There’s Basically No Difference Between Baby Sunscreen and Regular Sunscreen

Sunscreens approved for sale in the US fall into three categories:

• Physical (aka mineral) sunscreens contain active ingredients that reflect the sun’s rays.
• Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients that absorb the sun’s rays so your skin doesn’t.
• Combination sunscreens include both physical and chemical active ingredients to keep you protected.

While the FDA regulates claims on sunscreen labels related to SPF, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance, it does not regulate marketing terms like “sport,” “baby,” and “kid”—though most formulations for children are physical sunscreens.

For example, our top physical sunscreen pick, Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+, has the exact same ingredient list as Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen 50+.

However, that doesn’t mean that baby or kid sunscreens aren’t worth buying, particularly if you (or your baby or kid) prefer the way they feel and smell.

Avoid spending extended periods of time in the sun when possible

Seeking shade (or creating your own through the use of sun hats, sunglasses, rash guards, and more) is the best first line of defense against sun damage for kids of all ages.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says infants younger than 6 months should be kept out of the direct sun as much as possible—and to remain covered with hats and clothing whenever sun exposure can’t be avoided.

Children older than 6 months can wear sunscreen, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation, but should still avoid direct sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m and 4 p.m.

Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen

Broad spectrum means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreens labeled SPF 30 or higher. (All of our picks meet these basic criteria.)

Pick a sunscreen that your kid will tolerate having slathered on them

If you prefer a physical sunscreen, our testers found that Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ applies more easily than most other physical sunscreens, thanks to its runnier texture. Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+, a chemical sunscreen, is a more affordable option that rubs in even more easily and is less visible on nearly every skin tone. Even less expensive is our budget pick, Equate Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50, which is just 39 cents per ounce.

Continuous-spray sunscreens are often considered the easiest to apply; however, we no longer test them because it’s near-impossible to measure how much you’ve applied. Plus, dermatologists we spoke to told us they can pose health risks if the aerosolized particles are inhaled. (As one dermatologist put it in our sunscreen guide, “If you can smell your spray sunscreen, you’re inhaling it.”)

Experts advise against using sunscreens that contain bug repellent, which may reduce the sunscreen’s effectiveness.

The least effective sunscreen, of course, is one your child simply won't wear. So if winning the war against sun damage means losing the battle between a crabby kid and your preferred sunscreen, swap it out for one they like better. (Hey, nobody said parenting was easy.)

This article was edited by Annemarie Conte and Tracy Vence.