The Best Sunscreens for Kids

By Rachel Morris and Nicole Harris
Updated July 06, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
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Whether your child is at the beach or in the backyard, sunscreen is a must. Look for one with at least SPF 30 that screens out UVA and UVB rays, like these best-scoring sunscreens approved by the Environmental Working Group and dermatologists.

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The Best Sunscreen Ingredients

Credit: Ratchanee Sawasdijira / Shutterstock

The FDA has announced that it’s reviewing sunscreen ingredients. So far, the agency has given a thumbs-up to zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, deemed PABA and trolamine salicylate as not safe and effective, and has said further research is needed for 12 more ingredients. Parents advisor Lawrence F. Eichenfield, M.D., suggests looking for the two approved ingredients but says any sunscreen—in addition to UV-protective clothing and shade—is better than none. Always look for a product with SPF 30 or higher.

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Adorable Baby Sunscreen, SPF 30+

With 100% natural ingredients (which means no synthetic or chemical ingredients), this product is not only great for babies and kids but adults, too. Perfect for the beach or pool, this water-resistant product lasts up to 40 minutes after being applied with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from the harsh summer sun.

lovingnaturals.com, $18.75

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All Good Kid's Sunscreen, SPF 30

Credit: Courtesy of All Good Kid's Sunscreen

This new and improved formula is loved for its UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection, non-nano zinc recipe, and water resistance that lasts up to 80 minutes. Made from chamomile for gently soothing sensitive skin, this sunscreen is lightweight and non-greasy. Along with being oxybenzone-free, GMO-free, gluten-free, and vegan, All Good Kid's Sunscreen is great for the environment because of its biodegradable and reef-friendly make-up.

amazon.com, $15.99

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Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Lotion Sunscreen, Sensitive Skin, SPF 50

Credit: Courtesy of Target

This 100% natural sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF 50 contains naturally sourced zinc oxide, which is a highly recommended mineral sun protection ingredient. Along with being fragrance-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and dye-free, it is made with oat extract that protects from UVA/UVB rays while being non-greasy and water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

target.com, $10.59

RELATED: These Are the Worst Sunscreens for Babies and Kids, Says EWG​

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Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream, Chamomile & Calendula, SPF 30

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

Badger Kids sunscreen comes in a delicious, natural chamomile and calendula scent that packs up to 40 minutes of water-resistant protection. Made up of non-nano mineral zinc oxide, beeswax, vitamin E, and skin-soothing sunflower oil, this product is non-GMO certified and hypoallergenic for little ones with sensitive skin. Not to mention it's reef friendly, biodegradable, and certified cruelty-free. Sounds to us like a win, win.

amazon.com, $23.40

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Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Baby, SPF 50

Credit: Courtesy of Bare Republic

Fragrance-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, retinyl palmitate-free, cruelty-free, non-GMO, dye/colorant-free, non-nano, preservative-free, and free of active chemical sunscreens—Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen is extra sensitive, provides protection from UVA/UVB rays, and is easy-to-apply with soothing ingredients such as aloe, baobab oil, shea butter, and chamomile extract.

gobareoutside.com, $14.99

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Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, Baby, SPF 30+

This mineral-based sunscreen packs UVA/UVB protection that's water resistant for up to 40 minutes and is designed for delicate skin thanks to a paraben-free, fragrance-free formula. With no harsh chemicals, this product has been dermatologist recommended for over 20 years, according to bluelizard.net.

buybuybaby.com, $24.99

RELATED: Uh-Oh, the EWG Probably Doesn't Like Your Favorite Sunscreen​

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BurnOut Kids Sunscreen, SPF 35

Rich in antioxidants and extracts of helionori, pomegranate, and plantain to protect and nourish skin, this sunscreen is chemical-free, paraben-free, petroleum-free, and PABA-free. Perfect for sensitive skin, this product is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and non-greasy. With UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection, ​BurnOut Kids Sunscreen is not only good for your children but good for the environment considering it’s biodegradable, ocean-safe, and eco-sensitive.

amazon.com, $13.50

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California Baby Calendula Sunscreen, SPF 30+

This mineral-based sunscreen is thick and concentrated so a smaller amount manages to go a long way. With plant-based bubbling ingredients and pure essential-oil scented qualities, this multi-award-winning product blocks sun rays without absorbing into the skin—it also contains the soothing benefits of calendula. This sunscreen is allergy tested and does not contain gluten, soy, oats, dairy, or nuts (except coconut).

californiababy.com, $19.99

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Erbaviva Organic Skincare Baby Sun Stick, Lavender Chamomile, SPF 30

Credit: Courtesy of erbaviva.com

Packed in a convenient stick, this sunscreen is full of natural and gentle ingredients like aloe, jojoba oil, and chamomile. It’s perfect for on-the-go use, whether you’re at the beach or in your backyard, and it resists water for up to 80 minutes. 

erbaviva.com, $16

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Hawaiian Sol Sol Kid Kare, SPF 50

Credit: Courtesy of Hawaiian Sol 

Hawaiian Sol Sol Kid Kare provides broad-spectrum protection without the use of harsh chemicals, which means no more tears for kids who manage to get sunscreen in their eyes. Its zinc oxide formula and no nano-technology is biodegradable and reef-friendly, too!

hawaiiansol.net, $14.99

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Just Skin Food Baby Beach Bum Sunscreen Stick, SPF 31

Credit: Courtesy of justskinfood.com

Your child’s skin will eat up this handmade, toxin-free, and antioxidant-rich sunscreen. The product evenly coats the skin, thanks to its formulation without water or oil, and it’s safe for the body and face. As an added bonus, the stick is easy to apply. 

justskinfood.com, $19.25

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Kiss My Face Organics Kids Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 30

This SPF 50 mineral sunscreen is not only vegan and cruelty-free, but it's made with non-nano mineral-only actives and nourishing aloe—making it fragrance and tear-free. Perfect for summer fun, this mineral-focused formula is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, which means less applying and more fun!

amazon.com, $13.97

RELATED: Sun Care 101: The Basics of Sun Safety for Kids​

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MDSolarSciences KidCreme Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 40

Credit: Courtesy of MD SolarSciences

Advertised as a water-resistant crème perfect for delicate skin, this easy-to-apply, silky sunscreen is made up of non-nano zinc blends, is oil-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores), and non-irritating. We all know avoiding sweat and water is nearly impossible when playing under the hot sun, which is why we praise this formula's 80-minute water resistance.

dermstore.com, $28

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Nurture My Body Baby Organic Sunscreen, SPF 32

Made up of non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide with jojoba oil, shea butter, and vitamin E this formula is not only soothing on a baby’s skin but provides broad-spectrum protection. Parents can take comfort in the fact that this organic product is also fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, biodegradable, and eco-friendly.

nurturemybody.com, $23.95

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Olita Kids Mineral Sunscreen Sunstick, SPF30

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

This SPF 30 sunscreen protects against UVA/UVB rays with an all-natural, organic, and fragrance-free formulation. It’s also in a compact stick that can be thrown into a diaper bag, backpack, purse, or carry-on bag—perfect for summer travelers!

olitashop.com, $12

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Puttisu Safe Baby Mild Sun Cushion

Credit: Courtesy of Puttisu

The Puttisu Safe Baby Mild Sun Cushion adds an element of fun to sun protection. The liquid product comes in a mirrored compact with an applicator pad, and your child applies it like face makeup. Unlike your own compacts, however, the packaging is adorned with kid-friendly characters. And since the SPF 50+ sunscreen is made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, it’s safe and effective for your little one. 

amazon.com, $34

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Raw Elements Baby + Kids Sunscreen Lotion Tin, SPF 30

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

This creamy sunscreen consists of organic and hypoallergenic ingredients, including coconut, sunflower, calendula, and chamomile. Not only does it protect against the sun’s harsh rays, it also moisturizes your child’s delicate skin with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. It’s also ideal for eco-conscious users, thanks to its compostable and reef-safe packaging made without plastic or GMOs. 

amazon.com, $17.99

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Star Naturals Baby Natural Sunscreen Stick, SPF 25

With this sunscreen stick, your little one will get broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without any harmful chemicals (it’s created with zinc oxide). The product doesn’t leave a greasy residue, and the packaging is easy to throw into your diaper bag. 

amazon.com, $12.99

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SunBioLogic Kids Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30+

Credit: sunbiologic.com

Here’s some good news for parents: This roll-on sunscreen stick is gentle and easy, which helps you avoid tears during application! You’ll also love the natural ingredients, including mango seed butter, beeswax, jojoba seed oil, sunflower extract, and castor seed oil. 

sunbiologic.com, $15

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Suntribe Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Vanilla Yum Yum, SPF 30

Credit: suntribesunscreen.com

Packaged in an environmentally safe bio-based sugar cane tube, this sunscreen lotion contains natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and cacao butter. It protects against UVA and UVB rays with an SPF 30 formulation, and the main ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide.

suntribesunscreen.com, $26

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thinkbaby Sunscreen, SPF 50+

Top rated by the EWG since 2010, thinkbaby Sunscreen is free of all biologically harmful chemicals such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, and UV chemical absorbers. With broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and water resistance up to 80 minutes, this sunscreen promises great coverage. The gluten-free recipe even applies and absorbs easily while still being a non-aerosol formulation. Also check out the thinkbaby Body & Face Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30, and the thinksport Kids Body & Face Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30.

buybuybaby, $19.99

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TruBaby Water & Play Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

Created by a mother-of-six, TruBaby Water & Play Sunscreen is free of chemicals, gluten, parabens, and phthalates. With UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection this unscented, mineral based-sustainable sourced zin, non-nano sunscreen is not only good for children but good for the environment with its reef-friendly formula and biodegradable, BPA-free PET packaging.

amazon.com, $14.99

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TruKid Sunny Days Sport Sunscreen, SPF 30

Just like TruBaby Water & Play Sunscreen, TruKid Sunny Days Sport Sunscreen is truly natural and non-toxic, pediatrician and dermatologist tested, and eczema-safe while still maintaining great UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection that lasts up to 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Not to mention this formula is phthalate and paraben-free and unscented, so you know it offers great protection and is healthy for your child's skin, too.

amazon.com, $12.29

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UV Natural Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

Credit: uvnatural.com

This SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion is ideal for delicate baby skin, thanks to its natural oils, extracts, and antioxidants. It provides two hours of protection against the sun, and it’s free of fragrances and preservatives.  

uvnatural.com, $17.10

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Waxhead Sun Defense Baby Zinc Oxide Sunscreen, SPF 35

Waxhead Sun Defense Baby Zinc Oxide goes on smoothly, thanks to its non-greasy and hypoallergenic formula that provides broad-spectrum protection while being completely free of toxins and petrochemicals. Not only does this sunscreen replenish 100% of one's daily value of vitamin D, but it is baby safe, reef safe, biodegradable, and cruelty-free because of its six certified organic and mineral ingredients.

amazon.com $24.75

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