15 Best Sunscreens For Kids In 2021
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The warm rays of the sun can be soothing when you are out with your kids on a beach or at a pool or playground. But not always. The ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can damage your little one’s skin.
A sunscreen lotion or cream is one of the best products to protect your little one’s skin from the harmful rays. But not all sunscreens are made for or are suitable for children. So you need to make an informed choice while picking one.
Top Picks
15 Best Sunscreens For Kids
1. Thinksport Kids Natural Sunscreen SPF 50+
This lotion is free of parabens or other harmful ingredients. It comes in a 6oz container and allows easy application. It has passed the Whole Foods Premium Care requirements and protects the skin for up to 80 minutes.
Pros:
- Easy to apply
- It is non-oily
- Mineral based formulation
- Water resistant
- Its broad spectrum formula protects from UVA and UVB rays
Cons:
- It has an unusual smell that the child may not like.
2. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen SPF 30+
It is a mineral-based sunscreen devoid of parabens, fragrances, and oxybenzone. The SmartBottle technology enables the bottle to turn blue in the presence of UV rays. It is dermatologically tested and is effective on sensitive skin.
Pros:
- It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Helps prevent sunburn
- Rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, that keep the skin supple
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons:
- It may stain some fabrics
3. Facial Sunscreen SPF 20
Protect the delicate skin of your child with this mineral-based formulation. It contains natural and organic ingredients, as well as a moisturizer. It can be used for babies, kids, and adults and is suitable for all types of skin.
Pros:
- Safe and effective
- Easy to use
- Cruelty-free and eco-safe
- Contains no chemical ingredients
- Water-resistant
- Offers protection for up to 80 minutes
Cons:
- Product is a bit thick
4. Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 70+
Keep your kids protected from the harmful UVA and UVB rays with this broad spectrum sunscreen spray. It is hypoallergenic, oil-free, and PABA-free. It is a dermatologist-tested formulation that is suitable for all skin types.
Pros:
- It is water resistant
- Specially designed for use on wet skin and can be used at the pool or in the ocean
- Offers sun protection up to 80 minutes
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- Need to be careful with the spray, when using in windy conditions
5. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion for Kids SPF 50
It is an Eco-conscious formulation that is free of oxybenzone, paraben, phthalate, PABA, petrolatum, SLS (sulfate), dye, and oil. It is a mineral-based formulation that contains Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. It contains natural ingredients such as lemon myrtle, kakadu plum, eucalyptus, and red algae that are rich in antioxidants.
Pros:
- Can be used on kids with eczema or severe sensitive skin conditions. Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Water-resistant
- Protects for up to 80 minutes
- Cruelty-free
- Pediatrician tested
Cons:
- Casts a white layer
6. Australian Gold Kids SPF 50 Lotion
It is an oil-free formula with extracts of aloe vera and native Australian acacia that have antioxidant benefits. Its broad spectrum formula offers UVA and UVB protection. This formula is tested by dermatologists and has a signature fragrance.
Pros:
- Water resistant
- Gives protection up to 80 minutes
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons:
- Can stain lighter clothes
7. Badger – SPF 30 Kids Sunscreen Cream
The formulation contains zinc oxide that provides broad spectrum protection against the UVA and UVB rays. It contains natural ingredients, including organic tangerine and vanilla for fragrance. The base of the formulation includes sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic
- Safe for the Coral reefs and is and planet-friendly
- Biodegradable
- Water and sweat resistant
- Contains no BPA or phthalates
Cons:
- The cream is very thick and takes time to blend into the skin
- Gives protection for 40 minutes
8. TruKid Sunny Days Sport SPF 30+
It is an organic sunscreen lotion offering broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is free of phthalates, parabens, and other harmful ingredients. It also includes natural extracts of aloe and jojoba oils.
Pros:
- Free of phthalates and parabens
- Can be safely used for children with eczema
- Water-resistant
- Easy to apply
- Smells great
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons:
- Takes time to blend into the skin
9. Sunology Kid’s & Baby Safe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 4.0
The lotion is made of natural active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It is infused with natural moringa oil that offers a mild fragrance. It is free of PABA, parabens, and chemicals such as oxybenzone and avobenzone.
Pros:
- Easy to apply
- Non-stinging formula
- Water-resistant and protects up to 80 minutes
- Eco-friendly and cruelty-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons:
- White residue can be seen after application
- Comes in smaller quantities
10. Burnout Kid Sunscreen SPF 30
Dermatologists and pediatricians recommend this sunscreen lotion that is free of chemicals and ideal for sensitive skin. It offers broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is enriched with aloe vera, virgin hemp seed oil, and antioxidants.
Pros:
- It is eco-sensitive and ocean-safe.
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Easy to apply
- Ingredients are biodegradable
Cons:
- May develop a bad odor if continuously exposed to or stored in a warm environment
11. Banana Boat Sunscreen Kids SPF 50
This lotion’s tear-free and sting-free formula protects children from sun rays without irritating their eyes. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends it. It contains Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide as active ingredients.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Pediatrician tested
- Mild on skin
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- It feels a bit greasy
12. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo Kids Sunscreen SPF 60
This sunscreen lotion is formulated with antioxidants and vitamin E. It is gentle on children’s skin and provides protection for up to 80 minutes. It is also free of parabens and artificial fragrance. It is dermatologist and pediatrician tested.
Pros:
- Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Lightweight
- Easy to apply
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Prevents sunburn
- Offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with Cell-OX Shield technology filtering system
Cons:
- Slight white cast on skin after application
13. Sunblocz Baby + Kids Natural Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 50+
Made of 100% natural ingredients, this sunscreen for kids has the highest percent of non-nano zinc oxide and antioxidant-rich ingredients such as grapeseed oil, according to the manufacturer. It is coral reef-safe and repels bugs. Dermatologists and pediatricians recommend this product.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for all skin types.
- Cruelty-free.
- Waterproof and offers protection for 80 minutes.
- Safe for kids with mild eczema.
Cons:
- A bit expensive.
14. Alba Botanica Tropical Fruit Kids SPF 45 Sunscreen
It is a lightweight sunscreen formulated using botanical ingredients. It does not contain octinoxate, oxybenzone, or gluten. Moreover, this sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. The formula is tear-free and has a natural fragrance.
Pros:
- Broad spectrum protection
- Biodegradable formula
- Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
- It is coral reef-safe
- Cruelty-free
Cons:
- Clothes can be stained
- It has an unusual smell that not everyone will like
15. Kiss My Face Kids Defense Continuous Spray Sunscreen SPF 50
It is a vegan sunscreen spray that offers broad-spectrum protection. It is free of oxybenzone, parabens, artificial fragrance, phthalate, and chemical propellant. This air-powered spray is perfect for covering the hard-to-reach areas.
Pros:
- Helps prevent sunburn
- Light, non-greasy, quick-drying formula with nourishing aloe
- Water-resistant
- Cruelty-free
Cons:
- It can become greasy in humid conditions
- Only 40 minutes of water resistance
How Does Sunscreen Protect The Skin?
Sunscreens shield the skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. A sunscreen lotion or cream must have a Sun Protection Factor or SPF of at least 15.
Sunscreens may be used for children above the age of six months, as a protection against sunburn and blisters, especially when they are out. You need to apply it 15 minutes before going into the sun. If the child spends more time in a pool or sweats a lot, then it is best to reapply the sunscreen after every 40 minutes.
The next section tells you about the different forms of sunscreen you may find in the market.
[ Read : SebaMed Sun Care Cream SPF50 Review ]
Different Types Of Sunscreens
The different variants of sunscreens you can buy include:
- Creams have a thicker consistency and take time to blend into the skin. They may be a bit greasy and could be uncomfortable to use in humid climates. Creams, however, work well for dry skin.
- Lotions are in a liquid form, which makes the application easier throughout the body. While some lotions can be greasy, others are formulated to be non-greasy.
- Sprays are a quick and effective way to apply sunscreen on the body. Spray and rub the sunscreen into the skin to ensure protection. Spraying directly on the face is not ideal as it may get into your child’s eyes and cause irritation. Instead, spray a small amount of sunscreen on the palm and apply it on their face.
- Sticks make it easy for applying sunscreen on the face. Roll the stick on the face and use your fingers to spread it evenly. Though a stick is not ideal for covering the entire body, it offers instant protection and is useful when traveling.
It is not very easy to find the right sunscreen for your kid when you do not know what to look for. We tell you more about it next.
Features To Look For In Sunscreens For Kids
Always make informed choices when you are purchasing sunscreens for your children. Features that you should look for include:
- Formulations: Look for the ones that specify a broad spectrum, which means they should offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Also, check for any ingredients that your child may be allergic to. A good sunscreen should be suitable for all skin types.
- Water resistant: The product should offer protection for at least 40 minutes when the child is in water or is sweating due to the heat.
- SPF: The more the SPF, the longer the protection. So always pick sunscreens with a higher SPF, or SPF high enough to suit the climate.
- Textures: Pick a sunscreen variant that is easier to use and comfortable for application on the child.
- Expiry date: Always check the date of expiry before buying the product.
Your child needs the daily dose of sunshine to get enough vitamin D without any damage to the delicate skin. And one way to do this is using the right sunscreen, specially formulated for children. With the right product, you can rest assured that your children are safe from the harsh sun rays even when they’re staying longer in the sun.
What sunscreen do you use for your kid? Share your experiences with us in the comment section below.
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