What is the best sunscreen to use for children?
Based on our intensive research as well as reading countless reviews from parents who have personally used the product, the best overall sunscreen for children is La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Pediatrics Invisible Spray SPF50+. This brand comes up more than any other in terms of being suitable for babies and children, plus it’s backed by dermatologists and is well tolerated by all skin types, particularly children with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. It offers very high protection and comes with a UVA star rating of four.
Designed to hydrate as it protects, this light spreadable spray lotion absorbs quickly and doesn’t stain clothing – an additional bonus when you’re dealing with wriggly children who won’t stand still.
What SPF should you use on babies/toddlers and children?
According to the NHS, babies and toddlers need extra protection when in the sun, and babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight as much as possible. This is because their skin is much more sensitive than adult skin and repeated exposure to sunlight could lead to skin cancer later in life.
In the warmest months from March to October, The NHS advises the following:
Children should wear at least an SPF 30 sunscreen
Children should be covered with suitable clothing
Parents should ensure children have sunscreen on areas not protected by clothing such as the face, ears, feet and the backs of hands
Children should spend plenty of time in the shade, particularly from 11am to 3pm.
Which type of sunscreen is most effective?
Experts at the British Skin Foundation say, "SPF stands for 'Sun Protection Factor' and refers to the level of protection against UVB radiation, linked to skin cancer. Look for a four- or ideally five-star UVA rating on the bottle which will help protect from UVA radiation, associated with skin ageing."
Therefore, when it comes to children’s sensitive skin, it makes sense that the higher the SPF you use, the better. The organisation also advises that you reapply your child's sunscreen every two hours, and 20 to 30 minutes before going outside.
In addition to the SPF, there are other factors to consider when looking for a good sunscreen you can use and rely on consistently:
Application: Is the sunscreen easy to apply? For instance, if you’re using a spray bottle, does it spray from all angles and get to those hard-to-reach places? Is it too thick to sink into the skin and/or too difficult to apply?
Long-wearing: Does the formula get absorbed fast and is it water and sweat resistant? Or will it run into your child’s eyes and sting if applied to the forehead?
Hypoallergenic: Many children are sensitive to sunscreens. If your child is prone to eczema or skin rashes, it’s important to look for a sunscreen that’s been specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
Broad spectrum: For babies and children, it’s critical to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Value for money: When considering your budget, of course you’ll want to find a sunscreen that ticks all your boxes and comes in a reasonably good-sized tube or bottle.
What does a UV rating on sunscreen mean?
The UV star rating on a sunscreen product is a measure of how much UVA is blocked. This is also referred to as a PA rating on some sun creams, which stands for 'Protection Grade of UVA.'
The scale goes from 0-5, with a three-star rating meaning that the product blocks around 60% of the sun’s UVA rays, with five stars offering the most protection. The EU requirements for UVA protection is three (minimum), but the higher the star rating, the better.
What is the difference between sunscreen and sunblock?
The main difference between a sunblock and a sunscreen lies in the way the product protects the skin from the sun’s UV rays. Sunscreen (or chemical sunscreen) is the most popular choice in the UK. It works by using certain chemicals to filter out the sun’s UV rays once they’re absorbed into the skin, but before they can penetrate the deeper dermal layer. A sunblock, on the other hand, sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays away from the skin before it gets absorbed.
How to use sunscreen and sunblock on kids
It’s worth noting that no sun protection product - whether it’s labelled sunblock or sunscreen - is 100% effective at blocking out all the effects of the sun’s rays. Another factor to consider is how you apply the product.
If you’re using a traditional sunblock, make sure to apply just before your child heads outside, but if you’re using a sunscreen, it’s important to apply at least 20 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun as it takes time for the skin to absorb the product efficiently.
About the authors
Tammy Jacks has over 20 years of experience as a writer and editor. She has held senior editorial roles including Health & Beauty Editor for Woman & Home magazine and Assistant Editor for Living and Loving. An experienced health writer and researcher, she specialises in family wellbeing and safety, translating complex health topics into clear, practical advice for parents.
Laura Westerman is Deputy Head of Content at Mumsnet, where she oversees pregnancy and baby content. With more than 10 years’ experience in editorial and SEO-focused content creation, Laura has written extensively across parenting, family health and lifestyle topics, helping parents make informed decisions with clear, trustworthy guidance.
As a mum herself, Laura combines hands-on experience with in-depth research and industry knowledge, particularly in child safety and wellbeing. She has extensively covered topics including infant sleep, baby travel and car seat safety, and regularly tests family products to ensure recommendations are practical, safe and parent-friendly.