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10 Best Sunscreen For Kids 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

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BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide 50+ Water Resistant UVAUVB Protection with Smart Cap Technology Fragrance Free, Sensitve, SPF 50 - - Tube, Unscented, 5 Fl Oz

The BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is specially formulated for kids with sensitive skin. It offers a high SPF 50, ensuring strong protection against harmful UVB rays. The broad-spectrum formula also covers UVA protection, making it a reliable choice for long outdoor activities. One of its standout features is its 80-minute water resistance, perfect for swimming or sweating.

The sunscreen is made with zinc oxide, a mineral-based ingredient that sits on top of the skin to block out rays, and it is free from harsh chemicals, making it gentle for children’s delicate skin. Additionally, it’s formulated without parabens or fragrances, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or irritation.

A unique aspect of this sunscreen is its reef-friendly formula, free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it environmentally friendly. The inclusion of organic aloe vera helps to soothe and moisturize the skin, which can be beneficial after sun exposure. The product comes in an easy-to-use tube, making application straightforward. However, as a mineral sunscreen, it might leave a slight white residue on the skin, which some might find less appealing. Its unscented nature is a plus for sensitive noses, though others might miss a pleasant fragrance. The BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is an excellent choice for kids with sensitive skin, offering robust sun protection and being kind to both the skin and the environment.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
Protects the skin effectively.
Water Resistance
Despite days on the water, there was no sunburn.
Ingredients
Fantastic for those sensitive to scents and chemicals.
Ease of Application
Not greasy and goes on smoothly.
#2

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 | Broad Spectrum SPF + Antioxidants | Sunscreen For Kids | Octinoxate & Oxybenzone-Free | Pediatrician Tested | Non Comedogenic | Oil Free

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 is a great choice for parents looking for high protection for their children's skin. With an SPF of 50, it offers robust sun protection and is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which combines broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants. This helps to provide comprehensive protection from the sun's harmful rays. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is handy for active kids who love to swim or play sports.

One of its standout features is that it doesn't leave a white cast, making it suitable for all skin tones, and sand brushes off easily after application, which is perfect for beach outings. Additionally, it is free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it gentle on sensitive skin. It has been tested by pediatricians and dermatologists, ensuring it is safe for children. The product is also free from fragrances and parabens, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Application is straightforward, and it comes in a convenient 6.7 fluid ounce bottle. However, it requires frequent reapplication, especially after swimming or sweating, which might be a bit inconvenient for some parents. Despite this, its blendability, safety profile, and robust protection make it a strong option for a kid's sunscreen.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Water Resistance
Waterproof feature ensures no sunburns, even after a day at the beach.
#3

BLUE LIZARD Mineral Sunscreen Stick with Zinc Oxide SPF 50+ Water Resistant UVA/UVB Protection Easy to Apply Fragrance Free, Kids, Unscented, 0.5 oz

The BLUE LIZARD Mineral Sunscreen Stick is designed specifically for kids, providing a high level of protection with SPF 50+. Its primary active ingredient is Zinc Oxide, which is gentle on sensitive skin, making it suitable for children. The sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it effective for active outdoor play and swimming.

One of its significant strengths is that it's free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and fragrances, thus reducing the risk of skin irritation. Additionally, it is reef-friendly, avoiding ingredients like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate that can harm marine life. The stick form allows for easy and mess-free application, which is particularly convenient for parents on the go.

However, the stick's small size (0.5 oz) might require frequent repurchase if used regularly. It is also worth noting that because it is a mineral-based sunscreen, it may leave a slight white residue on the skin, which is a common trait for Zinc Oxide products. In summary, the BLUE LIZARD Mineral Sunscreen Stick is a reliable and safe option for protecting kids' skin from the sun, though its small size may necessitate more frequent purchases.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
SPF (Sun Protection Factor
Stays on all day without getting burnt, even in intense sun conditions.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Excellent sun protection without any irritation, even on delicate skin.
Ingredients
The ingredients are top-notch, providing peace of mind knowing it's gentle and safe for sensitive toddler skin.
Ease of Application
Applies smoothly and evenly with just a small amount, making it last a long time.

Buying Guide for the Best Sunscreen For Kids

Choosing the right sunscreen for kids is crucial to protect their delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Kids' skin is more sensitive and prone to sunburn, so it's important to select a sunscreen that offers effective protection while being gentle on their skin. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best sunscreen for your child.
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)SPF measures how well the sunscreen can protect the skin from UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. For kids, an SPF of at least 30 is recommended, as it blocks about 97% of UVB rays. If your child has very fair skin or will be spending extended periods in the sun, you might consider an SPF of 50 or higher. However, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, so additional protective measures like wearing hats and seeking shade are also important.
Broad-Spectrum ProtectionBroad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin, while UVB rays can cause sunburn. Both types of rays can contribute to skin cancer. Ensuring the sunscreen is labeled as 'broad-spectrum' is important for comprehensive protection. This is especially crucial for kids, as their skin is more vulnerable to damage from both types of UV rays.
Water ResistanceWater-resistant sunscreens are designed to remain effective for a certain period while swimming or sweating. This is particularly important for kids who are often active and may spend a lot of time in the water. Water resistance is typically labeled as either 40 minutes or 80 minutes. Choose a sunscreen with the higher water resistance if your child will be swimming or sweating a lot, and remember to reapply it as directed, especially after towel drying.
IngredientsThe ingredients in sunscreen can affect its safety and effectiveness. For kids, it's best to choose sunscreens with physical (mineral) blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to cause skin irritation and are effective immediately upon application. Avoid sunscreens with chemical blockers like oxybenzone, which can be irritating and have potential health concerns. Additionally, look for sunscreens that are free from fragrances, parabens, and other harsh chemicals to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Application FormSunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, sprays, sticks, and gels. Lotions are generally the most effective and easiest to apply evenly, making them a good choice for thorough coverage. Sprays can be convenient but may not provide as even coverage and can be inhaled, which is not ideal for kids. Sticks are great for targeted areas like the face and ears. Choose the form that you find easiest to apply on your child and that ensures even coverage.
Ease of ApplicationKids can be fidgety, so a sunscreen that is easy to apply can make the process smoother. Look for sunscreens that spread easily and absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Some sunscreens are tinted, which can help you see where you've applied it to ensure full coverage. The easier it is to apply, the more likely you are to use it consistently and effectively.

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