10 Best Babies and Kids Sunscreens for UVA/UVB Protection

Asides moisturizing your baby’s skin with baby lotion, and keeping his/her skin well cleansed, you also need to be protect them from the UV rays of the sun.
Babies/kids skin are delicate and sensitive, they can easily react to harsh chemicals and also to UV rays. That’s why you need to apply sunscreen on your baby’s skin before stepping outside. Therefore if you’re seeking for the best babies and kids sunscreens for your little one, then we are here to help.

What’s a Sunscreen by the way?

Sunscreen also known as sunblock, can come in a lotion, gel, or spray form, which absorbs or reflects the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and helps protect the skin against sunburn, cancer, premature aging, wrinkles and other skin damages caused by the sun.

How Does Sunscreens Work?

Sunscreen products are designed to help prevent sunburn and other possible sun damages. It’s broad spectrum protection is essential to help shield skin from UVA and UVB rays. When UV rays enter the skin, they disrupt the cells’ normal growth and function, as well as break down the skin’s collagen and elastin, which leads to lines and wrinkles.

Sunscreens works in two ways, depending on the UV filter ingredients found in a sun protection product. Sunscreens with chemical-based ingredients such as homosalate work by sinking into the top layers of the skin and absorbing UV radiation before it can damage skin cells.

Sunscreen with sun filter minerals, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, create a barrier on the skin’s surface that reflects UV rays off the skin. Some sun protection products include a mix of both chemical and mineral sun filters.

How to Choose a Sunscreen for your Baby.

When choosing a sunscreen for your little baby you should consider these key components.

1. Ensure it’s labelled “Broad-spectrum“:  UVB rays cause sunburns and UVA rays can prematurely age skin and cause melanoma, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your baby’s skin from both types of rays.
2.  Ensure it Contains Natural ingredients: Chemicals like oxybenzone and octisalate are often used in sunscreens. They work by sinking into the skin and then absorbing and deferring UV rays. They can potentially irritate sensitive skin, and may not be suitable for babies. (oxybenzone is known to be a hormone disrupter). So it’s best to go with natural sun filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals sit on top of the skin and reflect away both UVA and UVB rays. They are known as “broad-spectrum”
3.  At least SPF 15: SPF 15 is the minimum SPF number that will protect against burns and cancer-causing rays. However, SPF 30 is best, but higher is better.
4.  A cream/lotion sunscreen: Sunscreens come in gels, sprays and creams/lotions. Sprays can make application easy on babies but they still need to be rubbed in order to provide adequate coverage. Plus, their small particles can be inhaled. Sometimes, parents often don’t apply enough sunscreen when using a spray or they miss spots, and this can result to a burn. Although creams/lotions take more time to apply, but they worth it to make sure your baby is fully covered. Ensure to rub it in well, and make sure all the exposed parts are covered. Don’t forget tops of feet, backs of knees, ears and lips too.

The Sunscreens we reviewed in this article are 100% natural and chemical free. They are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, contains sun filter minerals which will perfectly suit both sensitive and delicate skin. These sunscreens will keep your baby’s skin protected from both UVA and UVB rays. They are dermatologically tested and recommended.

Below is our best picks.

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo Kids Sunscreen SPF 60.

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La roche-posay anthelios dermo kids sunscreen with SPF 60 is one of the best rated, trusted and recommended by Dermatologists for babies and kids. This sunscreen is broad spectrum, it offers full protection for both UVA and UVB rays.

This sunscreen combines both UVA/UVB filters for advance protection and antioxidants to defend against free radicals and keep your baby’s skin protected from UV rays of the sun.

This Oxybenzone-free sunscreen lotion is formulated with exclusive Cell-OX Shield technology with active ingredients Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%, which offers full broad spectrum coverage protect for your kids.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Oxybenzone-free.
• Dermatologist tested.
• Allergy tested.
• Paraben-free.
• Alcohol-free.
• Fragrance-free.
• Combines UVA/UVB filters for advance protection + Antioxidants to defend against free radicals.
• Non-Comedogenic.

Cons

• None.

Ingredients:

Active ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%,
Inactive ingredients: Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Propylene Glycol, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Styrene/acrylates Copolymer, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Dimethicone, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Acrylates Copolymer, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-8 Laurate, Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Stearic Acid, T-butyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Triethanolamine.

2. CeraVe Baby Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 45.

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This is also one of the best babies and kids sunscreens in the market. CeraVe baby sunscreen broad Spectrum with SPF 45, contains physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredients to provide your baby with broad-spectrum sun protection from both UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen combines 3 essential ceramides to help repair and restore the protective skin barrier, while it moisturizes your baby’s skin, keeping it protected and hydrated. We highly recommend this sunscreen for babies with Eczema.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• With ceramides 1, 3 and 6-II.
• Contains physical sunscreens Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide.
• Fragrence-free, hypoallergenic.
• Free of parabens and sulfates.
• Water resistant (80 minutes).
• Accepted by the National Eczema Association.

Cons

• None

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide
Inactive Ingredients:  Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Triethylhexanoin, Isohexadecane, Glycerin, Caprylyl Methicone, Mica, Glyceryl Stearate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Peg-100 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Aluminum Stearate, Polypropylsilsesquioxane, Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleyl / Dimethylcarbonate Copolymer, Peg-75 Stearate, Steareth-20, Stearic Acid, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Glyceryl Isostearate, Niacinamide, Glucamine, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ceteth-20, Ceteth-25, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Silica, Sodium Hyaluronate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Cholesterol, Alumina, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Propylene Glycol Isostearate, Citric Acid, Isostearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Oleth-25, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil / Safflower Seed Oil, Phytosphingosine, Pentylene Glycol, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

3. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 50.

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Highly recommend for sensitive skin. Aveeno baby continuous protection zinc oxide mineral sunscreen lotion with broad spectrum SPF 50, keeps your baby’s skin fully protected from UVA and UVB rays, while it keeps them well moisturized and hydrated without stinging their skin, as it’s mild and tear-free.

Asides it’s mildness. This sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 contains skin-soothing oat and naturally-sourced 100% non-nano zinc oxide as active ingredient. The mineral sunscreen provides superior broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays and is both sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes.

Pros

• Gentle enough to babies.
• Offers full broad spectrum protection (both UVA/UVB rays).
  Tear-free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
• Non-greasy and is free of parabens, phthalates and fragrance.
• Water-resistant for 80 minutes.

Cons

• None

Ingredients:

Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide (21.6%).
Inactive Ingredients: Water C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer Octyldodecyl Citrate Crosspolymer Phenyl Trimethicone Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone Dimethicone Polyhydroxystearic Acid Glycerin Ethyl Methicone Silica Cetyl Dimethicone Triethoxycaprylylsilane Phenoxyethanol Glyceryl Behenate Sodium Chloride Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer Chlorphenesin Phenethyl Alcohol Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour Caprylyl Glycol Cetyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice.

4. Baby Bum Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Lotion – SPF 50.

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If you’re making a list of best babies and kids sunscreens with full broad spectrum coverage, then don’t exclude baby bum mineral sunscreen broad Spectrum lotion with SPF 50.

This frangrace free and lightweight (non-greasy) sunscreen offers full UVA/UVB rays protection. Keeping your baby’s skin free from sun burn while it keeps it hydrated. This sunscreen lotion is made of safe minerals with non-comedogenic ingredients, and also water resistant (80 minutes).

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
  Fragrance Free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
• Offers full UVA/UVB protection (broad spectrum).
• Contains safe mineral (plant based).
  Vegan, cruelty free, gluten free, PABA free.
• Reef Friendly / Oxybenzone Free & Octinoxate Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free.
  Fragrance free, sulfate free, dye free, pH balanced, silicone free, tear free.

Cons

• None

Ingredients:

Zinc Oxide (20%), Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Diheptyl Succinate, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Sodium Hyaluronate, Bisabolol, Tocopherol, Coco-Glucoside, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Cellulose Gum, Cetyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid.

5. Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion 50 SPF.

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Keep your baby’s skin well protect from the UV rays of the sun, with one of the most trusted babies and kids sunscreen brand. Babyganics sunscreen lotion with 50 SPF has proven to be one of the best babies and kids sunscreens in the market, having broad spectrum coverage which offers full UVA and UVB protection for your little one.

Asides it’s broad spectrum coverage protection, this baby sunscreen is non-allergenic and tear free. Made with super moisturizing and non-comedogenic mineral sun filter ingredients which keeps your baby’s skin well protected from sun burn and also hydrated.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
  Non-allergenic and tear free.
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
• Formulated without: PABA, phthalates, parabens, fragrances or nano particles.

Cons

• None

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: Octisalate – (5.0%), Titanium Dioxide – (3.0%), Zinc Oxide – (6.0%).
Inactive ingredients:  Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Stearyl/Octyldodecyl Citrate Crosspolymer, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleyl/Dimethylcarbonate Copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil, Rubus Idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Jojoba Esters, Stearyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Silica, Alumina, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Phenoxyethanol.

6. Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50.

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This is another effective baby sunscreen lotion in the market with whopping SPF 50.
Babo botanicals baby skin mineral sunscreen lotion offers full broad spectrum coverage in protecting your little infant’s skin from the dangerous UV rays of the sun.

Asides being one of the most trusted and best babies and kids sunscreens in the market, babo botanicals baby mineral sunscreen Is gently formulated with 100% non-nano zinc oxide, this vegan, lightweight baby sunscreen lotion is fragrance gluten, Soy and Dairy free, and formulated for very sensitive skin. With 80 Minutes Water Resistant and Reef Safe.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Offers full broad spectrum coverage.
• Fragrance gluten, Soy and Dairy free.
• Lightweight (absorbs fast, non-greasy).
• Contains 100% non-nano zinc oxide.
• Contains mineral ingredients (plant based).
• non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic.

Cons

• None

Ingredients:

Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%.
Inactive Ingredients: Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Bisabolol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Cellulose Gum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Citric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf Extract, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Tocopherol, Water (Aqua).

7. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen Lotion – Broad spectrum SPF 50.

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This mineral sunscreen has won the trust of millions of mums over over the world. Neutrogena pure & free baby sunscreen lotion with broad spectrum SPF 50 provides 100% mineral sun protection that is made specifically for baby’s delicate skin which contains naturally-sourced zinc oxide technology.

This gentle formula provides superior broad spectrum UVA/UVB baby sun protection by creating a screen between baby’s skin and the sun’s rays. It’s also free of irritating chemicals, fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and dyes, so it’s suitable for use on sensitive skin.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
• Offers broad spectrum coverage protection (UVA/UVB).
• Tear free.
• Water resistant (80 minutes).
• Dermatologist tested.

Cons

• None.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredient:
Zinc oxide 21.6% (Sunscreen).
Inactive Ingredients:
Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Octyldodecyl Citrate Crosspolymer, Phenyl Trimethicone, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Glycerin, Ethyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Silica, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice, Glyceryl Behenate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

8. COOLA Organic Baby Mineral Sunscreen – Broad Spectrum SPF 50.

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Keep your baby’s skin full protected with COOLA organic baby mineral sunscreen – broad spectrum SPF 50. This award winning sunscreen is specifically formulated for delicate and sensitive skin.

This gentle formula combines broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with 70% and certified organic ingredients and no chemical actives to give your baby the maximum sun protection that he/she deserves.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Offers full broad spectrum coverage protection (UVA and UVB).
• Free from chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
• Antioxidant Enriched.
• For babies six months and older.
• Broad spectrum SPF 50.
• Water resistant (80 minutes).
• Non-nano Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide.
• Fragrance-Free / Paraben-Free / Preservative-Free / Gluten-Free / Non-GMO.
• Reef-Friendly.

Cons

• Too thick.

9. Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Sunscreen – Broad Spectrum SPF 50.

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This is a mild sunscreen with a strong, broad spectrum sun protection made without oxybenzone, parabens or added oils and fragrances. Banana boat simply protect kids sunscreen is reef friendly and tear-free, formulated with mineral sun filter ingredients with strong broad spectrum coverage for protection against UVA/UVB rays.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Offers broad spectrum coverage protection (UVA/UVB).
• Made without oxybenzone and parabens.
• No added oils and fragrances.
• Lightweight, easy to rub in.
• Water and Sweat resistant formula (Up to 80 minutes).

Cons

• None.

Ingredients:

Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide 4.2%, Zinc oxide 6.5%
Inactive ingredients: Water, caprylic/Caprictringlyceride, Isohexadocane, Butyloctyl salicylate, Octyldodecyl Citrate crosspolymer, Cetyl PEG/PPG – 10/1 Dimethicone, Lauryl PEG-8 Dimethicone, C30-38 olefin/isopropyl/maleate/MAcoplymer, Sodium chloride, Ethylhexyl methoxyerylene, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl glycol, PEG-8, Alumina glycerine, Sodiumcitrate, Tocopheryl acetate.

10. Goddess Garden – Baby SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Lotion.

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Highly effective for immediate sun protection with broad spectrum coverage. This sunscreen lotion is made with reef-safe, non-nano zinc and organic botanicals like aloe vera and coconut oil, which soothes sensitive skin while providing powerful broad-spectrum coverage.

Goddess garden baby SPF 50 mineral sunscreen lotion is free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances and non-comedogenic ingredients.

Pros

• Gentle enough for babies.
• Offers full broad spectrum coverage protection (UVA/UVB).
• Free from synthetic chemicals.
• Frangrace free

Cons

• None.

Ingredients:

Zinc Oxide 20.0%, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Bisabolol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Cellulose Gum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Diheptyl Succinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Lavandula Hybrida (Lavender) Oil, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Water.

Possible Questions and Answers.

Q: Are these sunscreen lotions really safe for babies?

A: Yes of course, they are 100% safe for Baby’s delicate and sensitive skin, as they contain pure mineral sun filter ingredients (non-nano zinc oxide & titanium dioxide) which will sit on the top layer of the skin, creating a barrier between the sun and the skin, thereby blocking the UVA and UVB rays from penetrating into your baby’s delicate skin.

Q: Can I use chemical sunscreens on my baby’s skin?

A: The short answer is No. Chemical sunscreens contains ingredients that will penetrate into the skin pores, while absorbing the UV rays of the skin. This may work perfectly fine, but may cause allergies or bad reactions to sensitive and delicate skin. So we recommend using only mineral or physical sunscreens for your baby. (And for all sensitive & delicate skin in general).

Q: My baby has eczema, can I use any of these sunscreens on them?

A: Yes, you can. The sunscreens reviewed in this article are 100% hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non greasy and contains 100% non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which won’t irritate delicate and sensitive skin.

These sunscreens also contains deep skin moisturizing ingredients too, such as: hyaluronic acid, Aleo vera, sheabutter, coconut oil, to keep your baby’s skin well moisturized and hydrated, while offering full sun filter protection called broad spectrum.

Q: What is Non-nano zinc oxide?

A: Non-nano zinc oxide is the most recommended sun filter ingredients which offers sun protection without causing any allergies or bad reaction to sensitive or delicate skin.

Non-nano zinc oxide is non-toxic, usually non-irritating, and an effective broad-spectrum sunblock. The particles sit on the outermost layer of your skin, scattering and absorbing UVA and UVB rays, protecting the skin below.

Q: My baby react to frangrace, are these sunscreens really frangrace free?

A: Yes. They are all frangrace free and unscented.

Q: How long should I wait before reapplying these sunscreens lotion on my kid’s skin?

A: It’s recommended you reapply your sunscreen every two hours. As for water resistant sunscreens reapply every 40-80 minutes.

Q: My baby’s skin is extremely dry, can I use these sunscreens on him/her?

A: Yes, you can. These sunscreens contains deep skin hydrating ingredients. Such as hyaluronic acid, Aloe vera, Shea butter, etc. However if you feel your baby isn’t getting enough skin hydration, you can use any hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic moisturizing baby lotion, while you apply sunscreen over it.

Related: 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Sunscreens For Protection Against UVA/UVB Rays.