As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to protecting their delicate skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Using the best natural sunscreen ensures that we shield our little ones from both UVA and UVB radiation without exposing them to potentially harmful chemicals.
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In our family, our two beach kids and beach Dad are much more susceptible to sunburns and I had a few moles removed that were “questionable” so this topic is very important to me and should be for you too!
Why protecting your skin is so important
Using the best natural sunscreen is incredibly important for maintaining healthy skin and protecting yourself and the kids from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
Sunscreen helps to shield your skin from two types of damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation: UVA and UVB. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging, wrinkles, and contributing to the development of skin cancer.
UVB rays, on the other hand, are responsible for painful sunburns and can also lead to skin cancer over time. By applying sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF (Sun Protection Factor), you can effectively block both UVA and UVB rays.
Regular use of sunscreen can help prevent sunburns and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, and exposure to UV radiation is a major cause.
Applying the best natural sunscreen before heading outdoors, even on cloudy days, can significantly decrease your chances of developing skin cancer.
It is essential to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your body, including your face, neck, arms, and legs, and to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Sunscreen can help prevent premature aging and maintain the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Exposure to the sun’s rays over time can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which are vital proteins responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and smoothness. This can result in the development of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
By using sunscreen daily, you can protect your skin from these harmful effects and maintain a youthful and radiant complexion.
It’s important to choose a sunscreen with a sufficient SPF level. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
This means that the sunscreen can provide 30 times the protection against UVB rays compared to unprotected skin. Remember to apply sunscreen generously to ensure adequate coverage and pay attention to frequently overlooked areas such as the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
What makes sunscreen natural?
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, many people opt for natural options that are free from potentially harmful chemicals. So, what exactly makes a sunscreen “natural”?
To be considered natural, a sunscreen should primarily rely on physical sun-blocking ingredients rather than chemical ones.
Look for sunscreens that contain mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals form a protective barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters the harmful UV rays away from your skin.
The best natural sunscreen tend to exclude ingredients such:
- oxybenzone
- octinoxate
- other synthetic chemicals
Instead, they often incorporate plant-derived or organic ingredients, like coconut oil, shea butter, or green tea extract, which provide moisturizing and antioxidant benefits.
It’s important to note that while natural sunscreens may be better for your skin and the environment, they still need to offer adequate broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Look for natural sunscreens with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher to ensure effective sun protection. Always remember to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, to maintain its effectiveness. By choosing the best natural sunscreen, you can protect your skin from harmful rays while minimizing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
In this article, we will explore the top best natural sunscreen that provide effective sun protection while being gentle on kids’ sensitive skin.
1. Skinnies Kids SPF50 3.4oz
Skinnies is a game changer and is one of the best natural sunscreen and purpose designed for active kids. It’s a balmy cocoa-butter texture and honey colored gel that’s amazing on the skin.
Suitable from 3 months old, won’t sting the eyes and has a yummy coconut . Added coconut oil & aloe extract for soothing skin. Perfect for busy parents – put Skinnies on and know your kids will be protected for longer.
2. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a top-rated and best natural sunscreen that provides high-level protection against UVA and UVB rays. It uses non-nano zinc oxide and is free from harmful chemicals like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and parabens. Thinkbaby sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and contains soothing ingredients such as aloe vera and jojoba oil.
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3. Boba Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF30
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30 is a gentle mineral-based sunscreen suitable for children with sensitive skin. This sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient and is free from synthetic fragrances and dyes.
Babo Botanicals sunscreen is lightweight, absorbs quickly, and provides reliable sun protection without leaving a white residue.
4. Goddess Garden Organics Kids Sport Natural Sunscreen SPF 30:
Goddess Garden Organics Kids Sport Natural Sunscreen is the best natural sunscreen for SPF 30 and is a reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreen option. It offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with non-nano zinc oxide.
This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and is enriched with nourishing ingredients like organic shea butter and coconut oil to keep the skin hydrated.
5. All Good Kid’s Sunscreen SPF 30
All Good Kid’s Sunscreen SPF 30 is a natural mineral sunscreen made with non-nano zinc oxide and organic ingredients. It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
All Good Kid’s Sunscreen is non-greasy, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive skin, making it an excellent choice for children.
6. Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Coppertone Pure & Simple Kids SPF 50 spray sunscreen provides 100% mineral sun protection based on a zinc oxide active ingredient, the formula provides broad spectrum protection that is gentle for kid’s sensitive skin. This tear free hypoallergenic sunscreen is also free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, parabens, dyes, and fragrance.
7. Alba Botanica Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Alba Botanica Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is a natural sunscreen option formulated with non-nano zinc oxide and botanical ingredients.
It provides broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Alba Botanica sunscreen is hypoallergenic, tear-free, and contains soothing extracts of chamomile and aloe vera.
8. Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen SPF 50
Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen SPF 50 is designed for the delicate skin of infants and children. It offers broad-spectrum UVA/UV.
9. Coral Safe SPF 50 Lotion Sunscreen
One of the standout features of Coral Safe SPF 50 Lotion Sunscreen is its coral reef-safe formulation. Unlike some conventional sunscreens, this product is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals known to contribute to coral bleaching and harm marine life.
By choosing Coral Safe SPF 50 Lotion Sunscreen, you can enjoy the sun responsibly without harming fragile ecosystems.
10.ThinkSport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray
Thinksport Kids Sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, ensuring that it stays in place even during active play or water activities. This feature allows your child to enjoy outdoor adventures while staying protected!
Apart from its sun-protective qualities, Thinksport Kids Sunscreen also contains nourishing ingredients like chamomile and sunflower oil to help keep your child’s skin hydrated and moisturized. The gentle formula is designed to minimize the risk of irritation and allergies.
What I like about the brand Thinksport and why it’s on the list of the best natural sunscreen, is that it is dedicated to creating safe and eco-friendly products, that is reef-safe, meaning it is free from chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs and marine life, ensuring that your child’s fun in the sun does not harm the environment.
Why choosing the best natural sunscreen is so important
Bottom line, having the best natural sunscreen protects the skins and the benefits are just so numerous. Firstly, it helps protect our skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Overexposure to UV radiation can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Many conventional sunscreens contain synthetic chemicals and ingredients that can be harmful to both our bodies and the environment. Some of these ingredients, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been found to contribute to coral reef bleaching and damage marine ecosystems when washed off in the water.
Choosing the best natural sunscreen helps minimize our impact on the environment while still ensuring effective sun protection.
Final Splash
I hope you enjoyed my list of the best natural sunscreen for kids! Take a look at each product and see which one works the best for you and your family!
#teamocean
Which of these on the list of best natural sunscreen is your favorite one?
Welcome! I’m Kat Marie, founder of Beach Kids Club! Virginia Beach, VA is my hometown and I love where I live! My connection to the beach is more than just a geographical one; it’s a profound passion. Whether I’m catching waves, enjoying long walks by the oceanfront, or simply enjoying the sun, I find so much happiness at the beach. Virginia Beach is more than just a location; it’s a way of life, and I’m here to share my hometown experiences and love for the beach with all of you!