Heading out for some fun in the sun? Whether it’s a beach day, a trip to the park, or just playing in the backyard, protecting your child’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays is a top priority. Choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t sweat it! We’re here to help you navigate the world of sun protection and find the best sunblock for kids that suits your family’s needs.
We’ve rounded up five fantastic options that stand out for their effectiveness, gentle formulas, and kid-friendly features. So, slather up, and let’s make sun safety a breeze!
The Importance of Sun Protection for Children
Kids’ skin is much more sensitive than adult skin, making it more vulnerable to sunburn and long-term damage. Regular exposure to the sun’s harsh UVA and UVB rays without adequate protection can lead to premature aging, and significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. That’s why investing in a high-quality kid’s sunscreen isn’t just a good idea – it’s essential. Look for broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and formulas gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Our Top Picks for the Best Sunblock for Kids
Let’s dive into our reviews!
1. Banana Boat Sport Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Twin Pack
When your kids are constantly on the go, a spray sunscreen can be a real game-changer. The Banana Boat Sport Kids Sunscreen Spray offers robust SPF 50 protection specifically designed for active children. It boasts PowerStay Technology, meaning it’s built to stick around as long as the fun does, even through splashes and sweat. Parents love that it’s pediatrician-tested, tear-free, and won’t sting little eyes, making application less of a battle. Plus, it’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which is a big win for many families concerned about chemical ingredients.
- Key Features:
- Made with PowerStay Technology for lasting protection.
- Pediatrician-tested and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
- Lightweight, quick-absorbing SPF 50+ clear spray formula.
- Tear-free and sting-free.
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes.
- Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Pros:
- Very convenient spray application for active kids.
- Excellent water resistance for swimming and sports.
- Gentle and non-irritating, even for sensitive skin.
- Dries quickly without feeling greasy.
- Cons:
- Spray application can be tricky in windy conditions.
- Requires careful application to ensure full coverage (and rubbing in).
- User Impressions: Parents often praise this spray for its ease of use and ability to withstand vigorous play and swimming. Many appreciate the tear-free formula and the peace of mind knowing their kids are well-protected during long outdoor sessions. Some users advise rubbing it in quickly after spraying to ensure even coverage.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen – Safe, Natural
For parents prioritizing natural and mineral-based protection, Thinkbaby SPF 50+ is a perennial favorite. This baby mineral sunscreen was the first to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, which speaks volumes about its clean ingredient list. It provides broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection using zinc oxide, a mineral active ingredient, making it incredibly gentle for even the most sensitive baby skin. Despite being a mineral formula, it’s surprisingly easy to apply and won’t leave a heavy, oily residue.
- Key Features:
- Safe, natural, and effective SPF 50+ broad-spectrum mineral protection.
- First sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements.
- Leaping Bunny certified (cruelty-free).
- Free from PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals.
- Highest water resistance per FDA, up to 80 minutes.
- Natural fragrance derived solely from natural oils.
- Pros:
- Excellent choice for extremely sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
- Provides powerful mineral protection without harsh chemicals.
- Highly water-resistant, ideal for water babies.
- Doesn’t feel overly greasy or sticky after absorption.
- Cons:
- Mineral sunscreens can sometimes be thicker to apply compared to chemical options.
- May leave a slight white cast if not thoroughly rubbed in.
- User Impressions: This product consistently receives high marks from parents seeking the purest ingredients for their children. Users love its effectiveness, especially for kids with eczema or allergies, and commend its robust water resistance. Many report that while it’s a mineral sunscreen, it’s less chalky than others they’ve tried.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50
Aveeno is a brand synonymous with gentle skincare, and their Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen is no exception. This SPF 50 lotion offers superior broad-spectrum protection using 100% naturally-sourced zinc oxide, combined with soothing oat – a signature Aveeno ingredient. It’s specially formulated for children’s delicate skin, ensuring it locks in moisture without stinging. The tear-free, non-greasy formula is also paraben-free, phthalate-free, and fragrance-free, making it a dream for sensitive skin types.
- Key Features:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 with 100% naturally-sourced zinc oxide.
- Formulated with skin-soothing oat.
- Tear-free, non-greasy, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and fragrance-free.
- Sweat-resistant and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Pediatrician-recommended brand.
- Suitable for both face and body.
- Pros:
- Extremely gentle and soothing for sensitive skin, even eczema-prone.
- Effective mineral protection without harsh chemicals.
- Non-greasy and applies smoothly.
- Trusted brand recommended by pediatricians.
- Cons:
- As a lotion, it takes a bit more time to apply than a spray.
- A mineral formula, so a slight white cast is possible before fully rubbing in.
- User Impressions: Many parents rave about this Aveeno sunscreen, especially those with kids who have sensitive skin or eczema. They appreciate the non-irritating formula and how well it protects against sunburn. The soothing oat is a big plus, and users find it absorbs well without feeling heavy. It’s often highlighted as one of the best sunblock for kids for daily, sensitive skin use.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick Sunscreen – Fragrance Free
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best, especially when dealing with squirmy kids! The Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick is a fantastic option for quick, targeted application, particularly for the face, ears, and neck. This clear stick formula is designed for both wet and dry application, meaning you can swipe it on before heading out or even mid-swim. It’s free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, gluten, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, aligning with modern sun safety standards, including Hawaii 104 Act compliance.
- Key Features:
- SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection in a convenient stick format.
- Clear formula, no white residue.
- Designed for wet & dry application.
- Formulated without Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Parabens, and Synthetic Fragrance.
- Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Dermatologist Tested, Hawaii 104 Act Compliant.
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes.
- Pros:
- Incredibly easy and mess-free application, perfect for faces.
- Clear formula means no visible white cast.
- Great for quick touch-ups on the go.
- Gentle and non-irritating.
- Cons:
- Stick format is less ideal for large body areas.
- Contains less product than a standard lotion or spray.
- User Impressions: Parents absolutely adore the convenience of this stick, especially for applying sunscreen to the face of toddlers who hate standing still. They love that it’s clear and doesn’t leave any residue, making it perfect for sensitive areas without making a mess. It’s often called a “must-have” for quick sun protection.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50+
Neutrogena is a household name in skincare, and their Sheer Zinc Oxide Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion brings trusted expertise to children’s sun protection. This SPF 50+ broad-spectrum lotion features 100% naturally sourced zinc oxide as its active ingredient, providing robust UVA/UVB defense. What makes it stand out is its “Sheer Zinc” promise, meaning you get the benefits of mineral sunscreen without the heavy, ghostly white cast often associated with it. It’s a dermatologist-recommended, tear-free, oil-free, fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free formula, making it fantastic for sensitive skin.
- Key Features:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ with 100% naturally sourced mineral zinc oxide.
- “Sheer Zinc” technology for a less visible finish.
- Gentle, tear-free, oil-free formula.
- Free of parabens, fragrances, and dyes – ideal for sensitive skin.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Dermatologist-recommended brand.
- Pros:
- Offers effective mineral protection with a less noticeable white cast.
- Very gentle and non-irritating for sensitive skin and eyes.
- Widely available and a trusted brand.
- Good for both face and body.
- Cons:
- Still a lotion, requiring hands-on application.
- “Sheer” may still leave a slight tint on darker skin tones.
- User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight how well this Neutrogena sunscreen works for their kids with sensitive skin, including those with eczema. They appreciate the mineral-based protection and the fact that it truly is “sheer” compared to other zinc oxide formulas, making it less of a struggle to apply. It’s a popular choice for families who want reliable, gentle sun care from a reputable brand.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Sunblock
Choosing the best sunblock for kids can bring up a lot of questions. Here are some common ones answered to help you make an informed decision!
Q1: What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunblock for kids?
A: Mineral sunscreens (like those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) create a physical barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays. They tend to be gentler for sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. While effective, some ingredients in chemical sunscreens are a concern for certain parents. For kids, pediatricians often recommend mineral options due to their gentleness.
Q2: How often should I reapply sunblock on my child?
A: Generally, you should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, or more frequently if your child is swimming, sweating heavily, or towel drying. Always check the specific product instructions, as water-resistant formulas might allow up to 80 minutes before reapplication.
Q3: What SPF level is best for children?
A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 to 30 or higher for children. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98%. Higher SPFs offer only marginally more protection and can sometimes give a false sense of security, so consistent application is key.
Q4: Can babies under 6 months old use sunblock?
A: It’s generally advised to keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight as much as possible. For infants under 6 months, doctors recommend protective clothing (like long sleeves, hats) and shade as the primary forms of sun protection. If sun exposure is unavoidable, small amounts of mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) can be applied to small areas of skin, like the face and back of the hands. Always consult your pediatrician.
Q5: What does “broad-spectrum” mean in sunblock?
A: “Broad-spectrum” means the sunblock protects against both types of harmful ultraviolet rays: UVA (which cause skin aging and can contribute to skin cancer) and UVB (which cause sunburn and are a primary cause of skin cancer). It’s crucial for your child’s sunblock to offer broad-spectrum protection.
Q6: What ingredients should I avoid in my kids’ sunblock?
A: Many parents prefer to avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate due to potential concerns about their impact on hormones or the environment. Parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances are also common ingredients many choose to steer clear of, especially for children with sensitive skin or allergies. Look for “fragrance-free” and “hypoallergenic” options.
Q7: How can I apply sunscreen effectively on a squirmy child?
A: Make it fun! Try singing a song, telling a story, or turning it into a game. Apply sunscreen indoors before heading out, allowing it to absorb without distraction. Sunscreen sticks are great for faces, and lotions can be applied more easily if you have a helper. Consistency is more important than perfection!
Stay Safe, Have Fun!
Choosing the best sunblock for kids is an essential part of responsible parenting. We hope this guide has made your decision a little easier! Remember, no matter which sunblock you choose, consistent and correct application is paramount. Pair it with protective clothing, hats, and shade, and your little ones will be ready for all their sunny adventures, safely.