In the parental world, there are all sorts of polarizing debates. Breast vs. bottle. Nature vs. nurture. Organic vs. not.
With the summer sun, the sunscreen debate is alive and well!
Protecting your child’s sensitive skin is important, especially at a young age. However, children under 6 months old should not use sunscreen.
For proper sun protection for young babies, be sure to use:
- Stroller shades
- Umbrellas
- SPF clothing
- Hats
If your child is older than 6 months, now is a safe time to start using sunscreen.
Sunscreen works well for protecting your baby from the sun’s harmful rays. But with dozens of products to choose from, how do you know which one to buy?
Read on to learn everything you need to know about sunscreen for your baby. We’ll cover important information as well as a listing of the best sunscreen for sensitive skin!
What to look for in baby sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are alike. Each has different ingredients and SPF levels. Some include bug repellent and others are water-proof.
So what should you look for in the best sunscreen for sensitive skin? First, check the ingredient list.
Choose mineral-based sunscreens
There are a variety of ingredients used in sunscreen for babies. When choosing a sunscreen, find one that is mineral based.
Mineral based sunscreen uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the primary active ingredient. These mineral ingredients are safe and effective. Both of these ingredients stay on the surface of your baby’s skin, which blocks sun rays.
Proper UVA and UVB protection is a must!
Minerals are also hypo-allergenic and non-irritating. Perfect for a baby’s sensitive skin!
Avoid chemical ingredients
Many sunscreens use chemicals that may be harmful to children. The best sunscreen for sensitive skin doesn’t include harmful chemicals.
Ingredients to avoid include:
- Oxybenzone
- Retinyl palmitate
- Nanoparticles
- Avobenzone
- Homosalate
These chemicals are not only harmful but can cause skin irritation.
Check the SPF
SPF is an important factor in the effectiveness of sunscreen. For most baby sunscreen products, SPF 30 provides the necessary protection.
When buying sunscreen, don’t shop for high SPF!
Many parents believe that higher SPF means that reapplication is not necessary. However, even high SPF sunscreen needs to be reapplied to ensure proper protection.
Stick to lotions
Spray sunscreens are convenient, right?
Putting on lotion sunscreen is easier said than done. Getting your baby to sit still can be an impossible feat.
While spray sunscreens are easier to apply, the application is usually uneven. Uneven application means that certain parts of the skin are left unprotected.
A uniform even coat of sunscreen is a must. Plus, you don’t want your baby breathing in sunscreen! Don’t settle for convenience at the risk of your baby’s health.
With these tips in mind, let’s discuss the 5 best sunscreens for sensitive skin.
The best sunscreen for sensitive skin
There are plenty of baby-safe sunscreens on the market. But, we’ve found the 5 best sunscreen brands to use on your baby.
1. California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen, SPF 30+
California Baby is a well-known company for baby safe products. Their sunscreen is an effective product for protecting your baby from sun exposure.
The sunscreen uses a 12% titanium dioxide formula. The formula is also fragrance-free, so it can be used on the most sensitive skin types.
You can find this product online as well as in a drugstore near you.
2. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Lotion Sunscreen, SPF 50
This sunscreen can be found in your local drugstore! It comes in lotion and stick form. Stick sunscreen makes the application much easier!
Aveeno’s Baby Continuous Protection sunscreen is mineral-based. It is also tear-free and paraben-free.
The best part? This brand is pediatrician recommended!
3. Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream, SPF 30
This sunscreen cream is an all-natural, zinc oxide based formula. Chamomile and calendula are also included to calm sensitive skin.
The cream uses sunflower oil as a base, which makes application a breeze. All ingredients are USDA organic certified, so you can buy with confidence.
It stands as one of the highest-rated sunscreens on the Environmental Working Group‘s list.
4. TruKid Sunny Days Sport Sunscreen, SPF 30+
This sunscreen is 100% natural and uses ingredients that are ideal for sensitive skin. The formula includes:
- Coconut, sunflower and jojoba oils
- Organic aloe
- Zinc
This sunscreen can even be used on babies with eczema! No matter how sensitive your baby’s skin is, you can count on TruKid Sunny Days Sport Sunscreen.
Not only is the formula safe, the packaging is eco-friendly.
5. Adorable Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+
This sunscreen doesn’t use any synthetic ingredients. Adorable Baby Sunscreen Lotion is:
- Vegan/cruelty-free
- Non-nano
- Paraben and phthalate free
- Gluten free
You can depend on this sunscreen to properly protect your baby! The ingredients are non-irritating and are ideal for sensitive skin.
This sunscreen can be found online. No trip to the store needed!
Always follow proper sun care for your baby
Even with the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, be careful with your baby in the sun! Follow these sun care tips to ensure your baby remains safe on the hottest days.
- Never expose your baby to direct sunlight.
- Avoid midday sun, as it is harsh on a baby’s skin.
- Always apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Dress your baby in UPF clothing
- Reapply sunscreen as often as required. Sweat and water can wash off sunscreen.
- Seek shade. Keeping your baby in the sun for too long can cause a variety of health issues. Enjoy summer in the shade!
With these tips, you can keep your baby safe all summer long!
Organic formula for a healthy baby
All parents want the best for their babies! Quality formula is an important piece in keeping your baby healthy.
If you’re looking for organic and USA made formula, you’ve found the right company! Beyond Organic Baby specializes in organic baby formula.
Our family cares for yours as our own. We value providing high-quality formula to nourish your growing child.
Contact us today to learn about our products and services.