Top 10 Best Baby Sunscreen For Gentle Protection
As parents, you may find multiple options for the best baby sunscreen, but choosing the right one can be tricky. Many brands may claim that their product is perfectly safe for your baby, but is it? In this article will explore if this is true. The next most important thing is that whenever buying baby…
As parents, you may find multiple options for the best baby sunscreen, but choosing the right one can be tricky. Many brands may claim that their product is perfectly safe for your baby, but is it? In this article will explore if this is true.
The next most important thing is that whenever buying baby sunscreen, always check its ingredients and make sure that it does not contain any harmful chemicals. It is best to go for mineral-based sunscreen. Another thing is that always be careful while applying sunscreen on babies skin. The application of sunscreen also depends on the baby’s age, as it is not recommended to use sunscreen on babies under six months. Hence don’t fall the product claiming the best sunscreen for newborns.
So, let’s talk about the best baby sunscreens with the safest sunscreen ingredients. We will also discuss other sunscreen-related things you should consider as well.
Table of Contents
Best Baby Sunscreens
Sunscreen is important as it protects the skin from sunburns, aging, and skin cancer. The application of sunscreen is recommended for adults and kids as well. SPF or sun protection factor in sunscreen is what protects our skin from UV (UVA+UVB) rays. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is believed to work effectively in blocking UV rays. So, by including all the important and safest factors, here is the list of the best baby sunscreens.
Baby Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
1. Aveeno Sensitive Skin Lotion Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
Aveeno brand is known for their eco-friendly baby products and this sunscreen is no different. It is perfect for babies with sensitive skin as it uses tear-free formula. This product is grease-free and it is effective with its less – quantity as well.
Type – Mineral sunscreen
Price – 11 $ for 3 fl. oz.
Ingredients – naturally sourced zinc oxide (21.6%) as the active ingredient and oat for soothing
Pros
- Comes with SPF 50 and blocks a broad spectrum.
- Free from fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and other toxins.
- Contains a hypoallergenic sunscreen formulation.
Cons
- Can be a little greasy for some.
2. Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
This tear-free, fragrance-free, and toxin-free product comes with natural ingredients. It can be the best sunscreen for sensitive skin. As per the product guide, always apply 15 minutes before going out.
Type – Mineral sunscreen
Price – 13 $ for 3 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide (20%) as the active ingredient, coconut oil, shea, and cocoa butter for hydrating and nourishing the skin.
Pros
- This SPF 50 sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
- It is water-resistant but reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or other water activities.
- Lightweight and non-greasy and absorbs very quickly.
Cons
- Can be a little expensive for some people.
3. Mustela Baby Sunscreen Lotion
It is the safest and the best childrens sunscreen and it is suitable for all family members. This product is formulated without chemical filters, parabens, dyes, or phthalates. It is recommended to apply this sunscreen on exposed areas 15 minutes before going outside.
Type – Mineral sunscreen
Price – 17 $ for 3.38 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide (24%) as the active ingredient
Pros
- This SPF 50 sunscreen blocks UV rays.
- It is best for normal skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, and atopic-prone skin.
- This product is water-resistant and toxin-free and fragrance-free.
Cons
- May leave a white cast.
4. Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Spray Sunscreen
It is a mineral-based safest sunscreen spray suitable for all skin types. This sunscreen is safe for all ages kids over six months. And as for spray sunscreen application, spray the sunscreen on the skin from 4 to 6 inches distance. Don’t directly spray on the face instead first spray on the palm, then apply on the face.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – 18 $ for 6 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide (12%) as the active ingredient, sunflower oil, aloe vera, chamomile, calendula
Pros
- This SPF 30 sunscreen blocks a broad spectrum.
- It is free from any kind of chemical filters, mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, synthetic color, allergic nuts, etc.
- It moisturizes the skin also.
Cons
- None
5. Pipette Mineral Sunscreen
This best baby sunscreen is suitable for all family members as it is fragrance-free and toxin-free. This product protects the skin from harmful rays while moisturizing the skin at the same time.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – 13.50 $ for 4 fl. oz.
Ingredients – non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient, sugarcane-derived squalane, plant-based glycerine, lecithin, bisabolol, wild gooseberry
Pros
- This hypoallergenic sunscreen comes with SPF 50 and blocks both types of UV rays.
- Comes with natural ingredients that’s why safe for sensitive skin and coral reefs.
- It is one of the cleanest sunscreens that is suitable for all age types (over six months of age)
Cons
- It is not water-resistant.
- Little expensive
6. Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen
This best baby screen is safe for a baby’s soft skin as it does not contain any kind of chemical ingredients. It also comes with smart bottle technology where the color of the bottle’s cap changes to pink color in harmful UV light. This spreads sun safety awareness.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – 14 $ for 5 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (8%) as active ingredients
Pros
- Lightweight and grease-free consistency that absorbs quickly to the skin.
- Water-resistant for up to eighty minutes.
- Comes with SPF 50+ formulation and blocks up to 97% of UV rays.
- This safest sunscreen is safe for babies and coral reefs.
Cons
- It might be greasy for some people.
7. Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen
This mineral-based sunscreen protects the skin two-fold as it protects the skin from the sun and moisturizes at the same time. This product is dermatologist tested and free from toxins.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – 11 $ for 8 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide (12%) and titanium dioxide (3%) as active ingredients
Pros
- It is tear-free, non-allergenic, and water-resistant.
- It comes with SPF 50 blocks broad spectrum.
- Lightweight and offers smooth application.
Cons
- This product may leave a white cast.
8. Neutrogena Mineral Baby Sunscreen Lotion
This product comes with a naturally sourced active ingredient that is safe for the baby’s skin. The gentle formulation of this sunscreen is smooth and easy to apply which blocks the broad spectrum.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – $15 for 3 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide (21.6%) as an active ingredient
Pros
- It is water-resistant, fragrance-free, and tear-free.
- Suitable for sensitive skin or eczema-prone skin.
Cons
- Comes only in one size and it may be pricey for some people.
9. Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Sunscreen
This best infant sunscreen (over six months) is cruelty-free and comes with an easy-to-apply formulation. This product is dermatologist-recommended and free from benzene and harmful chemicals.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – 12 $ for 3 fl. oz.
Ingredients – non-nano zinc oxide (23.4%) as the active ingredient, sunflower oil, jojoba seed oil, olive oil
Pros
- It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Lightweight, non-greasy, and safe for babies, and coral reefs.
- Comes with SPF 50+ that blocks most of the UV rays.
Cons
- Thick consistency and may leave a white cast.
10. Coppertone Pure and Simple Baby Sunscreen
This sunscreen provides gentle protection to babies with its mineral-based formulation. Not just that, this product nourishes and moisturize the skin at the same time. It is suitable for all family members.
Type – Mineral Sunscreen
Price – 11 $ for 6 fl. oz.
Ingredients – zinc oxide as the active ingredient, tea leaf, sea kelp, lotus extract
Pros
- This product is hypoallergenic and water-resistant.
- It is tear-free and free from paraben, benzene, phthalates, and other toxins.
Cons
- None
What Things Are Considered in Baby Sunscreen Before Buying?
When buying sunscreen for a baby, if possible, always go for mineral sunscreen. But there are other types of sunscreen such as chemical sunscreen and hybrid sunscreen available in the market. So, if you are about to buy a baby sunscreen then consider the following things.
Ingredients – You should know what you are going to apply to your baby’s skin. So, always choose a sunscreen that contains FDA-approved ingredients. Try to avoid those sunscreens that contain artificial fragrances, dyes, aminobenzoic acid (PABA), trolamine salicylate, oxybenzone, etc and for further and detailed information always check FDA guidelines.
Water resistant – Always try to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Any sunscreen doesn’t last longer for longer duration but it does protect skin against sun for 40 to 80 minutes in the water.
Sunscreen SPF – SPF, sun protection factor shows for how long and how effectively sunscreen going to protect your skin from sunburn. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or more is considered good and effective for babies.
Which Sunscreens Are Suitable for Babies?
Physical or mineral sunscreens are suitable for babies as these come with the safest sunscreen ingredients. You can usually find different types of sunscreen in the market: mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens come with active ingredients, titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide. These active ingredients create a barrier on the skin against UV rays and reflect the rays.
While chemical sunscreens may contain some harmful chemicals that get absorbed into the skin during protecting the skin from UV rays. That makes the chemical sunscreen less effective and safe in comparison to mineral sunscreens. That’s why always go for mineral sunscreens for babies.
Can Babies Under the Age of 6 Months Wear Sunscreen?
As per FDA, it is not recommended to use sunscreen on the skin of babies under the age of 6 months. As the baby’s skin is still delicate therefore they are prone to easily being affected by the side effects of sunscreen. And if possible try to avoid using sunscreen, instead protect them from UV rays by keeping them under shade or dressing them in long-sleeved clothes.
Even if you’re choosing to apply sunscreen on the baby always go for mineral sunscreen only. With this safest sunscreen also always use very minimal quantity and apply on those baby parts that you can’t cover like the cheeks, nose, forehead, or feet.
Which SPF Should Be on Baby Sunscreen?
When buying baby sunscreen, always look for one that covers a broad spectrum. This means that sunscreen should block UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) rays, therefore always buy a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more. Sunscreen with SPF 15 usually blocks only 93% of UVB rays while SPF 30 or more blocks more than 97% of UVB rays.
Hence, always buy a water-resistant baby sunscreen with SPF 30 or more that will protect your baby from harmful UV rays.
Difference Between Kids’ Sunscreen and Baby Sunscreen?
There is no difference between kids’ sunscreen and baby sunscreen both have the same active ingredients. Your seven-year-old kid can wear the same sunscreen as your seven-month-old baby. There is no age-based sunscreen for babies, all these sunscreens work the same.
How to Use Baby Sunscreen?
For babies under 6 months, try to avoid using sunscreen, but if you are choosing to apply, always apply a very minimal quantity. And always consult with a doctor as well.
For babies 6 months and more, you can apply sunscreen all over their body. But remember they are still kids and have delicate skin, so always choose a toxin-free sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens are effective as soon as they are applied on the skin but for chemical sunscreens, you have to use them on skin 15 to 30 minutes before exposure to the sun. Also, reapply sunscreen after every two hours.
Observations When Selecting a Baby Sunscreen?
When selecting a baby sunscreen, if the following observations are made then it’ll be good.
- Sunscreen should cover a broad spectrum.
- Choosing hypoallergenic, toxin-free, and fragrance-free sunscreen can be a good option.
- SPF 30 or more for baby sunscreen will be good.
- Choosing water-resistant sunscreen will protect the baby during water activities.
Conclusion
It is important to protect your baby’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays. But finding the right and the best baby sunscreen for your little ones is crucial. That’s why we have brought the list of best sunscreens so that you don’t have to worry. All these products are great choices and come with the safest sunscreen ingredients that offer effective protection without harsh chemicals or fragrances. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours and keep your baby out of direct sunlight during peak hours to ensure maximum protection.
