The best sunscreen for kids, according to our tests and medical experts

Whether you're playing in the park or garden or travelling abroad, you'll need the best sunscreen for kids to shield their delicate skin from the sun's harmful effects.

Excessive sun exposure is harmful to skin of all ages but it is especially dangerous for young children. "Babies and children have very sensitive skin and are more prone to sunburn, which is by far the most common form of sun damage in children," says Dr Sandra Gamper, a GP and Cosmetic Doctor at Miriderma. "Severe cases of sunburn, sometimes called heatstroke, sunstroke, or heat exhaustion, can cause severe redness, blistering, pain, headaches, fever, nausea and dehydration. This can quickly develop into a medical emergency if not treated quickly." Prevent overexposure with smart sun habits, protective UV clothing, and our carefully tested selection of the best kids' sunscreens.

For complete peace of mind, consider a few essential factors when choosing sunscreen. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Higher numbers, like SPF50+, offer the most extended protection. Additionally, look for the star rating system (or PA system, in some cases) that measures UVA protection. UVA rays penetrate deeper, leading to wrinkles, age spots, and potentially skin cancer. To ensure your child's skin is fully protected, select a sunscreen labelled as broad-spectrum, which defends against both UVA and UVB rays.

Several other considerations are crucial for keeping children's skin safe from the sun. Opt for a water-resistant formula for active water-loving kids who enjoy splashing in the pool. Consider the type of sunscreen as well; sprays are convenient for applying to wriggly kids, and some brands even offer coloured creams that can make the application more engaging for them.

Dr Sandra Gamper

Dr Sandra Gamper is a GP and Cosmetic Doctor with over 13 years medical experience. She is the founder of Miriderma, a Skin Health and Medical Cosmetics clinic based in Bournemouth.

The best sunscreen for kids:

We were impressed by the texture of this product: it's fast-absorbing and non-sticky. It's water- and sand-resistant and includes aloe vera to combat the drying effects of frequent dips in the pool. Designed in collaboration with Disney's Nemo, it adds an extra appeal for children who might otherwise resist wearing sunscreen.

Expert verdict: "The best sunscreen for your family is the one that your children are most comfortable wearing, which is why I highly recommend Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Protection Spray," says Beauty Editor, Stephanie. "Not only does it offer incredible protection against both UVA and UVB rays, but it melts into skin with very little rubbing (great for fidgety kids) and feels completely weightless with no greasiness."

Ultrasun is renowned for its fast-absorbing, non-greasy, lightweight sunscreens, making them ideal for kids. You can feel the quality of this product—it's neither sticky nor heavy, so it's perfect for active children. Enriched with antioxidants and Celligent®, it shields against cell and DNA damage, ensuring sensitive skin stays healthy and protected in the sun. However, please note that it's not suitable for children under 3 years old.

Expert verdict: "Ultrasun products help to prevent sun allergies such as prickly heat making them especially suitable for children and those with very sensitive skin," says Abi Cleeve, skin expert and MD of Ultrasun. "Additional ingredients such as Celligent are also helpful for children as they’ve not yet built up natural defences against the sun’s rays. This is found in the Ultrasun Kids SPF50 formula. Celligent® offers enhanced protection because as an ingredient, it delivers additional cell and DNA protection. In studies, the ingredient has been shown to aid more rapid regeneration of UV related cell and DNA damage."

Since this sunscreen is manufactured and tested in Australia—a country with stringent SPF regulations stricter than those in the UK/EU—parents can trust that this lotion effectively protects young skin. Australian standards require sunscreens to filter out over 90% of UVA radiation. The SunSense range exceeds this, filtering between 95% to 99% of UVA radiation, making it among the most protective sunscreens available. It feels wonderfully hydrating without any stickiness and offers up to 80 minutes of water resistance.

Expert verdict: "SunSense Kids SPF50+ is formulated specifically for the delicate skin of children aged 6 months plus," says Ian Harrison BSc (Hons), PhD, the Scientific Communication and Clinical Trials Manager at Ego Pharmaceuticals. "It is both paediatrician tested and its SPF of 50+ complies with the AS/NZS 2604:2012 Standard - which is the most rigorous sunscreen testing standard in the world."

It's essential to keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight, but parents will find added reassurance in Badger's sunscreen formula. Think of it as a sun parasol for your baby's delicate skin, providing an extra layer of protection whether on a pram hood or elsewhere.

Mineral sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin due to their gentle formulation. Badger's organic sunscreen uses Zinc Oxide to effectively block harmful UV rays. What sets this formula apart is not only what it contains but also what it excludes—no perfumes, emulsifiers, mineral oils, or chemical filters, making it perfect for sensitive skin. With just seven ingredients in its 98% organic formula, including calming chamomile and calendula, it feels more like a soothing moisturiser than a typical sunscreen.

Expert verdict: "I have always been incredibly paranoid about my children being out in the sun, especially when they were in the pushchair," admits Beauty Editor, Stephanie Maylor. "Try as I did, there was no way to completely keep their little legs out of the sun when out and about, so I wish I'd had this heavy-duty cream back then. For a mineral sunscreen, which tend to be thicker, it is ultra-light, and glides across the skin well without leaving a white cast."

Green People’s organic sun cream has become a bit of a cult hit with us Beauty Editors, although you may not have discovered it yet. It’s recently had an upgrade, with a new vegan, scent-free formula, and nourishing ingredients like soothing aloe vera, edelweiss and cocoa and shea butters. All of this means that it’s suitable for the most sensitive of skin, from eczema-sufferers to those prone to prickly heat. Expect total peace of mind protection thanks to a two-pronged defence: the hybrid formula includes both chemical and physical sun filters to deliver broad-spectrum protection. 

Its standout feature is the overwhelmingly positive feedback, boasting nearly 900 five-star reviews. Denise B, for instance, praises it as "an excellent product for sensitive skin," expressing relief at finding a sun cream that causes no reaction for her child.

Expert verdict: Beauty Editor, Stephanie agrees. “There is sometimes a misconception that prioritising natural actives in an organic formula may sacrifice the feel of the product but I’m happy to report that this sun cream is one of the best creams out there, for kids AND adults. It doesn’t feel tacky (my own children are very picky customers, but will happily wear this) and doesn’t leave any white cast.”

It even comes in a 150ml sized tube, great for school says Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of Green People and organic beauty pioneer. "It's a great size for popping in their book bag or tray at school. The squeezy, sugar cane plastic sun cream tube also makes it easy for children to apply their own sun protection."

This exceptionally water-resistant cream offers fantastic value and is ideal if your child enjoys frequent dips in the water. It provides excellent broad-spectrum protection in a fast-absorbing formula that also repels sand, making it perfect for beach days. During testing, we found the easy-to-use squeezy tube convenient and appreciated its lightweight texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.

Expert verdict: "Nivea Sun Kids Protect & Play SPF50+ is a great choice for children that you struggle to get out of the water and away from the harmful rays of the sun, with a formula that’s not only enhanced for long-lasting water resistance, but also includes the ingredient Dexpanthenol, which helps protect the skin barrier," says Giulia Guerrini, the lead pharmacist at digital pharmacy, Medino. Its UVA and UVB filters also help protect against sunburn, long-term skin damage and reduce the risk of UV-induced allergies."

Sand, sweat, and water-resistant, this invisible spray earns its spot among the best sunscreens for kids. The spray bottle design adds extra convenience, ensuring quick application—a real lifesaver during our tests with impatient youngsters. Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, it's gentle and absorbs effortlessly without causing irritation. Just remember to apply enough for effective protection.

Expert verdict: "The La Roche-Posay Anthelios range is designed for people with sensitive skin," explains Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Hiva Fassihi. "None of the products have fragrance in them and they have minimal ingredients in them. Particularly for children, I look for well recognised brands that are designed for sensitive skin."

Lancaster is known for its ‘full light technology’, which means that its formulas won’t just defend against UVA and UVB rays, but visible light and infrared too, which together make up 100% of the sun spectrum. 

The first thing we noticed was the milky texture, which hints at its hydrating properties. Soothing cotton extract, softening bitter orange flower extract and glycerol, all provide nourishment to delicate skin. In a clinical study, the Milky Spray was found to provide six hours of hydration after a single use.

Another factor, which is growing increasingly important is the fact that this is a clean, ocean-friendly formula. Scientists have long warned of the link between sunscreen and coral reef deterioration. Some regions, like Hawaii, have even banned sunscreens containing coral-harming ingredients. Lancaster's Milky Spray, along with all their sunscreens, feature clean, mineral-based formulas that are gentle enough for the most sensitive skin, ensuring both effective protection and environmental responsibility.

Expert verdict: Parents love the fact it can be applied directly to wet skin. “Once my children are in the paddling pool, there is no chance of pulling them out for a dry down and sunscreen top up,” admits Beauty Editor, Stephanie, “which is why this wet skin lotion is so clever. I spritz this on them regularly in and out of the pool, which gives me the confidence that their skin is fully protected.”

This intensely moisturising formula is ideal for children with eczema and other dry skin conditions. In an independent trial involving 100 participants over fourteen days, 89% of parents would recommend the product to other parents of young children. Furthermore, a reassuring 98% reported that it did not cause irritation to their child’s skin. During testing, kids appreciated the sunny packaging, the easy application, and the light, non-irritating formula.

Expert verdict: "Childs Farm's suncream is ideal for children because they are rigorous about their protection claims," explains Dr Jennifer Crawley, Leading Consultant Dermatologist based in Harley Street. "The sunscreen is particularly gentle on sensitive young skin. When the purpose is sun protection, it's easy to forget about sensitivity, eczema and other conditions, but the reality for many parents is more complicated than that. Childs Farm really does offer all the different types of protection a parent could want for their child."

Both kids and adults adored this lightweight, non-greasy lotion during our testing—it's incredibly easy to rub in. A must-have for parents with allergy-prone kids, its gentle formula won’t cause irritation. Suitable for the entire family, including babies from 12 months old, children, adults, and even pregnant or breastfeeding women. Its versatility allows application on wet or dry skin, making it a standout in our selection of the best sunscreens for kids.

Expert verdict: "I always take Bioderma sunscreen away on holiday," admits GoodTo's Beauty Director, Sarah Cooper-White. "The consistency of their sunscreens is so lovely and light that it makes applying it a breeze. Even on wriggly children."

If your child hates sticky, gloopy sunscreens, they'll love this one—it quickly became a favourite during our testing. The lightweight, non-greasy spray is highly water-resistant. Recommended for ages three and up, it's clinically and dermatologically proven to be gentle on children with sensitive skin, including those with Atopic Dermatitis.

Expert verdict: "For children with sensitive skin types, the Eucerin Sensitive Protect Kids Sun Spray SPF50+ is a great choice," pharmacist Giulia Guerrini tells us. "The protection spray includes Glycyrrhetinic Acid, which supports the skin’s own DNA repair mechanism and is clinically and dermatologically proven to be suitable for children’s sensitive skin, including those with Atopic Dermatitis. However, it’s important to note that mist and sprays are not always as effective as lotions."

Ideal for sensitive and eczema-prone skin, this high-protection sunscreen is enriched with Avène’s renowned Spring Water, known for its soothing properties. While not the most budget-friendly option, it's a luxurious lotion suitable for the whole family. We appreciated its luxurious texture and feel—it's more akin to premium skincare than a basic sunscreen.

Expert verdict: "Avéne Very High Protection Lotion for Children SPF50+ is a great all-round option for children’s sun protection, being long-lasting and water resistant too," says pharmacist Giulia Guerrini. "The key ingredients in this lotion include Pre-Tocopheryl, which is a powerful antioxidant, alongside Avène thermal spring water, which has soothing properties that leave the skin feeling soothed, supple and soft."

Ideal for kids prone to heat rash, this hypoallergenic formula not only soothes and moisturises but also provides effective protection. It even helps prevent dryness caused by salt water and chlorinated pools. The pump bottle ensures quick and easy application—during testing, applying took seconds instead of minutes. However, note that sunscreen on your hands might make the pump top slightly difficult to compress.

Expert verdict: "Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Sensitive Advanced SPF50+ is hypoallergenic, has no perfume and no colourants, making it ideal for children with sensitive skin," pharmacist Giulia Guerrini tells us. "The high SPF is also a bonus, alongside the fact that it protects against UVB, UVA and long UVA rays."

For parents who cannot keep their children out of the water, this highly water-resistant lotion offers a solution. It claims to protect delicate skin for up to 3 hours in water, featuring a creamy, hypoallergenic formula that is gentle on the skin. We put it to the test on a beach day and were genuinely impressed by the durability of the formula.

Expert verdict: "Another great option for parents with children who love to spend their time in the water is the Soltan Kids Once 3hr Protect & Swim Suncare Lotion SPF50+," says pharmacist Giulia Guerrini. "As it says in the name, it’s designed for protection while in the water, with up to 8 hours sun protection. Including 3 hours water resistance from just one application. However, it’s important to ensure that the lotion is re-applied regularly to make sure they’re protected all day long."

Make sun protection fun for kids who hate standing still with this colourful roll-on. It's conveniently sized to fit into any bag, and the tinted formula (available in green or pink) makes it easy to see where it's been applied. Younger children especially enjoyed the vibrant colours, turning what could be a chore into a playful experience.

Expert verdict: "The Nivea Sun Kids Protect & Care Coloured Roll-On SPF50+ is also a great option for children," pharmacist Giulia Guerrini tells us. "Being extra water-resistant is a huge plus, because if kids are jumping in and out of water on a warm day it just means parents don’t need to worry about reapplying every single time."

What SPF should I use on my child?

For optimal sun protection for kids, opt for the highest available factor, SPF50+, which guards against both UVA and UVB rays. The NHS advises keeping babies under six months out of direct strong sunlight entirely. From March to October in the UK, all children should wear at least SPF30 sunscreen and avoid sun exposure between 11am and 3pm.

"I always recommend SPF 50+ sun cream, particularly because young skin is so much thinner and more delicate than adult," says Dr Jennifer Crawley. "But it's not all about SPF: it's also important to get a cream that protects against both UVA and UVB rays."

Sensitive formulas are also helpful for children. As Abi Cleeve says: "The most important factors in choosing UV protection for kids is a sensitive formula with a very high SPF and UVA filter (ideally over 90%). Babies and children can be prone to heat rashes during hot or humid weather because their sweat glands are not fully developed."

On top of slathering on the best sunscreen for kids, you should take extra precautions to protect their delicate skin. "Kids of all ages should be covering up exposed parts with suitable clothing," says Dr Mariam Adegoke, GP and founder of Adegoke Wellness Clinic. Whether they are building sandcastles at the beach or playing with the best outdoor toys in the garden, it’s important to help protect your child with the right clothing, from UV protective swimwear to the best sun hats for kids. 

How often should you reapply sunscreen on kids?

Sunscreen should be topped up every two hours, and more often if your child is very active, or in and out of the pool. Apply the cream liberally (you can’t use too much sunscreen!) and always re-apply immediately after your child is out of the water, making sure skin is completely dry beforehand. 

According to Dr Sandra Gamper, you should reapply sunscreen probably a lot more regularly than you think. "Sun avoidance should be practised as much as possible. However, if that’s unavoidable, chemical sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before leaving the house. While mineral sunscreens offer protection the moment they are worn. Then keep reapplying every two hours or every time after a swim - when the skin is dry."

How frequently you apply sunscreen does depend somewhat on the formula you choose and your location in the world. "For example, in the UK long-lasting formulas are ideal before school - as re-application isn’t always something that can be done during the school day," acknowledges Abi Cleeve. Generally, creams are best for a thorough application but sprays and mists are sometimes an easier option with children. 

Very few children enjoy having sunscreen applied - even the best sunscreen for kids. Especially when they’re in the middle of building a sandcastle or playing in the paddling pool. So Dr Jennifer Crawley suggests making it as fun as possible: "Get your little one involved in the process of applying sun cream by drawing fun shapes on their skin and allowing them to rub it in. You could also get them to do the same on you."

Green People's Charlotte Vøhtz agrees. "All school-age children can learn how to apply sunscreen and there’s plenty of fun and educational activities you can do to help them understand how much to apply and when to apply it," she says. "A childhood classic, the game of 'Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes' helps children to learn about the body and gets them moving, but have you ever thought to use it to educate young minds on where they should apply their sun cream? Switch the lyrics to face, arms, knees to toes and don’t forget those all-important hands, ears and nose – they’re commonly missed by adults as well as children!"

It's also worth remembering that sun cream does go out of date, so make sure you check the expiration date and stock up when you need to.

Our experts

Giulia Guerrini

Giulia Guerrini is a Superintendant Pharmacist at Medino digital pharmacy. With a Master's in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology from the University of Ferrara, she deals with everything from offering expert healthcare advice to effective product recommendations.

Dr Jennifer Crawley

Dr Jennifer Crawley is a Consultant Dermatologist. Her NHS post is at University College Hospital London (UCLH). She consults on all general adult dermatology in addition to paediatric dermatology. 

Abi Cleeve

Abi is passionate about sunscreen, and helped to launch suncare brand Ultrasun in the UK more than 20 years ago. Since then has created her own anti-ageing brand, Skinsense to deliver skincare solutions in beautiful lightweight formulas.

Dr Hiva Fassihi

Dr Hiva Fassihi is a Consultant Dermatologist at OneWelbeck Skin Health & Allergy and the Clinical Lead for the National XP (Xeroderma Pigmentosum) Service at St John’s Institute of Dermatology. Dr Fassihi consults on general dermatology, with specialist interests in genetic skin disorders and skin cancer.