What’s the Best Sunscreen for Kids? Here's What You Need to Know

Summertime means endless pool days, sandy beach adventures, and kids running wild in the sunshine. And while summer should be all fun and games, it’s also the perfect time to teach kids about sun safety—starting with sunscreen. But with crowded shelves and countless options, picking the right sunscreen for kids can feel overwhelming. Add in confusing ingredient lists and all the misinformation online, and it’s hard to know what’s truly safe and effective. Here’s how you can keep their skin protected and confidently choose the best sunscreen for kids.

Why sunscreen matters for kids

When we think about sunscreen for adults, it’s usually about avoiding sunburn, preventing premature aging, and lowering the risk of skin cancer. The same is true for kids. Children’s skin is more sensitive, which makes it extra vulnerable to sun damage. That’s why it’s important to apply sunscreen everyday, not just on beach and pool days. Too much sun exposure, especially when it leads to sunburn, can increase the risk of skin aging, dark spots, and skin cancer later in life.

Sun protection goes beyond sunburns. Sun damage can happen beneath the surface and cause damage you can’t see, no matter your child’s skin tone. Fortunately, protecting their skin with sunscreen when they’re young helps keep it healthy and resilient for years to come.

What to look for in a kid-safe sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal, and some are better than others. To make sure you’re getting the safest, most effective protection, here’s what to look for when shopping for the best kids sunscreen:

Choose mineral over chemical

Mineral sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin and physically blocking harmful rays from reaching the skin. Because they’re designed to stay on the surface, mineral sunscreens can be a little harder to rub in and might leave a slight white cast. The active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are often zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Both are gentle and less likely to irritate the skin, which is especially useful for kids with sensitive skin.

On the other hand, chemical sunscreens absorb sun rays and protect by converting rays into heat, which is then released from the body. While harsh chemical sunscreens don’t leave a white residue and are often more water-resistant, the ingredients can sometimes be more irritating. Active ingredients in harsh chemical sunscreens can include oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone.

There have been concerns that certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens may act as endocrine (hormone) disruptors or contribute to other health issues. While research on this is limited, most experts agree that using any sunscreen is better than none when it comes to protecting against sun damage. That said, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends mineral sunscreens for kids, as they tend to be gentler on sensitive skin.

Go fragrance-free and hypoallergenic

When shopping for a kid-safe sunscreen, scan the label and steer clear of synthetic fragrances. Look specifically for “fragrance-free” and “hypoallergenic” on the packaging to help minimize the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Water-resistant, broad-spectrum, SPF 30+

When choosing sunscreen for kids, look for one that’s water-resistant, which means it will protect the kids in the water for 40 to 80 minutes. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions—some sunscreens need about 15 to 30 minutes to fully absorb before swimming or sweating. Be sure the sunscreen is broad-spectrum, which means it protects against both types of harmful rays, UVA rays and UVB rays. 

Additionally, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for all kids, regardless of skin tone. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, though no sunscreen can block 100% of harmful rays.

Ingredients to avoid in kids’ sunscreen

When choosing sunscreen for kids, it’s important to keep an eye on the ingredient list. Some commonly used additives and chemicals can cause skin irritation or raise other health concerns, especially for sensitive skin. Here are some ingredients to avoid in sunscreen:

• Oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone: Active ingredients commonly found in harsh chemical sunscreens, which can cause irritation. 

• Synthetic fragrances: Added fragrances might make products smell nice, but they often contain a mix of undisclosed chemicals that can trigger skin irritation, allergic reactions, or sensitivities. Always look for labels that say “fragrance-free.”

• Phthalates: These chemicals are sometimes hidden within fragrances and can interfere with hormone function. 

• Parabens: Used as preservatives in many skincare products and have been linked to potential hormone disruption.

Sunscreen for babies 

Babies under 6 months should not wear sunscreen, as their skin is more sensitive and prone to reactions like rashes or irritation. The best way to protect them is by keeping them out of direct sunlight. When taking a baby outside, always keep them in the shade and dress them in lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect their skin. When babies are over 6 months, sunscreen should be mineral-based.

Tips for safe sunscreen application

When it comes to applying sunscreen safely and effectively, it’s important to use the right amount and apply it thoroughly, both on the face and body. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, or more frequently if you've been swimming or sweating, as water and perspiration can reduce its effectiveness. However, keep in mind that every sunscreen is different, so it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on how often to reapply. Also, be sure not to overlook areas that are especially vulnerable to sun damage, such as the ears, neck, and hands.

Additional sunscreen tips:

• Sunscreen works best when combined with other protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing.

• Check expiration dates because expired sunscreen can lose its effectiveness.

• Apply sunscreen on cloudy or overcast days because UV rays can pass through clouds.

• Use a makeup brush to apply sunscreen to the face, which can be more comfortable and enjoyable for kids.

Final thoughts: Simple steps for safer summers

Sun safety for kids doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right sunscreen alongside hats, shade, and protective clothing, you can keep kids’ skin healthy and protected all summer long. Teaching kids these habits early can help to prevents painful sunburns and sets them up for a lifetime of sun-smart choices.