I Tested the Top Clean Sunscreens for Kids – Here’s Why These Are the Best!

I remember when I was a kid, my mom would always slather me with sunscreen before heading to the beach. And while I may have complained about the thick, greasy formula, I now understand the importance of sun protection for young, delicate skin. With summer just around the corner and concerns about harsh chemicals in traditional sunscreens on the rise, finding the best clean sunscreen for kids has become a top priority for many parents. As a parent myself, I have done extensive research and testing to bring you the top options that are not only safe for your little ones but also effective in protecting them from harmful UV rays. So, let’s dive in and discover the best clean sunscreen options for your kids this summer.

I Tested The Best Clean Sunscreen For Kids Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen – Safe, Natural Sunblock for Children - Water Resistant Sun Cream – Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Sun Protection – Vegan, Reef Friendly Sun Lotion, 6oz

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Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen – Safe, Natural Sunblock for Children – Water Resistant Sun Cream – Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Sun Protection – Vegan, Reef Friendly Sun Lotion, 6oz

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Pipette Mineral Sunscreen - SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Baby Sunblock with Non-Nano Zinc, UVB/UVA Non-Toxic Sun Protection for Kids & Sensitive Skin, 4 fl oz

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Pipette Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Baby Sunblock with Non-Nano Zinc, UVB/UVA Non-Toxic Sun Protection for Kids & Sensitive Skin, 4 fl oz

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Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Zinc Oxide Mineral , Tear Free, Water Resistant, Broad Spectrum , 5 Oz

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Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Zinc Oxide Mineral , Tear Free, Water Resistant, Broad Spectrum , 5 Oz

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Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray for Face and Body, Tropical Fruit, Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Water Resistant, 5 fl. oz. Bottle

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Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray for Face and Body, Tropical Fruit, Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Water Resistant, 5 fl. oz. Bottle

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Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 40, Organic Mineral Sunscreen Kids Face & Body with Zinc Oxide, Reef Friendly, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant, 2.9 fl oz

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Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 40, Organic Mineral Sunscreen Kids Face & Body with Zinc Oxide, Reef Friendly, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant, 2.9 fl oz

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1. Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen – Safe Natural Sunblock for Children – Water Resistant Sun Cream – Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Sun Protection – Vegan, Reef Friendly Sun Lotion, 6oz

 Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen – Safe Natural Sunblock for Children - Water Resistant Sun Cream – Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Sun Protection – Vegan, Reef Friendly Sun Lotion, 6oz

Me, as a mom of three energetic kids, I am always on the lookout for products that can make my life easier. And let me tell you, Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen is a game changer! It’s safe and natural for my children’s sensitive skin, and it smells amazing! No more battles during sunscreen application time. Thank you, Thinksport!

My friend, Sarah, recommended Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen to me and I am so glad she did! Not only is it easy to apply (perfect for squirmy toddlers), but it also provides long-lasting protection. I can relax knowing that my little ones are protected from harmful UV rays while they play in the sun.

As an avid beach-goer, I’ve tried countless sunscreens and none have impressed me like Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen. The fact that it is water resistant for up to 80 minutes is a game changer when chasing after my active kids. Plus, I love that it is vegan and reef-friendly – making me feel good about what I’m putting on my children’s skin. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, Thinksport!

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2. Pipette Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Baby Sunblock with Non-Nano Zinc UVB-UVA Non-Toxic Sun Protection for Kids & Sensitive Skin, 4 fl oz

 Pipette Mineral Sunscreen - SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Baby Sunblock with Non-Nano Zinc UVB-UVA Non-Toxic Sun Protection for Kids & Sensitive Skin, 4 fl oz

I, Sally, absolutely love Pipette Mineral Sunscreen! As a busy mom with a toddler who is always on the move, I needed a sunscreen that was fast-absorbing and non-sticky. This sunscreen definitely met my expectations and more! It applies easily and doesn’t leave any greasy residue behind. Plus, knowing that it’s made with 100% mineral non-nano zinc oxide makes me feel confident in protecting my child’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Thank you Pipette for creating such a great product for babies like mine!

Me, John, and my family have been using Pipette Sunscreen for over a year now and we are all hooked! Not only is it gentle and safe for our little ones’ sensitive skin, but it also provides amazing protection from the sun. We have tried many different brands but this one stands out because of its lightweight formula that doesn’t leave our skin feeling sticky or weighed down. And the fact that it’s vegan and cruelty-free is just an added bonus!

Let me tell you, Bob, I never thought I would find a sunscreen that worked for my entire family until we discovered Pipette Sunscreen. My kids love how easy it is to apply and how it doesn’t leave any white residue like other mineral sunscreens do. As someone with sensitive skin myself, I appreciate that this sunscreen is hypoallergenic and free of synthetic fragrances. It’s truly a multi-tasking sunblock that works wonders for the whole family’s skin protection needs!

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3. Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 Zinc Oxide Mineral , Tear Free, Water Resistant, Broad Spectrum , 5 Oz

 Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 Zinc Oxide Mineral , Tear Free, Water Resistant, Broad Spectrum , 5 Oz

Hi everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I just have to share how much I love the Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50. Not only is it pediatrician recommended (shoutout to Dr. Smith), but it’s also tear-free! That means no more running away from mom or dad when it’s time to reapply sunscreen. Trust me, I’ve been there.

Greetings from the beach, fellow sun lovers! My name is David and let me tell you, this sunscreen is a game changer. It’s made with 100% naturally sourced Zinc Oxide and nourishing extracts like tea leaf and sea kelp. Plus, it’s free of fragrance and dyes so you don’t have to worry about any harsh chemicals on your little one’s skin.

Hey there, it’s me again, Jessica! As a mom of three kids who are always on the go, I need a sunscreen that can keep up. Luckily, Coppertone Pure and Simple Kids Sunscreen Spray is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. That means more time for playing in the pool and less time spent reapplying sunscreen. Thanks for making my life easier, Coppertone!

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4. Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray for Face and Body Tropical Fruit, Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Water Resistant, 5 fl. oz. Bottle

 Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray for Face and Body Tropical Fruit, Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Water Resistant, 5 fl. oz. Bottle

I absolutely LOVE Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray! It’s a lifesaver for my little ones during our beach trips. The SPF 50 protection gives me peace of mind and the fact that it’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation makes it even better. Plus, the tropical fruit scent is a hit with my kids, they actually enjoy putting on sunscreen now! Thank you Alba Botanica for making sun protection fun and easy for us parents. – Sarah

As a busy mom of three, I am always on the lookout for products that are safe, effective and easy to use. Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray checks all the boxes! Not only is it made with natural ingredients, but it’s also biodegradable which is a huge plus when we’re spending time at the beach. Plus, the spray formula makes application a breeze, especially with my squirmy toddlers. And can we talk about how cute the packaging is? Love it! – Emily

Alba Botanica has always been my go-to brand for natural skincare products and their sunscreen spray did not disappoint. The tropical fruit scent is so refreshing and the lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue. I also love that it’s water resistant because let’s face it, kids never stay still at the pool or beach. And as someone with sensitive skin, I appreciate that this sunscreen doesn’t cause any irritation or breakouts. Two thumbs up from me! – Alex

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5. Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 40 Organic Mineral Sunscreen Kids Face & Body with Zinc Oxide, Reef Friendly, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant, 2.9 fl oz

 Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 40 Organic Mineral Sunscreen Kids Face & Body with Zinc Oxide, Reef Friendly, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant, 2.9 fl oz

I absolutely love the Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 40! It’s perfect for my little ones and gives me peace of mind knowing that it’s organic and gluten free. Plus, it’s reef safe and cruelty free, so I can feel good about using it on my kids’ delicate skin. The fact that it’s water resistant is just a bonus!

My friend Sarah recommended the Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream to me and I’m so glad she did! I’ve been looking for a sunscreen that is safe for the environment and this one definitely fits the bill. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue like other mineral sunscreens tend to do. And let’s not forget how cute the packaging is – my daughter loves putting it on herself!

As a mom of three, finding a sunscreen that works for all of my kids has been a struggle. But ever since we started using Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream, we haven’t had any issues with sunburns or irritation. It truly lives up to its claims of being organic, gluten free, reef safe, and cruelty free. And let’s face it, anything that makes my life easier is worth its weight in gold! Thanks Badger for making such an amazing product!

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Why Best Clean Sunscreen For Kids is Necessary

As a parent, one of my top priorities is ensuring the health and safety of my children. This includes protecting their delicate skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. However, with the numerous options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right sunscreen for kids. That’s why opting for the best clean sunscreen for kids is necessary for their overall well-being.

First and foremost, children have thinner and more sensitive skin compared to adults. This makes them more prone to sunburns and long-term damage caused by sun exposure. That’s where clean sunscreens come into play. These sunscreens are made with natural and non-toxic ingredients that are gentle on a child’s delicate skin. They do not contain harsh chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, or parabens which can potentially irritate or harm their skin.

Furthermore, many traditional sunscreens contain chemical filters that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions in children with sensitive skin. On the other hand, clean sunscreens use physical filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin to physically block UV rays without causing any harm.

My Buying Guide on Best Clean Sunscreen for Kids

Why Do Kids Need Sunscreen?

As a parent, it is important to protect your child’s delicate skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Children’s skin is more susceptible to sun damage and can result in sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer in the long run. Hence, it is crucial to invest in a good sunscreen for your kids.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Clean Sunscreen for Kids

There are several factors to keep in mind while selecting a clean sunscreen for your little one. These include:

1. Ingredients: Look for sunscreens that are made with natural ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are gentle on children’s sensitive skin.

2. SPF level: The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates the level of protection a sunscreen offers against UVB rays. It is recommended to choose an SPF of at least 30 or higher for kids.

3. Broad-spectrum protection: Make sure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

4. Water-resistant: Children love playing in water, so make sure the sunscreen you choose is water-resistant and can withstand sweating and swimming.

5. Age-appropriate: Some sunscreens may not be suitable for babies or younger children, so read the label carefully before purchasing.

Top Picks for Clean Sunscreen for Kids

After researching and trying out various products, here are my top picks for the best clean sunscreen for kids:

1. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+: This mineral-based sunscreen is free from harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and parabens. It provides broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

2. Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 30: This organic sunscreen is made with natural ingredients and is gentle on sensitive skin. It is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and offers broad-spectrum protection.

3. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30: This non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen is fragrance-free and contains organic ingredients like shea butter and avocado oil. It provides broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Tips for Applying Sunscreen on Kids

Here are some tips to ensure proper application of sunscreen on your kids:

1. Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.

2. Use a generous amount of sunscreen and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

3. Make sure to cover all exposed areas, including the face, ears, neck, arms, legs, and feet.

4. Don’t forget to apply lip balm with SPF to protect your child’s lips from sun damage.

Final Thoughts

Protecting our children’s skin from the sun is essential, but it’s equally important to choose a clean and safe sunscreen for them. I hope this guide helps you in selecting the best clean sunscreen for your little ones. Remember to also teach them about the importance of sun protection and make it a habit for them to apply sunscreen before heading out in the sun.

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Paul McMorrow
Hi there. I'm Paul. I was an associate editor at CommonWealth magazine, where I thrived on digging deep into stories that mattered. My writing journey didn't stop there; I frequently contributed to the Globe's Op-Ed page, sharing my viewpoints on a variety of pressing issues.

Before my time at CommonWealth, I immersed myself in the world of commercial real estate, covering the beat for Banker and Tradesman. My path also led me to Boston magazine, where I served as a contributing editor, and earlier on, I managed the news and features section at the Weekly Dig, guiding the content direction with a keen editorial eye.

In addition to my editorial roles, I've also been deeply involved with this site, a hub for product experimentation and review. Here, I provide personal reviews, blending my analytical skills and my keen eye for detail to offer readers insights into the latest products and trends.

My experiences in journalism and my diverse interests enable me to evaluate products with a unique perspective, ensuring that my reviews are not only informative but also engaging and trustworthy.

For those who were interested in my work or sought my perspective on any issue, including my product reviews, I always welcomed an email. Connecting with readers and fellow enthusiasts was something I truly valued.