15 Best Sunscreens for Kids [August, 2024]

Finding the best sunscreen for kids to protect delicate skin should begin with understanding key deciding factors. The best kids’ sunscreens rely on gentle mineral active ingredients like zinc oxide instead of chemicals to filter UV rays while nourishing sensitive complexions. Features like water resistance, portability, and added skincare benefits make application and reapplication a breeze. Comparing your options to find the ideal match for your family’s needs ensures kids stay shielded.

When ingredient safety and protection from burns come first, mineral formulas lead the pack in the best sunscreen for kids. Brands like Thinkbaby, BLUE LIZARD, and Aveeno offer trusted mineral options to suit different preferences. Going mineral instead of chemical reduces irritation on young skin while meeting American Academy of Dermatology recommendations. Look at SPF level, added features like water resistance, portability, and application method to find your perfect pediatrician-approved match

1. Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Children’s Sensitive Skin with Broad Spectrum SPF 50

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Description

The Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection that is specially formulated for children’s sensitive skin. It contains naturally-sourced zinc oxide and is tear-free, sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and non-greasy.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 sun protection
• Formulated with naturally-sourced zinc oxide
• Tear-free, sweat- & water-resistant for 80 minutes
• Non-greasy texture
• Hypoallergenic and pediatrician tested

Our Expert Opinion

This Aveeno sunscreen lotion is one of the best choices for protecting kids’ delicate skin while retaining a comfortable, non-greasy feel. The high SPF level shields skin without irritating eyes or causing discomfort. It’s an excellent sunscreen that provides reliable UV protection for active kids. As one of the top pediatrician-recommended brands, parents can trust Aveeno to keep their children safe in the sun.

2. BLUE LIZARD Kids Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion and Stick Bundle – SPF 50+

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Description

The Blue Lizard Kids Mineral Sunscreen Bundle comes with one 5 oz lotion bottle and one 0.5 oz stick of their pediatrician-recommended, mineral-based sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin. Both provide broad spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB protection.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB protection
• Formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
• Pediatrician-recommended
• Hypoallergenic and fragrance free
• Water resistant (40 minutes)

Our Expert Opinion

This Blue Lizard sunscreen bundle covers all the bases when it comes to safeguarding kidsâ€TM skin. The lotion makes reapplication fast and easy while the stick is great for targeted application on the face. Both are powered by minerals rather than chemicals, making them a smart choice for sensitive skin. As a brand developed by dermatologists and recommended by pediatricians, Blue Lizard is a name parents can trust for their childrensâ€TM sun protection.

3. Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen Face Stick

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Description

The Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen Face Stick glides onto skin easily in a solid stick form that makes sunscreen application mess-free. It provides SPF 50 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection that is Hawaii Reef compliant and free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB sun protection
• Solid face stick for easy targeted application
• Clear, non-greasy formula
• Water resistant (80 minutes)
• Reef safe & ocean friendly

Our Expert Opinion

For hassle-free sun protection that’s safe for oceans and reefs, this Sun Bum face stick is the perfect choice. It goes on clear without feeling sticky or greasy, making reapplication throughout the day a breeze. The high SPF shields sensitive skin on kids’ faces and the compact design is ideal for on-the-go sun safety. We highly recommend it for eco-conscious families.

4. Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen – Safe

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Description

The Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen Lotion provides safe, natural broad spectrum sun protection for babies’ delicate skin. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes and contains zinc oxide along with non-nano mineral UV filters. The formula is also vegan and gluten free.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB protection
• Natural mineral formula with zinc oxide
• 80 minutes water resistance
• Vegan, gluten free and reef safe
• Free of common sunscreen chemicals

Our Expert Opinion

When it comes to shielding babies’ extra-sensitive skin, Thinkbaby sets the safety bar high. This mineral sunscreen lotion is specially engineered to protect and soothe without any harsh chemicals. The combination of non-nano zinc oxide, high SPF, and water resistance makes it one of the most reliable choices to keep precious baby skin safe.

5. Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen – Safe

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Description

Providing reliable sun protection for active kids, Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen contains non-nano zinc oxide along with other plant-based ingredients to shield skin. It offers water-resistant broad spectrum protection and is safe for coral reefs.

Key Features

• SPF 50+ broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
• Powered by non-nano zinc oxide
• 80 minutes water resistance
• Certified reef safe formula
• Vegan and free of common chemical filters

Our Expert Opinion

Thinksport created this sunscreen with safety in mind, formulating it to protect both skin and oceans. The combination of mineral active ingredients and plant extracts enhance UV protection while hydrating skin, making it ideal for active kids who play outdoors. As a reliable eco-friendly sunscreen trusted by health-conscious parents, Thinksport is hard to beat – exactly what you want for your child.

6. Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Stick for Sensitive Skin

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Description

Aveeno designed this mineral sunscreen face and body stick to provide powerful broad spectrum SPF 50 protection in a convenient solid form that’s easy to apply. It glides onto all skin types, including sensitive, without irritation. The water-resistant formula contains naturally-sourced zinc oxide.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 protection
• Mineral stick with zinc oxide
• Sweat- & water-resistant for 80 minutes
• Gentle for sensitive skin
• Hypoallergenic and pediatrician tested

Our Expert Opinion

When you need targeted sun protection for kids, this Aveeno stick really fits the bill. It makes shielding delicate facial skin, uneven tan lines, and hard to reach spots easy while providing serious sun protection. The hypoallergenic mineral formula is comfortable for itchy, sensitive skin yet powerful enough for harsh outdoor UV exposure. It’s a great sun safety solution for the whole family.

7. BLUE LIZARD Mineral Sunscreen Stick with Zinc Oxide SPF 50+

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Description

Featuring broad spectrum SPF 50+ mineral protection in a portable solid stick, this Blue Lizard sunscreen makes on-the-go UV defense simple. It glides onto skin easily thanks to its zinc oxide formula that is gentle for kids and fragrance-free.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB sun protection
• Mineral stick with zinc oxide
• 40 minutes water resistance
• Hypoallergenic & fragrance free
• Easy glide application

Our Expert Opinion

When you need serious sun protection in an easy-to-use form, reach for this Blue Lizard stick. Slip it into your beach bag or pocket for anytime application on the go. We love that it combines complete UVA/UVB protection with skin-soothing zinc oxide and hydrating safflower oil to nourish while defending. For fuss-free safe sun care, it delivers.

8. Sun Bum Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

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Description

This Sun Bum Baby sunscreen lotion shields delicate skin with mineral-powered SPF 50 protection. The gentle, hypoallergenic formula with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide is fragrance-free, oil-free and safe for baby. It provides UVA/UVB defense and comes in a 3 oz travel size.

Key Features

• SPF 50 broad spectrum sun protection
• Mineral formula with zinc oxide & titanium dioxide
• Fragrance-free, oil-free, hypoallergenic
• Gentle for baby’s sensitive skin
• Reef friendly & ocean safe

Our Expert Opinion

When it comes to safeguarding baby in the sun, this Sun Bum mineral sunscreen is an excellent choice. It combines serious broad spectrum SPF with skin-soothing minerals and calming ingredients like oat kernel extract and sunflower oil. We love the fragrance-free formula that glides onto sensitive areas without irritation – plus it’s reef-safe. For complete peace of mind, this sunscreen can’t be beat.

9. BLUE LIZARD Kids Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion

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Description

This mineral-powered sunscreen lotion from Blue Lizard provides SPF 50 broad spectrum protection specifically formulated for kids’ delicate skin. The gentle cream formula contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection
• Mineral formula with zinc oxide & titanium dioxide
• Water resistant (40 minutes)
• Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
• Recommended by pediatricians

Our Expert Opinion

Blue Lizard created a mineral sunscreen lotion that checks all the boxes for safeguarding children’s skin. It blends zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block and scatter UV rays with hypoallergenic SPF 50 power. The water-resistant protection leaves skin smooth without greasy residue. As a leading pediatrician-recommended brand, they understand what it takes to properly shield delicate young skin. This sunscreen delivers serious UV protection you can rely on.

10. Babyganics SPF 50 Kids Mineral Sunscreen Roller Ball

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Description

The Babyganics Mineral Sunscreen Roller Ball packs targeted sun care into a fun rollerball applicator. It provides SPF 50 mineral protection powered by zinc oxide and is water resistant for 80 minutes. The formula is also reef safe.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB sun protection
• Mineral formula with 20% zinc oxide
• Water resistant (80 minutes)
• Octinoxate & oxybenzone free
• Coral reef & ocean safe

Our Expert Opinion

We love the convenience of this mineral sunscreen in an easy rollerball form that makes on-the-go application straightforward. It’s powered by a hefty 20% zinc oxide along with antioxidants like tomato and cranberry extracts. The ocean-friendly protection offers peace of mind that kids are safeguarded without posing a threat to marine environments. For hassle-free targeted sun safety, this rollerball is hard to beat.

11. Neutrogena Beach Defense Kids Sunscreen Stick

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Description

Neutrogena Beach Defense Kids Sunscreen Stick provides serious broad spectrum SPF 60+ protection in a stick form that goes on easy. The sunscreen is powered by Helioplex Technology and shields skin with an oxybenzone-free formula that is water-resistant for 80 minutes. It comes in a convenient 2-pack.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 60+
• Helioplex boosts UVA/UVB protection
• 80 minutes water & sweat resistance
• Oxybenzone-free formula
• Pediatrician recommended

Our Expert Opinion

When your active kids need heavy-duty defense against sun exposure, this Neutrogena stick is a great pick. It combines their innovative helioplex booster with a high concentration of avobenzone to deliver boosted UVA/UVB protection that lasts. We like the convenient stick applicator and the fact that it’s tested by pediatricians, meaning you can trust it to shield delicate young skin all day.

12. Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50

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Description

Coppertone Pure & Simple Kids Mineral Sunscreen Spray provides broad spectrum SPF 50 protection in an easy continuous spray. The fast-absorbing, tear-free formula contains 14% zinc oxide and stays put for 80 minutes of water resistance.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50
• 14% mineral zinc oxide
• Tear-free spray
• 80 minutes water resistance
• Hypoallergenic

Our Expert Opinion

Spray sunscreens make application fast, and this Coppertone mineral version takes convenience up a notch. It delivers powerful SPF alongside a high dose of skin-soothing zinc oxide to protect children without chemicals. The fast-absorbing spray leaves skin feeling smooth and comfortable. For fuss-free full-body coverage minus the chemicals, it fits the bill beautifully.

13. Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

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Description

Formulated just for kids, this SPF 50 sunscreen lotion provides broad spectrum protection that is vegan, water resistant, and won’t leave behind white residue on darker skin tones. The formula is also hypoallergenic and made without oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection
• Vegan & water resistant (80 minutes)
• Won’t leave white cast
• Hypoallergenic
• No oxybenzone or octinoxate

Our Expert Opinion

When you need reliable sun protection free of harsh chemicals, this mineral sunscreen is an excellent option. It delivers non-nano zinc oxide alongside natural oils and butters to hydrate skin while providing safe UVA/UVB defense. We like that the formula won’t leave behind white residue on darker complexions. Made without oxybenzone or octinoxate, it’s an ideal choice for health-conscious families seeking clean sun care.

14. Banana Boat Kids Sport Sting-Free Tear-Free, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

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Description

This Banana Boat Kids Sport Sunscreen provides SPF 50 broad spectrum protection in a sting-free, tear-free formula designed for active kids. The oil-free sunscreen lotion delivers UVA/UVB defense and comes in a 2-pack of 6 oz bottles that are handy for reapplication on the go.

Key Features

• Oil-free broad spectrum SPF 50
• Sting & tear-free for kids’ eyes/skin
• Sweat & water resistant 80 minutes
• Easy spray or lotion application
• Pediatrician tested

Our Expert Opinion

If your kiddo tends to get stinging, watery eyes from sunscreen, this Banana Boat formula is here to save beach days! It glides onto skin without irritating sensitive young eyes or skin thanks to the sting-free ingredients. We like that it stays put through sweat and water exposure while providing some serious SPF. According to pediatrician testing, parents can rely on this sunscreen to keep kids protected.

15. Banana Boat Kids Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Stick with SPF 50

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Description

This Banana Boat sunscreen stick delivers targeted SPF 50 broad spectrum sun protection in a portable solid form. The pediatrician-tested formula is water resistant for 80 minutes and provides UVA/UVB defense specifically tailored for kids’ delicate skin.

Key Features

• Broad spectrum SPF 50
• Pediatrician tested
• 80 minutes water resistance
• Sting & tear-free
• Oil-free formula

Our Expert Opinion

Slip this sunscreen stick in your beach bag for hassle-free sun protection anytime. We like that it goes on smooth without stinging sensitive young eyes while providing serious defense against UV exposure. As a leading sunscreen brand recommended by pediatricians, Banana Boat understands what it takes to properly safeguard children’s skin. This sunscreen stick delivers oil-free, water-resistant protection you can rely on.

Comparison for Best Sunscreen for Kid

How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Kids

Choosing an effective sunscreen to protect your child’s sensitive skin can seem overwhelming with all the options available. Here are the key factors pediatricians recommend focusing on:

SPF Level – Choose an SPF of at least 30, with 50+ recommended for extended outdoor activity. Higher SPF indicates more UVB protection.

Broad Spectrum – Ensure the sunscreen provides broad spectrum protection against both burning UVB rays and aging UVA rays.

Active Ingredients – Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are gentler for kids. Avoid oxybenzone which can cause irritation.

Texture/Feel – Lighter lotions or creams tend to feel more comfortable on kids than thick pastes or oily formulas.

Added Features – Water/sweat resistance, tear-free claims, and pediatrician/dermatologist recommendations provide added assurance.

Focus on finding a formula that will make sunscreen application a breeze so kids stay protected outdoors!

Types of Kids’ Sunscreens

There are two main types of sunscreens formulated for kids:

Mineral Sunscreens

These contain active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide which work by sitting on top of skin to physically block and deflect UV rays. They are gentle formulas often recommended for sensitive skin.

Chemical Sunscreens

These absorb into skin and contain active ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octisalate, and homosalate. While often lightweight, they can sometimes irritate sensitive young skin.

Many pediatrician-recommended kids’ sunscreen brands now use mineral actives over chemicals to better cater to little ones’ delicate skin. Be sure to check the active ingredients to determine which type of sun protection is best for your child.

Proper Use of Best Sunscreen for Kids

Using sunscreen effectively is key to ensuring your kids are fully protected when outdoors having summer fun:

• Apply Generously: Use about 1 oz per application (a shot glass worth) to cover all exposed skin. Don’t skimp!
• Apply 30 Minutes Before Sun Exposure: Give sunscreen time to fully bind with skin before kids go outside to maximize protection.
• Reapply Frequently: Reapply at least every 2 hours and immediately after sweating, swimming, or toweling off for reliable coverage.
• Pay Special Attention to the Face, Ears and Shoulders: Don’t forget easily burnt areas!
• Have Kids Help: Starting around age 6, teach kids to apply their own sunscreen (with adult supervision) to build safe sun habits.

By thoroughly covering vulnerable skin and reapplying sunscreen often, you’ll provide kids with a shield against damaging UV exposure for health now and later in life.

FAQs about Best Sunscreen for Kids

Q. What is the best sunscreen for kids faces?

The best sunscreen options for protecting kids’ delicate facial skin include:

• Sun Bum Kids Clear Face Stick – Provides SPF 50 coverage in a transparent, easy to apply stick format designed specifically for the face.
• Aveeno Kids Zinc Oxide Stick – Offers an SPF 50 mineral stick sunscreen ideal for mess-free facial application and reapplication without irritation.
• BLUE LIZARD Mineral Stick – An SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen stick that goes on smoothly without white residue for facial touch-ups.
• Babyganics Mineral Rollerball Sunscreen – The rollerball applicator allows kids to easily reapply SPF 50 facial sunscreen themselves without mess.

Q. What SPF level is best for children?

A. Pediatricians recommend using an SPF of at least 30 on kids, with 50+ ideal for extended outdoor activity when UV rays are strongest. The higher the SPF rating, the more UVB ray protection provided.

Q. Should kids wear sunscreen every day?

A. Yes, daily sunscreen for kids is recommended whenever they will get sun exposure, even on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate clouds and can still damage unprotected skin.

Q. Can babies wear sunscreen?

A. Most pediatricians approve using sunscreen on babies over 6 months old. Seek shade and protective clothing for newborns, then introduce an SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen approved for babies once baby is 6 months+.

Q. What is the safest sunscreen for my child?

A. Mineral sunscreens with active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are safest for kids. They physically block UV rays vs. chemical sunscreens that absorb into skin and may irritate.

Q. Should sunscreen for kids be waterproof or water resistant?

A. Water resistant is preferable over waterproof claims. Water resistant sunscreens indicate how many minutes they can maintain protection with wetness before needing reapplication.

By sticking to high SPF mineral options and applying/reapplying properly, you can feel good knowing your kiddos are fully shielded. Protect their skin today for a lifetime of healthy tomorrows in the sun!

Conclusion

Keeping kids protected in the sun deserves your careful attention but the wide array of sunscreen options makes narrowing decisions overwhelming. Focus first on utilizing mineral formulas which rate gentlest for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Then consider convenience factors like water resistance, application methods, and vitamin enrichment to aid healthy skin and easy use. Layering sun-safe habits like UV protective clothing and playing in shade allows mineral sunscreens to only touch up what’s exposed. Your kids will thank you later for prioritizing comprehensive sun protection starting today.