This is the Best (and Safest!) Kids Sunscreen for Summer

Memorial Day weekend is upon us, but before you head out to the beach to soak up the sun with your littles in tow, it’s time to read up on the best kids sunscreen to toss in your tote! The EWG just released their annual report of the Best Scoring Sunscreens for Kids-weeding out products with ingredients that they consider worrisome, like formaldehyde-releasing chemicals-and the following made the cut!

According to this year’s report, there are 265 beach and sport sunscreens with a green rating. Looking at factors like ingredient hazards and UV protection, the EWG formulated their list of the 27 best-scoring products for kids.

But a warning to parents? The EWG advises, “Parents should know the FDA does not set special criteria or additional requirements for sunscreen and body care products marketed to children.”

It’s always best to take into account the sunscreen’s ingredients, the UV protection factor, stick vs. lotion (some people tend to apply too little product when using a stick, so be sure to reapply often or use a lotion!) and observe sun safety tips like the following:

Sun Safety for Infants

“Infants under six months old should be kept out of direct sun as much as possible,” says the EWG. “Their skin is not yet protected by melanin.”

  • Cover baby with tightly-woven but loose-fitting clothing and a sun hat.
  • Use your stroller’s canopy or hood for shade. If you can’t find a shady spot, use an umbrella.
  • Avoid the midday sun! If you head out for a walk, make it the early morning or late afternoon.
  • Follow product warnings for sunscreens on infants younger than six months old. Many manufacturers advise against using sunscreen on children this young or recommend consulting your health provider.

Sun Safety for Toddlers and Kids

Remember that your child’s skin is especially sensitive to chemical allergens, as well as the sun’s harsh rays. As adults, you could make use of products such as Melanotain in Australia and other places to restore your melanin. According to the EWG, parents should always do the following to practice sun safety:

  • Test sunscreen by applying a small amount on the inside of your child’s wrist the day before you plan to use it. If an irritation or rash develops, try another product. Ask your child’s doctor to suggest a product less likely to irritate your child’s skin.
  • Apply plenty of sunscreen and reapply it often, especially if your child is playing in the water or sweating a lot. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests about one ounce of sunscreen per application for a child.
  • Upon returning home, make sure to cool children down by turning on the air conditioning. Homeowners without air conditioning could always look for AC units for sale. That would help them to keep the house cool for the kids to relax comfortably after a long day out in the sun.
Keep scrolling to find the EWG’s Top 10 Best (and Safest!) Kids Sunscreen This Summer.

#1 Adorable Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

Adorable Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

#2 All Good Kid’s Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30

All Good Kid’s Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

#3 Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Lotion, Sensitive Skin, SPF 50

#4 Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

#5 Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Fragrance Free, SPF 50

Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Fragrance Free, SPF 50

#6 Badger Active Baby Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream, SPF 30

Badger Active Baby Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream, Chamomile & Calendula, SPF 30

#7 Bare Republic Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

Bare Republic Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

#8 Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Lotion Baby, SPF 30+

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Lotion, Baby, SPF 30+

#9 BurnOut Kids Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 35

Burn Out Kids Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 35

#10 Caribbean Sol Kid Kare Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30

Caribbean Sol Sol Kid Kare Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30


You can find the complete EWG 2019 Guide to Sunscreen here or stick around and shop these Baby Play Mats That Look Like a Rug.

Opening Image: J.Crew