16 Best Baby Sunscreens That Can Be Used All Round The Year – 2024
Your baby's skin deserves the best and these products promise to offer you just that.
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
krati darakMBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
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Are you finding ways to protect your little one’s skin from sun damage while they are playing outdoors? Worry not. The best baby sunscreens in the market will suit the gentle skin of babies. Children’s skin is smooth, delicate, and soft. Hence the sunscreens we use for adults may not be suitable for them, and the harmful chemicals in them may also irritate the skin. These baby sunscreens are specially formulated with have zinc oxide, which is a naturally derived mineral, that effectively blocks sun rays. In this article, we have listed 16 baby sunscreens which you can use for your little one safely.
In This Article
16 Best Baby Sunscreens For Every Season
1. Best Overall:Baby Bum Mineral 50 Sunscreen Lotion
This fragrance-free sunscreen lotion from Baby Bum is a face and body lotion that is lightweight and non-sticky. This dermatologist-tested product is 100% mineral-based and has broad-spectrum SPF 50 to protect the gentle skin of babies from harmful UVA/UVB rays. The lotion is easy to apply and is quickly absorbed into the skin. The plant-based formula contains natural zinc oxide, shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil to hydrate and nourish the skin. This is the best sunscreen for babies that is resistant to water for up to 80 minutes.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-sticky
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
- Dermatologist-tested
- Travel-friendly
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Leaves a white residue on the skin.
"This sunscreen has been a boon for my sensitive skin, even at high altitudes. I admire its non-toxic components and the white component that fades seamlessly into my skin. Even with my highly sensitive nose, the pleasing scent doesn't turn me off. Despite working as a surveyor in extreme sun exposure, my Irish complexion remains unscathed. A splendid find indeed."
2. Best Non-Greasy:thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen
The thinkbaby sunscreen contains broad spectrum SPF 50+ and protects your baby’s delicate skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. The water-resistant formula is great for beach days or swimming classes.
The non-greasy lotion is easy to apply and glides on smooth and clear. It is formulated with 20% non-nano zinc oxide and is effective on sensitive baby skin. The sunscreen has a tropical papaya fragrance instead of the usual strong sunscreen smell and leaves no residue on the skin.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Easily absorbed
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Easy to spread
- Smells good
- Dermatologist recommended
- PABA-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- BPA-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Not suitable for eczema-prone skin.
"I enjoy using this sunscreen daily without a nasty sweat film or coated feeling. It sinks mostly into my medium olive skin - darker complexions might need to apply moderately. Perfect for travel, carrying all essentials sans harmful additives. Plus, it smells fantastic."
3. Best For Eczema-Prone Skin:Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
This Aveeno sunscreen is an excellent protection formula for babies with sensitive skin. The mineral-based lotion is formulated with broad spectrum SPF 50, which keeps the skin shielded from UVA and UVB rays.
The lotion is sweat- and water-resistant up to 80 minutes. It nourishes and soothes the skin with oats and 100% natural zinc oxide as active ingredients. Pediatricians recommend this lotion as it locks in moisture without stinging your baby’s soft skin. It is non-greasy and non-irritating and recommended for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Tear-free formula
- Hypoallergenic
- Pediatrician-recommended
- Sweat-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Difficult to spread
"I've been using this product for years, caring for my skin, and even my little one's sensitive skin doesn't react to it. It offers adequate sun protection and spreads more easily than other sunscreens. I recommend it for all ages. It's a worthy addition to your skin care routine."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 4,364 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
4. Best Travel-Friendly:Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen
Image: Neutrogena The Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen comes in a stick form that is easy to carry around. The hypoallergenic formula contains 21% zinc oxide and SPF 60 to protect your child’s skin from harmful UV rays and sunburns.
This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen also contains naturally sourced titanium dioxide and uses Purescreen Technology to absorb, reflect, and dissipate harmful sunrays. The oil-free stick has a non-greasy, weightless formula and contains no chemicals that could irritate the delicate skin of babies. This chemical-free sunscreen for infants is recommended for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-greasy
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free
- Tear-free
- PABA-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- Leaves a white residue.
"The product offers impressive sun protection without leaving a greasy feel. Its small size is extremely convenient for carrying, and the stick presentation makes application effortless."
Stylecraze Says5. Best With Natural Ingredients:BADGER Baby Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream
The BADGER Baby Sunscreen Cream is a 100% natural and 98% organic baby product. This sunscreen is formulated with seven simple ingredients that include organic sunflower oil, beeswax, and olive oil, which moisturize the baby’s skin and soothe irritation caused by heat.
The formula also contains non-nano zinc oxide, vitamin E, chamomile, calendula, and sea buckthorn, which provide a safe and effective shield for the baby’s skin. The ideal broad-spectrum SPF for babies is 30 as this protects the skin from harmful sun rays. The gentle formula remains sweat- and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and works well for pool or seaside visits.
Pros
- Pediatrician-tested
- All-natural ingredients
- Hypoallergenic
- Water-resistant up to 40 minutes
- Reef-safe
- Non-GMO
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Not long-lasting
"I appreciate the thoughtful ingredients in this sunblock. Yes, it does require applying generously for strong sun. It's not greasy and devoid of harmful substances. For me, this kid's sunblock stands as a safer skin protection option."
6. Best Recommended By Skin Experts:Banana Boat Simply Protect Baby Sunscreen Lotion
The Banana Boat baby sunscreen lotion is a mild formula that is easy and quick to apply on kids. This sunscreen for the baby’s body contains 25% less ingredients and protects the skin through seven different conditions like pool water, sun, wind, sweat, ocean water, and even 100-degree heat waves. This lotion has broad-spectrum SPF 50, which shields your child’s soft skin from harmful UV rays. The non-greasy formula is toxin-free and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
- Water-resistant
- Paraben-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Tear-free
Cons
- Streaky and patchy
"The mineral sunblock actually keeps you safe from burns and is reef-safe. I personally love the tear-free formula. It did leave a white film on excessive application, but its effectiveness in preventing sunburns, especially for kids. The best part is it's the only sunscreen that doesn't irritate the eyes."
RememberWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 614 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
7. Best For All-Round Protection:Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen
Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen is a top choice for parents looking for safe and effective sunscreen for their little ones. This product offers broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays using natural ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Unlike chemical sunscreens, these mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier on the skin to reflect harmful rays, making it a more delicate option for babies with sensitive skin. This pediatrician-approved sunscreen for babies is free of fragrances, parabens, and oxybenzone, along with common irritants found in other sunscreens.
This sunscreen for beach trips with babies is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it a great option for active and water-based activities. This feature makes it easier for parents to protect their children during outdoor play or trips to the beach. The Baby Mineral Sunscreen also comes in a convenient squeeze bottle, making it easy to apply and reapply as needed. Many reviewers said that this sunscreen is very smooth and easily applied without leaving a white cast.
Pros
- Water resistant
- Fragrance-free
- High spf
- Parabens-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Broad spectrum [protection with smart technology
- Gentle on skin
- Pediatrician recommended
Cons
None
"I found this sunscreen ideal for my young ones' sensitive skin. It has fairly clean ingredients and a smooth texture. It requires frequent reapplication, a small trade-off for its effectiveness. Features like color-changing bottles are intriguing."
8. Best Fast-Absorbing Formula:Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen
The Babo Botanicals Mineral Sunscreen is formulated with 100% zinc oxide and infused with SPF 50 to protect your baby’s skin from UVA and UVB rays. The fast-absorbing formula is lightweight and does not leave any white film.
The lotion is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. This sunscreen for newborns is organic and contains calendula that soothes the skin along with jojoba and sunflower seed oils that reduce inflammation and repair the skin barrier. The fatty acids in these oils hydrate the skin thoroughly. Shea butter has anti-inflammatory, emollient, and humectant properties.
Pros
- Sweat- and water-resistant
- Hypoallergenic
- Formaldehyde-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Reef-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Dairy-free
- Nut-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
"I've been using this sunscreen daily for its safe, clean ingredients, verified by the Environmental Working Group. It provides effective sun protection without stinging my eyes, unlike some chemical sunscreens. While it does leave a slight white hue, it's a small trade-off for the benefits. Its subtle, natural smell is pleasant, though noticeable for the first few minutes only. It is easy to apply and it does not leave any greasy residues. Despite being challenging to wash off, I appreciate the peace of mind it gives me."
9. Best Vegan:Kiss My Face Baby’s First Kiss Sunscreen Lotion
The Kiss My Face sunscreen lotion is a 100% non-nano mineral-based sunblock. It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection to delicate baby skin and keeps it safe from UVA and UVB damage. The lotion is blended with aloe vera and chamomile extracts that keep the skin moisturized and soft. This sunscreen for baby’s face is easy to apply and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Pros
- Tear-free
- Fragrance-free
- Water-resistant
- Vegan
- Not tested on animals
- Cruelty-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Leaves a white film
- Greasy
"Using this sunscreen has been beneficial for my super-sensitive skin on my outdoor swimming days. It's slightly white due to its zinc oxide content, but upon rubbing it, it fades. I've trusted this product for years, even on children and my dog's sensitive nose spot. Though it may leave a 'cast', it protects my family and me without instigating our skin issues. It is a sunblock I'd happily recommend."
10. Best Hypoallergenic:CeraVe Baby Hydrating Sunscreen
The CeraVe Baby Sunscreen is a hydrating formula with three essential ceramides that repair and restore the skin’s natural barrier. It contains physical sunscreens like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and broad spectrum SPF 45, which protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
The lotion is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and can be used during swimming classes or visits to the beach. This sun protection for babies is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which retains the skin’s natural moisture, and niacinamide to calm the skin. This 100% mineral-based sunscreen is gentle on delicate and eczema-prone skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-irritating
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Chemical filter-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- Leaves residue
"Applying this Cerave product on my little one's sensitive skin was challenging due to its thick nature but it protects his skin well. It has a mild fragrance and is waterproof. Though it might leave your kid looking a bit ghostly post-application, its benefits are substantial."
11. Best Organic: Erbaviva Organic Baby Sunscreen
Erbaviva Organic Baby Sunscreen is a safe, organic, effective, and eco-friendly option for parents looking to protect their baby’s delicate skin from harmful sun rays. It is a mineral and organic-based formula without the use of harsh chemicals. It is water-resistant and has eco-friendly packaging, making it a top choice for parents who prioritize their baby’s health and the environment. It is free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, and synthetic preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin.
The formula is also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor play and water-based activities. The sunscreen is cruelty-free, making it a great choice for those who are mindful of its impact on the environment and animal welfare.
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Water-resistant
- Broad-spectrum protection
- Fragrance-free
- Synthetic preservation-free
- Organic formula
- Water-resistant
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
"This sunscreen is easy to spread, has a pleasant scent, and is non-greasy. Although it leaves a mild white cast, it's less noticeable than similar mineral products. It's also gentle on my kids' sensitive skin. Despite a moderate SPF, it worked well in spring and wintertime. The texture is creamy, making self-application easy."
12. waxhead Sun Defense Skin Nourishing Sunscreen
This sunscreen from waxhead is a gentle and purely organic formula that also acts as a sunblock. The sunscreen stick is formulated with 25% non-nano zinc oxide and lightly scented with coconut oil and vanilla.
It only contains four organic and mineral ingredients and is safe for baby skin. The lotion is infused with broad-spectrum SPF 30, which protects the sensitive skin of babies from sunburns and other problems caused by UV rays. The non-greasy formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and it moisturizes the skin without irritating or stinging.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-irritating
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- 100% toxin-free
- Certified organic
- Petrochemical-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Reef-friendly
Cons
- Hard to apply
"I've finally found a cleaner sunscreen that's reef-safe and gentle on my pores. It leaves a bit of a pasty, white cast and can feel sticky. But it's ultra waterproof, perfect for hours under the sun. It's great for kids and really stays all day, offering complete protection. And bonus, it smells divine, like cocoa!"
13. Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen
The Two Peas Organic Mineral Sunscreen is an all-natural formula suitable for children and adults. This natural baby sunscreen is formulated with SPF 50 that protects the skin from harmful UV rays. The mineral-based lotion contains plant-derived effective ingredients and 25% zinc oxide that prevent sunburns, breakouts, and premature signs of aging. While the lotion is gentle on baby skin, it is strong enough to protect it from harsh heat stressors. The broad-spectrum sunscreen cream is sweat- and water-resistant and leaves a thin white layer on the skin to reflect off the sun’s rays.
Pros- Gentle
- Sweat-resistant
- Water-resistant
- 100% organic ingredients
- Chemical-free
- Reef-safe
- Fragrance-free
- Organic ingredients
- PABA-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- BPA-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Avobenzone-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Dioxane-free
Cons
- Thick consistency
14. California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion
The California Baby Sunscreen Lotion is perfect for super-sensitive skin and offers SPF 30 protection. The lotion is formulated with natural minerals and titanium dioxide, which are safe for children and offer broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. The advanced formula is gentle on the skin and prevents sunburns. This water-resistant sunscreen works in water or sweaty conditions for 80 minutes, after which it needs to be reapplied. The moisturizing property of this lotion keeps the skin soft and supple.
Pros
- Vegan
- Gentle
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Allergy-tested
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Dairy-free
- Non-irritating
- Cruelty-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Nut-free
Cons
- Leaves a white cast
"My little one's eyes never sting with this sunscreen, a rarity due to his sensitive skin. Interestingly, a persistent facial rash finally settled with its use, after many medication tries. Not needing to frequently reapply, even with his active swimming and surfing, attests to its efficiency."
15. Mustela Baby Mineral Sunscreen
The Mustela Mineral Sunscreen has broad-spectrum SPF 50 to shield the skin from hazardous UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburns and lead to skin cancer. This waterproof sunscreen for babies is specially formulated for sensitive skin and can be used on your baby’s face and body.
The lightweight formula has a sheer texture and contains 93% naturally derived ingredients and no chemical filters. It has a sweat and water-resistance of up to 80 minutes. The macadamia oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E in this formula hydrate the skin and keep it moisturized. The lotion does not leave any white cast on the skin and is dermatologist-tested for allergens.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Blends easily
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Reef-safe
- Oxybenzone-free
- Avobenzone-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Phenoxyethanol-free
Cons
- Hard to spread
"I adore that the sunscreen is unscented. It is gentle on my child's sensitive skin. However, it needs careful application to avoid staining clothes but it's a small forgiveable trade-off for an otherwise reliable product. A definite go-to for kiddo sun protection."
16. earth mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
The earth mama Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is made of non-nano zinc. It is infused with the goodness of red raspberry seed oil, calendula, and shea butter that moisturize the skin and keeps it soft and supple. The lotion also contains broad-spectrum SPF 40 and pomegranate seed oil that block harmful UVA and UVB rays from penetrating the delicate skin. The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and can be used in the pool or sea. This is the best sunscreen for a baby’s delicate skin as it does not cause any irritations to sensitive skin.
Pros
- Reef-safe
- Certified organic
- No harsh chemical s
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Non-nano zinc
- Clinically tested
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Sticky, white cast
"My little ones' sensitive skin loved this non-toxic sunscreen during our beach and camping trips. Yes, it takes a bit to rub in and leaves a whitish hue, but I find this helpful to ensure no spot is missed. The ingredients are clean and it even survives a good swim. Definitely recommend it."
Now that you know about the best sunscreens for babies, here are a few more things you should be aware of.
Why Do Babies Need Sunscreen?
Baby skin is very delicate and sensitive. Hence, it is more likely to be adversely affected by the harmful rays of the sun. UVA and UVB rays can cause sunburns and long-term skin damage. It can also cause signs of premature aging, and in a worst case scenario, skin cancer. This is why it is crucial to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion and follow some sunscreen application tips for babies.
Even when traveling in cars, the skin is exposed to some amount of sun through the windows. Glass screens reflect UVB rays, but UVA rays can penetrate them and damage the skin DNA.
It is best to keep babies below six months away from the sun since their skin is more prone to burns and allergies. The delicate skin may even be irritated by the ingredients in the sunscreen. Once the child reaches six months, you can use sunscreen without worry.
Below are some points to keep in mind when buying a baby sunscreen.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Baby Sunscreen
- Natural Ingredients: Babies have sensitive skin that can be easily irritated by chemicals used in sunscreens. For example, oxybenzone is known to be a hormone disrupter and can be harmful to children. Stick to natural ingredients and blockers like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are minerals. They sit on the skin, offering broad-spectrum coverage, and reflect away harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- Water-Resistant: A water-resistant sunscreen will resist sweat or water for 40 or 80 minutes. It is perfect for swimming or when your child is at the beach. However, this sunscreen needs to be reapplied after a specific period.
- Cream-Based: Although sunscreens are available in spray, stick, or cream form, for children, it is best to get a creamy formula. A spray may be inhaled or not spread evenly. Also, a spray still needs to be rubbed on. It could miss some spots, causing sunburns. Applying a creamy sunscreen could take a little time, but it is the best to use for children.
- SPF: Children need a minimum of SPF 15 to protect them against harmful rays and sunburns. SPF 30 is the best since the amount of protection increase is only minor above SPF 30. But up to SPF 50 is sufficient for children.
We all advocate the importance of wearing sunscreens every day to protect our skin from the harsh UVA and UVB rays. But when it comes to using sunscreens for our infants, the guidelines are not very clear. The Baby Bum Mineral 50 Sunscreen Lotion is a lightweight broad-spectrum SPF 50 lotion that is waterproof for up to 80 minutes. The Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Sunscreen nourishes the skin and is perfect for sensitive or ezcema-prone skin. The BADGER Baby Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream is a natural mineral cream with SPF 30, providing broad-spectrum protection in a hypoallergenic formula. To protect the delicate, soft, and smooth skin of your baby from the harmful impact of the sun’s rays, you need the best and safest baby sunscreens for every season. The listed products have a lightweight, non-sticky, and dermatologist-tested formula free from synthetic chemicals and safe for your little one. Ensure that the sunscreen you pick is formulated with natural ingredients, and is water-resistant with a cream-based formula.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Our in-house skincare expert Shiboli Chakraborti has compiled a list of the best baby sunscreens in the market to help protect your little one’s precious skin. She has reviewed multiple products before handpicking this list and considered factors such as ingredients, formula, SPF, and more so that you can choose a product that ticks all your requirements. Along with detailed descriptions of each product, the informative buying guide will lead you to the best-suited product for your child’s gentle skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t babies under 6 months use sunscreen?
Infants have susceptible skin, so it is better to protect the baby up to at least months from the sun’s harsh rays rather than using sunscreen. Their delicate skin could be sensitive to the sunscreen formula as well.
Is SPF 50 good for babies?
Yes, SPF 50 is fine for babies and can be used on their face, hands, back, and top of the feet. SPF 30 to 50 is good for babies as their skin is soft and sensitive to burning.
Is baby sunscreen different?
Baby sunscreens are usually a mineral or physical composition as opposed to a chemical sunscreen used by adults. It contains active ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
Do babies need sunscreen after 5 PM?
It is advisable to use light sunscreen until the sun is out.
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