Best Sunscreen for Kids to Prevent Their Skin from Sun Damage
By TSG Desk | Updated Jun 18, 2024, 10:25 PM IST
Being a parent is tough, but sunburn shouldn't be one of your worries. These specially crafted kids' sunscreens are gentle on your kid’s skin but strong on protection. They'll block those harmful UV rays and keep your little one safe for hours of summer fun. Look for SPF 30 or higher and water resistance for poolside fun. Mineral options and fragrance-free choices are great for sensitive skin. Put on sunscreen and enjoy summer days!
Best Sunscreen for Kids to Prevent Their Skin from Sun Damage
Being a parent is a full-time responsibility. The list is endless, from worrying about your kid's wellbeing to their education to kid's health in this harsh summer weather; make sure that you keep your children protected from sun damage by using sunscreen for kids. With the best sunscreen for kids, you can be rest assured that your child's delicate skin is shielded from harmful UV rays. These sunscreens are designed specifically for kids. Their formula combines gentle ingredients with powerful protection, offering a reliable defense against sunburn and long-term skin damage.
With our recommended sunscreens for kids, you can say goodbye to worries about sun exposure and allow your kids a carefree hour of playtime outdoors! Here are some things you should keep in mind while selecting the best sunscreen for your little one:
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor): SPF 30 or higher is a must when it comes to sunscreen for kids! Higher numbers of SPF offer more protection than lower ones. Always remember to reapply sunscreen after a few hours of spending time in the sun!
- Water resistance: It is essential for poolside fun or sweaty adventures. Opt for sunscreens labeled "water resistant" for 40 minutes or 80 minutes depending on activity. Reapply after toweling off or extended time in water
- Sensitive Skin: Go for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options if your kid has sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens are also a great option as these are gentler on the skin
- Form of Sunscreen: Many kids may not like applying creams. Sprays or sticks for faces can be easier way of sun protection for active kiddos
Best Sunscreens for Kids
| Sunscreen for Kids | Sun Protection Factor (SPF) |
| Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen | 50 |
| Cetaphil Sun Kids All Skin Type Lotion | 50 |
| WOW Skin Science Kids Ban-The-Sun Sunscreen | 30 |
| NIVEA Sun Kids Roll On | 50 |
| Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen SPF 30+ for Kids PA+++ | 30 |
1. Most Premium: Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen
Scent: Unscented | Quantity: 50 ml | Sun Protection Factor: 50 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
From the peadiatrician-recommended brand, Aveeno brings you an effective mineral sunscreen lotion which is as mild as water, making it perfect for sensitive skin. This sunscreen for kids applies easily to your child’s skin to lock in moisture, that too without any stinging or irritation. It is suitable for use on both the face and body.
What are others saying about this?
This Aveeno sunscreen doesn’t have any harmful chemicals making it safe for kids. It has pure zinc oxide, and great texture that can be applied easily.
Why should you add this to your skincare routine?
- The naturally sourced Zinc Oxide reflects and scatters UV radiation, making it a highly effective sun protectant to prevent sunburn and premature aging of skin caused by UVA rays
- It features a tear-free formula that is non-greasy, hypoallergenic and paraben-free, phthalate-free and fragrance-free
- Has SPF 50 for superior broad-spectrum protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays for your child's skin
Pros:
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Is moisturizing
- Made with naturally sourced 100% zinc oxide active ingredient
- Easy application on skin
Cons:
- Some users have reported that this sunscreen cream leaves a white cast on the skin
2. Most Hydrating: Cetaphil Sun Kids All Skin Type Lotion
Scent: Aloe vera | Quantity: 150 ml | Sun Protection Factor: 50 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
Cetaphil brings you their Sun Kids sunscreen which is specially crafted for little ones. This Cetaphil sunscreen has a dermatologically tested liposomal formulation for very high UV protection. The formula was made keeping in mind kids' delicate skin. Photostable UV filters in this sunscreen offer highly effective UVA and UVB protection so that your kids can enjoy their playtime and you won’t have to worry about protecting them from the sun’s harsh rays. The photostable, liposomal sunscreen spreads easily and evenly onto the skin as well.
What are others saying about this?
This Cetaphil Sun Kids sunscreen is great for everyday use. It doesn’t irritate the eyes and applies without leaving any white cast.
Why should you add this to your skincare routine?
- The water-resistant formula hydrates the skin for up to 24 hours
- It is specially formulated to be gentle on sensitive and sun sensitive skin
- This lotion gets absorbed and nourishes delicate skin with panthenol, glycerin, aloe vera and Vitamin E
Pros:
- Is 4 hours water resistance
- Has a paraben-free formula
- Suitable for face and body
Cons:
- Some customers have found this to be more expensive as compared to other products on the list
3. Most Gentle: WOW Skin Science Kids Ban-The-Sun Sunscreen
Scent: Raspberry | Quantity: 100 ml | Sun Protection Factor: 30 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
This WOW Skin Science Kids Ban-The-Sun sunscreen cream is packed with SPF 30 which will help protect your child's delicate skin against harsh UV rays all summer long! The formula of this sunscreen contains raspberry extract which is rich in Vitamin C. It can help as a natural sun blocker that will prevent and heal skin damage caused by sun. The carrot seed extract, is rich in Vitamins A and E, helps in preventing photo damage and excessive dryness of the skin.
What are others saying about this?
This WOW Ban-The-Sun sunscreen has an amazing fragrance and doesn’t leave any white cast. It has a lightweight formula which is non-sticky on the skin.
Why should you add this to your skincare routine?
- The avocado oil and extra virgin olive oil offer natural sunscreen benefits and help repairs sun damage caused by UVA/UVB rays
- Its non-oily, non-greasy, non-sticky and non-patchy formulation spreads evenly and gets absorbed quickly to form a protective shield over the exposed skin
- Has a water-resistant formulation which is ideal for beaches, pool or outdoor playtime
Pros:
- 100% gentle bioactive powered sunscreen
- Delivers long lasting sun protection
- Is rich in vitamins that help the skin prevent damage through free radicals
Cons:
- Some users have found this sunscreen difficult to apply due to its texture
4. Easiest Application: NIVEA Sun Kids Roll On
Scent: Unscented |Quantity: 50 ml | Sun Protection Factor: 50 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
Nivea sun kids caring roll-on provides children with highly effective UVA/UVB protection. This 5 in 1 compact roll-on sunscreen protects young delicate skin, with active natural minerals immediately protects the skin against sun exposure and long-term UV-induced skin damage. The caring formula for children's delicate skin helps to reduce the risk of sun allergies, is very water resistant and has a child-friendly handy roll-on format for easy application. The formula is paediatrically approved as well.
What are others saying about this?
This Nivea Sun roll on has a caring formula for children's delicate skin helps to reduce the risk of sun allergies. It is very water resistant and has a child-friendly handy roll-on format for easy application.
Why should you add this to your skincare routine?
- It prevents skin dehydration
- Has an extra water-resistant formula that allows your kids to enjoy without getting sun damage
- The formula has organic almond oil and protective glycerin
Pros:
- Roll-on format for easy application
- Formula is free from fragrance, parabens and colorants
- Helps reduce the risk of sun allergies
Cons:
- Some users have reported that a lot of product comes out at once sometimes
5. Most Affordable: Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen SPF 30+ for Kids PA+++
Scent: Unscented |Quantity: 75 ml | Sun Protection Factor: 30 Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
Fixderma Shadow Kids SPF 30+ Lotion is made with the blend of safest sun protectors; this lotion protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. The formulation is free from all types of harsh ingredients to suit the tender skin of children. This ultra-light lotion can be applied on any part of the body without causing any whiteness or greasiness. SPF 30 helps protect the child's delicate skin against harsh UV rays. It helps the skin stays moisturized, smooth and safe from the sun!
What are others saying about this?
This Fixderma Shadow Kids is very effective on kids and is super easy to apply. It has a very light weight consistency making it perfect for little ones!
Why should you add this to your skincare routine?
- The formula has Zinc oxide, Sun Cate, Niacinamide and Vitamin E that help form a protective barrier on the child's skin
- Its non-allergic, non-greasy, non-irritant and light weight formulation spreads evenly and gets absorbed quickly
- This has longer and safer skin residence time by forming a thin layer of water resistance protection shield upon skin
- Provides broad-spectrum protection
- Has a rating of PA+++
- Doubles as a moisturizer as well
Cons:
- Some users have reported that this sunscreen cream may not be suitable for kids with sensitive skin
FAQs
How to choose sunscreen for kids?
Choosing the right sunscreen for your kids is key for sun safety. Look for one with "broad spectrum" protection to block both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF of 30 or higher is ideal. If your child is swimming or sweating, opt for a water-resistant formula. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are great for sensitive skin, as they sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it. Finally, consider a spray or stick sunscreen for easier application!
What sunscreen is safe for kids?
When picking sunscreen for kids, look for one labeled "broad spectrum" with SPF 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens, also called "physical blockers," are generally gentler on young skin. These use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to deflect sun rays. Check for labels like "hypoallergenic" and "fragrance-free" to minimize irritation. Always do a patch test on a small area first.
How to apply sunscreen to kids?
Sun protection for kids takes two steps: sunscreen and covering up. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Use a generous amount, about an ounce for their whole body. Don't forget ears, lips, neck, tops of feet, and under bathing suit straps. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if they're sweating or swimming. For ultimate protection, add a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing.