Summer consists of long days swimming at the lake, catching rays by the pool [1], and building sandcastles on the beach. And what do all these things have in common? Sunshine. While I wish my kids and I could be outside all day [2] every day during the Summer months, I have to be extremely careful with sun exposure and their skin. So many sunscreens out there contain a lot of chemicals that I don't want to put on my kids' skin, so I started using natural brands [3] that offer all the protection and none of the harmful stuff. Keep reading for eight of the best natural sunscreens for Summer 2018!
Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream
Not only does Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream [3] ($14) have a non-nano zinc oxide formula to protect from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays, but the added chamomile and calendula to the 98-percent organic ingredient base of sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E offers soothing properties for sensitive skin.
Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen
I've always liked how Alba Botanica products rubbed in easily and left my skin feeling soft, so I was excited to see they have an Alba Botanica kids sunscreen [4] ($7), too!
Kiss My Face Baby's First Kiss Mineral Sunscreen
Kiss My Face is known for its vegan and cruelty-free products, and the Kiss My Face Baby's First Kiss Mineral Sunscreen [5] ($9) is tear-free and adds extra measures for soothing kid's skin, including aloe, chamomile, and coconut oil.
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen [6] ($13, originally $14) is made with sensitive skin in mind, making it perfect for the whole family (including baby!) to use this fragrance-free, non-nano, hypoallergenic product. Plus, it's clear, so you don't have to worry about walking around with a thick white lotion on your face.
Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Anything in stick form makes applying lotion to a child easier, and the Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Stick [6] ($10) does just that. It's also non-GMO, free of harmful chemicals, and can be used by all members of the family for a quick sunscreen application.
Blue Lizard Baby Sunscreen Lotion
Blue Lizard Baby Sunscreen Lotion [6] ($15) comes recommended by dermatologists because of its two main sun-protecting ingredients of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide without the use of added fragrance or parabens.
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen [6] ($13) is a mineral-based, water-resistant, broad-spectrum formula that glides on smoothly. It's also fast-absorbing and free of harmful chemicals.
Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen
After trying all sorts of kids' sunscreen, we found Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen [6] ($9, originally $10) to be a favorite in our house. This broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protective sunscreen is tear-free and doesn't require much effort to rub in, which is a bonus when lotioning up a squirmy toddler!