Summer isn’t here yet, but you may already be planning ahead for it and one of things on your to do list may be to research the best sunscreens for children. Whether for lazy days at the pool, a road trip to visit relatives or an exotic vacation away, we all want to make sure that our children are well protected against the damage that can be caused by ultraviolet rays.
As with choosing a sunscreen for anyone, a good sunscreen must protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Shorter UVB rays are the ones that lead to sunburns and the longer UVA rays are the ones that damage collagen and elastin (which are part of the skin’s supporting structure) leading to fine lines, wrinkles and saggy skin. UVA rays also contribute to age spots and pigmentation issues and over time, they are thought to play a role in the development of some types of skin cancers.
In selecting the best sunscreens for children, look for the following characteristics in your sun protection product:
- Broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection
- Photostable ingredients (this means that the ingredients will hold up upon exposure to ultraviolet rays. Some ingredients break down when exposed to sunlight rendering them inactive)
- Safety. While an issue for all of us, look for products containing ingredients that are not associated with free radical production (free radicals lead to skin damage) and do not disrupt hormones or cause skin sensitization. Some of the worst offenders are older sun filtering agents including oxybenzone.
- Water resistance. Since children tend to be quite active, a water resistant sunscreen will give you peace of mind. Sunscreens manufactured for children are often designed to be especially sweat and water resistant.
My children are older now and after years of being indoctrinated about the benefits of wearing sunscreens, they know that if they go outside, they will wear sunscreen. End of discussion.
Over the years, I’ve had an opportunity to try out a number of different brands and while knowing that my kids are well protected, ease of use is also a priority. Here are some of my top picks that fit into the category of best sunscreens for children. All have the characteristics outlined above:
- Anthelios Dermo Pediatrics Spray SPF 50 – Multi resistant to sweat, water and sand, this Anthelios sunscreen comes in a convenient spray bottle and protects with Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL.
- Ombrelle Kids Protection Milk SPF 60 – A light, fast absorbing formulation that is fragrance and color free. Perfect for kids.
- Heiko SPF 40 Kids Sunscreen – If you’re after a non-chemical alternative, you may wish to consider this zinc oxide based sunscreen (nano particle free), which is water resistant and rated #1 for safety by the Environmental Working Group.
Still looking for the best sunscreens for children? View our full selection of sunscreens for kids here.
