The Best Sunscreen for Kids to Protect Their Precious Skin

Dermatologist-recommended sunscreen options for kids of all ages

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Assortment of sunscreens for children we recommend displayed on a two-tone green patterned background

VeryWell Family / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

Sunscreen is an essential part of safe outdoor play for kids. Any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen at all, but not all SPF products are created equal. The first step to protect your little one's precious skin is to read the ingredients to ensure the sunscreen is safe. "The ingredients recognized and generally recommended as safe and effective include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide," explains Marisa K. Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist. She recommends these types of mineral sunscreens because they tend to be less likely to cause irritation.

To save you from having to read through every ingredient list in the sunscreen aisle yourself, we've rounded up the best sunscreen options available. To select the best sunscreens for kids, we carefully analyzed ingredients, application type, age recommendations, and value, while considering Dr. Garshick's advice as well as guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Environmental Working Group (EWG), and the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).

We also surveyed dozens of parents to gain further insights into how practical and effective these products are in the real world. Finally, a dermatologist from our Medical Review Board verified the accuracy of our information and the quality of the products we recommend.

Best Overall

Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion

Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion

Amazon

Pros
  • Uses both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide

  • Great for sensitive skin

  • Rubs in well

Cons
  • Expires quicker than similar brands

Why We Recommend It

We named Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion our top pick because it's a mineral and chemical sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum sun protection. It's free of parabens, phthalates, and fragrance, and it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Many of the inactive ingredients used are certified organic, plus it's safe for sensitive skin and won't irritate the eyes. Despite being a lotion, it goes on smoothly and rubs in well, so even the squirmiest kids are well protected without a buildup of white residue.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredients: Octisalate, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best for Babies

Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen

Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen

Walgreens

Pros
  • Easy to apply

  • Hypoallergenic

  • Plant-based

Cons
  • Leaves a white cast if not rubbed in

Why We Recommend It

Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral Lotion is hypoallergenic, water-resistant (80 minutes), applies easily, and doesn't leave behind an oily or sticky feel. The broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen lotion uses 20% zinc oxide to protect your little one's sensitive skin from UVA/UVB rays and also includes coconut oil, shea, and cocoa butter to hydrate their skin. Like most mineral sunscreens, it may leave behind a white cast if you don't rub it in thoroughly.

Keep in mind that the best way to protect babies from harmful UV rays is to keep them out of direct sunlight. However, according to the AAP, infants under 6 months old can use sunscreen if absolutely necessary as long as it's applied on small areas of the body.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50
  • Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best for Babies Runner-Up

Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen – Safe, Natural Sunblock for Babies - Water Resistant Sun Cream – Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Sun Protection – Vegan Mineral Sun...

Amazon

Pros
  • Tear-free and not oily

  • Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB

  • Free of harmful chemicals

Cons
  • On the pricier end

Why We Recommend It

Babies have delicate skin, so it's important to ensure that sunscreen for babies won't cause irritation while still being effective. We really like Thinkbaby sunscreen because it's made with zinc oxide, is vegan, and free of harmful chemicals. It's an SPF 50+ sunscreen that offers UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection in a non-oily, tear-free formula that goes on easily.

Thinkbaby protects the skin for up to two hours once it's dry, and it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. While this sunscreen is marketed for babies, it's not recommended for infants under 6 months old.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best Spray

Babyganics Sunscreen Spray

Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Spray | UVA UVB Protection | Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free | Water Resistant, 6 Ounce (Pack of 2)

Amazon

Pros
  • Pump spray bottle

  • Safe ingredients, some organic

Cons
  • Thinner formula

Why We Recommend It

For the wiggliest of kids, we love the Babyganics sunscreen spray because it's easier to apply than lotion while boasting SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection and 80 minutes of water resistance. Zinc oxide is one active ingredient, as is a seed oil blend of tomato, cranberry, raspberry, black cumin, and sunflower seeds. (Note that these are potential allergens; if your kid has a tomato or sunflower allergy, for instance, you shouldn't use this sunscreen.)

We love that this Babyganics pick comes in a classic pump bottle rather than an aerosol, which is not recommended for kids because of its flammability and inhalation risk. Keep in mind that even though this is a lotion spray, you still need to rub it in, and since the formula is thinner in order to work as a spray, you may need to apply more.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, octocrylene, octisalate
  • Application Type: Spray

Best Lotion

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Kids Mineral Sunscreen

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ with UVA/UVB Protection, Water Resistant for 80 Minutes,...

Amazon

Pros
  • Gentle formula for all skin types

  • Won't irritate kids' eyes

Cons
  • May stain some fabrics

Why We Recommend It

When it comes to skin products, Neutrogena has been around for a long time and offers some of the best options, including the Sheer Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen for kids. It features broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for up to two hours when the skin is dry (80 minutes when the skin is wet) and is free of fragrance, dyes, oils, and chemicals, so it is safe for sensitive skin. It can be applied to the face and body and goes on smoothly, though it still needs to be rubbed in a bit to avoid leftover white residue.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best Stick/Roll-On

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick

Amazon

Pros
  • Easy to apply on wiggly kids

  • Non-oily formula

Cons
  • Thick formula application may require a bit of pressure

Why We Recommend It

For kids who'd rather stay inside than apply sunblock, sunscreen sticks are a good option since they are easier to put on than lotion—just be sure you apply enough. We love the Baby Bum Sunscreen Stick for any skin type. Its fragrance-free, plant-based formula boasts SPF 50+ UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection lasting up to two hours. It hydrates without leaving an oily residue thanks to the coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter.

We also love its convenient size; it's not much bigger than a tube of chapstick. Sunscreen sticks may leave behind a slight white cast, which some kids may dislike. If you prefer a less dense product that rubs in completely, Baby Bum's Roll-On Sunscreen offers a similar application.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Stick

Best Easy to Apply

Supergoop! PLAY Body Sunscreen Mousse

Supergoop! PLAY Body Sunscreen Mousse SPF 50

Sephora

Pros
  • Easy, convenient application

  • No parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances

Cons
  • Not mineral active ingredients

Why We Recommend It

If applying sunscreen before going outside is a battle at your house, this Supergoop! PLAY Body Mousse SPF 50 might just be your new parenting secret weapon. Kids actually have a blast applying it and love how it foams on their hands. We love that it's lightweight and rubs on clear. The only downside is that the bottle may not last long enough since kids have so much fun using it.

This mousse sunscreen uses homosalate, octisalate, and avobenzone to protect the skin against UVA and UVB rays. These ingredients are organic filters widely used in sunscreens and allowed by the FDA, but be advised there is still insufficient data to assess their safety, according to the EWG.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Stick

Best Waterproof

Coppertone WaterBabies Sunscreen

Coppertone Water Babies Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, Pediatrician Recommended Baby Sunscreen, Water Resistant Sunscreen for Babies, 8 Fl Oz Bottle

Amazon

Pros
  • Aloe and vitamin E, which is gentle and moisturizing

  • Does not leave white residue

Cons
  • Scent may irritate very sensitive skin

Why We Recommend It

Coppertone WaterBabies has been a go-to waterproof sunscreen for decades, and we still love it. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and offers broad-spectrum protection whether your kid is splashing in the pool or sweating on the playground. The sunscreen's mild, hypoallergenic formula uses zinc oxide, vitamin E, and aloe to help keep the skin protected and moisturized, making it a safe option for all skin types.

Keep in mind that if your child gets wet, you have to reapply sooner than if their skin stays dry. It should be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure and then every 80 minutes while your kids play in the water or sweat. If you towel-dry your kid, you'll need to reapply immediately.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50+
  • Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, vitamin E
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best Organic

Badger SPF 40 Kids Mineral Sunscreen Cream

Badger-spf-40-kids-mineral-sunscreen-cream

Amazon

Pros
  • Made from 98% organic ingredients

  • Free of chemicals that are harmful to coral

Cons
  • Tangerine and vanilla scent may not be for everyone

Why We Recommend It

If your kids will be doing a lot of ocean swimming, we recommend Badger Baby Sunscreen for its reef-safe formula. Made with 98% organic ingredients, this hypoallergenic sunscreen is good for all skin types. Plus, it's free from ingredients like oxybenzone and nano-zinc oxide that have been shown to harm coral reefs.

In addition to zinc oxide, this sunscreen uses jojoba oil seed oil, beeswax, vitamin E, and other ingredients that will both protect and hydrate your child's skin. This sunscreen is SPF 40, and it offers broad-spectrum protection for up to two hours when the skin is dry and up to 80 minutes when swimming or sweating.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 40
  • Active Ingredient: Non-nano uncoated zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best for Sensitive Skin

Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection

Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Children's Sensitive Skin with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Tear-Free, Sweat- &...

Amazon

Pros
  • Formula includes oats to nourish sensitive skin

  • Free of oxybenzone and octinoxate

Cons
  • Must be rubbed in thoroughly

Why We Recommend It

According to Dr. Garshick, kids with sensitive skin should avoid chemical filters such as oxybenzone or octinoxate. That's why we recommend Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection sunscreen. Not only is it free of these ingredients, but the formula also contains oats to help soothe sensitive skin.

The broad-spectrum lotion is SPF 50, as well as water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It's also tear-free, hypoallergenic, and doesn't leave the skin feeling greasy or oily after application. That being said, it's a rather thick formula that needs to be rubbed in well or it will leave a white residue behind.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50
  • Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best Unscented

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Amazon

Pros
  • Free of fragrance, parabens, and harmful chemicals

  • Reef-safe

Cons
  • Leaves a white cast

Why We Recommend It

Finding an unscented kids' sunscreen can be difficult, but delicate skin can get irritated with scented formulas. We like Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen because it's free of fragrance as well as other harmful chemicals.

The SPF 50 lotion provides broad-spectrum protection, is reef-safe, and comes in a "smart bottle" that changes colors in dangerous UV light. This formula is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes and is gentle on all skin types. However, it is very thick and will likely leave a white cast (or must be vigorously rubbed in).

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50
  • Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

Best Mineral

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen

Amazon

Pros
  • Baby-friendly formula (6 months+)

  • Goes on smoothly thanks to sugarcane-derived squalane

Cons
  • Not sweat- or water-resistant

Why We Recommend It

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen uses 100% mineral, non-nano zinc oxide, offering broad-spectrum protection that can be applied anywhere on the body. While it is thick, the formula contains sugarcane-derived squalane to help it rub in easily without leaving a greasy or sticky residue behind.

This sunscreen is also reef-safe and is great for sensitive skin because it's free of fragrances and harsh chemicals and packed with soothing ingredients like antioxidant bisabolol. While it's not water- or sweat-resistant, it does offer dry skin up to two hours of protection.

Key Specs:

  • SPF: 50
  • Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
  • Application Type: Lotion

How We Selected Sunscreen for Kids

To learn about what to look for in the best sunscreen for kids, including the safest and most effective ingredients, we first consulted expert Marisa K. Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University. Next, we pored over guidelines on sun exposure and sunscreen use and ingredients from the AAP, the FDA, the EWG, and the AAD.

We also surveyed dozens of parents to gain further insights into the effectiveness of these sunscreens in the real world. We researched dozens of top-rated sunscreens on the market and narrowed down our list of top picks based on:

  • Ingredients: We wanted mineral-based sunscreens for kids in most circumstances, especially younger children and those with sensitive skin.
  • Special qualities: We tried to offer options for myriad circumstances, such as reef-safe formulas for beach days or sunscreens that were specially formulated with sensitive skin in mind.
  • Water-resistance: Most of our picks are water resistant because we know outdoor fun often involves getting wet, whether from pools and sprinklers or sweat.
  • Length of effectiveness: It's hard enough to apply sunscreen to a squirmy kid the first time, so we wanted to have as much time as possible between applications while still avoiding burns.
  • Application type: Different kids and different scenarios require different types of sunscreen, so to cover all our bases, we offered various application options like cream, spray, foam, and stick.

What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Kids

  • SPF: Sun protection factor (SPF) varies depending on the sunscreen and the form it takes, but you should always aim for a minimum SPF of 15 to 30. While it may seem like a higher SPF offers more protection, the EWG cautions against choosing an SPF over 50 since it provides a false sense of safety that can lead to spending more time in the sun.
  • Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen: Chemical and mineral sunscreens are differentiated by how they interact with the sun. Chemical sunscreens work to absorb the sun's rays, while mineral (also known as physical) sunscreens work to block the sun's rays. Mineral sunscreens are recommended for children and those with sensitive skin. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens are best suited for older children and those without skin conditions.
  • Ingredients: According to EWG's Guide to Sunscreens, the two sunscreen ingredients that are recognized as safe are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Other ingredients, while not classified as unsafe, may be absorbed into the bloodstream at higher levels than previously thought.
  • Broad Spectrum UVA and UVB Protection: Sunlight emits two types of ultraviolet light, UVA and UVB. Unprotected exposure to UVB light can cause sunburns, while exposure to UVA light leads to skin aging; both can lead to skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreen implies protection from both types of UV light, but the EWG questions UVA coverage. The two best UVA filters in American sunscreens are avobenzone and zinc oxide, with titanium dioxide also offering moderate protection. The best protection involves effective, regular sunscreen application, minimizing time in the sun, and wearing ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) clothing and accessories.
  • Water-Resistance: Water-resistant sunscreens aren't just limited to beach or pool play. Your child will likely be sweating when outside in the heat, which is when a water-resistant formula offers better protection than a standard type. Keep in mind that there isn't a truly "waterproof" sunscreen, according to the FDA, only water-resistant. When spending time in and out of the water, your kids should reapply sunscreen more frequently, especially after exiting the water.

Type of Application

Sunscreens come in lotion, spray, stick, and gel options. They all offer similar protection, so the best type of sunblock for your kids will depend on your ability to apply it correctly.

  • Lotion: Though lotions can be tedious, they offer easy absorption and peace of mind in ensuring no spot is missed. This form is the easiest to apply effectively.
  • Spray: While spray sunscreen seems the most convenient, it's not as thorough as other forms and tends to be applied ineffectively. Sprays still need to be rubbed into the skin, especially as the initial application may miss some areas. The FDA recommends against applying spray sunscreen to the face due to the likelihood of inhaling fumes.
  • Stick: Aside from being lightweight and conveniently sized, stick sunscreens are an ideal option for kids who are learning to apply sunscreen independently. The swipe-on form is perfectly sized for delicate areas like the face and the ears, so there's no overdoing application. However, multiple layers need to be swiped on for ultimate coverage.
  • Gel: In the case of thin or very short hair, if the thought of running a lotion sunscreen over your head or your child's doesn’t seem appealing, gel-based sunscreens are a thinner alternative that provides coverage to your scalp.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often should you apply sunscreen on a child?

    Sunscreen should be applied around 20 to 30 minutes before heading outside. Even if a sunscreen is labeled as "all-day," it should be reapplied every two hours or according to the label's instructions. If your child is going in and out of the pool or the beach, water-resistant sunscreen should be reapplied more frequently—especially after exiting the water or toweling off.

  • How is sunscreen for kids different than sunscreen for adults?

    Some sunscreens have more gentle formulas than others, and despite the variety of kids' brands, sunscreens for adults work well for kids and vice versa. It boils down to your child's skin sensitivities, or lack thereof, mineral vs chemical formulation, the SPF, and your preferred type.

  • Do people with deeply pigmented skin need sunscreen?

    It's a common misconception that those with darker skin and high melanin levels don't need sunscreen. In actuality, African Americans experience more melanoma deaths than any other ethnic group. There are more difficulties in detecting skin cancer in those with dark skin, resulting in a higher likelihood that they'll receive a late-stage diagnosis. The bottom line is that sunscreen should always be worn no matter one's skin tone; there is no sun immunity in any community.

  • What else should you do to protect kids from the sun?

    It's best to avoid sun exposure when UV rays are at their strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Aside from applying sunscreen, there are other preventive steps your child can take when out in the sun: 

    • Wear UPF clothing, which features a higher thread count to block the sun's rays. Aim for a UPF of 15 to 50+.
    • Sport a wide-brimmed hat that can provide coverage for your face and neck.
    • Wear sunglasses that block or filter UVA and UVB rays. Sunglasses for babies can be effective, as well.
    • Don't forget the lips! Lip balm with SPF 15+ should be a pocket essential.
    • If possible, avoid certain medications, like acne treatments, decongestants, and antibiotics, which may increase the likelihood of a sunburn.
    • If obtaining vitamin D is the goal, alternatives include supplements and vitamin D-rich foods.

    Dr. Garshick also notes that babies under 6 months old should avoid direct sun by remaining shielded from the rays by beach tents or umbrellas. And while you're packing your beach gear, don't forget sun-protective clothing for the kiddos, such as hats and rash guards.

Why Trust Verywell Family 

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and a mom to a 2.5-year-old and a 5-year-old. She has personal experience in shopping for safe, effective kids sunscreen and has tried several of the brands on this list and ranks the Babyganics Sunscreen Lotion as her favorite.

14 Sources
Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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