Choosing Sunscreen for Children
Choosing sunscreen for children does not need to depend on a special “kids” label. The important questions are whether the product provides appropriate UV protection, whether your child will tolerate it, and whether it can be applied correctly and reapplied when needed.
What should you look for?
Dermatology and paediatric guidance commonly recommends choosing sunscreen that is:
- broad spectrum, protecting against UVA as well as UVB
- SPF 30 or higher
- water resistant when swimming or sweating is expected
- comfortable enough that the child will actually wear it
Some countries recommend SPF 50 or 50+ when sun protection is required, so follow local health guidance and the product label.
What about babies under six months?
For babies younger than six months, shade and protective clothing should be the first line of protection.
If adequate shade and clothing are not available, dermatology and paediatric guidance allows a small amount of broad-spectrum sunscreen to be used on limited exposed areas such as the face or backs of the hands. If you are unsure, ask your child's healthcare professional.
For babies older than six months, sunscreen can be applied to exposed skin, while still using clothing, hats and shade as part of the overall sun-protection plan.
Mineral sunscreen for children
Sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often chosen for babies or children with sensitive skin because these mineral filters are less likely to irritate some people's skin.
That does not mean other permitted sunscreen filters are automatically unsafe for children. The best option is one that provides appropriate broad-spectrum protection and does not irritate the child's skin.
Learn more about sunscreen ingredients.
“Chemical-free” is not a useful sunscreen term
Older sunscreen advice often described zinc oxide and titanium dioxide products as “chemical-free.” That wording is misleading because every sunscreen formulation is made from chemicals in the scientific sense.
A clearer distinction is between mineral UV filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and organic UV filters, such as avobenzone or other approved filters.
How much sunscreen should children use?
Sunscreen needs to cover exposed skin generously and evenly. Using too little reduces the protection actually achieved.
Apply the sunscreen before outdoor exposure according to the product directions, then reapply at least every two hours while outdoors and sooner after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Our sunscreen tips page explains application in more detail.
Water resistant does not mean waterproof
No sunscreen should be treated as waterproof or as providing all-day protection.
In the United States, water-resistant sunscreens are tested for either 40 or 80 minutes in water. Other countries may use different labelling standards. Reapply according to the label after swimming or sweating.
What if sunscreen irritates your child's skin?
If a child develops irritation, stop using the product and try a different formulation. A fragrance-free mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can be a reasonable option for sensitive skin.
Seek medical advice for a significant or persistent rash or if you are concerned about an allergic reaction.
Are sprays suitable for children?
Sprays can be convenient, but it can be difficult to judge whether enough product has been applied. Avoid inhaling sunscreen spray and do not spray it directly onto a child's face. Apply it to your hands first and then spread it onto the face, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
Lotions, creams and sticks can make complete coverage easier to see.
Do children need sunscreen on cloudy days?
Cloud cover does not eliminate UV exposure. Use the local UV Index and current public-health guidance to decide when sun protection is needed.
Sunscreen is only one part of protecting children
Whenever practical, combine sunscreen with:
- shade
- a broad-brimmed or legionnaire-style hat
- clothing that covers more skin
- UV-protective sunglasses
- reducing unnecessary exposure when UV radiation is strong
Sun-protective clothing can be particularly useful for children because it does not need to be reapplied. See our guides to UPF ratings and sun-protective clothing.
This page provides general educational information. For babies, children with skin conditions or concerns about sunscreen reactions, seek individual advice from an appropriate healthcare professional.