Sunscreen for babies and kids: what to look for

Playing outside may help a child support their body, mind and spirit. Studies show that it brings big benefits: better learning outcomes, decreased stress and improved motor development.

But one downside to time under the sun is the risk of sunburn, which can result in tears today and skin troubles tomorrow.

For those looking for products to help protect kids from sunburn and skin damage, here’s how to find a formula that fits.

In this article:

When to start using sunscreen

An infant's skin is sensitive and vulnerable to serious sunburns. For babies younger than 6 months, it is generally recommended to keep them out of direct sunlight. It's usually advised to wait until a baby is 6 months old before applying any sunscreen, unless a health care provider has recommended it. Infants are more susceptible to the potential side effects of sunblock, including a rash.

Choosing the right sunscreen for a baby

For most babies, they can start using sunblock when they reach 6 months old. But what should parents look for? It is recommended that everyone — babies, kids and adults — choose sun protection that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, has water-resistant properties and offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning that it helps protect against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

“I prefer physical sunblock for children,” says Lauren Ploch, MD, MEd, a dermatologist in Augusta, GA, and Aiken, SC. Both chemical and physical sunblock form a layer on the skin to protect the skin and absorb harmful rays. Physically, sunblock uses minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block the sun’s rays. Dr. Ploch also recommends hypoallergenic formulas: “When children are young, we aren’t aware of things they could be allergic to.”

Children don’t specifically need to use kid-friendly sunscreen. The best type of sunscreen a family can use is one they will use again, as long as it meets the coverage and SPF recommendations. But if a sunscreen causes a reaction in a child’s skin, pay attention to the formulation and look for another option.

Caregivers can always ask their pediatrician for advice on which sunscreen is best for their child.

Applying sunscreen for babies and kids

Make good sun safety a habit. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays can come through. So every time kids go outside in the daytime, try to remember sunscreen and other precautions. “Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection,” says A. Yasmine Kirkorian, MD, chief of dermatology at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC. “Children should wear long-sleeved sun protective clothing, hats and sunglasses as well as seek shade and avoid midday sun.”

Sunscreen should be applied to any areas not covered by clothes 15 minutes before heading outdoors. Don’t forget to cover everywhere, including ears, hands and feet. Apply again after kids take a dip in the water or work up a sweat, and apply every two hours while out in the sun.

Always read the label and follow directions as listed. Remember to check a sunscreen’s expiration date.

Sunscreens for sensitive skin

Dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens, also called physical sunscreens, for people with sensitive skin. “Babies and individuals with sensitive skin should use physical sunscreens,” says Dr. Kirkorian, because those formulations are less likely to cause a reaction. It’s also a good idea to look for fragrance-free formulas.

One option to consider is Hello Bello mineral sunscreen with SPF 50, which is made with zinc oxide for broad-spectrum physical protection.

Paraben-free sunscreens

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not yet have a stance on parabens in sunscreen, but parabens have been deemed safe for cosmetic use. However, the FDA continues to research whether parabens might have negative health impacts. Someone interested in sunscreens without parabens should opt for bottles labeled “paraben-free.”

Some sunscreens without parabens include:

• Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection mineral sunscreen with SPF 50
• Coppertone WaterBABIES Pure and Simple tear-free mineral-based lotion with broad spectrum SPF 50

Noncomedogenic sunscreens

Kids who have oily skin or are prone to acne may be better suited for a sunscreen that is noncomedogenic, which means that it won’t clog pores.

Many formulations on the market fit that description, such as La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50 kids’ sunscreen. For noncomedogenic spray sunscreens, make sure to continue applying until skin glistens and rub it in afterwards to help ensure the child is properly covered.

Fragrance-free sunscreens

While that coconut fragrance may be an iconic smell of summer, it’s not friendly to every skin type. Dr. Kirkorian explains that avoiding products with fragrance is better for keeping a baby’s skin healthy.

Consider fragrance-free formulas like:

• Coppertone Pure and Simple broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion with SPF 50
• Banana Boat Simply Protect baby sunscreen stick with SPF 50

Vegan sunscreens

If the parent or child prefers a vegan sunscreen, there are some options on the market. For instance, Baby Bum products — including Baby Bum fragrance-free, roll-on mineral sunscreen lotion with SPF 50 and Baby Bum mineral sunscreen lotion with SPF 50 — are vegan.

High SPF sunscreen

Broad-spectrum sunscreens are designed to block harmful UV rays and protect against sunburn. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 block about 97 percent of rays — no sunscreen can block 100 percent. For babies and kids with very sunburn-prone skin, choosing a higher SPF to help maximize protection may be helpful.

One option to consider is Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play clear sunscreen spray with SPF 100.

Sunscreens for eczema

“Even hypoallergenic brands of sunscreen can be irritating for people with sensitive skin or eczema,” says Dr. Kirkorian. Physical sunscreens may be less irritating for people with sensitive skin.

Parents might try a formula like Neutrogena Pure and Free baby mineral sunscreen stick with SPF 50, which has been awarded the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, meaning it doesn’t include certain products that may irritate skin.