How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Kids
A Guide for Safer Sunscreen
We all know how important sunscreen is. While sunscreen is no-doubt a must-have, the many options and confusing labels can make a seemingly simple choice feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your baby's back, too). Here's what you need to know to make the best sunscreen choices for your family.
Why Sunscreen Matters
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage skin in as little as 15 minutes. While 10am - 4pm is generally the peak window for UV radiation, you might be surprised to know that up to 80% of UV rays can pass through cloudy days. Over time, repeated sunburns in childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. This means that sunscreen is a daily essential, not just for beach days. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can significantly reduce this risk and protect sensitive young skin from harmful effects.
U.S. Sunscreen Standards vs. Other Countries
Also surprising is that the U.S. FDA hasn’t approved a new active sunscreen ingredient in over two decades! The US lags behind other countries in Europe, Australia and Korean who have adopted more advanced UV filters that offer stronger and longer-lasting protection. While choosing brands from those countries’ in particular can be a solid bet, there are still plenty of American products that are just as good. We just need to be a little more discerning when shopping.
Mineral vs. Chemical: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of sunscreens:
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Common ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. Some of these have been linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions.
Mineral sunscreens (also called physical sunscreens) sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV rays. These usually contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and are often gentler and safer for sensitive skin.
For kids, mineral-based sunscreens are generally recommended.
“When shopping for sunscreens choose mineral-based over chemical sunscreen”
What to Look For (and What to Avoid)
EWG developed a super helpful label decoder, here are simple key things to know:
Thanks to the EWG’s helpful label decoder, here are simple guidelines when scanning sunscreen labels:
✅ Look For:
“Broad Spectrum” (protects against both UVA and UVB rays)
SPF 30–50 (higher isn’t always better)
Active ingredients: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
Water resistance (ideal for pool and beach days)
🚫 Avoid:
Oxybenzone and octinoxate (linked to hormone disruption)
Retinyl palmitate (a form of vitamin A that may speed up skin damage)
Spray sunscreens (easy to misuse and often inhaled)
Fragrance (can irritate sensitive skin)
Whole Bunch Club’s Top Recommended Sunscreens for Kids
After reviewing the latest guidance and product safety data, here are our top picks for kid-safe sunscreens in 2025:
Vita Sea Mineral Sunscreen Stick - 100% mineral stick, SPF 30 water resistant, no harmful ingredients, ultra sheer (Kids & Adult versions available)
Centella Sunscreen Stick - 100% mineral stick, water resistant, SPF 50, added hyaluronic acid for moisterizing, Korean formula, applies sheer (good for Kids & Adults)
Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream – 100% mineral-based, SPF 40 fragrance-free, and super water-resistant. Best for sport/active kids.
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen – Highly rated by EWG, SPF 50+, effective and gentle on young skin.
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen – Great for babies and toddlers, SPF 30, plant-based and reef-safe.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen – A dermatologist favorite that changes color in UV light to remind you when to reapply. SPF 30, Australian formula, recommended for sensitive skin.
Hello Bello Mineral Sunscreen – Most budget-friendly, clean ingredient list, SPF 50
Final Thoughts
Choosing sunscreen for your child doesn’t have to be confusing. Stick to simple, mineral-based options, skip the sprays and mystery chemicals, and make sunscreen a daily habit—even on cloudy days.
Have another sunscreen you love or want us to investigate? Share it with us at info@wholebunchmedia.com
This page may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use or believe will add value to my readers.
