How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Children
Updated: 16/07/2026
Choosing a sunscreen for your child can feel overwhelming, especially with so many formulas, SPF levels and claims to navigate.
Whether you're packing for a family holiday or enjoying sunny days at home, this guide explains everything parents need to know to keep children's skin protected this summer.
Why Is Sun Protection Important for Children?
Children's skin is naturally more delicate than adults', so it's worth taking a little extra care in the sun. Alongside hats, lightweight clothing and plenty of shade, sunscreen helps protect their skin while they enjoy everything summer has to offer.
For everyday play or holidays abroad, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ and high UVA protection. Combined with regular reapplication, it's one of the easiest ways to keep little ones protected while they're busy making memories outdoors.
What SPF Should Children Wear?
If you've ever stood in the sunscreen aisle wondering whether SPF 30 is enough or if you should always choose SPF 50+, you're not alone.
For children, SPF 50+ is generally the best choice. It offers very high protection against UVB rays (the rays that can cause sunburn), while choosing a formula with high UVA protection helps protect against longer-term sun damage too.
Want to crack the code of SPF? Check out our blog that details everything you need to know about suncream.
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Is Children's Sunscreen Different From Adult Sunscreen?
One of the biggest questions parents ask is whether children's sunscreen is actually different from adult formulas - or if one bottle can do it all.
The answer? It depends.
Many family sunscreens are suitable for both adults and children, as long as they offer broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of 50+. However, children's formulas are often developed with younger, more sensitive skin in mind.
You'll often find they're:
- fragrance-free or lightly fragranced
- dermatologically tested
- extra water resistant
- designed to feel comfortable on delicate skin
If your child has sensitive skin or is prone to dryness, a sunscreen formulated specifically for children may be a good place to start. For older children and teenagers, a family sunscreen can be a great option, making it easier (and lighter!) to pack for holidays.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Every Age
The best sunscreen isn't just about SPF - it's about finding one that's easy to apply, comfortable to wear and suits your child's age and lifestyle.
Babies Under Six Months
For babies under six months, it's best to keep them out of direct sunlight where possible. Lightweight clothing, a sun hat and plenty of shade are your best friends, especially during the warmest part of the day.
If you're unsure whether sunscreen is suitable for your baby, it's always worth speaking to your healthcare professional.
Babies Over Six Months
Once your baby is old enough to wear sunscreen, look for gentle formulas designed with delicate skin in mind.
A cream or lotion is often the easiest option, as it's simple to apply evenly and gives good coverage.
Look for:
- SPF 50+
- broad-spectrum protection
- water resistance
- gentle formulas suitable for sensitive skin
Toddlers
If you've ever tried applying sunscreen to a toddler who's already halfway to the paddling pool, you'll know that speed is everything.
Quick-absorbing lotions, easy-to-apply sprays and sunscreen sticks for little faces can all help make the routine a little less of a challenge.
One tip parents swear by? Apply sunscreen before you leave the house. It's often much easier than trying to chase little ones around the beach or playground.
School-Age Children
As children get older, summer often means even more time outside - whether that's sports clubs, day trips or holidays with the family.
Encouraging them to understand why sunscreen matters is a great way to build healthy habits they'll take with them as they grow. Getting them involved in applying sunscreen (with a little supervision!) can also make them more likely to remember it.
Teenagers
Teenagers are often looking for sunscreens that don't feel heavy or greasy, especially for everyday wear.
Lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas and facial SPFs that sit comfortably under skincare or makeup are usually popular choices, while water-resistant body sunscreens are ideal for holidays, festivals and outdoor activities.
At this age, SPF-infused makeup may be a product they reach increasingly for, and is a great way of layering up additional protection.
K-Beauty SPFs often spotlight breathable and nourishing ingredients, ideal for adapting to the struggles of teenage skin.
Our Guide to the Best K-Beauty Sunscreens
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What If Your Child Doesn't Like Wearing Sunscreen?
You're not alone - many parents say this is the trickiest part of their summer routine.
A few simple changes can help:
- Apply sunscreen before leaving the house.
- Let children choose between a spray or lotion.
- Use sunscreen sticks for little faces.
- Choose lightweight, non-sticky formulas they'll be happier to wear.
The best sunscreen is the one your child is happy to wear consistently.
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Can Sunscreen Stain Children's Clothes?
Between sandy T-shirts, swimwear and school uniforms, children's clothes go through enough in summer without sunscreen stains too. While some formulas can leave yellow marks after washing, this is often caused by certain UV filters reacting with minerals in hard water rather than the sunscreen itself.
To help keep little outfits looking their best, opt for lightweight, quick-drying formulas, allow sunscreen to absorb before getting dressed and treat any stains as soon as possible. If your child has sensitive skin and uses a mineral sunscreen, bear in mind these formulas can sometimes leave a white residue on darker fabrics.
Final Thoughts
Summer is made for adventures, from beach days to back garden play. With the right sunscreen in your bag and a few simple sun-safe habits, you can spend less time worrying and more time making memories together.
