· sun protection · 13 min read
Find the Best Sunblock for Toddlers: Top 10 Reviewed Sunscreen Sticks and Creams for Kids
Protect your little ones from the sun's harmful rays with our guide to the 10 best sunblocks for toddlers. Our expert reviews and recommendations will help you find the perfect sunscreen for your child's needs.
Protect your little ones with the best sunblock for toddlers. We reviewed the top 10 sunscreen sticks and creams to give you the best options available.
Overview
PROS
- Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
- Non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores.
CONS
- A bit expensive.
- Can be difficult to rub in.
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen is a safe and effective way to protect your little one from the sun's harmful rays. It is made with all natural ingredients, including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and is free of harsh chemicals and fragrances. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can be sure your child is protected even when they're splashing in the pool or playing in the sprinklers.
Thinkbaby Baby Mineral Sunscreen is easy to apply and rubs in smoothly. It leaves no greasy residue and has a light, pleasant scent. My kids didn't mind wearing it, and they didn't complain about it being too sticky or uncomfortable. I also appreciate that the sunscreen is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, so it won't irritate my kids' sensitive skin or clog their pores.
PROS
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection shields against harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Natural and fragrance-free formula is gentle on delicate toddler skin
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, providing long-lasting protection
- Easy to apply and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue
CONS
- Some users may prefer a higher SPF for extended sun exposure
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin or skin prone to irritation
Thinkbaby's Safe Sunscreen is a top-rated choice for parents seeking a reliable and gentle sunblock for their toddlers. Its broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection effectively guards against both UVA and UVB rays, providing peace of mind while your little one enjoys outdoor adventures. The natural and fragrance-free formula is free of harsh chemicals, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.
The water-resistant formula ensures protection for up to 80 minutes, allowing kids to splash and play without losing sun protection. It applies smoothly and absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue behind. While the SPF 50+ offers excellent protection, those seeking even higher protection for extended sun exposure may need to reapply more frequently. Overall, Thinkbaby's Safe Sunscreen is an excellent choice for protecting your toddler's delicate skin from the sun's harmful rays.
PROS
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays
- Hypoallergenic and tear-free formula suitable for delicate baby skin
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, providing lasting protection during water play
CONS
- Can be slightly greasy on some skin types
- May not be suitable for infants under 6 months of age
Coppertone WaterBabies SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Lotion is a top choice for protecting toddlers from the harmful effects of the sun. Its high SPF 50 rating effectively blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays, ensuring maximum protection for your little one's delicate skin. The hypoallergenic and tear-free formula is gentle enough for newborns, and it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, providing ample coverage even during water play.
One of the highlights of this sunscreen is its easy application. It goes on smoothly and evenly, without leaving a white cast or greasy residue. This makes it ideal for parents who want to protect their children quickly and effortlessly. Additionally, Coppertone WaterBabies is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to environmental concerns.
PROS
- SPF 50 provides high protection from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Octinoxate and Oxybenzone free formula is gentle on your child's skin
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes of water play
- Convenient roller ball applicator makes it easy to apply
CONS
- May leave a slight white cast on skin
- Fragrance may be too strong for some people
Babyganics SPF 50 Kids Mineral Sunscreen Roller Ball is a safe and effective way to protect your child's skin from the sun. The mineral-based formula is free of harsh chemicals like Octinoxate and Oxybenzone, making it gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. The SPF 50 provides broad-spectrum protection from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays, and the water-resistant formula keeps your child protected for up to 80 minutes of water play.
The roller ball applicator makes it easy to apply the sunscreen evenly and quickly. It also helps to minimize mess and waste. The sunscreen has a light, tropical scent that is not overpowering. It absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves no greasy residue. Overall, Babyganics SPF 50 Kids Mineral Sunscreen Roller Ball is a great choice for parents who are looking for a safe and effective way to protect their children's skin from the sun.
PROS
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection shields delicate skin from UVA/UVB rays
- Formulated with natural ingredients like aloe, chamomile and green tea to soothe and nourish baby's skin
CONS
- Some customers reported the spray nozzle not working properly
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Spray provides exceptional sun protection for toddlers. Its broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula effectively blocks 97% of the sun's harmful UVA/UVB rays, safeguarding your child's delicate skin from sunburns and long-term damage. This sunscreen spray is free from harsh chemicals like octinoxate and oxybenzone, making it gentle on your baby's skin.
Enriched with soothing aloe, chamomile, and green tea extracts, Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Spray not only protects but also nourishes your toddler's skin. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, allowing your little one to splash and play without compromising sun protection. The convenient spray format makes application quick and easy, ensuring you can protect your child from the sun's rays without any hassle.
PROS
- Specially formulated for sensitive baby skin, it provides broad-spectrum protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- Tear-free and sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, allowing your toddler to play and splash without worry.
CONS
- Some parents may find the texture to be a bit thick for their liking.
- The fragrance may be too strong for some babies.
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion is a reliable choice for parents seeking effective and gentle sun protection for their little ones. This tear-free formula is specially designed for sensitive baby skin, providing broad-spectrum coverage against damaging UVA and UVB rays.
One of the key benefits of this sunscreen is its sweat and water resistance for up to 80 minutes. This feature allows toddlers to enjoy outdoor activities without compromising their protection. The lotion is also non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores or irritate delicate baby skin. While the texture may be slightly thick for some parents, the lotion absorbs well and leaves a non-greasy finish.
PROS
- Mineral-based formula with zinc oxide for broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, allowing kids to splash and play worry-free
- Free from fragrances, dyes, and irritants, ensuring a gentle touch
- Smart Technology changes color when harmful UV rays are detected, reminding parents to reapply
CONS
- May leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones
- Can be challenging to rub in completely, especially on active toddlers
Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen is a must-have for parents seeking reliable sun protection for their little ones. Its mineral formula, enriched with zinc oxide, offers broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB rays, safeguarding delicate baby skin from the sun's harmful effects.
The sunscreen's water resistance for up to 80 minutes ensures peace of mind during water activities. Kids can splash and play, knowing that their skin remains shielded from the sun's harsh rays. Moreover, the absence of fragrances, dyes, and irritants makes this sunscreen gentle and suitable for even the most sensitive skin. Additionally, Smart Technology takes sun protection to the next level. The formula changes color upon exposure to harmful UV rays, serving as a reminder for parents to reapply sunscreen regularly, ensuring maximum protection throughout the day.
PROS
- Broad spectrum SPF 50 protection
- Mineral-based, with naturally sourced 100% Zinc Oxide
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
- Pediatrician recommended
- Convenient travel size
CONS
- Can leave a slight white cast
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Stick is a gentle and effective sunscreen option for babies and toddlers with sensitive skin. Its broad spectrum SPF 50 protection keeps little ones safe from harmful UVA and UVB rays, while the mineral-based formula with naturally sourced Zinc Oxide provides a safe and effective barrier against the sun. The stick format makes application easy and convenient, even on squirmy tots. It's also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it perfect for delicate skin. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Stick is a great choice for parents who want to protect their little ones from the sun without harsh chemicals.
One potential drawback of this sunscreen is that it can leave a slight white cast on the skin. However, this is a common issue with mineral sunscreens, and it can be minimized by rubbing the stick thoroughly into the skin. Overall, Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Stick is a great choice for parents who want to protect their little ones from the sun's harmful rays.
PROS
- SPF 70 provides high protection against UVA/UVB rays
- Water resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for water play
- Hypoallergenic and tear-free, gentle on toddlers' skin
CONS
- Smaller sized bottle than some other sunscreen brands at just 8 fluid ounces
Coppertone Kids Sunscreen Lotion is an excellent choice for parents looking for a reliable and effective sunscreen for their little ones. With an impressive SPF of 70, it offers maximum protection from the sun's harmful rays. Its water-resistant formula allows kids to splash and play without compromising their sun protection for up to 80 minutes. The hypoallergenic and tear-free formula is gentle on children's skin, ensuring a worry-free application.
One potential drawback is its relatively smaller size of 8 fluid ounces compared to other sunscreen brands. However, considering its high protection and water resistance, this smaller size can also be convenient for easy storage and portability. Overall, Coppertone Kids Sunscreen Lotion is a highly recommended choice for parents seeking a reliable and gentle sunscreen for their toddlers.
PROS
- Safe and natural ingredients make it gentle on your child's skin.
- SPF 30 provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy the fun in the sun.
- Mess-free and easy to apply, so you don't have to worry about getting sunscreen in your child's eyes.
CONS
- A bit pricey compared to other sunscreens on the market.
- May leave a white cast on darker skin tones.
Thinkbaby SPF 30 Sunscreen Stick is a safe, natural, and water-resistant sun cream that is perfect for babies, kids, and adults. It is made with 20% non-nano zinc oxide, which provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. The sunscreen is also hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, so it is gentle on your child's skin.
The sunscreen stick is easy to apply and mess-free. It glides on smoothly and leaves no white cast. It is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy the fun in the sun without having to worry about reapplying sunscreen every hour. Overall, Thinkbaby SPF 30 Sunscreen Stick is a great choice for protecting your child from the sun's harmful rays.
Choosing the right sunblock for your toddler is essential to protect their delicate skin from the sun's harmful rays. This guide provides in-depth reviews of the top 10 sunscreens for toddlers, featuring products from trusted brands like Thinkbaby, Babyganics, Coppertone, and Aveeno. Each review highlights key features, safety and efficacy information, and pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prefer mineral-based or chemical sunscreens, SPF 30 or 50, or convenient sticks or sprays, you'll find the perfect sunblock for your toddler's needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sunblock is best for toddlers?
The best sunblock for toddlers offers broad-spectrum protection, is water-resistant, and hypoallergenic. Look for sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher and avoid products with fragrances or other potential irritants.
Is it necessary to use sunblock on toddlers?
Yes, it is important to use sunblock on toddlers. Their skin is thinner and more vulnerable to sun damage than adult skin, and they spend more time outdoors. Sunblock helps protect their skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.
How often should I apply sunblock to my toddler?
Apply sunscreen to your toddler 15-20 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply every two hours, or more often if they are swimming or sweating.
What are the best ingredients to look for in a toddler's sunblock?
Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are physical blockers that sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate, which are chemical blockers that can be absorbed into the skin and have been linked to health concerns.
Can I use adult sunblock on my toddler?
No, adult sunscreens are not formulated for toddlers' delicate skin. They may contain ingredients that are too harsh or irritating for a toddler's skin, and they may not provide the same level of protection.
