Top 7 Safest Sunscreens For Babies and Children (Without Benzene)

Certified Organic & EWG Approved for Babies And Kids

The majority of sunscreens currently on the market are full of questionable ingredients and known carcinogens. Thinkbaby~

As parents, we always want the best for our children.  Sunscreens shouldn’t be out of this equation.

I know that finding the right type of natural sunscreen for babies or children that are safe, made without harsh chemicals, and organic ingredients can be daunting.   I take my son’s health very seriously, and I am sure you do too–  That is why I decided to do a some investigating about the safest natural sunscreens  for babies and children.

My first stop was with the  The Environmental Working Group (EWG)  database.  The EWG specializes in research and advocacy in the areas of toxic chemicals, agricultural subsidies, public lands, and corporate accountability. Additionally, they are the authority and most reputable organization when it comes to biased product safety .

My second stop was the safecosmetics.org. This great organization works to protect the health of consumers, workers, and the environment through public education and engagement, corporate accountability and sustainability campaigns, and legislative advocacy designed to eliminate dangerous chemicals linked to adverse health impacts from cosmetics and personal care products.  Safecosmetics.org  give us the Top 4 safe cosmetics tips for babies below:

Additionally, I’ve also taken the time to read the ingredients list and do a little more research upon those ingredients and their effects on our health.

What I am mainly looking for are: carcinogens, parabens,  and endocrine disruptors— which are chemicals that may interfere with the body’s endocrine system and produce adverse developmental, reproductive, and neurological.  (Source).

Finally, I look up their composition, read tons of reviews, and their safety ratings mainly based on the EWG’s database. The list below will definitely help you make an educated decision when it comes to the right product.

 List of natural sunscreens for babies and kids:

This sunscreen seems pretty promising because Blue Lizard removed parabens from their products around 2011– way to go!  So, Blue Lizard Baby is chemical and fragrance FREE.  One thing that really stands out is  the “Smart bottle technology”  where packaging provides a UV indicator (bottle turns pink)  when harmful UVA rays are present, for consumers to know when they need to be wearing sunscreen.  Now that’s neat! Try it here

They also carry the waterproof formula which protects your skin in up to 4 hours of whirlpool activity. If you are looking for a natural sunscreen for babies with sensitive skin, they have the sensitive skin version  try it here or the gallon for the entire family try it here  and friends, which saves up a ton of money (we split the cost ha! ;-). It is also a good sunscreen for face.

According to its description. Adorable Baby Sunscreen is formulated especially for babies and offers great safety ratings as their original formula with improved consistency and feel. It can be used alone or in combination with a sunscreen stick on all exposed skin. If any dryness occurs, follow up in the evening with our lightly scented or unscented baby oils or lotions.  (Try it here)

Must read: Best Natural Sunscreens For This Summer

Trukids products are awesome when it comes to natural sunscreens for babies . Period!   That may be the reason why they were awarded “Most Awesome” sunscreen for 2 years in a row by Red Tricycle.  This sunscreen not only protects your from the harmful UVA rays, it smells and rubs very well.

For those who are concerned about the possible risks associated with nanoparticles, this sunscreen contains micronized minerals only.  Non-nano, vitamin-A free SPF 30+ sunscreen for active kids and parents provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays.   According to Trukids, this sunscreen is safe for kids and the planet: pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested; Eczema-safe; non-nano; free of Gluten, phthalates, parabens, and vitamin A.  Finally, it received the highest rating for kids’ sunscreen from the Environmental Working Group: reef-friendly with mineral-based, sustainably sourced zinc. What is not to like?  (Try it here)

Thinkbaby provides safe products by identifying consumer product categories with known human health issues. They target products that contain high levels of hormone disruptors and carcinogens. According to thinkbaby they work with leading scientists worldwide to create safe alternatives. Simply looking at the ingredients you’ll quickly realize you don’t recognize any of them.

Many existing sunscreens have been brought to market with little concern for their safety and boast inflated SPF numbers. Not only do ingredients in sunscreen interact with skin, but data shows after application of lotions, some of the same chemicals can be detected in the bloodstream. Most people wear sunscreen to reduce the chance of developing cancer, so why apply something that could potentially increase this risk?  (Try it here)

Badger was the first sunscreen I used on my son almost four years ago and I still love it. This is the perfect combo for the little ones on those hot summer days. Baby Sunscreen SPF 30+ has certified Organic base of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Beeswax, Jojoba & Cocoa Butter is ultra-moisturizing and soothing. Badger’s Baby Sunscreen has the mild scent of Chamomile and Calendula, and can be used by the whole family. Best yet  it is water Resistant for 40 minutes; biodegradable.  (Try Badger SPF30 Cream here)

Pop this convenient PABA free, non-chemical, fragrance-free sunblock stick into your pocket, purse or diaper bag. The whole family will love this easy-to-use stick that gives those “hot spots” a boost of extra protection.

Their non-chemical sunblock stick employs a highly micronized, non-whitening titanium dioxide that scatters and reflects dangerous UV rays, offering UVA-UVB broad-spectrum protection. Non-staining formula. It glides on smoothly for easy application. May be used in combination with our SPF30+ sunscreen lotions. (Try California Baby Super Sensitive )

I have switched this formula with the Babo Clear because I decided to try the stick and it works much, much better. Adults and children can use it.

SPF 30 UVA/UVB Sunscreen Clear Zinc Sport Stick for babies or kids of all ages offers the power-packed UVA & UVB sun protection of zinc. Great for faces, lips, noses, and ears, it goes on clear – no more white residue. This skin-soothing balm contains certified organic oils including jojoba, coconut, and avocado, and the inclusion of moisturizing shea butter and beeswax helps prevent and relieve chapped faces, noses, lips, and ears. This sunscreen is chemical-free and playground safe. It’s sweat-proof, absorbs quickly, won’t clog pores, and is non-greasy..

his sunscreen is chemical-free and playground safe. It’s sweat-proof, absorbs quickly, won’t clog pores, and is non-greasy. >Made with a certified organic Nutri-Soothe Blend rich in vitamins, anti-oxidants, and anti-inflammatories.  Try Babo Botanicals Cucumber Aloe Clear here) 

Check out the Environmental Working Group Guide to Safe Sunscreens

It feels good to put this list together with confidence in knowing that these products have been tested, and evaluated by the authority in safest natural products; The Environmental Working Group (EWG), and backed up by my own research.

So what do you think? Did I miss any of the top safe and natural sunscreens out there? I’d love to hear what you use or recommend and what your experiences have been with or without sunscreens.

Thanks so much for reading and spreading the word about babies and kids’ sunscreen safety. Please share this post with friends and family who can potentially learn about the health hazards and conventional sunscreens.  It is always a pleasure to hear your thoughts and questions.

To your best health,