Sunscreen for Kids – How to Choose

Children’s sunscreen comes in several different formats, from lotions to sticks to roll-ons to sprays. All kids' sunscreens offer sun protection when used as directed and in conjunction with other sun protection measures, so what will work best for you comes down to your needs and preferences. 

You might prefer a creamy texture such as lotion, or you might prefer a spray-on sunscreen that is easy to apply. This can be especially helpful for kids when they’re more focused on going out to play! 

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so choose the best kids' sunscreen that works for you and your child. 

A water-resistant sunscreen is important if it’s likely your child is going to be going for a swim in the ocean or pool, getting wet from water balloons or a hose, or even just sweating. Using a water-resistant sunscreen stays on skin better during aquatic activities than with non-water-resistant sunscreen, but reapplication per usage instructions is a must. 

For example, Coppertone Kids SPF 50 Tear Free Lotion has been formulated to be water-resistant up to 80 minutes and stays on strong when kids play. Use and reapply as directed. 

Note: Water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof! Once your child has emerged from the water, be sure to reapply and follow directions on the Drug Facts Box on the particular kids sunscreen you choose. 

On many bottles of kid's sunscreen products, you’re likely to see terms like “broad-spectrum”, meaning that sunscreen helps protect from both UVA and UVB rays. Traditionally, sunscreens were only formulated to target UVB rays, as this form of solar radiation was thought to be the only kind that was damaging to the skin as its effects are immediately visible as a sunburn.  

Scientific studies have since proven that UVA radiation also causes long-lasting damage to the skin and lead to premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer¹, so ensuring that you choose a sunscreen that protects from both UVB and UVA rays is important in order to best protect your children’s skin from the sun.* 

*In conjunction with other sun protection measures such as wearing protective clothing and avoiding sun exposure during peak times of the day.  

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and this variable is measured in relation to UVB rays. UVB rays are responsible for making your skin burn when you’re exposed to the sun for too long. Prolonged and repeated sun damage from UVB rays could lead to skin problems down the road, including an increased risk of skin cancer. It is possible to be exposed to UVA rays even on a cloudy day, so even on those overcast days, it’s important to grab your favorite sunscreen and apply like you would on a sunny day¹.  

While choosing the SPF for your child’s sunscreen comes down to your preference, choosing a higher SPF will ensure that your child’s skin is protected from a higher percentage of UV rays in combination with other sun protection measures3. 

Just because the SPF is higher, doesn’t mean it lasts any longer than a sunscreen with a lower SPF. You will still need to reapply the suncream for kids just as frequently to ensure their skin is protected from the sun's damaging UV rays. 

As with all sunscreens, the SPF you choose is most effective when reapplied regularly, used as directed, and used as part of an overall sun protection strategy including seeking shade, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak times of the day, and wearing protective clothing.  

Sunscreen is most effective when applied properly. Follow these tips for how to properly apply sunscreen to your child: 

1. Ensure that the children’s sunscreen you’re using isn’t expired. Using expired sunscreen can render it less effective, leaving kids vulnerable to sunburn. Learn more about when sunscreen expires and what that means. 
2. Use the Right Amount: Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed areas of skin. One ounce of sunscreen is recommended for proper coverage for the average adult, so adjust according to your child’s body size⁶. 
3. Cover All Exposed Areas: Don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, the back of the neck, any exposed areas of the scalp (cowlicks, parts in the hair), and tops of the feet⁶.  
4. Apply at least 15 Minutes Before Sun Exposure: This gives the sunscreen time to fully adhere to your skin⁶. 
5. Reapply Regularly: Reapply sunscreen every two hours and reapply right away after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying⁶. Using a water-resistant sunscreen does not mean it’s waterproof, so it’s important to reapply after being in the water to ensure continuous coverage! 
6. Pair with Other Sun Protection Measures: Combine sunscreen use with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses and other sun protection measures such as seeking shade when possible and avoiding sun exposure during peak times of the day for comprehensive sun safety. 

Read more tips for how to apply sunscreen.