The best sunscreen for kids 2018

the best sunscreens for kids

When the weather is nice, every child should be outside enjoying the sunshine with their friends; just make sure that their skin is protected from the sun’s rays with any of these top sunscreens for kids.  

To ensure your child’s skin is protected from the sun’s rays, make sure you invest in a sunscreen that shields against UVB and UVA rays. The higher the SPF, the stronger the protection against UVB rays, while the star indicator on the bottle indicates the level of protection against UVA rays. For more information, take a look at the NHS guide to sunscreen and sun safety. 

While all the sunscreens on our list deliver on these main factors, it’s the sun cream’s longevity on the skin, level of water resistance and type of application that are the deciding factors. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50 is an easy to apply spray and is specially formulated for children with sensitive skin. It also delivers on the water resistance and longevity to make it our top choice.  

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50

For quick, even application; great if they want to get out with their friends

Specifications

Type: Spray
Volume: 125ml
SPF: 50

Reasons to buy

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Very high resistance to water 

100% hypoallergenic, this sunscreen has been formulated to be friendly for fragile and sensitive skin, with minimal ingredients and fragrance. Thanks to the fine distribution of the mist, no part of the skin should be left uncovered, while its strong water resistance levels should keep your child protected if they’re splashing around in the sea. Make sure to re-apply the sunscreen once they’re out of the water.   

Clarins Sun Care Milk for Children

2. Clarins Sun Care Milk for Children

This Clarins sunscreen is full of natural products for friendliness to skin

Specifications

Type: Spray
Volume: 150ml
SPF: 50+

Reasons to buy

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 100% mineral screen

With kiwi fruit, aloe vera and senna just some of the ingredients included in Clarins Sun Care Milk, this sunscreen has been formulated to be friendly to children’s skin. With an SPF of 50+, it’ll keep them completely protected against UVB and UVA rays, and thanks to the hydrating, anti-aging properties, it’s not just their skin it’s good for, but yours too. 

Vichy Idéal Soleil Sun-Milk SPF 30

3. Vichy Idéal Soleil Sun-Milk SPF 30

With no whitening effect or greasy film, this suncream is a joy to apply

Specifications

Type: Cream
Volume: 300ml
SPF: 30

Reasons to buy

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 Enriched with hyaluronic acid

With an SPF of 30, this sunscreen delivers high protection from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. The formula is suitable for both face and body, while the clear, non-greasy application makes it easy to apply and rub in. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, this suncream moisturises the skin and it’s water resistant for protection even when they’re having a dip in the sea. Make sure you reapply once they’re out of the water. 

Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Anti-Sand Spray SPF 50

4. Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Anti-Sand Spray SPF 50

A great value spray sunscreen with clever sand repelling technology

Specifications

Type: Spray
Volume: 200ml
SPF: 50+

Reasons to buy

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Great value price 

You don’t need to spend a fortune to invest in a good sunscreen. This one from Garnier delivers on all levels of protection, defending the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, and it’ll set you back less than £10. The bonus is the sand repelling technology, which works to prevent the itchy gritty feeling of sand sticking to the skin.  

Soltan Once Kids 3hr Protect & Swim Lotion SPF30

5. Soltan Once Kids 3hr Protect & Swim Lotion SPF30

One application for up to eight hours' sun exposure

Specifications

Type: Cream
Volume: 200ml
SPF: 30

Reasons to buy

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 Five star UVA rating

Now you no longer need to worry about constantly reapplying your children’s sunscreen with this product from Soltan. Offering up to eight hours of sun exposure protection and three hours of protection in water exposure, this is a high protection sun cream that lasts (bear in mind that you’ll need to reapply once out of the water). It’s hypoallergenic so it should be suitable for sensitive skin, and at just £10 a bottle, it won’t break the bank, either.  

Green People Organic Children Sun Lotion SPF30

6. Green People Organic Children Sun Lotion SPF30

Gentle and scent free, this kids’ sun lotion is perfect for ultra sensitive skin

Specifications

Type: Cream
Volume: 150ml
SPF: 30

Reasons to buy

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 Offers 96% UVB protection

Containing 78% organic content, this sunscreen is perfect for sensitive skin. It offers high protection against UVA and UVB rays, it features moisturising properties and it’s non-greasy. Adults with acne-prone skin will be glad to hear about its non-pore-clogging technology, with the brand also saying it’s suitable for those who may be prone to eczema and psoriasis.  

Nivea Sun Kids Caring Roll-On SPF30

7. Nivea Sun Kids Caring Roll-On SPF30

A convenient to carry, easy to apply sunscreen

Specifications

Type: Cream
Volume: 50ml
SPF: 30

Reasons to buy

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Roll-on applicator for easy application  

Pocket-sized, this sunscreen for kids can be slipped into a handbag or purse to be applied throughout the day. Nivea say the formula is fast-absorbing and non-sticky, which makes it convenient to apply on the go. With an SPF of 30 and 4 stars on the back, it provides a high level of protection against UVB and UVA rays. It’s also very water resistant, which means your kids should remain protected while they’re having a splash around. 

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