Protecting Your Little Ones: The Best Sunscreens for Babies, Children, and Pregnancy

There’s truly one simple answer to “What’s the best sunscreen for babies and children?”

Physical sunscreen, which is also called Mineral Sunscreen.

Read no further if you know what that means.

If not, let’s dive in! 

I generally recommend:

MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50
MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50
MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50
MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50
MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50
MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50

MDSolarSciences Mineral KidCrème SPF 50

$39.00

WHY SYDNEY LOVES IT: This is my answer to "What's the best sunscreen for kids?" We prefer a 100% mineral AKA physical SPF for children and during pregnancy so that there's no systemic absorption like with chemical (avobenzone) based sunscreens. This one is a texture you'll actually want to apply unlike a lot of thick, white mineral sunscreens.

DETAILS: This gentle, emollient unscented and water-resistant crème is perfect for children’s delicate skin and provides powerful broad spectrum protection. Mineral KidCrème is creamy, easy-to-apply and goes on silky smooth. Finally, a mineral sunscreen perfect for little ones (and the whole family!) that is quick to apply and feels great. The mineral formula won’t run into or sting eyes, even when swimming or sweating, which means more smiles and longer days at the beach. No more squirming or running away from the sunscreen tube. Simply shake, slather, and go!

HOW TO USE: Shake well. Apply liberally before sun exposure, and reapply at least every 2 hours. Use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating. For children under 6 months: ask a doctor.

KEY INGREDIENTS:

  • titanium dioxide 2.10%
  • zinc oxide 17.00%
  • dimethicone

 

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MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40
MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40
MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40
MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40
MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40
MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40

MDSolarSciences KidSpray SPF 40

$23.00

WHY SYDNEY LOVES IT: One of Sydney's favorite spray sunscreens! Perfect for the whole family!  Non-sticky and non-stinging, with the highest level of water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this extremely gentle formula is also safe for children 6 months and older.

DETAILS: The easiest, fastest way to keep your little ones protected! Made with the safest ingredients on the market, this derm-developed spray comes packed with broad-spectrum SPF and the highest level of water-resistance for up to 80 minutes. Your kids will love it for its lightweight feel that never stings or runs. You’ll love it for its 360-degree continuous mist that makes applying its mist-like, non-greasy and oil-free formula a breeze… even if you're spraying upside down.

HOW TO USE: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply at least every 2 hours. For children under 6 months: ask a doctor

KEY INGREDIENTS:

  • avobenzone 3%
  • octisalate 5%
  • octocrylene 2.75%
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MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40
MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40

MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40

$22.00

WHY SYDNEY LOVES IT: Children. Men. Golfers. SPF sticks are a must in your sunscreen arsenal. I love for reapplication but also first application on ears and nose and entire face. It's also super easy to hand this over to a child to apply sunscreen. It's what Jack uses in the morning on the way to school. Also a must for golfers and any men whose ears are exposed! Check out the tinted version too.

DETAILS:  Convenient and portable, this non-whitening formula glides on flawlessly and delivers powerful mineral protection that is perfect for on-the-go application. Easy-to-apply stick fits in backpacks, gym bags and handbags, making it a perfect companion for any activity. Lightweight and water-resistant up to 80 minutes, this formula helps reduce the risk of photo aging and skin cancer with naturally derived mineral UV protection and is gentle enough for the whole family – even kids 6 months and older.

HOW TO USE:  Apply liberally before sun exposure, reapply at least every 2 hours. Use a water resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating. Children under 6 months: ask a doctor

KEY INGREDIENTS: 

  • titanium dioxide 8.12%
  • zinc oxide 6.0%
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EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40
EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40
EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40
EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40
EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40
EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40

EltaMD UV AOX MIST SPF 40

$45.00


WHY SYDNEY LOVES IT: A 100% MINERAL SPRAY sunscreen you want to wear... this has NOT YET existed. I don't need to say more, but I will because I love talking about elegant sunscreen. File this in one of my favorite skincare splurges and one of my go-to products to gift others.

DETAILS: Its air-powered technology removes the need for chemical propellants and offers 360-degree sprayability - so you can get hard-to-reach places (spray your way —head to toe and upside down)

  • Transparent Zinc Oxide finish
  • Enriched with skin-rejuvenating antioxidants
  • Visibly reduces signs of premature aging
  • Gentle formula for daily use on body face
  • Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
  • Air-powered, all-angle spray
  • Nonflammable, free of chemical propellants
KEY INGREDIENTS:
  • Zinc Oxide: 14.0%:Natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays
  • Vitamins C + E: Powerful antioxidants that fight signs of photoaging, plus help rejuvenate skin’s appearance
  • Coconut Fruit Extract, Aloe Vera, Glycerin: Gentle ingredients that leave the skin hydrated and moisturized
HOW TO USE:
  • Apply liberally to face and neck 15 minutes before sun exposure
  • Use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating
  • Reapply at least every 2 hours
  • Before use on children under 6 months, Ask a physician
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PRO TIP: The most important thing is that you wear sunscreen consistently and remember to reapply it for optimal sun protection.chemical SPF ingredients. 

Mineral sunscreens provide physical protection by reflecting and scattering UV rays, while chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat energy. I go in more depth about this on my Ultimate Guide to Sunscreen

Prioritize Mineral AKA Physical sunscreens for children and in pregnancy since they protect our skin from UV rays by physically blocking and reflecting ultraviolet (UV) rays and are not absorbed through the skin.Physical sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are known for their gentle nature, providing effective sun protection without causing irritation or allergies. 

When you get into the nitty gritty, mineral sunscreens are perhaps best for everyone.

Chemical sunscreens protect the skin from UV rays by undergoing a chemical reaction upon application. These sunscreens typically contain avobenzone as the main ingredient, which effectively shields the skin from UV radiation. However, it's essential to be aware of two key aspects related to the mechanism of action of chemical sunscreens:

  • the concern regarding the potential systemic absorption of chemical sunscreens. From a dermatology perspective, this absorption can sometimes lead to cystic-type breakouts, especially in individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
  • many people are unaware that chemical sunscreens require approximately 20 minutes to be absorbed and start working effectively. It's crucial to apply these sunscreens before going outdoors to ensure proper protection. If you've experienced sunburn despite applying sunscreen, it's important to consider whether insufficient absorption time might have been a contributing factor.

The term "Broad Spectrum" is an essential feature to look for when selecting a sunscreen.Broad Spectrum indicates that the product provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, while UVB rays primarily cause sunburn.

For visual learners (like I am!) this reel explains the sunscreen filter ingredients courtesy of EltaMD.

PRO TIP: Simply flip any skincare product around to see the rectangular active ingredients box on the back to know if it’s a mineral or chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens will typically list zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients while chemical sunscreens will list avobenzone as well as other chemical SPF ingredients. 

It's important to note that some sunscreens may contain a combination of mineral and chemical filters. In such cases, you may come across the term "100% Mineral" on the packaging, indicating that the sunscreen only contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as its active ingredients and not a combination of a mineral filter mixed with a chemical filter, which is usually accomplished to This handy trick can help you make informed decisions about the type of sunscreen that best suits your skin and preferences.

Choosing Sunscreen for Babies and Children

When you see the term "baby" on the front of a sunscreen product, it typically indicates that it is a physical sunscreen. Physical sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are known for their gentle and non-irritating nature, making them ideal for sensitive skin, including baby's delicate skin. 

The truth is, mineral or physical sunscreens used to have a reputation for being white and pasty on the skin. However, in recent years, sunscreen formulations have become much more elegant and aesthetically pleasing, even those found at the drugstore. At Skincare by Sydney, I want to emphasize that while the brand doesn't dictate which sunscreen you should wear, I'm here to guide you in finding one that you'll not only like but possibly even love. 

What about babies under 6 months old?

Sun protection for babies under 6 months old is crucial due to their delicate and sensitive skin, as well as their increased risk of sunburn and sun damage. It's recommended to keep infants under 6 months old out of direct sunlight, especially during peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If sun exposure is unavoidable, dress babies in lightweight, protective clothing, use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and seek shade whenever possible. Apply a small amount of mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to areas of the skin that cannot be covered, such as the face and hands, but consult with a pediatrician before doing so. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Overall, the best approach is to prioritize sun protection strategies that minimize sun exposure and risk for babies under 6 months old.

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Choosing Sunscreen for Babies and Children

You most likely won’t see marketing on the front of sunscreens about a sunscreen being “pregnancy safe” so what you do need to know is mineral sunscreens are best advised since there is not systemic absorption. 

Wearing sunscreen during pregnancy is not only important for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays but also for addressing cosmetic concerns that can arise during this time. One significant cosmetic reason to wear sunscreen during pregnancy is to prevent the occurrence or exacerbation of a condition called chloasma, also known as melasma or "pregnancy mask."

These dark, discolored patches tend to appear on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip and can be triggered or worsened by hormonal changes, including those that occur during pregnancy. UV exposure can further stimulate the production of melanin in the skin, leading to the darkening of existing chloasma patches and the development of new ones.

In addition to wearing sunscreen with broad-spectrum sunscreen protection, expecting mothers can shield their skin from UV radiation by applying sunscreen with IR (infrared) protection before exposure to heat sources, such as drying hair or prolonged sun exposure This helps create a barrier against IR-A rays and minimizes the risk of triggering or worsening melasma.

Alastin Hydratint is my go-to for melasma conscience patients since it offers IR protection.

Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36
Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36

Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral SPF 36

$78.00
WHY SYDNEY LOVES IT: My favorite sunscreen. It's 100% mineral AND protects against heat and UV light, including blue light from screens, using a technique plants use to protect themselves from the sun! It's the best SPF option for those with melasma/brown discoloration as the main concern. It has enough coverage to use as a makeup primer or in place of makeup but is lightweight enough not to feel like makeup. Normal-oily skin can skip moisturizer, and the hydrating texture is welcome as we age and our skin becomes drier. There's nothing not to love. It also mixes well with other products; add a pump of another product to lighten the color if the tint is too dark. 
 
DETAILS A lightweight, all-mineral, broad-spectrum tinted sunscreen that hydrates and protects skin from harmful UVA/ UVB rays while providing a soft, glowing appearance.
  • Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection SPF 36 with a lightweight all-mineral formulation.
  • Evens and brightens skin with a glowing tint for most skin tones.
  • Powerful antioxidants help protect skin from pollution, IR rays, and blue light.
  • Provides long-lasting hydration.
  • Fragrance-free reef-friendly formulation.
  • Water resistant for 40 minutes.
  • No white residue.
  • Winner of SHAPE "Best Tinted Moisturizer 2021" Beauty Award.
HOW TO USE:  Apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure, alone or under make-up, as needed. Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours. Children under 6 months of age: Ask a doctor.

KEY INGREDIENTS:
  • Zinc Oxide 3.4% Mineral UVA/UVB protectant.
  • Phytoene & Phytofluene Powerful antioxidants (derived from microalgae)to further protect the skin.
  • Ectoin Helps provide protection from blue light.

 

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The best sunscreen is the sunscreen you will wear AND reapply every 2 hours!

...better yet wear UPF clothing.

As we wrap up, it's crucial to reiterate the significance of sun protection for every member of the family, especially the most vulnerable ones like children. Sunscreen is not just a cosmetic product but a vital shield against the harmful effects of UV rays that can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. At Skincare by Sydney, our mission is to empower you with knowledge and confidence in making informed decisions about sun care products. We believe that education is the key to transforming lives and ensuring the health and well-being of your loved ones.

As a dermatology PA, I often recommend physical sunscreens for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to skin reactions, as they offer broad-spectrum protection while being gentle and suitable for all skin types, including babies and children.

PRO TIP: YOU CAN CHANGE CHILD’S CANCER FUTURE BY APPLYING SUNSCREEN ON THEM TODAY!