8 Best Sunscreens For Babies
Written by Mindsmaking Commerce Writer
Fact Checked by Mindsmaking Professionals
30th, May, 2025
A good sunscreen is easy to apply, gentle on delicate skin, and offers broad-spectrum protection with at least SPF 30. We've curated the best sunscreens for your babies' sensitive skin.
Mindsmaking selects products based on editors’ research and community wisdom , with accurate prices and details at the time of publication. Commission may be earned from shopping links.
What is childhood if you don't have the chance to explore outdoors?
If they were permitted to, children would live outside. I don't blame them; there’s a lot to see outside.
From beaches to parks, tons of exciting things await.
However, we also know the sun's effect on the skin. Skin cancer can develop from just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence, nearly doubling a person’s chance of developing melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. You must protect your children from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
You can start protecting your baby with sunscreen at the very young age of 6 months (3). Whether heading to the beach or a park, never neglect the importance of sunscreen. A good sunscreen is easy to apply evenly, gentle enough for delicate skin, and provides broad-spectrum coverage with a minimum of SPF 30 (ideally SPF 50). We have collated the best sunscreens that are suitable for babies’ sensitive skin for you.
Here's a sneak peek of our 8 Best Sunscreens For Babies
Best Value Sunscreen
Coppertone Pure and Simple Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Baby
Price: $12
Amazon
Best for Sensitive Baby Skin
Sun Bum Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion with Mineral UVA/UVB Face and Body Protection for Sensitive Skin
Price: $17
Amazon
Best For The Whole Family
BLUE LIZARD Baby Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, UVA/UVB Protection with Smart Cap Technology
Price: $10
Amazon
Best For Eczema
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Sensitive Skin
Price: $13
Amazon
Best Mineral Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ Gentle Lotion
Price: $25
AmazonHow We Choose the Best Baby Sunscreen
Sunscreen products must be safe and provide adequate protection from the sun.
A standard sunscreen should not irritate the skin or have the potential to cause allergies; it should also not clog pores.
After reviewing the top-rated products on the market, we chose sunscreens that have proven effective. They are broad-spectrum formulas that protect against UVA and UVB rays (2).
We also chose mineral sunscreens (known as physical sunscreens), including titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, for optimal protection and a longer stay on the skin's surface.
All chosen sunscreens have a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30, which filters out 97% of UVB rays (2).
Our 8 Best Sunscreens For Babies
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Mineral Sunscreen
Why we like
- Thinkbaby utilises non-nano zinc oxide as its active ingredient, providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
- The sunscreen is formulated without parabens, phthalates, PABA, and other harmful chemicals.
- Thinkbaby SPF 50+ is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor play.
Something to Note
- Some users have noted that the product can separate in the tube over time, requiring thorough mixing before use to ensure even application.
Customer’s Review
After a thorough search, a mom found her perfect match in Thinkbaby SPF 50+, praising its clean, gentle formula with non-nano zinc oxide. She loved its smooth application, minimal white cast, and strong water resistance. Safe and reliable, it gave her peace of mind for her baby’s sensitive skin during active outdoor days.
A mom of a fair-skinned, sensitive baby calls Thinkbaby sunscreen an essential for their skincare routine. Though it leaves a slight shine, she says it’s a small trade-off for its strong protection. Unlike many mineral sunscreens, it never caused sunburn or irritation. For her, it’s worth it.
Coppertone Pure and Simple Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Baby
Why we like
- This sunscreen utilises 24.08% zinc oxide as its active ingredient, offering broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor play.
- It is hypoallergenic and has been tested by dermatologists, ensuring its safety on delicate baby skin.
Something to Note
- The sunscreen's thick texture can be challenging to rub in and may leave a noticeable white cast on the skin.
Customer’s Review
A mom praised this sunscreen for its effectiveness and gentle formula, calling it perfect for babies and toddlers. She loved how well it protected her baby’s sensitive skin, providing the peace of mind she needed. For her, it's a must-have for safe, sun-filled days.
A mom loved this sunscreen because it was effective and reef-safe, valuing its eco-friendly benefits. It required some rubbing to blend in, but it absorbed well and protected her child’s skin. The effort was worth the peace of mind and environmental care for her.
Mustela Baby Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 Broad Spectrum
Why we like
- Utilising 19.7% non-nano zinc oxide as its active ingredient, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
- The formulation includes 70% organic ingredients such as shea butter, avocado, sunflower seed, and jojoba oil.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor play.
- The stick format allows for easy, mess-free application, particularly useful for targeting areas like the face, ears, and neck. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel and on-the-go use.
Something to Note
- At 0.6 oz, the stick may not last long with frequent use, especially for full-body application, making it a pricier option per ounce.
- Some users have reported that the sunscreen can feel a bit greasy upon application, which may be a consideration for those with oily skin types.
Customer’s Review
A mom praised Mustela's small stick sunscreen for its gentle, safe formula, which is perfect for her daughter's eczema-prone skin. She loved its convenience for quick outings and how easily it blended in. As a redhead with fair skin, she also trusted it for herself, making it a family favorite.
A loyal Mustela user switched from the cream sunscreen to the stick version and was thrilled with its convenience. She loved its portability for quick touch-ups and its gentle formula, which worked well on both her and her daughter’s sensitive skin. For her, it’s a perfect on-the-go solution.
Sun Bum Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion with Mineral UVA/UVB Face and Body Protection for Sensitive Skin
Why we like
- This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection by utilising 20% non-nano zinc oxide as its active ingredient.
- The formulation is fragrance, alcohol, and paraben-free, reducing the risk of skin irritation. It's also hypoallergenic and cruelty-free.
- The sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor play.
Something to Note
- The product is not labelled tear-free, and some users have reported eye irritation if the product comes into contact with the eyes
Customer’s Review
A thrilled parent praised Sun Bum Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion for its gentle yet effective protection on her baby's sensitive skin. She loved its smooth, non-greasy texture, natural ingredients like aloe vera, and water resistance for pool days. The mild scent and chemical-free formula made it her go-to choice. Highly recommended!
A mom shared her excitement over discovering Sun Bum Baby Bum's fragrance-free, sensitive formula for babies, matching her favorite adult sunscreen. She loved its gentle protection and the peace of mind it brought, knowing her son was safely shielded from the sun. For her, it's the perfect choice for little ones.
BLUE LIZARD Baby Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+, Water Resistant, UVA/UVB Protection with Smart Cap Technology
Why we like
- This sunscreen utilises 10% zinc oxide and 8% titanium dioxide as active ingredients, providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
- It features a colour-changing cap that turns pink when exposed to harmful UV rays, a visual reminder to reapply sunscreen and seek shade when necessary.
- Formulated without fragrances, parabens, and chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, reducing the risk of skin irritation and environmental harm.
Something to Note
- As with many mineral sunscreens, a noticeable white residue may be present upon application, particularly on darker skin tones
Customer’s Review
After months of research, a dedicated mom found the perfect sunblock for her baby. It withstood even 90-degree amusement park days without a hint of sunburn. She loved its easy application, unscented formula, and its ability to not irritate her baby's eczema. Now, she’s confident it’s worth every penny. Sunny days are worry-free!
A Miami mom swears by this sunscreen for protecting her family under the intense sun, praising its SPF 50+ mineral-based formula. She loves its gentle touch on sensitive skin, water resistance, and lasting protection during beach days and baseball games. No rashes, no sunburn, just happy memories outdoors.
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Sensitive Skin
Why we like
- Contains 100% naturally sourced zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
- Free from fragrances, parabens, and phthalates, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
- Including oat kernel flour helps lock in moisture and soothe the skin.
- It offers up to 80 minutes of water and sweat resistance, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor play.
Something to Note
- Some users have reported that the sunscreen can cause stinging or discomfort if it comes into contact with the eyes.
Customer’s Review
A parent shared their experience using this sunscreen in the intense heat of the Caribbean, and the results were exactly what they hoped for. ‘Used in the hot Caribbean sun, and it did the job,’ they said with satisfaction. They were pleased to report that their baby didn’t suffer sunburn despite the harsh sun. ‘No sunburn,’ they added, clearly relieved and confident in the sunscreen’s effectiveness.
A user shared her thoughts on the sunscreen’s wearability, noting how comfortable it felt throughout the day. ‘Comfortable to wear,’ she said, appreciating how it didn’t feel heavy or irritate her skin. However, she mentioned that it left a slight colour on her skin, adding, ‘You might want to add a tinted moisturiser on top, to compensate for the colour it leaves.’ Despite this, she seemed pleased with the sunscreen’s overall performance.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ Gentle Lotion
Why we like
- Provides SPF 50+ protection using non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, offering effective defence against UVA and UVB rays.
- Contains Cell-Ox Shield® technology, combining broad-spectrum protection with antioxidants to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays.
- Free from parabens, fragrances, and chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate..
Something to Note
Customer’s Review
After searching for the perfect sunscreen for her baby's delicate skin, one mother found relief with La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Gentle Lotion. Despite a slight white cast that fades after a few minutes, she praised, non-irritating formula, especially around the eyes. Unlike other brands that caused discomfort, this one made sunny days stress-free and safe for her child.
After struggling with sticky, uncomfortable sunscreens, a parent found relief with La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Gentle Lotion. Its oil-free, oxybenzone-free formula is gentle on sensitive skin and sweat-resistant. Now, sunny days are enjoyable, and their baby stays comfortable and protected. The switch made outdoor time stress-free and happy.
What to Look Out for When Shopping
Choosing the right sunscreen protects your baby's delicate skin from harmful UV rays. With so many options, deciding which product is best can be overwhelming. Understanding the key features to look for will help you make an informed choice, ensuring your little one stays safe and comfortable while enjoying the sunshine. Here’s what you need to know when shopping for sunscreen for your baby.
- Check for the SPF level, a minimum of SPF 30 and ideally SPF 50 (3).
- Depending on your preference, check the application type: stick or lotion. Stick sunscreen gives you more control over application, unlike lotion.
- Check for water resistance, of course, no sunscreen is waterproof, but some sunscreens can last up to 80 minutes in water before washing off. All our recommended products can resist water for up to 80 minutes.
Mistakes to Avoid when choosing a sunscreen for your baby
Many parents often make a few common mistakes and have misconceptions when shopping for sunscreen for their babies. Here are common mistakes you should avoid when shopping for your baby’s sunscreen.
- Don’t assume a higher SPF means vastly better protection; SPF 30 works well for everyday use, while SPF 50 is best for long sun exposure.
- Always check sunscreen ingredients to avoid harmful chemicals and fragrances that may irritate sensitive baby skin.
- Remember, water-resistant sunscreen isn’t waterproof so reapply every 80 minutes or after swimming and sweating.
While sunscreen is essential, it should be combined with other protective measures such as wearing protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses, and staying in the shade, especially during peak sunlight hours between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start using sunscreen on my baby?
You can apply sunscreen on your baby’s skin from 6 months (3). Before this age, it is best to keep your baby out of direct sunlight and use protective clothing and shade instead.
What should I look for in baby sunscreen?
When choosing a baby sunscreen, look for a minimum SPF of 30 (ideally SPF 50), broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, and a gentle, mineral-based formula containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
How often should I reapply baby sunscreen?
Reapply baby sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. This ensures continuous protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Can I use regular sunscreen on my baby?
It’s better to use sunscreen specifically formulated for babies. Baby sunscreens are usually made with gentler ingredients less likely to irritate your baby's sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions.
Is it OK to apply sunscreen every day?
Applying sunscreen daily is fine if your baby is exposed to the sun. Daily protection helps reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.