Summer is a time for outdoor adventures with our little ones, and nothing brings more joy than seeing them explore the world around them. To ensure their delicate skin is protected safely from the sun’s harmful rays, it is crucial to choose a sunscreen that works well and is also safe for their health. With concerns about chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens have emerged as the go-to option for safe and effective protection. We want to help you celebrate the sunny days ahead by sharing the best mineral sunscreen options for your littles!
Embrace the Benefits of Mineral Sunscreens
Let’s dive into the sunny side of mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens. These sun protectors work their wonders by creating a gentle shield on the skin that reflects and scatters harmful UVA and UVB rays. With less potential for irritations or allergies, mineral sunscreens are perfect for your child’s sensitive skin. These sunscreens contain one or both of these active ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They work to provide broad-spectrum protection without being absorbed into the bloodstream, ensuring healthy and safe adventures under the sun!
What to look for on the label
While mineral sunscreens are generally considered safer than chemical alternatives, there are still a few ingredients to watch out for. When you are shopping for a sunscreen for your children, you will find options that are labeled “kids”, a description used for marketing purposes only. To ensure that the sunscreen you are purchasing is, in fact, a physical blocker with safe ingredients, it is imperative to read the ingredient label. On the back or side of the product (or the company’s website), you will find two sections for sunscreen ingredients. Under the ‘Active Ingredients’, a mineral sunscreen will have either or both of zinc oxide and titanium oxide. There should be no other ingredients listed here. In addition, these mineral ingredients should be non-nano particles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as the ultra-fine nano version can potentially penetrate the skin barrier. If this is not listed on the label or the company’s website, contact the company to find out the particle size.
What should not be on the ingredient list
Under the ‘inactive ingredients’, you want to avoid fragrance (or parfum) and parabens as these are potentially hormone-disrupting ingredients. Steer clear of retinol or retinyl derivatives, as these chemicals cause concern over greater susceptibility to sun damage. By opting for non-nano mineral sunscreens free from these ingredients, you can ensure a safer sun protection experience for your little ones.
The best (and safest) mineral sunscreens for kids
Every year, the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) releases their annual safe sunscreen guide with a comprehensive list of safer sunscreens on the market. Due to the extensive nature of the guide, we recommend referring to this year’s EWG Verified Sunscreens list. We have chosen our top six favourite sunscreens for kids based on their clean ingredient list and their performance or price point:
For performance, Beautycounter formulates a range of Countersun products that we love! This brand is committed to safety and transparency, so every ingredient is listed on the label.
Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: We love this lightweight and non-greasy sunscreen lotion that can be used on the face and body. This EWG Verified SPF 30 protection combines non-nano zinc oxide and antioxidant-rich botanicals for an extra dose of care.
Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist: This air-powered spray-on SPF 30 sunscreen is the perfect option for independent kids. Formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, coconut oil, and aloe vera extract, to keep the skin hydrated and protected.
Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Stick: A pocket-sized dose of sunshine protection! This SPF 30 sunscreen stick is perfect all-over for babies over 6 months old, and faces of toddlers and kids. This EWG Verified option is a favorite companion for spontaneous outdoor escapades!
For price point, Attitude has several safe mineral options. Make sure to choose the unscented versions to avoid undisclosed fragrance ingredients.
Attitude Baby and Kids Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 : formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, unscented and EWG Verified. We like the size and price point on this sun stick.
Attitude Sensitive Skin Baby and Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 : formulated with non-nano zinc oxide and oatmeal to soothe the skin. The price per ounce is slightly less than our favourite Countersun counterparts.
Attitude Baby and Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 : formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, unscented and EWG Verified. The price per ounce is slightly less than our favourite Countersun counterparts.
Keep your kids safe in the sun
With the best mineral sunscreen options, you can experience the joy of carefree outdoor play while keeping your child’s skin safe. Embrace these warm, sunny days ahead, knowing that these sunscreens provide both effective protection without compromising your child’s health and safety. Don’t forget to consult the Environmental Working Group’s safe sunscreen guide for that extra boost of confidence in your sunscreen selection. For more ways to stay sun safe this summer, read our 5 essential sun safety tips on the blog. It’s time to let those happy faces soak up the sun and create cherished memories in the warmth of the great outdoors!