10 Best Sunscreen Choices For Toddlers

Today, I want to talk to you about something super important—sunscreen for our little ones. As we all know, protecting our toddlers from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial for their health and well-being.

But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to find the right sunscreen that not only offers effective protection but also contains natural ingredients that we feel good about using on our kids’ delicate skin.

That’s where I come in! I’ve done my research and rounded up a list of the best sunscreens for toddlers that not only boast natural ingredients but also have excellent ratings from the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

After all, we want nothing but the best for our precious munchkins, right? So, let’s get started on this journey to find the perfect sunscreens that will keep our toddlers protected while giving us peace of mind.

Understanding the EWG Rating System

Let me break it down for you, my friend. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is this awesome nonprofit organization that’s all about giving us the scoop on the safety and environmental impact of different products. And you know what? Sunscreens are on their radar too! They’re like our sunscreen superheroes, providing valuable information and research so we can make informed choices.

Okay, so when it comes to sunscreens, the EWG has this cool rating system. They consider a bunch of factors to determine how safe and effective a sunscreen is. Think about things like how well it protects us from those sneaky UVA and UVB rays, the ingredients used (and any potential hazards they might have), transparency in terms of what’s in the sunscreen, and even how it affects the environment. They give each sunscreen a rating from 1 to 10, with 1 being the best and 10 being the worst.

Now, here’s the deal: our little ones have the most delicate, sensitive skin, and we want nothing but the best for them. That’s where the EWG ratings come into play. By choosing sunscreens with good EWG ratings, we can be confident that we’re picking products that are safe, effective, and gentle for our toddlers. These sunscreens are formulated with natural ingredients that won’t cause harm or irritation to their precious skin.

Plus, let’s not forget the peace of mind we get from knowing we’re making smart choices. With so many sunscreen options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But when we see that a sunscreen has a good EWG rating, we know it meets the high standards set by the experts. It’s like having a trustworthy friend guiding us through the sea of sunscreens.

So, by choosing sunscreens with good EWG ratings, we’re giving our little ones the protection they need from the sun’s rays without exposing them to unnecessary risks. Now that we’ve got the lowdown on the importance of EWG ratings, it’s time to dive into the exciting part—finding the best sunscreens for our toddlers with natural ingredients and excellent EWG ratings. Let’s get ready to give our munchkins the ultimate sun protection!

Best Sunscreen For Toddlers

3rd Rock Sunblock Sunscreen Lotion

Adorable Baby Natural Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30

All Good Kid’s Sunscreen Butter Stick, SPF 50+

ATTITUDE Baby & Kids Sunscreen Lotion, Fragrance Free, SPF 30

Babo Botanicals Baby Face Mineral Sunscreen Stick, SPF 50

Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Stick, Fragrance Free, SPF 50

Badger Kids Mineral Face Sunscreen Stick, Tangerine & Vanilla, SPF 35

Blue Lizard Kids Mineral Sunscreen Stick, SPF 50+

Earth Mama Uber-Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 40

Erbaviva Organic Skincare Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30

Why it’s Important for Toddlers to Wear Sunscreen

Let’s talk about why it’s so crucial for our little ones to wear sunscreen. I know we all love seeing their adorable chubby cheeks and sweet little noses, but those precious baby faces need protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Here’s why:

1. Delicate Skin: Toddlers have super delicate skin that’s more sensitive to the sun than ours. Their skin hasn’t fully developed its natural defenses yet, making them more susceptible to sunburns, irritation, and long-term damage. Applying sunscreen helps create a shield against those UV rays and keeps their skin safe.
2. Sunburn Prevention: Sunburns are not only painful, but they can also cause long-lasting damage. Sunburns in childhood increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. By slathering on the sunscreen, we’re minimizing the chances of our little ones getting sunburned and protecting their skin for the future.
3. Skin Cancer Prevention: Yep, you heard that right—skin cancer. It’s not just something that affects adults who spend too much time in the sun. Harmful UV radiation can damage the skin’s DNA and increase the risk of skin cancer, even in early childhood. By getting our toddlers in the habit of wearing sunscreen now, we’re instilling healthy sun protection habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
4. UV Rays are Sneaky: UV rays can reach our little ones even on cloudy days or through windows. They’re like little ninjas, sneaking their way in and causing damage. That’s why it’s important to make sunscreen a part of their daily routine, regardless of the weather or where they are. We want them to be protected all the time.
5. Setting a Good Example: Our toddlers look up to us like superheroes, and they learn so much from what we do. By wearing sunscreen ourselves and applying it to them, we’re teaching them the importance of sun protection and setting a great example for lifelong healthy habits.

Make sunscreen a must-have in our toddler’s skincare routine. Their precious skin deserves all the love, care, and protection we can give. With sunscreen on their side, they can enjoy the outdoors, have fun in the sun, and grow up with healthy, protected skin.

Best Time Of Day To Wear Sunscreen

We all know how important it is to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays, but timing can play a role too. Here’s what you need to know:

When it comes to sunscreen, it’s best to apply it whenever we’re planning to be outside and exposed to the sun. But let’s break it down further. During the peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun’s rays are the strongest and can do the most damage to our skin. So, if we’re venturing out during this time, it’s crucial to slather on that sunscreen before heading out and remember to reapply every two hours.

Even if we’re going out in the morning, before those peak sun hours hit, it’s still a smart move to apply sunscreen. UV rays can still reach our skin and cause damage, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. A little bit of sunscreen in the morning can go a long way in protecting our skin.

Now, here’s a surprising fact: UV rays can penetrate through the clouds, so don’t be fooled by overcast days. Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, it’s essential to wear sunscreen whenever we’re spending time outside. Let’s keep our skin safe, rain or shine!

And here’s something to remember: sun protection isn’t just for summertime. Even during the cooler months or when engaging in winter activities, the sun can still harm our skin. So, whether we’re hitting the slopes, building snowmen, or going for a refreshing walk, let’s not forget to apply that sunscreen. Our skin will thank us later!

Proper Application For Sunscreen

You know, it’s not just about slapping it on and calling it a day. To ensure maximum protection, we need to follow a few simple steps. Here’s the lowdown on proper sunscreen application:

1. Start with Clean Skin: Before applying sunscreen, make sure your skin is clean and dry. This helps the sunscreen adhere better and do its job effectively.
2. Choose the Right Amount: Don’t be shy when it comes to sunscreen! It’s important to apply a generous amount to cover all exposed areas of your body. As a general rule of thumb, aim for about a teaspoon (5 milliliters) for your face and a shot glass full (30 milliliters) for your body. Adjust the amount accordingly based on the size of the area you’re covering.
3. Apply it Evenly: To get the most out of your sunscreen, apply it evenly all over the exposed areas of your skin. Don’t forget those easy-to-miss spots like the back of your ears, the tops of your feet, and the back of your neck.
4. Don’t Forget Your Lips: Your lips need protection too! Use a lip balm or sunscreen specifically designed for the lips and apply it generously.
5. Reapply, Reapply, Reapply: Sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal. For optimal protection, it’s important to reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating heavily or swimming. Even water-resistant sunscreens can wear off over time, so be sure to keep an eye on the clock and reapply as needed.
6. Be Gentle: When applying sunscreen, be gentle with your skin. Use your fingertips to massage it in, ensuring even coverage without rubbing too hard. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin or are applying sunscreen to the delicate skin of children.
7. Give it Time to Absorb: Allow your sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin before heading outside. This usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. This way, it can create a protective barrier and work effectively against those harmful UV rays.
8. Check the Expiration Date: Sunscreen does have an expiration date, so make sure to check it before using. Expired sunscreen may not provide the intended level of protection, so it’s best to replace it with a fresh bottle.

Sun-Safe Clothing For Toddlers

When it comes to protecting their delicate skin from the sun’s harmful rays, sunscreen alone isn’t always enough. That’s where sun-safe clothing comes into play. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Lightweight, Long-Sleeved Shirts: Opt for lightweight, breathable long-sleeved shirts like this for your toddler. Look for fabrics with a tight weave that block out the sun’s rays. Long sleeves provide extra coverage and protect their arms from sunburns.
2. Wide-Brimmed Hats: Hats are a must-have accessory for sun protection. Choose hats with wide brims that shade their face, neck, and ears from the sun. Look for hats made from UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric, which offers additional sun protection.
3. UV-Blocking Sunglasses: Don’t forget about those little eyes! Invest in sunglasses that provide UV protection for your toddler. Look for sunglasses labeled with 100% UV protection to shield their eyes from harmful UV rays.
4. Cover-Ups and Swimwear: When it’s time for some fun in the water, choose swimwear with built-in UPF protection. Look for swim shirts or rash guards that cover their shoulders, back, and chest. These provide an extra layer of sun protection, even when wet.
5. Light Colors and Loose-Fitting Clothing: Opt for light-colored clothing as they reflect more sunlight and help keep your toddler cooler. Loose-fitting clothes allow for better airflow and prevent overheating.
6. Don’t Forget the Legs and Feet: Protect your toddler’s legs and feet by dressing them in lightweight pants or skirts that cover their legs. Additionally, choose closed-toe shoes to shield their feet from the sun and hot surfaces.
7. Seek Shade: Encourage your toddler to seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. Use umbrellas, canopies, or sunshades to create shaded areas for them to play in.

Be Sun-Smart Year-Round

First and foremost, make applying sunscreen a part of your daily routine. Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, hot or cold, don’t forget to slather on that broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, and hands. And remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

Don’t neglect your eyes! Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays. Look for sunglasses with broad coverage and wraparound styles for maximum protection.

When the sun is at its peak, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., seek shade whenever possible. Trees, umbrellas, or canopies can offer a break from the intense sun. Even on cooler or cloudy days, UV rays can still reach your skin, so finding shade is a smart move.

By being sun-smart every day, you’re taking proactive steps to protect your skin from sunburns, premature aging, and long-term damage. So, let’s make sun safety a priority no matter the season or weather. Stay sun-smart, stay protected, and enjoy the great outdoors with confidence all year round!