Best Baby Sunscreens
Getting your baby a little sun is no harm, but, when you are assured to be out for a longer period, it is recommended to use sunscreen to protect the baby from the harmful rays of the sun. As is, too much of anything could be harmful, and here, too much of vitamin D could cause sunburns, damage the skin, cause skin cancer, and would surely be harmful to the baby’s tender skin.
Can Babies Use Sunscreen?
Babies who are under six months are not recommended to use sunscreen. On the other hand, they can use sun hats, long breathable sleeves, long pants, or clothes with sun protection of UPF 30, instead. Nevertheless, there is always an alternative to plan your outing post or prior 10 a.m. and 2 p.m, since the rays of the sun are at its peak.
Haven said that, if your baby is older than 6 months, using sunscreen is a good choice. Remember to apply the sunscreen 30 mins before you go out to help it work its magic. Typical use remains from 11- 1 pm when sun is emitting UV rays.
How To Choose The Best Baby Sunscreen?
1. Its spectrum coverage
As opposed to the UVB ( that causes sunburns), UVA ( prematurely aged skin leading towards melanoma), the broad-spectrum sunscreen works perfectly for both rays.
2. Natural ingredients
Natural ingredients work as natural blockers for the sun, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They reflect both the UVA and UVB rays, unlike other chemicals like oxybenzone and octisalate. They also sink into the skin, absorb and defer the UV rays, resulting in an irritated skin.
3. Water-resistant
These help you stand up against sweat and water. Nevertheless, the only downside of it is that one needs to reapply it every 40-80 minutes, depending on what the label has to say.
4. SPF 15
The acceptable minimum amount for sunscreen is at least SPF 30 and helps avoid the sun rays, and protects against burns and cancer-causing rays.
5. A cream sunscreen
These are observed to be the best as opposed to other sunblocks like sticks, and sprays. For instance, a spray would require the parents to rub it in that always ends with a missing spot, which might later cause a sunburn. Whereas creams, although take more time, assures a coat all over the baby’s skin.
Top 10 Best Baby Sunscreen To Choose From:
1. Thinkbaby Sunscreen
Thinkbaby sunscreen comes with a tropical papaya smell with 20% zinc oxide. It is smooth and clear on the skin, isn’t greasy, easy to apply, and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Amazon Reviews
I’ve been using this product for 3 months now, and I like it a lot. I bought it because I have sensitive skin and the ingredients are non-irritating. It has a pleasant smell to it, like mango or pineapple, which I wasn’t expecting but I like.
Since this is a mineral sunscreen, it’s very thick and starts out entirely ghost-white, and can leave a visible white cast if it is not diluted with anything. In addition to the cast, the zinc oxide can be a little drying in the winter, so I usually use a very small amount of tea tree and coconut oil to lower the pH and make it more moisturizing. This has worked very well for me, and the cast isn’t noticeable at all, although this may be because I have pale skin.
For people with darker skin, this white cast may not be ideal, so I would recommend diluting it with moisturizer or your favorite oil. Or, if that’s too much trouble, think about going with another sunscreen. 🙂
– J. Brick
My baby can only use hypoallergenic products because he has very sensitive skin. This product didn’t give him any rash or allergy. I highly recommend
For more product reviews visit Amazon
2. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen
Aveena’s sunscreen includes zinc oxide and works best on dry or sensitive skin as it is naturally sourced to protect the baby from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and contains oatmeal that works best for sensitive skin, keeping it moisturized.
However, on the downside, it is a little hard to apply and difficult to remove since its thick.
Amazon Reviews
Our entire extended family gets burned easily from being out enjoying life. We live in San Diego so it’s a constant struggle. Even through our diligence in protecting our skin while being active outside. With a toddler it’s always a struggle but have found this product to cover her better than others.
Was kind of apprehensive about buying this because of the price, and worried I would spent the money for it, and it making my two year old with very sensitive skin. I’ve tired other name brands that didn’t cost as much, and claimed to be for sensitive skin, but as soon as I put it on her she would start itching and having welts . She’s had it in for about an hour now, and she’s hasn’t itched once!!! Her skin is not breaking out, and it feels really soft. I’m not a huge fan of the smell, but it’s not a strong smell, and if keeps her from getting a sunburn and from having an eczema break out while wearing it, I’ll gladly put it on!! It might be more expensive than other brands, but it’s definitely worth it!!!
– Kaaaaaa
For more product reviews visit Amazon
3. Earth Mama Uber-Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
Earth Mama Kids sunscreen works great on the baby’s sensitive skin and contains organic colloidal oatmeal and shea butter that provides moisture. It’s reef-friendly, water-resistant for up to 80 mins, fragrance-free, and has about 12% titanium dioxide, preventing the skin from sunburn.
However, it only lasts for 40 minutes, which means you’ll need to re-apply.
Amazon Reviews
I like this suncreen uses fewer ingredients than other companies. I don’t understand why sunscreen products need to contain so many different ingredients, they only add junk to your face.
I like sunscreen leaves a little white cast on my face, so I know that I’ve cover my face with it and my face is well protected.
The only complain is that it’s hard to squeeze it out of the tube.
– Matt
This is a great product. Biodegradable so worked for our visit to Mexico. Did not affect my daughters super sensitive skin. She has eczema. Highly recommend!
– KarenA
For more product reviews visit Amazon
4. Badger Active Kids Sunscreen Cream
This sunscreen cream is top-rated by EWG and is made with 98% organic ingredients with tangerine-and-vanilla scent, and is water-resistant. It has zinc oxide, sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E for moisturizing, and is biodegradable and coral-reef safe.
However, similar to Earth Mama, the sunscreen works for only 40 minutes.
Amazon Reviews
I’m not huge on sunscreens. They are typically full of carcinogens and other toxins I just don’t want around my family. Saying that, I do believe in being sun smart! And in those cases you need a little help, this stuff is a good way to go. We still got a little red after HOURS in the sun, but nothing like we would have. I love the smell. A bit hard to rub in but I’d buy it again.
* Don’t forget to reapply after 2-3 hours!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
5. Adorable Baby by Loving Naturals All-natural Sunscreen
Adorable Baby sunscreen comes with 24% zinc oxide and is clear on the skin. It’s made from all-natural ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and grape seed oil and has 40 minutes of water-resistant capacity.
Amazon Reviews
I cannot say enough good things about this sunscreen. I looked on the EWG (environmental working group I think?) To find a sunscreen that wasn’t bad for you. I’ve tried a couple now and this is my favorite. It’s mostly clear, it smells amazing, not too strong (I am picky) it moisturizes my skin and it does NOT cause breakouts. This stuff works so well…I accidentally used it on one side of a tank top strap and not on the other side (I got burned where I didn’t use it) and when you remove the tank top strap you cannot tell the difference from where the tank top was and where the sunscreen was. Zero tanline. Never seen that before. So impressed!
Badger is always well-rated for safety by the EWG Cosmetics Safety database. We like this sunscreen– yes it makes you glow white, but it works. Sometimes I mix it with tinted sunscreen if I don’t want to glow too much. For long days at the beach or the lake it works great! Love the smell too!
– Matthew
For more product reviews visit Amazon
6. Babyganics Pure Mineral Sunscreen Stick 50+ SPF
This stick sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and helps cover the whole skin of the baby, keeping them safe from the harmful rays of the sun. It is easy to apply, all you need to do is, swipe the sunscreen stick up and apply it all over the tiny ears, lips, or across little noses. Made without phthalates or fragrances, it is also tear-free and is compact for a long time post applying.
Amazon Reviews
the perfect sun lotion for the face of a wiggly 5 yo ginger! It is thick ( like stick deodorant for reference) goes on white and stays white until it soaks in. He liked the zombie look. I have a 5 yo ginger who is very patient with sunlotion applications because he has to wear sunlotion all.the.time. . This was ideal to get really close to his eyes without getting in his eyes like liquid sun lotions do. It also did not run into his eyes when it gets wet or he sweats. It is dry feeling on the skin vs greasy like zinc. It is a winner!
This sunscreen stick works great against UV rays and is easy to apply. I prefer to use it for smaller areas since it is a little difficult to rub in. It’s great to stick in a purse or stroller compartment for on the go.
– Jamie
For more product reviews visit Amazon
7. Erbaviva Organic Baby Sunscreen SPF 30
This sunscreen earns a top rating from the EWG. Naturally crafted with zinc oxide, aloe, sunflower, olive, and jojoba oils, Erbaviava’s best baby sunscreen is infused with organic essential oils like chamomile and lavender. Adding on, it’s a light sunblock, leaves no white residue on the skin, and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Amazon Reviews
Great product! Sightly small for the price but I would buy again. It is easy to spread and it smells great. Doesn’t feel tacky after application either.
– Scampi
I bought this sunscreen for my daughter to wear at her preschool, which spends a lot of time outside. We live in Hawaii so I take sun exposure very seriously. This sunscreen does an excellent job and smells nice too. It is easy to apply and although it still leaves the skin with a whitish tint, it is not overly greasy like the one i use when we go to the beach. I will be buying this again for sure!
For more product reviews visit Amazon
8. Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Two Peas baby sunscreen is certified amongst the best organic options for babies. With being an SPF of 50, the formula relies on 25 percent zinc oxide, preventing any painful burns from the sun. Not only for the babies, but the sunscreen is also powerful enough to protect adults and comes with a fragrance-free formula that is reef safe.
Amazon Reviews
I have sensitive skin and spend a lot of time out in the sun. For a long time I chose to avoid sunscreen and keep my skin protected with clothing due to harsh chemicals present in most sunscreens. Of course that is not always possible, especially when spending time out in the water and keeping UV rays off my face! The clean ingredients and organic formula make Two Peas the perfect solution for our family. I usually put the sunscreen on thickly on my face and nose so I know it’s there, my son likes it rubbed in. The zinc oxide provides awesome protection and lets you know where you applied it as you are rubbing it in. It also requires very little product to achieve confident protection from harmful UV rays. I find I can re-apply sparingly and easily have protection all day when I apply a thick layer.
Purchased this for a trip to Hawaii. It did what it claimed. I was well protected from the sun. It is very thick and takes time to put on but if you don’t want to burn this is the product for you.
– Patty
For more product reviews visit Amazon
9. Attitude Baby Moisturizer Sunscreen SPF 30
Attitude baby moisturizer is a PETA-certified, vegan, and cruelty-free sunblock that also earns a top rating from the EWG. It contains a non-nano zinc oxide that forms a protective barrier against the UVA and UVB rays of the sun.
Amazon Reviews
For more product reviews visit Amazon
10. Neutrogena Pure Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
This baby sunscreen is best for those with eczema and is naturally sourced with mineral ingredients that shield the babies from UVA and UVB rays. They do not leave a heavy, greasy residue behind, are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Amazon Reviews
It does work. We used up all 3 bottles on our cruise to the Caribbean. No one got burned. Not even slightly. We did have that white zinc pasty look, but didn’t care. Totally water proof.
It steams me at the price gouging, though. Paid $23 for 3 bottles of this in Jan 2022 (knew we were going on a cruise.) It is now July 2022 and want more but it is $53 now. I can’t believe it! I won’t pay it. going to get it from an actual local store.
– Amanda W
Both my girls have extremely sensitive skin. Most popular name-brand lotions break them out. This is one of the few that offers amazing, full protection, but is gentle on the skin. Best when paired with UV protective bathing suits/clothing.
– Amy A.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
To Conclude:
Baby sunscreen creams are made to protect the baby from the sun rays that might get too much, affecting their skin and health. However, this doesn’t mean that the baby must avoid the warmth of the sun and get some vitamin D. In fact, it’s necessary to build a healthy life. So, if you know you are going to be out for a much longer period with the little one, we recommend a layer of sunscreen that suits both you and the baby well.
FAQs: Top 10 Best Baby Sunscreen
1. Can I put sunscreen on a 4-month-old baby ?
2. When can you take the baby out in the sun ?
3. How can a parent know if the baby has a sunburn ?
4. Why is it not safe for babies to wear sunscreen until 6 months ?
Reviewed By:
Nimrat Sidhu - Pediatration
Dr. Nimrat S Sidhu is a practicing pediatrician for about 5 years now and holds an MD pediatrics degree. She was the topper of her batch, has always had a keen interest in her core medical field, and is specially trained for neonatal resuscitation.
She has published multiple research papers on pediatrics and is interested in topics like Neonatal care, skincare, baby growth, vaccination, growth, and development.
