When it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for your child, it’s easy to have a case of paralyses by analyses. From the sheer number of options in brands to the varying SPF numbers to the different methods of applying, sometimes within the same brand (spray, stick or lather?), conquering the sunscreen dilemma can feel like getting over a tidal wave. So we’ve decided to do the hard work for you by choosing 7 of the best tear-free kid-friendly sunscreens on the market to suit each of your child’s needs.
The metric we used took into consideration the opinion of both dermatologists, environmentalists, who recommend mineral blockers instead of man-made chemicals. Mineral-based sunscreens are not only more delicate on children’s skin but also on the depleting coral reef. Regardless of ingredients, however, babies younger than 6 months should not have sunscreen applied to them at all. Instead, they should be protected by umbrellas, blankets, canopies and hats.
How to Apply Sunscreen and additional protection against Sun
1. For children 6 months and older, sunscreen should be applied generously. Dermatologists recommend using 1 ounce to cover the exposed areas.
2. Donning a rash guard will work double duty to protect your child’s skin.
3. Keep your child out of the sun during the most intense hours from 11am to 2pm. If those hours can’t be avoided, any kind of respite from the sun is better than being out in the sun all day.
4. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before kids go outside for best results.
5. Don’t forget the ears, hands, feet, shoulders and behind the neck
6. Reapply after swimming or once every 2 hours, whichever comes first.
7 Best Sunscreens for kids
1. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection. Good for kids with Eczema
Not only is this sunscreen good for kids with eczema, it’s one of the highest-rated drugstore brand sunscreens on the market, Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Lotion Sunscreen ($10) uses both minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect from the sun's rays.
2. Alba Botanica Kids Mineral Sunscreen
Gluten-free, water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and free of active ingredients that may harm coral reefs, the Alba Botanica protects your kids from the sun and the environment.
3. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen – Baby, SPF 30
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen for babies is fragrance-free and utilizes transparent zinc oxide along with titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum protection. Plus, it’s unique bottle turns bright pink when exposed to UV rays, letting you know when you need to apply sunscreen.
4. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen, SPF 50+
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen not only does its job but also feels great because of its non-greasy nature. It absorbs quickly and is easy to rub in. And it smells great with a pleasant citrus scent to boot.
5. La Roche- Posay Anthelios Kids Sunscreen, SPF 60
If your child has allergies, eczema or sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids Sunscreen for Face and Body will protect them from the sun’s harmful rays without irritating their skin. Dermatologists developed it with sensitive skin in mind. It’s water-resistant and tear-free.
6. Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
Less is more, at least when it comes to safe lathering. This broad-spectrum lotion contains only six ingredients plus zinc oxide. It's reef friendly, biodegradable, and certified cruelty-free.
7. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50
This zinc oxide sunscreen is free of irritating chemicals, fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and dyes, and was awarded a National Eczema Association (NEA) Seal of Acceptance, indicating it's suitable for those with sensitive skin.