Companies are finally listening to the cries of concerned parents asking for sunscreens for their kids that are free of potentially harmful ingredients and provide excellent sun protection.
For most of us though, these pricey options are just not within a family budget. Reading through all the reviews and researching different affordable options that meet our chemical free sunscreen desire took forever so we wanted to share what we found. We have put together the Top 10 Safe and Budget-Friendly Sunscreens for Kids.
Lotions, sticks, and roll ons are the only options that are recommended for children. Due to the risk of inhaling nanoparticles, sprays are not deemed safe for kids. You can make your own mind up on whether or not you decide to remove sprays from your bag. Overall, sunscreen lotion is the best way to go. Spray is not recommended, but if that is the only sunscreen you have on hand, make sure to spray the sunscreen onto your hands and then rub it onto your child's skin and face. Be sure to avoid getting the spray into the eyes or mouth.
To help you and your family practice a sun protection routine, we’ve gathered the best sunscreens for kids. Here are dermatologists top picks for the best sunscreens for kids.
- Specially formulated for children's delicate skin, it contains naturally-sourced 100% zinc oxide active and skin-soothing oat, and is both sweat-resistant and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- From the pediatrician-recommended brand, this sunscreen lotion features a tear-free formula that is non-greasy, hypoallergenic and paraben-free, phthalate-free and fragrance-free
2. Neutrogena SheerZinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50
- You can get a pack of three to keep one in your car, one in your purse and one at home.
- Specially formulated water-resistant sunscreen lotion is made with naturally-sourced 100% zinc oxide and contains Purescreen Technology to absorb, reflect and scatter dangerous sun rays.
- Free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates, dyes and harsh chemicals and features Dry-Touch technology to help ensure this sheer sunscreen dries with a non-greasy finish. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and oil-free lightweight sunscreen.
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin and those with Eczema, this mineral sunscreen lotion has been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and is suitable for daily use.
3. Babyganics SPF 50+ Sunscreen Lotion
- SPF 50 formulas provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and glides on smooth for effortless application. Non-allergenic and tear free, so it can go on whatever part of your baby the sun’s gonna shine.
- Apply liberally and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying and at least every 2 hours.
- Cheapest we have found so far has been at Walmart unless you can find the multipack on Amazon.
4. Sunshine & Glitter Sea Star Sparkle SPF 50+ Rainbow Party Glitter
- This is a really fun one if you can locate it. It sells out quickly it seems.
- This super fun bio-degradable glitter sunscreen is nourishing and loaded with antioxidants, providing a broad spectrum.
- SPF50+ with pink reef safe glitter. UVA/UVB protection and 80 minutes of water resistance.
- PABA and Paraben free, non irritant glitter, non-nano zinc oxide and smells delicious.
5. Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick
- Specifically formulated for kids, toddlers and babies with naturally moisturizing ingredients, such as natural zinc oxide, coconut oil and shea and cocoa butter.
- 100% Mineral Based Protection. Applies and absorbs easily to face (and body) with a non-oily feel. UVA and UVB Broad Spectrum Protection, lightweight, and non-greasy, our SPF 50 sunscreen face stick is made of safe minerals to protect babies skin. Water Resistant (80 mins).
- PEDIATRICIAN & DERMATOLOGIST TESTED: Carefully tested for the needs of delicate baby skin. Baby Bum Sunscreen is Hypoallergenic, Paraben Free, Sulfate Free, Silicone Free and Phthalate Free. For kids above 2 months
I personally love this Day Tripper set that Sun Bum sells. Travel sized- Sunscreen, lip balm, aloe lotion and a cute bag.
Sun Safety Tips:
›Sunglasses should be your favorite accessory.
› Limit your sun exposure, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.
›Wear protective clothing, hats and stay in the shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter.
›ALWAYS use sunscreen and lip balm with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 for UVB protection. Apply sunscreen and lip balm 30 minutes before leaving the house so that you know you have allowed enough time for it to soak in before you are out in the sun.
›Avoid sunscreen with vitamin A. Government data show that tumors and lesions develop sooner on skin coated with creams laced with vitamin A, also called retinyl palmitate or retinol. Avoid any skin or lip product whose label includes retinyl palmitate, retinol or vitamin A.
›Avoid oxybenzone, an ingredient that may behave like estrogen. Oxybenzone penetrates the skin readily and can disrupt the hormone system. Look for products with zinc oxide, 3 percent avobenzone or Mexoryl SX. They protect skin from harmful UVA radiation.
