Best, Safest Sunscreens for Kids Under $20
By Keira Ezzo
Summers with the kids mean a lot of time outside, but that doesn’t stop for fall. Whether it’s sporting events, weekends at the beach, or family hikes, they’re spending a lot of time in the great outdoors. Though it’s great to see them taking in that fresh air, they’re also at risk of taking in a lot of sun exposure while they’re out there, which is not so great.
It’s important for all of us to protect our skin from the sun, of course, but our kids are our world and we don’t want their skin getting hurt, especially during these precious summers that pass by so quickly. So before the end of summer comes around, let’s take a look at some of the best sunscreens on the market for your kids — all rated highly by the Environmental Working Group for safety and ingredients.
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Raw Elements is a fantastic option for kids. It’s EWG Verified, reef-safe and made with non-nano zinc oxide — meaning it sits on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it. The stick formula makes application easy, even on wiggly kids, and it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes so their day in the sun will still be fun, without the pain of a sunburn later.
For the majority of kids, this is a great option that will keep your kiddos safe with continued use. But we know that one size does not fit all when it comes to our children. If you’re in need of something a little more tailored to your kid’s needs, keep reading.
Buy on Raw Elements
I have, and always will be, a sensitive skinned girlie. I grew up with terrible eczema, and always ended up with mysterious rashes from playing outside and other kid activities. So, trust me, I understand how difficult it can be to find products that work well, without irritating your skin.
This sunscreen by Mustela is EWG Verified and formulated specifically for sensitive skin, using non-nano zinc oxide as its active ingredient with no fragrance, parabens or chemical UV filters. It’s one of the most thoughtfully formulated options on the market for kids who react to conventional sunscreens.
Did you know that you cannot wear traditional sunscreen to explore places like the Great Barrier Reef? The traditional chemicals found in sunscreen are harmful to the delicate coral under the water. So sometimes, it’s good to have options, such as mineral sunscreen.
What’s the difference? I am so glad you asked.
Mineral sunscreen, also called physical sunscreen, tends to be a thicker consistency that physically blocks the sunrays, whereas traditional chemical-based sunscreens are made with chemicals that absorb the sun’s rays.
This mineral-based sunblock by Blue Lizard is rated 2 by EWG — one of the highest ratings on their scale — and is fragrance free and paraben free. Not only is this sunblock good for your kids, but also for the planet.
Let’s face it, money is pretty tight for all of us right now, which is why I thought it was important to share Thinkbaby Clear Zinc Sunscreen. At $12.39, it’s one of the most affordable EWG Verified options available — and it doesn’t cut corners on safety. Made with non-nano zinc oxide and free from oxybenzone, parabens and fragrance, it’s a clean pick that won’t break the bank.
We love our babies, but our babies don’t always love the sun. Their skin is more sensitive which means that we have to take extra care when it comes to spending time outside with them, and what you’re putting on their skin.
Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen is EWG Verified and formulated specifically for the most sensitive baby skin — free from fragrance, parabens, oxybenzone and synthetic preservatives. It’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes, so your sweet little wiggle-worm is covered through splashing and sweating.
Sure, you can use the same sunblock all over for your kids’ body and face, but a sunscreen spray near the eyes? You do the math, it’s not looking good. Thus, Badger Kids Face Stick.
EWG Verified and made with just a handful of clean ingredients, Badger’s face stick glides on easily and is gentle enough for daily use around the eyes, nose and mouth. With a light tangerine and vanilla scent, your kids will not only be okay with putting on this sunblock — they might even get excited to use it.
