Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Kids: Expert Tips and Recommendations

Applying sunscreen is essential for children over six months of age, irrespective of their skin tone, according to experts. Sunscreen offers protection beyond sunburn, including reducing the risk of skin cancers, states Dr. Rebecca Carter, a pediatrician at the University of Maryland Children’s Hospital. I consulted dermatologists and pediatricians about selecting a safe sunscreen for kids and how to apply it effectively. Below are suggested products, including water-resistant, powder, and stick sunscreens.

Top Picks for Kids’ Sunscreens

Best Overall

Blue Lizard’s mineral sunscreens rank high among experts and NBC Select editors. Dr. Hadley King, a New York City dermatologist, praises the smart cap technology that changes color under UV light, raising awareness among children. It’s also free of parabens and fragrances, suitable for sensitive skin. Consider the stick version for easier use on the go.

Best Without White Cast

According to NBC Select senior production manager Becca Delman, this moisturizing lotion is ideal for kids with sensitive skin. Lightweight and easy to rub in, it leaves no white residue. It comes with a handy pump and is compact for travel, making it suitable for quick application.

Best Lotion

The Banana Boat sunscreen carries the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance. It is fragrance- and oil-free, catering to those with eczema and sensitive skin. The rapid absorbency is promoted by Banana Boat’s sport variety, which remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Best Stick

Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Stick is favored by Dr. King due to its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free composition. Perfect for sensitive areas like noses and scalps, it minimizes the risk of irritation.

Best Powder

NBC Select editor Bethany Heitman recommends this mineral powder sunscreen for easy application on her children. The brush makes it simple to use and invites children to participate in application.

Best for Very Sensitive Skin

Aveeno’s sunscreen is noted for its skin-soothing oat formula, gentle on children’s sensitive skin. It’s designed to avoid irritation without greasy residue.

Most Moisturizing

La Roche-Posay offers a lotion suitable for older kids, containing chemical filters for ease of blend and glycerin for hydration, without leaving a white cast.

Best for Babies

Aveeno’s baby face lotion is favored for infants, offering a fragrance-free option for safe application on babies older than six months. Always seek pediatric advice for younger children.

Most Soothing

This sunscreen provides relief with calendula extract and organic aloe for babies, available in a stick version for convenience. Blue Lizard recommends applying it on dry skin at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.

Best Oil-Free

Cerave’s sunscreen remains oil-free and fragrance-free with hyaluronic acid for hydration. Apply thoroughly to prevent white cast. A stick version is available for a clear application.

Best Water-Resistant

Dr. Carter recommends Babyganics’ water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 50. It combines zinc oxide and titanium oxide for hypoallergenic protection.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Sunscreens for Kids

Formulation: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide offer a physical barrier without skin absorption, minimizing irritation. Ensure labeling as noncomedogenic.

SPF Protection: Experts suggest SPF 30 as a minimum, with SPF 50 or higher more ideal, given common application inconsistencies.

Consistency: Creams and lotions provide greater coverage. Stick sunscreens are favored yet may be challenging to apply thoroughly.

The Safest SPF for Kids

Experts recommend at least SPF 30 for adequate protection. SPF 50 or higher is advised due to common application practices. Look for broad-spectrum coverage to safeguard against UVA and UVB rays.

Is Mineral Sunscreen Better for Kids?

Carter suggests mineral sunscreens for their stability and lower irritation potential. While certain mineral-based products may contain chemical components suitable for older children, infants require pure mineral formulas.

Cream, Stick, or Spray: What’s Best?

Opt for creams and lotions for extensive coverage. Stick sunscreens are practical and engaging for children. Exercise caution with spray options due to coverage inconsistencies and potential inhalation hazards.

Ensure thorough application coverage. Encourage self-application using the “9 teaspoon rule”. Persist in applying sunscreen post-activity in water or perspiration, even with water-resistant variants.

Can Kids Share Sunscreen with Adults?

Kids may use adult sunscreens if they offer mineral-based protection with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.

Additional Sun Safety Tips for Kids

• Avoid peak UV hours, seeking shade as sun intensifies.
• Select protective clothes such as UPF wear, hats, and sunglasses.
• Consider a tent setup at the beach for added protection.

This guidance is corroborated by experts Dr. Hadley King, Dr. Rebecca Carter, Dr. Jennifer Mancuso, and Dr. Karan Lal. Trust NBC Select’s editorial integrity and expertise in skincare and wellness.