreen ingredients avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate, and octinoxate get absorbed into the bloodstream after use at higher levels than were previously thought. The American Academy of Dermatology and the FDA did not conclude that this was an immediate cause for alarm, however. “While these active ingredients were absorbed into the bloodstream at levels exceeding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s threshold for waiving additional safety tests, more research is needed to determine if the absorption has any effects on a person’s health,” reads a 2020 statement from the AAD. “Most importantly, the study authors and the FDA conclude that consumers should continue to use sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun.” Still, the EWG warns that the following ingredients haven’t yet been thoroughly studied enough:
AvobenzoneHomosalateOctinoxateOctisalateOctocryleneOxybenzoneCinoxateDioxybenzoneEnsulizoleMeradimatePadimateSulisobenzone
The two ingredients that are deemed unsafe to use are:
PABATrolamine salicylate
Like the AAD, Dr. Garshick stopped short of cautioning against the use of chemical sunscreens, but she did say they are not recommended for sensitive skin.
Broad Spectrum UVA and UVB Protection
Sunlight emits two types of ultraviolet light, UVA and UVB. Unprotected exposure to UVB light can cause sunburns, while exposure to UVA light leads to skin aging, with both having the potential to lead to skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreen implies protection from both types of UV light, but the EWG questions their UVA coverage. Arguing that SPF values are more so tied to UVB rays and sunburn protection, the EWG believes the FDA’s guidelines for broad-spectrum sunscreens are too minimal. Despite these claims, ways to decrease the risk of UVA ray exposure include picking ingredients like avobenzone and zinc oxide, the “two best UVA filters in American sunscreens.” The EWG also lists titanium dioxide as a moderately effective ingredient for UVA ray protection. Other best practices include effectively applying sunscreen, minimizing time in the sun, and wearing UPF clothing and accessories.
Water-Resistant
Water-resistant sunscreens aren’t just limited to beach or pool play. Your child will likely be sweating when outside in the heat, which is when a water-resistant formula offers better protection than a standard type. Keep in mind that there isn’t a truly “waterproof” sunscreen, according to the FDA, only water-resistant. When spending time in and out of the water, your kiddos should reapply sunscreen more frequently, especially after exiting the water, and make sure to follow the product’s label-specific directions.
Type of Application
Lotion: Though lotions can be tedious, they offer easy absorption and peace of mind in ensuring no spot is missed. This form is the easiest to effectively apply. Spray: While spray sunscreen appears like the most convenient form, especially if the little ones are antsy to start playing outside, they’re not as thorough as other forms and tend to be applied ineffectively. Contrary to popular belief, sprays still need to be rubbed into the skin, especially as the initial application may miss some areas. And no matter the type, the FDA recommends against applying spray sunscreen to the face due to the likelihood of breathing in fumes. Stick: Aside from being lightweight and space-friendly, stick sunscreens are an ideal option for kids who are learning to apply sunscreen independently. Its swipe-on form is perfectly sized for delicate areas like the face and the ears, so there’s no overdoing application. However, multiple layers need to be swiped on for the ultimate coverage. Gel: In the case of thin or very short hair, if the thought of running a lotion sunscreen over your head or your child’s doesn’t seem appealing, gel-based sunscreens are a thinner alternative in providing coverage to your scalp.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and a mom to a 2.5-year-old and a 5-year-old. She has personal experience in shopping for safe, effective kids sunscreen and has tried several of the brands on this list and ranks the Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion as her favorite.
Wear Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing, which feature a higher thread count to block the sun’s rays. Aim for a UPF of 15 or 50+.Sport a wide-brimmed hat that can provide coverage for your face and neck.Wear sunglasses that block or filter UVA and UVB rays.Don’t forget the lips! Lip balm with a minimum SPF of 15 should be a pocket essential.Avoid certain medications, like some acne treatments, decongestants, and antibiotics, which may increase the likelihood of a sunburn.If obtaining vitamin D is the goal, alternatives include supplements and vitamin D-rich foods.
In actuality, African Americans experience more melanoma deaths than any other ethnic group. There are more difficulties in detecting skin cancer in those with dark skin, resulting in a higher likelihood that they’ll receive a late-stage prognosis. The bottom line is that sunscreen should always be worn no matter one’s skin tone. There is no sun immunity in any community, and skin cancer is preventable. Even if a sunscreen is labeled as “all-day,” it should be reapplied every two hours or however frequent according to the label’s instructions. If your little one is going in and out of the pool or the beach, water-resistant sunscreen should be reapplied more frequently—especially after exiting the water. A rule of thumb is to apply 1 ounce, the amount that would fill a shot glass all over the body.
