Playing in the sun is not only beneficial for your children’s development but it is also a great way for them to burn their never-ending supply of energy. It allows your little ones to get the needed vitamin D. While most of us know that sunscreen is essential, we often forget that our little ones need sunscreen too. In this article, we’ll look at the best sunscreen for kids.
Little ones love to play outside with their friends. However, because Singapore is located close to the equator, the country is exposed to rather intense ultraviolet (UV) levels.Singapore’s natural hot climate is further exacerbated by the effects of global warming in recent years. Therefore, higher UV level readings make being exposed to sun rays more harmful.
What to look for in your kids’ sunscreen
Here are some tips to remember when choosing a sunscreen. We have listed down the various criteria you should keep in mind when selecting the best product for your family.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) SPF is a measure of how well that particular sunscreen protects against UV rays. Therefore, the higher the SPF, the better! While some research says to pick a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 15, experts recommend going for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Consistency – Often, sunscreen with greater UV protection leaves a thicker feel that may feel uncomfortable. Thus, choosing a sunscreen with a lighter consistency might not be a bad thing. It could actually encourage your little one to wear it more often.
Organic Ingredients – Selecting a sunscreen with natural ingredients allows you to “feed” your skin with minerals rather than chemicals.
Harmful Chemicals to Avoid – Avoid sunscreen that has oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate or octinoxate as they may be hazardous.
Duration – Be sure to double-check how long the sunscreen will last before it has to be re-applied. Also, consider how long your child is going to be out in the sun.
Best Sunscreen for Kids: Our Top Picks
The vast array of options on the market may make the process of choosing the perfect one for your children overwhelming. Hence, we curate the following popular and most-used sunscreen for kids.
Mama’s Choice Baby Gentle Sunscreen is the perfect everyday sunscreen for babies as it effectively prevents sunburn while nourishing the skin. Unlike other sunscreens, this baby sunscreen uses mineral sunscreen to create a physical barrier on your baby’s sensitive skin to protect it from harmful UV rays.This fragrance and alcohol-free formula is also enriched with the goodness of aloe vera to hydrate the skin, avocado to protect the skin from free radicals, and coconut to soothe the skin.
Price: $14.90
Where to Buy: Shopee
If you’re looking for a highly effective yet nourishing sunscreen, the BabyGanics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen SPF 50+ is what we recommend. This sunscreen has been designed specifically with children in mind. Help your little ones apply it before they head into the sun and if you guys have a pool day planned, make sure to reapply it immediately after towel drying. It helps prevent sunburn, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes of swimming, and is non-allergenic.
Price: $29.70
Where to Buy: Shopee
The Banana Boat Simply Protect Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ is our pick for sporty kids. It is a mineral-based sunscreen that is mild and gentle enough for even the most delicate skin.Its special formula is gentle on the skin, it does not contain oxybenzone, parabens, or fragrances. Twenty minutes before your kids head to soccer practice, make sure the Banana Boat Protect Baby Sunscreen is generously applied to their skin.
Price: $19.85
Where to Buy: Lazada
There is no doubt that this award-winning, high-protection face and body sunscreen would make this list of our top picks! The Wotnot Naturals Baby Sunscreen is enriched with all-natural and certified organic ingredients. Zinc, coupled with the most gentle, natural extracts is incorporated into its production process. With the finest ingredients, like aloe vera and shea butter, it is suitable for babies from 3 months old onwards.
Price: $28.90 – $34.90
Where to Buy: Shopee
This gentle, non-irritating sunscreen is perfect for protecting your little one’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and provides long-lasting protection, making it ideal for active kids who love spending time outdoors. With SPF50+ and added vitamins E and B5, you can trust Cetaphil to keep your child’s skin safe and nourished all day long.
Price: $35.76
Where to Buy: Lazada
Banana Boat’s convenient spray sunscreen is a must-have for busy parents and active kids. Its easy-to-apply formula provides broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your child’s skin stays safe during outdoor activities. The hypoallergenic and tear-free formula is specially designed for sensitive skin, making it a great choice for kids prone to irritation.
Price: $20.85
Where to Buy: Guardian
Biore UV Kids Pure Milk SPF50 PA+++ is specially formulated for children’s delicate skin. It offers strong UV protection without chemical filters, alcohol, parabens, or fragrances. The lightweight, non-sticky milk texture absorbs quickly and feels comfortable even in humid weather. It’s water-, sweat-, and friction-resistant—perfect for active play outdoors. A gentle yet effective choice for peace of mind under the sun.
Price: $13.80
Where to Buy: Watsons
Banana Boat Kids Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion SPF50 is designed for young, sensitive skin. Its mineral-based formula is free from parabens, fragrances, oils, and oxybenzone. It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a tear-free, non-irritating texture. Ideal for water play, it’s also water-resistant and dermatologist-tested. A dependable sunscreen for everyday outdoor fun and beach adventures.
Price: $16.90
Where to Buy: Guardian
Bionnex Preventiva Sunscreen Spray SPF 50+ Kids is specially formulated for children’s sensitive skin, offering comprehensive UVA/UVB protection to prevent sunburn, sunspots, and premature aging. Its non-adhesive texture ensures sand doesn’t stick to the skin, making it ideal for beach outings. Enriched with Hordeum vulgare seed powder, it absorbs excess sebum, reducing unwanted shine. Vitamin E provides strong moisturizing and antioxidant effects, keeping the skin hydrated and protected. This sunscreen is suitable for both face and body, ensuring full coverage during outdoor activities
Price: $28.90
Where to Buy: Lazada
How to apply sunscreen for kids
Source: iStock
Spray Sunscreen:
- Hold the spray nozzle close to your child’s skin.
- Spray enough sunscreen until you can see a visible layer on the skin. This ensures thorough coverage.
- Rub the sunscreen in to distribute it evenly and ensure it’s fully absorbed.
- For the face, neck, and ears, spray the sunscreen into your hands first, then pat it onto your child’s skin to avoid accidentally spraying into their eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Reapply every 60-90 minutes, especially if your child is swimming or sweating heavily.
Lotion/Cream Sunscreen:
- Apply sunscreen evenly to your child’s skin while indoors, preferably before dressing, and at least 15 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
- Use about 1 ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) to cover all exposed areas of the body.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often-missed spots like the ears, hands, feet, shoulders, and back of the neck.
- If your child is wearing a bathing suit, apply sunscreen underneath the straps in case they shift during activity.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating.
Additional tips:
- Supervise young children when they apply their own sunscreen to ensure thorough coverage, and help them cover hard-to-reach areas.
- Use a lip balm with at least SPF 30 to protect your child’s lips.
- Sunscreen should be used in combination with other sun protection measures like protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
Why do children need sunscreen?
Overexposure to UV rays may lead to sunburn, damaged skin and possibly severe illnesses like skin cancer.
To prevent this, the proper use of sunscreen is definitely important. This is especially so if your child is very active and athletic, doing lots of sports outdoors.
Regular sunscreen suitable for adults might not be safe for children and babies. Their skin is more delicate and using harsh products may lead to irritation.
Some sunscreens are made with harmful or even toxic chemicals that may hurt the skin cells. Therefore, it is important to look for safer sunscreen alternatives, ones that are filled with healthy minerals.
If you have a beach day or park outing planned, be sure to pack some long-lasting, heavy-duty sunscreen. For day-to-day use, feel free to opt for a more lightweight formula.
Sunscreen spray vs lotion
As a parent, you want to ensure your child is protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunscreen is a crucial tool in your sun protection arsenal, but with so many options available, it can be challenging to decide between spray and lotion sunscreens.
Convenience and ease of application
When it comes to convenience, sunscreen sprays have the upper hand. They are quick and easy to apply, especially on squirmy kids who don’t like to sit still. Simply spray the sunscreen onto your child’s skin and rub it in for even coverage. This makes sunscreen sprays a great option for on-the-go families or when you’re in a hurry.
On the other hand, lotion sunscreens require a bit more effort to apply. You’ll need to squeeze the lotion onto your hands and then rub it into your child’s skin. This can be time-consuming, especially if you have multiple children to apply sunscreen to.
Coverage and protection
While sunscreen sprays are convenient, they may not provide as thorough coverage as lotion sunscreens. It can be difficult to tell if you’ve missed a spot when using a spray, which can leave your child’s skin vulnerable to sun damage. Additionally, windy conditions can cause the spray to blow away before it reaches your child’s skin, reducing its effectiveness.
Lotion sunscreens, however, allow for more precise application. You can see exactly where you’ve applied the sunscreen and ensure that you’ve covered all exposed areas of your child’s skin. This makes lotion sunscreens a better choice for those who want to ensure maximum protection.
Ingredients and sensitivity
When choosing a sunscreen for your child, it’s essential to consider the ingredients and potential for skin sensitivity. Some children may be sensitive to certain ingredients found in sunscreens, such as fragrances or preservatives.
Lotion sunscreens often have a wider variety of ingredients than sprays, which can make it easier to find a formula that works for your child’s skin. Many lotion sunscreens are also specifically formulated for sensitive skin, making them a good choice for children with allergies or skin conditions.
Spray sunscreens, on the other hand, may contain alcohol or other drying ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. However, there are some spray sunscreens designed for children with sensitive skin, so be sure to read the labels carefully.
Environmental considerations
When it comes to environmental impact, lotion sunscreens are generally considered the more eco-friendly choice. Spray sunscreens can release harmful chemicals into the air, which can be inhaled by your child or others nearby.
Additionally, the aerosol cans used for spray sunscreens are not as easily recyclable as the plastic bottles used for lotion sunscreens.
If you do choose to use a spray sunscreen, be sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area and avoid spraying it directly onto your child’s face. Instead, spray the sunscreen onto your hands and then apply it to your child’s face to minimize inhalation.
Conclusion
In summary, both spray and lotion sunscreens have their advantages and disadvantages. Spray sunscreens are convenient and easy to apply, while lotion sunscreens provide more precise coverage and are generally better for sensitive skin. Ultimately, the best choice for your family will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Regardless of which type of sunscreen you choose, the most important thing is to use it consistently and correctly. Be sure to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. By taking these simple steps, you can help protect your child’s delicate skin from the sun’s harmful rays and ensure a fun, safe summer for the whole family.
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