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10 Best Sunscreen For Kids 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50, Broad Spectrum SPF + Antioxidants, Sunscreen For Kids, Octinoxate & Oxybenzone-Free, Pediatrician Tested, Non Comedogenic, Oil Free

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 is a great choice for parents looking for high protection for their children's skin. With an SPF of 50, it offers robust sun protection and is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which combines broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants. This helps to provide comprehensive protection from the sun's harmful rays. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is handy for active kids who love to swim or play sports.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,390
Water Resistance

Most important from
961 reviews

Water Resistance
Waterproof feature ensures no sunburns, even after a day at the beach.
#2
9.7 score

Blue Lizard BABY Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, UVA/UVB Protection with Smart Cap Technology - Fragrance Free, 5 oz. Tube

Blue Lizard BABY Mineral Sunscreen is a strong contender in the realm of sunscreens for kids. With an SPF of 50+, it effectively shields young skin from up to 98% of UVB rays. This high level of protection is crucial for children's delicate skin. The broad-spectrum protection ensures that both UVA and UVB rays are blocked, which is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Rating
9.7
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
Ingredients
Ease of Application

Most important from
5120 reviews

SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
Even after spending an entire sunny day at an amusement park, there was no trace of sunburn, proving its reliability.
Ingredients
The product didn't irritate eczema-prone hands, highlighting its suitability for sensitive skin.
Ease of Application
This sunscreen blends surprisingly well for a mineral formula, making it easy to apply.
#3
9.4 score

Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick Sunscreen - Wet or Dry Skin Application Broad Spectrum Sunscreen with Vitamin E - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - Travel Size 0.53 oz

The Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick is designed to offer robust protection against harmful sun rays with its SPF 50 rating. This high SPF is particularly beneficial for kids who are outdoors frequently and need strong protection. The product also offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it shields skin from both UVA and UVB rays, crucial for preventing both sunburn and long-term skin damage. The sunscreen is formulated to be applied on both wet and dry skin, making it convenient for use at the pool or beach where children might be in and out of the water. With an 80-minute water resistance, it provides good durability during water activities, though reapplication is needed after towel drying or extended swims.

Rating
9.4
Application Form

Most important from
3423 reviews

Application Form
The stick makes it super easy to apply and is truly clear, color-free.

Top 10 Best Sunscreen For Kids 2026 in the United States

Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen Clear Body Spray - Broad Spectrum Water-Resistant with Vitamin E - Wet or Dry Skin Application - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - 6 oz

SPF (Sun Protection Factor): 50
Broad-Spectrum Protection: Protects against UVA and UVB rays
Water Resistance: Water-resistant on wet and dry skin
Ingredients: No oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, gluten
Application Form: Clear body spray
Ease of Application: Quick spray, needs hand spreading
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Buying Guide for the Best Sunscreen For Kids

Choosing the right sunscreen for kids is crucial to protect their delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Kids' skin is more sensitive and prone to sunburn, so it's important to select a sunscreen that offers effective protection while being gentle on their skin. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best sunscreen for your child.
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)SPF measures how well the sunscreen can protect the skin from UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. For kids, an SPF of at least 30 is recommended, as it blocks about 97% of UVB rays. If your child has very fair skin or will be spending extended periods in the sun, you might consider an SPF of 50 or higher. However, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, so additional protective measures like wearing hats and seeking shade are also important.
Broad-Spectrum ProtectionBroad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin, while UVB rays can cause sunburn. Both types of rays can contribute to skin cancer. Ensuring the sunscreen is labeled as 'broad-spectrum' is important for comprehensive protection. This is especially crucial for kids, as their skin is more vulnerable to damage from both types of UV rays.
Water ResistanceWater-resistant sunscreens are designed to remain effective for a certain period while swimming or sweating. This is particularly important for kids who are often active and may spend a lot of time in the water. Water resistance is typically labeled as either 40 minutes or 80 minutes. Choose a sunscreen with the higher water resistance if your child will be swimming or sweating a lot, and remember to reapply it as directed, especially after towel drying.
IngredientsThe ingredients in sunscreen can affect its safety and effectiveness. For kids, it's best to choose sunscreens with physical (mineral) blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to cause skin irritation and are effective immediately upon application. Avoid sunscreens with chemical blockers like oxybenzone, which can be irritating and have potential health concerns. Additionally, look for sunscreens that are free from fragrances, parabens, and other harsh chemicals to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Application FormSunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, sprays, sticks, and gels. Lotions are generally the most effective and easiest to apply evenly, making them a good choice for thorough coverage. Sprays can be convenient but may not provide as even coverage and can be inhaled, which is not ideal for kids. Sticks are great for targeted areas like the face and ears. Choose the form that you find easiest to apply on your child and that ensures even coverage.
Ease of ApplicationKids can be fidgety, so a sunscreen that is easy to apply can make the process smoother. Look for sunscreens that spread easily and absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Some sunscreens are tinted, which can help you see where you've applied it to ensure full coverage. The easier it is to apply, the more likely you are to use it consistently and effectively.

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