Best Sunscreen for Babies in 2023 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
From a very early age, your little one is going to be exposed to the sun – there is no way around that. From the day you bring them home from the hospital to the first ride they go on around the neighborhood in their top-rated baby stroller, their first spin in their favorite electric car when they’re older, and their first swim, they will be exposed to the sun. And we all know that many of the rays coming from the sun are harmful to the little love of your life. But don’t worry because there is a solution: the best sunscreen for babies that you can come across.
But before we get into that, let’s first discuss other ways to keep your little one safe from the sun.
Ways to Protect Your Baby from the Sun (Except Sun Block Lotions):
- Try to minimize their exposure to the sun, even if they are outside. If they are an infant, try to stand in the shade when you are holding them – do the same with a toddler by trying to keep them in the shade when you can.
- Dress them in loose, light-colored clothing. The light colors will reflect the heat.
- Try to keep as much of the skin as possible covered so that the sun’s rays cannot touch it directly.
- Make sure your child remains hydrated. Our skin, just like the rest of our body needs its fluids to remain healthy and safe, especially in the hot sun. Make sure you are well-stocked when it comes to water and other drinks.
Any parent has a lot of questions when it comes to a product that comes in direct contact with their baby’s skin – we’re sure you do too. That’s why, in this blog post, we have discussed the responses to these questions so you have no trouble when picking the best sunscreen for kids and the rest of the family.
Why Should My Baby Use Sunscreen?
As we mentioned above, many of the sun rays is harmful to your child, especially if they are exposed to them for too long. What you need is to create a protective layer between your little one’s skin and these dangerous rays – and that is exactly what the best sunscreen for toddlers and infants does.
When Do I Need to Use It?
The answer to this one is simple: every time your little one is going to be exposed to the sun! Whether they are out for a picnic, out on the beach for the day, taking part in sporty events, or any other conditions that mean they are out in the sun, using the best sunblock for kids is a must!
When Can I Put Sunscreen On a Baby?
Most of the best kids’ sunscreens are suitable for your children from a very young age. However, the question arises, should I use sunscreen on my newborn? You can and you should when needed, but the manufacturers of most of these products suggest that you consult with a doctor before you use them on a child who is younger than 6 months. It is, thus, always better to do that, to be on the safe side.
What Should I Look For?
When buying a sunblock lotion for your baby, you need to make sure, first of all, that it is as natural as possible – you do not want to be exposing your little one’s body to chemicals unnecessarily. Steer clear of toxic elements and substances that are known to be irritants. Some other features to look for are
- Broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays;
- Naturally-sourced ingredients;
- The hypoallergenic formula for sensitive skin;
- NEA Seal of Approval if your baby has any skin conditions.
- Hydrating formula;
- Cruelty-free product;
- A dermatologist- and pediatrician recommended;
- Water-resistant;
- And more.
Should I Be Worried About Chemicals?
Of course, you should be worried about chemicals – you want to stay far away from them! Try to go for as natural a product as you can. Some of the chemicals and ingredients you need to stay away from include:
- Fragrances
- Phthalates
- Parabens
- Dyes
- PABA
- Sulfates
- And others.
And while we are talking about the safety of your child, most, if not all of the best-rated sunscreen lotions come with some safety recommendations. We are going to share them with you here so that we don’t have to mention them separately for each product.
- For external use only.
- Do not use it on damaged or broken skin.
- Keep out of eyes.
- Rinse with water to remove.
- Stop using and ask a doctor if a rash occurs.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- If the product is swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Now that all those details are out of the way, let’s get to the point. If you’re looking for the best baby sunscreen or better yet, the best sunscreen for adults and kids, you must’ve already done a lot of research about which product to go for. And we’re pretty sure you’ve even gone through a dozen baby sunscreen reviews too. It’s hard to find a top-rated sunscreen, isn’t it?
Well, it won’t be. Not after you’re reading this blog post anyway. So without further ado, let’s get started and discover the top safe sunscreen for babies!
9 Best Sunscreen for Babies in 2023 – Quick Comparison:
9 Best Sunscreen for Babies in 2023 – Detail Reviews:
1. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion – SPF 50:
Direction for Use:
Apply this cream generously to your baby’s skin 15 minutes before it will be exposed to the sun. Reapply it every two hours or after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. You should immediately apply it again after you towel-dry your child.
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
Features:
- Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB baby sun protection by forming a protective layer between the baby’s skin and the rays of the sun.
- Hypoallergenic and easy on your baby’s sensitive skin.
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes, after which it should be re-applied.
- A tear-free formula so you don’t have to worry about it getting in your baby’s eyes.
- Dermatologist-tested and, hence, proven safe.
- Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, making it suitable for your child if they have sensitive skin conditions.
- Free from artificial fragrances.
- Free from other harmful substances such as parabens, phthalates, and dyes.
Final Verdict:
A chemical-free sunscreen that keeps your baby’s sensitive skin safe from the sun’s harmful rays, this is your go-to product for your child’s delicate skin, as well as your own. Dermatologist-recommended and proven safe, this is the best sunscreen for babies with eczema.
2. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen – SPF 50+
Directions for Use:
Apply all over the baby’s skin 15 minutes before being in the sun. Reapply every 2 hours if you wish to achieve the promised SPF. If swimming or sweating, apply again after 80 minutes. Don’t spread it too thin. Apply it on a small part of the body to test for sensitivities before starting regular use.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20% (Non-nano)
Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water (0), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (0), Capric Caprylic Triglycerides(0), Sorbitan Stearate (Coconut Based) (1), Pine Wood Resin (0), Vegetable Glycerin (0), Cetyl Dimethicone (0), Hydrogenated Castor Oil (0), Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) (0), Sunflower Oil, Jojoba Oil (0), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) (0), Tocopherols (Vitamin E) (1), Olive Oil (0), Raspberry Seed Oil (0), Cranberry Seed Oil (0), Hyaluronic Acid (Made From Vegetable) (0), Glucose & Glucose Oxidase And Lactoperoxidase (0), Papaya (0)
Features:
- UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection for ultimate results.
- Mineral-based, natural formula.
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes, after which it can be reapplied.
- Free from harmful chemicals, avobenzone, oxybenzone, and UV chemical absorbers.
- Free from parabens, phthalates, and PABA among other things.
- Has a non-greasy feel.
- Number ‘1’ rating by EWG.
- Not tested on animals.
- Passes Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, as well as many others.
- Award-winning formula.
- Made in the USA.
Final Verdict:
With a mineral-based award-winning formula, an SPF of 50+, free from all sorts of dangerous chemicals, and a cruelty-free approach, this is the stuff of your dreams. It is the best sunscreen for babies and kids but that is not all – you can use it too and experience the benefits!
3. Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion:
Directions for Use:
Apply generously before exposure to the sun and then after every 2 hours while your little one is in the sun. Reapply after they go for a swim, have been sweating, or are towel-dry.
Ingredients:
Purified Water, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide* (25%), Extra Virgin Olive Oil*, Jojoba Oil*, Vegetable Glycerin, Shea Butter*, Vegetable Emulsifying Wax NF, Vitamin E (from non-GMO sunflower seeds).
*Certified Organic
Features:
- Plant-derived ingredients that are entirely safe for you and your baby.
- Free from parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and phthalates among other things.
- Free from fragrances.
- Eco-friendly and bio-degradable.
- Vegan formula.
- Active protection from broad spectrum UVA/UVB rays.
- Made in small batches and guaranteed to stay fresh.
- Cruelty-free.
- Made in the USA.
Final Verdict:
When you’re looking for a product for your child that will come in direct contact with their skin or will even be absorbed into it in this case, you want to go natural – you don’t want any chemicals or other harmful substances. This is the best non-toxic sunscreen you can find, also making it the safest sunscreen for kids under the age of 6 months and otherwise.
4. Babyganics Mineral-Based Sunscreen Spray – SPF 50+:
Directions for Use:
Apply before exposure to the sun and then reapply after every 2 hours. Apply again after a swim, when your child has been sweating, and when you dry them with a towel.
Ingredients:
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide (11.2%), Octinoxate (7.5%), Octisalate (5.0%)
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, VP/hexadecene copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Hexaglyceryl Polyricinoleate, Polysorbate 80, Phenethyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Magnesium Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Citric Acid, Squalane, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Lecithin*, Polysorbate 60, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Rubus Idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil, Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil*, Sorbitan Isostearate
*Certified Organic Ingredient
Features:
- The mineral-based formula is entirely organic.
- Non-allergenic, hence the best sunscreen for babies with sensitive skin.
- Top-notch broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
- The tear-free formula ensures the comfort of your child.
- Free from PABA, phthalates, parabens, fragrances, and nano-particles.
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes.
- Easy to apply because of the spray bottle.
- The pediatrician and dermatologist tested.
Final Verdict:
This is a top-rated baby sunscreen that many parents swear by. And not just for their babies, but also for themselves. Because it is hypoallergenic, it is probably the best sunscreen for babies with sensitive skin. While some parents find themselves unsatisfied with the product, most can’t do without it.
5. CeraVe Mineral Baby Sunscreen – SPF 45
Directions for Use:
It is best used in combination with two other products. Start off with cleansing the baby’s skin with CeraVe Baby Wash & Shampoo. Then apply CeraVe Baby cream or lotion. End with applying a generous amount of the sunscreen before exposure to the sun. Reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, and drying your baby with a towel.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, Caprylyl Methicone, Isohexadecane, Triethylhexanoin, Mica, Glyceryl Stearate, Trimethylsiloxy Silicate, PEG-100 Stearate, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Aluminum Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Polypropyl Silsesquioxane, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleyl/Dimethylcarbonate Copolymer, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6-II, Ceramide 1, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Cetyl Alcohol, Isostearic Acid, PEG-75 Stearate, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Glyceryl Isostearate, Propylene Glycol Isostearate, Oleth-25, Ceteth-25, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Stearic Acid, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Glucamine, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Silica, phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Carbomer.
Features:
- Made from 100% naturally-sourced materials.
- Free from parabens and sulfates among other things.
- Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that assist in restoring and maintaining the skin’s natural protective barrier.
- Full protection from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.
- Hypoallergenic formula that is easy on the skin.
- Non-irritating and highly useful.
- No fragrance irritation as it contains no perfumes.
- Water resistant until 80 minutes of exposure.
- A formula that locks in moisture and keeps the skin hydrated all day long.
- Has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, making it suitable for sensitive skin and those with eczema.
Final Verdict:
If your baby has eczema or sensitive skin and you are looking for the best baby sunscreen for sensitive skin, this might just be the thing for you – it has the NEA Seal of Acceptance to prove it. Its hydrating, mineral-based formula that is also hypoallergenic and non-irritating makes it a top sunblock lotion for baby and you.
6. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen – SPF 30+
Directions for Use:
Apply generously to dry skin before exposure to the sun. Reapply to dry skin as often as needed and also after your child has been swimming, sweating, or has dried themselves with a towel.
.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide
Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, C12-15, Alkyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Stearate, polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, and Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone and Hexyl Laurate, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Dimethicone, Trimethylated Silica/Dimethicone, Octododecyl Neopentanoate, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Methyl Glucose Dioleate, PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sorbitol Oleate and Hydrogenated Castor Oil and Beeswax and Stearic Acid, Cetyl Dimethicone, Methylparaben and Propylparaben and Ethylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Diazolidinyl Urea, Tocopheryl Acetate.
Features:
- The mineral formula is gentle on the skin.
- No chemical active ingredients.
- Free from parabens and fragrances that irritate the skin among other things.
- Dermatologist-recommended, hence proven effective.
- Smart-bottle technology – the bottle changes color when exposed to harmful UV rays so you can avoid them.
- Protection from 97% of the sun’s rays.
- Free from Oxybenzone or Octinoxate.
- Recommended asking a doctor before use on a baby under 6 months of age.
Final Verdict:
With a mineral formula that is free from parabens, fragrances, and other harmful materials, this is pretty much the best sunscreen for toddlers with sensitive skin and even for younger kids. Also, keep yourself and your little one safe by keeping an eye on the bottle of sunblock for babies and moving out of the sun when it changes color.
7. Aveeno Baby Natural Protection Face Stick Sunscreen:
Direction for Use:
Apply a generous amount to your baby’s face 15 minutes before they are likely to be exposed to the sun. Focus especially on the area above the lip, the nose, and the tops of the ears. Apply it again after every 2 hours or after your child has been swimming or sweating.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (8.09%) (Sunscreen), Zinc Oxide (6.8%) (Sunscreen)
Inactive Ingredients: C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Dimethicone, Paraffin, Ozokerite, Beeswax, Phenyl Trimethicone, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Polyethylene, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Dipropylene Glycol Dibenzoate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, BHT.
Features:
- MINERALBLOCK technology for long-lasting protection from the sun.
- Specifically made for the face.
- Oil-free formula that doesn’t feel greasy on the skin.
- 100% naturally-sourced ingredients.
- Broad spectrum SPF protection from UVA/UVB rays.
- Contains natural oat that is soothing to the skin.
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
- Free from fragrances that can cause irritation in the skin.
- Sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes.
- The hydrating and moisturizing formula for healthy skin.
- Stick-form makes it easy to use.
- Paediatrician-recommended and, hence, proven effective.
Final Verdict:
With MINERAL BLOCK technology paired with some top features such as broad spectrum protection, hydrating formula, suitability for sensitive skin, ease of use, and much more, this is the best natural sunscreen for the face of your little monkey. It is also free from harmful chemicals and substances, making it one of the safest sunscreens for your little one.
8. Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream – SPF 30:
Directions for Use:
Apply to the area that will be exposed to the sun 15 minutes before your little one goes out. You should apply around 2mg per cm squared. Rub in well so that you can reduce the whitening effect. Reapply every 2 hours or after 40 minutes of your child swimming or sweating. Also, reapply if you dry your baby with a towel.
Ingredients:
Non-Nano, Uncoated Zinc Oxide 18.75% Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Alba (Beeswax), Tocopherol (Sunflower Vitamin E), *Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Hippophae Rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) Fruit Extract
Features:
- Broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays of the sun.
- Certified organic base.
- Hypoallergenic in nature and safe for sensitive skin.
- Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other chemical active sunscreening agents.
- A hydrating formula that keeps the skin moisturized.
- Waterproof for 40 minutes.
- Free from BPA and phthalates.
- Tube made from number 2 recyclable plastic – biodegradable and, hence, good for the environment.
- Pediatrician-tested and proven safe and effective.
- Recommended consulting with a doctor before use with a baby under 6 months of age.
- Not tested on animals.
Final Verdict:
Because this sunscreen is hypoallergenic and great for sensitive skin, it is considered to be one of the top sunscreens for infants and older children with sensitive skin. On top of that, it is good for the environment because the tube it comes in is biodegradable and, thus, good for coral reefs, as well as for other ecosystems.
9. Adorable Baby All Natural Sunscreen – SPF 30+:
Directions for Use:
Apply to your baby’s neck, face, shoulder, and other parts of the body that are going to be exposed to the sun. Apply a generous amount and rub in well. Reapply after 1 or 2 hours or after your baby has been swimming, sweating or you towel-dry them.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: Non-Nano Zinc Oxide – 24.7%
Inactive Ingredients: Grape Seed Oil, Organic Sunflower Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (from Coconut Oil), Organic Beeswax, Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Shea Butter, Stearic Acid (from Palm Oil), Purified Water.
Features:
- Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
- Made with 100% natural ingredients.
- Free from all synthetic and chemical ingredients.
- Vegan ingredients used.
- Goes on clear and does not leave any white streaks or marks.
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
- Gluten-free formula.
- Recommended to ask a doctor before use on a child under the age of 6 months.
- Not tested on animals.
- Made in the USA.
Final Verdict:
Another great pick when it comes to sunblock lotions, this is the best sunscreen for kids that can also be used by adults. Sporting a vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formula that uses only the most natural ingredients, you can rest assured that this is an effective and safe sunscreen for babies.
Well, we’re done with our list of best sunscreens for toddlers in 2023, as well as for infants and adults. But which one do you think we like the most? Well, we won’t create a lot of suspense – we want you to find out which sunscreen for kids is the best suntan lotion you can find. Here goes!
Best Sunscreen for Babies and Kids – Our Pick:
The Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen is our choice when it comes to the best sunscreen for babies! It has a mineral formula that is completely free from chemicals and harmful, toxic elements that can be dangerous for your baby. Some of these include fragrances, parabens, Octinoxate, and so on. On top of that, it protects your little one from 97% of the sun’s rays and is water-resistant for 40 minutes, after which it has to be reapplied. But that’s not all – it features smart bottle technology and changes color when exposed to harmful UV rays so that you can act accordingly and move your little one out of the sun.
A natural formula that is gentle on the skin, it is definitely a win!
