Although sunlight is necessary for newborns, prolonged exposure to it can cause skin damage.
It is common sense to wear sun protection, especially in summer. If you live in a climate with high elevations or reflectivity, sunscreen is even more crucial.
Remember that the UVA rays are constant, and can pass through glass and clouds. That’s why it’s vital to protect yourself and your baby from the sun’s rays.
When is it appropriate to use sunscreen on your baby?
The answer is depending on your child’s age, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents should avoid the sun during their babies’ first six months of life. So, if your child is younger than 6 months, sunscreen is probably unnecessary.
How We Chose the Best Baby Sunscreen?
1. High SPF
When choosing a sunscreen for your baby, be sure to look for a high SPF.
An SPF is the sun protection factor, a measurement of the sunscreen’s ability to block ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause skin cancer and sunburn. Parents should ensure that sunscreen contains SPF 30 or higher.
2. Avoiding aerosol sprays
While baby sunscreen in aerosol sprays can be convenient, they aren’t as safe as you think. Because of the spray’s aerosol particles, your child could inhale the sunscreen, making the cause harm to they. Instead, opt for a rub-on sunscreen instead.
3. Using mineral-based sunscreens
When it comes to sunscreen, your baby should always wear mineral-based ones. The mineral particles in sunscreen act like tiny mirrors on the skin, reflecting the harmful rays. Because they are non-chemical, baby sunscreens are safer for the skin than other types.
4. Avoid fragrance-based sunscreens
You should always use a chemical-free or mineral-based sunscreen on your baby’s face and body, it is especially important to avoid those with perfume or scent.
Not only can these products cause irritation to your baby’s skin, but they can also be dangerous. Baby skin isn’t developed enough to process the chemicals that are found in fragrance-based products like adult skin, so they are prone to a burning sensation.
5. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone
There is some controversy surrounding oxybenzone, an ingredient in many baby sunscreens. It may interact with hormones in a child’s body, which can lead to hormonal imbalance or even cancer.
Although studies have not yet proven this, the American Academy of Pediatrics warns against using the chemical on babies. The most effective way to avoid oxybenzone-containing baby sunscreen is to use an all-natural product.
Read on for our tips on selecting the best baby sunscreen for your little one.
12 Best Organic & Natural Baby Sunscreen
1. Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen
This mineral-based, water-resistant sunscreen has SPF 50 protection and is free of known coral reef-toxic chemicals. It also has a non-oily, pleasant beach scent.
This sunscreen is an excellent option for daily use. It is appropriate for children six months and older and is also safe for pregnant women and people with sensitive skin.
2. Coppertone WaterBabies Baby Sunscreen Lotion
As the #1 recommended brand of baby sunscreen by pediatricians, Coppertone is an effective choice for both parents and kids.
This water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen protects your baby from the sun without causing irritation.
3. Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
This mineral-based, water-resistant sunscreen has SPF 50 protection and is free of known coral reef-toxic chemicals. It also has a non-oily, pleasant beach scent.
This sunscreen is an excellent option for daily use. It is appropriate for children six months and older and is also safe for pregnant women and people with sensitive skin.
4. Banana Boat Baby Mineral Enriched Sunscreen Lotion
This certified organic baby sunscreen made with naturally-sourced zinc is gentle enough for even the youngest babies.
It is safe for both your baby and the environment and it’s also a great brand for parents who are environmentally conscious.
5. Two Peas Organics All Natural Sunscreen Lotion
A good mineral baby sunscreen should be based on natural ingredients, Two Peas Organics’ all-natural sunscreen uses highly effective plant-derived and certified organic ingredients.
The formula provides highly effective SPF 50 broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection that is both water and sweat-resistant.
6. Babyganics SPF 50 Kids Sunscreen Lotion
Babyganics kids’ sunscreen is a favorite of dermatologists, and it is a popular choice for families on the go.
This mineral-based sunscreen for babies and young children is safe for all skin types and many parents have also praised this sunscreen’s water resistance.
7. Badger SPF 40 Baby Sunscreen Cream
Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream is designed for babies and is dermatologist-tested and gentle on even the most sensitive skin.
You don’t have to worry about your baby’s safety with this sunscreen. It contains non-nano zinc oxide and seven natural ingredients.
8. All Good Baby & Kids Sunscreen Lotion
Coppertone in All Good Baby & Kids sunscreen lotion is a safe and effective option for your little one.
Its skin protection formula is free of potentially harmful chemicals, this formula is gentle enough but still provides effective protection.
9. TruKid All Natural Ingredients Sunscreen for Baby
This truly natural mineral sunscreen lotion is designed for kids with sensitive skin, gently nourishing with aloe vera, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, and more.
These mineral ingredients are widely recognized as safe for your child’s skin and offer broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Additionally, TruKid All Natural Ingredients Sunscreen for Baby does not contain mineral oil, which can cause skin irritation in sensitive skin.
10. Aveeno Baby Sunscreen Lotion for Sensitive Skin
The Aveeno Baby Sunscreen Lotion for sensitive skin offers superior protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Its 100% natural zinc oxide active ingredient is dermatologist-recommended and also has been granted the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.
11. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
The Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion provides 100% mineral sun protection for your little one’s sensitive skin.
With its unique Purescreen Technology, it offers superior Broad Spectrum sun protection with no irritating chemicals.
12. Organic Baby Sunscreen by MADE OF
This organic baby sunscreen is made from 75% organic and 25% natural ingredients like argan and coconut oil is water-resistant and leave no greasy residue
This product is a good choice for your little one if you’re worried about your child’s health.
The sunscreen is a necessary part of your baby’s summer wardrobe. Besides preventing painful sunburns, it also prevents the long-term damage caused by too much exposure to the sun, which can lead to premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. Fortunately, most of this damage occurs during childhood, so protecting your child’s skin now will pay dividends throughout their lives.
