Whether you’re going to the beach or just going outside to play with your kids, you need to protect them from the harsh effects of the sun’s UV rays.
While asking your children to wear sunscreen isn’t really that easy, it’s one of the most important things to do especially when you know you’re going to be out under the sun for a long time.
Hence, we’ve gathered some of the most recommended baby and kid friendly sunscreens for you to have a variety to choose from. But before that, you might ask – why is sunscreen for babies important?
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Benefits of wearing sunscreen
Sunscreen helps protect our skin from the sun’s UV rays that could potentially cause skin cancer. It also keeps the skin healthy and protect it against sunburn and other types of skin damage such as wrinkles, dark spots, dry skin and uneven skin tone.
What are the different types of sunscreens?
Sunscreen comes in different types and the most common ones are lotions and sprays. Some come in creams, gels and sticks. You might wonder, which one is the best for your babies/kids?
Sunscreen Checklist
Type
There are several types of sunscreen. Lotions, gels, creams, sticks and spray.
Lotions are more recommended for children and it is the most common type of sunscreen. It looks like your regular body lotion, but it is specifically designed to protect the skin from the sun. It helps moisturize the skin and keeps it hydrated despite the heat.
Sticks come in slim packaging and look like lip balms. In terms of application, you need to make sure that all the areas are evenly coated before going out under the sun. Always keep one in your bag in case you forget to put sunscreen on your kids before going out of the house.
Sprays are convenient to carry around without having to worry whether it will spill in your bag. It works like a moisturizing mist. The little downside to this though is it’s more challenging to check if you’ve applied enough amount on your kid’s skin. You also don’t want to overapply because kids might breathe in the fumes. You just need to be a little more careful in using this type of sunscreen.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
It’s best to choose a sunscreen with SPF ranging from 30-70. This is very ideal to wear daily and will protect the skin enough from the harmful effects of the sun’s UVA/UVB rays.
Broad Spectrum Protection against UVA an UVB rays
It’s vital to find a sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays, both of which are very harsh to the skin. UVA causes skin damage such as aging and wrinkling while UVB is the most common cause of skin redness or sunburn. Exposure to both will lead to the development of dark spots and worst, skin cancer so make sure to search for the Broad Spectrum label on your sunscreen.
Waterproof and Sweat Resistant
Sunscreen is mostly used for swimming so choose one that’s waterproof. Kids just love playing with water so this is a must. It also helps if the sunscreen is sweat resistant for everyday activities like going out and playing in the park or any activity that will expose your kids under the sun.
Scent
One of the things you also need to consider is whether you’d get a sunscreen that is scented or the unscented one. You have to make sure to check if your kid has any allergic reaction to scented products before buying any scented sunscreen.
It’s preferable to use one that is unscented but if your child likes a good smelling lotion, you might want to consider those brands that offer scented sunscreens. Maybe for some kids, it’s more appealing to use a product that has a good smell.
There’s no difference in the ingredients apart from the fragrance, just be sure that whatever you’ll choose will suit the skin type of your kid.
Top 15 Best Sunscreen for Kids and Babies
Lotion
#1. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion | SPF 30
This sunscreen is very mild and best for sensitive skin. It contains naturally-sourced 100% zinc oxide and is both sweat and water resistant. Perfect for babies and very active kids! Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection has also been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as an effective broad spectrum sunscreen.
#2. Sunblocz Baby + Kids Mineral Sunscreen | SPF 50+
This product is made from natural ingredients that are safe for your babies and kids and the environment. It offers to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays and has antioxidant-rich ingredients such as grapeseed oil that will keep the skin moisturized and healthy. Sunblocz Baby and Kids is also cruelty free and not tested on animals. Safe for babies, kids, offers good skin protection and environment friendly too!
#3. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen – Baby Sunscreen | SPF 30+
This Australian sunscreen says it will protect your baby’s skin by acting like thousands of tiny mirrors that reflect UV rays away from the body instead of letting it penetrate the skin. This baby sunscreen doesn’t contain Oxybenzone or Octinoxate which help protect our delicate coral reefs. A sunscreen that’s not only gentle on the skin but the ocean, too.
#4. Coppertone Water Babies Sunscreen Lotion | SPF 50
Keep your babies protected against the sun by using Coppertone Water Babies Sunscreen Lotion. This is probably one of the most recognizable sunscreen brands. This sunscreen is pediatrician approved so it’s guaranteed safe to use for the delicate skin of babies and kids. Stay out in the sun and have lots of fun without having to worry.
#5. CeraVe Mineral Baby Sunscreen | SPF 45
This mineral and hydrating baby sunscreen is one of those created with natural ingredients. It’s non-fragrant too and very suitable for babies’ skin. Just apply a liberal amount on the face and body and you’re ready for a fun-filled day under the sun! The “Broad Spectrum” label also guarantees to protect the skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays.
#6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo Kids Sunscreen | SPF 60
Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, you can never go wrong with La Roche-Posay. It’s broad spectrum SPF 60 will allow your kid to play under the sun a little longer without feeling greasy or irritated. This product is also pediatrician tested so you can be assured that this is very safe to use for toddlers. Even the cute illustration on the packaging says too.
#7. Banana Boat Simply Protect Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion for Kids | SPF 50+
Banana boat is not just a fun beach activity but it’s also a sunscreen brand! This mineral based sunscreen lotion is made with 25% fewer ingredients which means there are more natural elements that will protect your kids while having fun under the sun. This is water resistant too but just in case it gets to your kid’s eyes, don’t worry, it’s tear free. What a great bonus, right?
#8. Alba Botanica Tropical Fruit Kids | SPF 45
Now, who wouldn’t love a cute packaging especially if it’s for children? Alba Botanica hits the nail on this one with its lovely lavender tube. But apart from the nice exterior, this product gives you the protection that your kids need when exposed to the sun. This also has a seal of approval from the Skin Cancer Foundation, so this is definitely a great buy.
#9. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen | SPF 50+
This might look like a typical sunscreen but don’t be fooled. This is the first one to pass the Whole Foods Premium Care requirements. If you’re extra particular with the health and skin benefits of sunscreens, you might love this one. Made with cruelty free ingredients, you’re not just protecting your child but you’re also taking part in protecting the environment. It’s non-greasy formula also makes it easily absorbed by the skin.
Stick
#10. Badger Balm Kids Face Stick – Tangerine and Vanilla | SPF 35
This balm type sunscreen is very convenient to use and easy to apply. The scent is also appealing with the delicious smell of Tangerine and Vanilla, it will make your kids want to spread it all over their face. This was also given the highest rating by the Environmental Working Group. Certified natural and organic, Badger Balm can be used on delicate skin. If you’re the parent who’s always on the go, you can just grab this and put it in your bag so you can make sure that your kids are protected everywhere.
#11. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Stick Sunscreen | SPF 30
This stick is very lightweight and hypoallergenic which works great on sensitive skin. Perfect for an active day outside, just apply this evenly on your kid’s face and get the protection you need. This is also safe to use on the lips just like your good regular moisturizing lip balm.
#12. Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick | SPF 50
This is not just a cute face stick. If you’re looking for something to use for your very energetic and on-the-go kids, this might be a good fit. It’s not a hassle to bring it with you every time, it’s easy to apply and since it comes in a stick form, you don’t have to worry about spilling this on your bag. This is also specifically formulated for kids and babies so you can get moisturization and protection at the same time. Not to mention, it’s water resistant so kids can enjoy swimming on the beach or the pool.
#13. Goddess Garden Kids Mineral Sunscreen Stick | SPF 50
If you have a handy-dandy checklist, this could be the product for you as it covers the main things you should look for in a good sunscreen. The label says it all – it’s safe for sensitive skin, environment & planet friendly, water resistant, moisturizing and will keep your child’s skin healthy because it has Aloe Vera and Coconut Oil. Bonus points for convenience because it’s lightweight and easy to carry. Not to forget, it’s also unscented so it’s best for children who have allergic reaction to fragrant ingredients in products.
Spray
14. Babyganics Kids Sunscreen Continuous Spray | SPF 50<
If your kid doesn’t want the typical lotion or balm type of sunscreen, this might do the trick. This Babyganics Kids Sunscreen comes in a spray bottle so it’s just like spraying cologne on the body. It’s sweat resistant so it’s meant for the little ones who love to run around and play. Don’t forget to apply a good amount evenly on your child’s skin before swimming or going out. Just in case you prefer this brand, they have lotion and stick type sunscreens too. Just a little tip for you.
15. Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray | SPF 70
Neutrogena is a well-known skin care brand especially for women. They have some of the gentlest products for the skin so a lot of people like this brand. Neutrogena also came out with a spray sunscreen product that is perfect for kids. The Neutrogena Wet Skin Sunscreen Spray is suited for all skin types so whether you’re going for a long drive to the beach or just enjoying a swim on the pool, this is your kid’s friend. Kids can stay up to 80 minutes under the sun once you apply this and it’s specially made for wet skin so for those who love water activities, you’ll never go wrong with Neutrogena. It’s gentle on the skin and easy to bring.
Conclusion
It’s very important that kids are protected against the sun specially if they love outdoor activities. It’s never wrong to be extra careful so having a good sunscreen with you is a wise choice. There are plenty of sunscreen brands to choose from. All brag about different qualities but ultimately, you must consider what will suit your needs and what is best for your baby or kid’s skin. Sunscreens are not just for swimming but for everyday activities too so don’t leave the house without putting sunscreen on your kids.
But one thing to remember is that sunscreens are recommended to be used for babies who are 6 months old and above. For the younger ones, protect them early against potential skin damage by making sure that they’re not exposed under the sun for too long and that they wear clothing that will not expose their skin under the sun directly.
References
https://www.aad.org/media/stats/prevention-and-care/sunscreen-faqs
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/sunscreen.html
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/parenting/wp/2016/05/26/how-to-choose-a-sunscreen-for-your-kids/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.c3459e081341
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