10 Best Sunscreen For Kids 2025 in the United States

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen is designed to cater specifically to infants and young children, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking effective sun protection for their little ones. This sunscreen offers a high SPF of 50+, which is crucial for shielding sensitive skin from harmful UV rays. Its broad-spectrum protection ensures coverage against both UVA and UVB rays, which is essential for comprehensive sun safety.

One of the standout features of this product is its natural and safe formula. Emphasizing its clean ingredients, it avoids harsh chemicals like parabens and phthalates, making it gentle for daily use on babies’ delicate skin. This aligns with the preference for natural products among parents who are conscious of chemical exposure. Application is straightforward, as the sunscreen is formulated to absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue, a common complaint among sunscreen users. This makes it suitable even for the most active children. Additionally, the absence of a chemical scent due to the use of natural fragrance oils enhances its appeal.

Water resistance is another significant strength, providing up to 80 minutes of protection during water activities, which is the maximum water resistance rating endorsed by the FDA. This feature is particularly beneficial for kids who love swimming or playing in water. However, while the product's water resistance is impressive, it requires reapplication after 80 minutes, which might be seen as slightly inconvenient during long outings. The unscented nature may not appeal to those who prefer a fragrant sunscreen, although this also ensures it’s less irritating for sensitive skin. Thinkbaby Mineral Sunscreen is well-suited for those looking for a natural, high-SPF sunscreen for children, offering excellent protection and ease of use, with minimal drawbacks.

The BLUE LIZARD Mineral Sunscreen Stick is designed specifically for kids, providing a high level of protection with SPF 50+. Its primary active ingredient is Zinc Oxide, which is gentle on sensitive skin, making it suitable for children. The sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it effective for active outdoor play and swimming.

One of its significant strengths is that it's free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and fragrances, thus reducing the risk of skin irritation. Additionally, it is reef-friendly, avoiding ingredients like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate that can harm marine life. The stick form allows for easy and mess-free application, which is particularly convenient for parents on the go.

However, the stick's small size (0.5 oz) might require frequent repurchase if used regularly. It is also worth noting that because it is a mineral-based sunscreen, it may leave a slight white residue on the skin, which is a common trait for Zinc Oxide products. In summary, the BLUE LIZARD Mineral Sunscreen Stick is a reliable and safe option for protecting kids' skin from the sun, though its small size may necessitate more frequent purchases.

The Coppertone Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 is designed with children’s sensitive skin in mind and offers strong sun protection with an SPF of 50, which is ideal for blocking both UVA and UVB rays thanks to its broad-spectrum formula. This makes it effective for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Its water resistance for up to 80 minutes is a good feature for active kids who enjoy swimming or playing outdoors, helping to maintain protection even when wet.

The spray bottle format allows for quick and easy application, which many parents find convenient, especially when applying sunscreen on wiggly children. It sprays from any angle for good coverage, although sprays sometimes risk uneven application compared to creams. The formula is free from potentially irritating ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, and dyes, which helps reduce the chance of skin reactions, making it gentler for delicate skin. Being dermatologically tested and pediatrician recommended adds trustworthiness to safety claims.

On the downside, spray sunscreens can sometimes be inhaled accidentally, so care is needed during application. Also, some users prefer lotions because they feel easier to rub in thoroughly. The product comes in a pack of three 5.5-ounce cans, which is great for families who want to stock up. This sunscreen is well-suited for parents looking for a reliable, easy-to-use spray that offers strong protection and is formulated to be safe for kids’ skin.