Benzene, Paraben-Free, non-Nano, uncoated zinc oxide + EWG Approved for Babies And Kids (UPDATED)
The majority of sunscreens currently on the market are full of questionable ingredients and known carcinogens. Thinkbaby~
Have you been using conventional sunscreens on your children that claim to have the highest SPF, are waterproof, and are safe?
If so, you need to know that you may be putting carcinogens and other harmful chemicals in the largest organ in children’s bodies– the skin.
According to the Environmental Working Group most sunscreens for babies and kids have at least three strikes against them: oxybenzone, retinyl palmitate and SPFs above 50+. Four have an additional strike: they’re aerosol sprays that can expose sensitive young lungs to potentially hazardous chemicals. Convenient? Yes. Good for kids? Absolutely not.
As parents, we always want to find the best for our children. Sunscreens shouldn’t be the exception.
I know that finding the safest sunscreen for babies or children that are 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 some investigating about the best sunscreens for babies and children.
Just about all sunscreens, even sunscreen for face I’ve suggested were required to be free from Parabens, Phthalates, PEG’s (polyethylene glycols), Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, SLS/SLES, and a multitude of other chemicals that are harmful. Essentially, they should contain organic and safe ingredients.
However, the sunscreen ingredient I primarily suggest avoiding is the synthetic chemical oxybenzone. Oxybenzone is an endocrine disruptor that affects the nervous system, continues to be known to cause cancer in some laboratory research studies, and fosters free-radicals when exposed to the sun which happens to be unsafe.
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. They 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 The list below will definitely help you make an educated decision when it comes to the right product.
1. Adorable Baby SPF 30+ Non-Nano UBA/UVB Sunscreen
Adorable Baby Sunscreen Sunscreen is formulated especially for babies and offers great safety ratings as their original formula with improved consistency and feel. It has been rated as on of the best sunscreens for babies in the market, due to its effectiveness. 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)
EWG Score 1
2. NEW All Good SPF 30 Kids Sunscreen Lotion
Including the benefits of organic green tea and rose hip antioxidants, elemental herbs All Good Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 Kidsnofollow
is safe for coral reefs, and most importantly for children– in my opinion a very good organic sunscreen. Some of the features that I love the most are:
- 80 Minute Water Resistant
- Non-Nano Zinc Only
- Lightweight formula, non-greasy
- Sport — organic green tea, rose hips and buriti oil for repairing damaged skin
- Kids — organic chamomile for gently soothing sensitive skin
All Good sunscreen lotion leaves no white residue. Natural and practical, elemental Herbs incorporates ingredients that have been used as healing and soothing remedies for generations. Certified Organic to USDA/NOP Standards.
EWG Score 1
3. All Terrain KidSport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
All Terrain KidSport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30 is an award-winning KidSport sunscreen lotion for parents who want natural, effective, oxybenzone- and paraben-free sunscreens. Offering broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with non-Nano, uncoated zinc oxide. Using transparent zinc oxide, Kid Sport is non-whitening, non-greasy, fragrance-free and won’t cause eye sting so it is great for kids with sensitive skin.All Terrain is an environmentally-friendly and certified cruelty-free company, using natural, biodegradable ingredients. All-Terrain has disproved the myth that if it’s natural, it can’t work as well as chemical-based products. Note: I have tested All terrain lotion vs the spray because there were issues reported with the pump.
EWG Score 1
4. ATTITUDE Little Ones 100% Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 30
ATTITUDE Little Onesnofollow develops products with uncompromised safety in mind, using only worry-free ingredients. While cancer-causing chemicals, mutagens, and reproductive toxins are still legally tolerated contaminants found in personal care and household products, you won’t find them in this great product.What makes this sunscreen on of my favorites:
- Carcinogen, 1,4-Dioxane & Ethylene Oxide Free ( Tested by an Independent Laboratory)
- Hypoallergenic Natural Sunscreen Made with 100% Mineral Active Ingredient (Zinc Oxide)
- Carcinogen-Free Ingredients or By-Products (IARC Group 1 & 2)
- Certified Eco-Friendly by EcoLogo, the Most Recognized Certification in North America CO2
- Fragrance Derived from Natural Ingredients, Hypoallergenic, Respect IFRA (International Fragrance Association)
- Standards Fragrance without CMR (Carcinogens, Mutagens or Toxic for Reproduction)
- Compounds Not Tested on Animals Vegan Product Septic Tank Safe
EWG Score 1
5. Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF50 – Natural Zinc Oxide – Face & Body – Fragrance-Free – Water-Resistant – EWG Verified
The Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Sunscreen  was featured in the EWG’s Sunscreen guide for “Best Baby and Kids Sunscreen”.
Here are some of the reasons to try it:
- Non-greasy mineral sunscreen lotion with broad spectrum SPF50. Made with zinc-oxide. Water Resistant (80 Minutes). Fragrance-free. Pediatrician tested. EWG Verified®. Cruelty-free & Vegan. the USA with natural ingredients. Â
- RATED # 1 on EWG, Water Resistant & Sweat Resistant Up To 80 Minutes
- This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications
- Made with chemicals safer for human health and the environment.
EWG Score 1
6. California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen, SPF 30+
7. COOLA Suncare Baby Mineral Sunscreen Unscented Moisturizer, SPF 50
Mineral Sunscreen Unscented Moisturizer, SPF 508. Goddess Garden Kids Sport Natural Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
9. Hampton Sun Sunscreen Lotion For Baby, SPF 45
10. Jersey Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
When choosing sunscreens for infants younger than 6 months old, follow product warnings. Most manufacturers advise against using sunscreens on infants or advise parents and caregivers to consult a doctor first. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that small amounts of sunscreen can be used on infants as a last resort when shade can’t be found.
For toddlers and older children, sunscreens are an essential part of a day in the sun. But it’s important to remember that young children’s skin is especially sensitive to allergenic or irritating ingredients. Test sunscreen by applying a small amount on the inside of your child’s wrist the day before you plan to use it. If a rash develops, try another product. Ask your child’s doctor to suggest a product less likely to irritate your child’s skin.
Note by editor: Lastly safe sun exposure is absoltuely crucial for optimal health. Use common sense, but do expose them to sunlight. First thin in the morning in a warm weather is ideal.
11. Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream, SPF 30
is simple, safe and moisturizing kids sunscreen is perfect for the beach, pool and light activity. Kids love the organic Tangerine and Vanilla scent. Broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays using the safe mineral Zinc Oxide – No oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemical active sunscreening agents. I have been using this on my son for years or alternate with Attitude Kids— and he’s never had a sunburn. Hands down some of my favorite sunscreens for babiesEWG Score 1
12. Bare Belly Organics Baby Sunscreen, SPF 30
Offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, is water resistant for 80 minutes and it is good for you, good for your family, and good for your skin. This is a non-nano mineral sunscreen and works by sitting on top of the skin to block and reflect the sun’s UVA/UVB rays. The highest level of protection is achieved by applying a thin, white layer to exposed skin. Onother and one of the best sunscreens for babiesEWG Score 1
13. BurnOut Kids Physical Sunscreen, SPF 35
A favorite among dermatologists and pedatritians, BurnOut Kids Physical Sunscreen, SPF 35
is the perfect sunscreen for babies and kids! Recommended by pediatricians and dermatologists.
- Chemical-free, paraben-free, petroleum-free, PABA-free. Recommended by pediatricians and dermatologists
- UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection
- Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, non-greasy, and perfect for sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, non-greasy, and perfect for sensitive skin.
- Biodegradable, ocean-safe, and eco-sensitive. Rich in Antioxidants, and enriched with Extracts of Helionori, Pomegranate, and Plantain to protect and nourish skin.
EWG Score 1
14. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, Baby, SPF 30+
, SPF 30 is extremely water resistant. Blue Lizard utilizes transparent Zinc Oxide along with Titanium Dioxie to provide broad spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Blue Lizard Baby is Chemical and Fragrance FRE one of the best sunscreens for babiesE. The packaging is unique as it provides a UV indicator for consumers to know when they need to be wearing suncreen. One really cool feature about this sunscreen that I like is that, the bottle turns PINK when exposed to UV rays.EWG Score 1
15. Kiss My Face Organics Kids Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 30
, SPF 30 is an all natural sun block made with 87% certified organic ingredients. Its manufactures claims that it is a 80 minute water resistant sunscreen. Active ingredients are 100% natural mineral ingredients, cruelty free, oxybenzone free, Paraben free sunscreen ( a major plus) and made with nourishing super fruits.EWG Score 1
16. Nurture My Body Baby Organic Sunscreen, SPF 32
17. Babo Botanicals Super Shield SPF 50 Natural Sport Stick
18. Sunology Natural Sunscreen, Kids, SPF 50
19. TruKid Sunny Days Sport SPF 30 + Water-resistant
20. Thinksport for Kids Sunscreen, SPF 50+
As always sunscreen should be your last resort, because we all know that Vitamin D is crucial for optimal health. Check the URL for the US Naval Observatory Azimuth table in this article which explains the best times for safe sun exposure. Avoid the sun when UVA rays are present (below 45 degrees).
Get the full Sunscreens Guide by the Environmental Working Group (updated every year) here.
What is your favorite sunscreen? Do you have a preference when it comes to brands or ingredients? Please share below.
Keep working ,terrific job!
wonderful post! I really appreciate posts that share clean nontoxic products, especially for our babies.
Thank you Yuli! I am happy to hear you found the article helpful. Absolutely that’s what I am all about clean, safe, non-toxic for our little ones. If I won’t use it on my son- I won’t recommend it.
Wow I didnt think it was safe for little babies to wear sunscreen. I dont have kids, but I am so happy there are so many infant options for kids to protect themselves from sunburn.
It is safe if you use the right products that are safe from harsh chemicals. The best sunscreen for babies is the shade until they get a little older. Glad to hear you found the list helpful 🙂
This is fabulous! It can be so hard to find the best sunscreen for your baby. There are so many different factors to consider. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you Nancy <3 Indeed, from the ingredients to their safety rating. It is my pleasure beautiful!
I love this list. It is such a great thing that you took the time to compile it. Totally helps to make what sunscreen to use on babies an easier choice.
Aww thanks, Elizabeth I appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the list helps others make better decisions when it comes to safe products. xo
I’ve heard of Coola and Kiss My Face, but haven’t tried their products! I really like the natural sunscreens from Boo Bamboo and The Green Beaver Company.
You should they are really awesome! I usually read the EWG’s scores because they researched all of the ingredients and that’s who they base their scores. Yes, Boo Bamboo and TGBC are great as well.
It’s so important to know what you’re putting on your skin. Even more true if you’re putting on your baby/child.
Yes, it is Rosey! There are plenty of environmental toxins out there– why not lessen the load on their little bodies 🙂
You write simple yet very interesting and helpful reviews. It’s good to know there are many safe/natural alternatives out there.
Thank you, Felicia! This isn’t quite a review because I haven’t tried all of the products. However, I have used at least four of them on my son and they worked. Yes, these are much better option than the conventional advertised ones.
With the weather rising here in NYC this was a must read and reminder of why sunscreen is so important for our little one. I will be writing these down and look for them when I shop for new sunscreen.
Hi Karina,
That’s great to hear! Yes, our babies health and safety comes first always. Thank you
You share here yet very interesting and helpful reviews. It’s good to know there are many safe and natural alternatives out there. I really like the natural sunscreens from Boo Bamboo and The Green Beaver Company. If you had more insight i will greatly appreciate it. Thanks for the sharing such a informative also informative article.
It is my pleasure! glad to hear you found the information in this article valuable. I will definitely look into Green Beaver and Boo Bamboo and perhaps add them to the list.
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