You’ve felt it, right? The sun is out here acting like it’s got something to prove. It’s not just shining—it’s scorching. And while we love a good summer glow, our babies and toddlers aren’t exactly asking for a sun-kissed tan. They’re just trying to eat sand in peace and maybe chase a butterfly without turning into a lobster.
So, here’s the deal: baby skin is thinner, more sensitive, and has zero chill when it comes to UV rays. That means it’s time to level up your sun protection game—and don’t worry, we did the research so you don’t have to.
Below is a mom-approved, dermatologist-backed, toddler-tested roundup of the best sun protection products that won’t make your kid look like a greased-up ghost or a melting candle.
TOP-RATED SUN PROTECTION PRODUCTS FOR BABIES & TODDLERS
1. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
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Why we love it: Reef-safe, mineral-based, rubs in better than most white paste impersonators.
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Bonus: Smells like a creamsicle. Your baby will smell delicious, but please don’t bite them.
2. Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
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Why we love it: Zinc-based with a bottle that changes color in UV light. Fun and educational, because toddlers need to know when they’re being cooked.
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Bonus: Water-resistant up to 80 minutes. So yes, that kiddie pool counts.
3. Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream SPF 40
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Why we love it: Organic ingredients, thick as cold peanut butter, but hey—it stays on.
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Bonus: One tube lasts forever. Like your baby’s obsession with the same bedtime story.
4. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby SPF 50
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Why we love it: Hypoallergenic, tear-free, and non-greasy. That’s a parenting hat trick right there.
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Bonus: Trusted brand that doesn’t charge your soul for a bottle.
5. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
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Why we love it: Gentle on eczema-prone skin and easy to smear on a toddler who is actively squirming like a worm.
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Bonus: Pediatrician recommended, because moms shouldn’t be the only ones making executive decisions.
6. iPlay by Green Sprouts Flap Sun Hat
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Why we love it: Full neck coverage with UPF 50+. If your baby won’t wear sunscreen, maybe they’ll wear this adorable little tent on their head.
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Bonus: Comes in cute colors so your kid can be safe and fashionable, even while covered in Goldfish crumbs.
7. UV Skinz Baby Swimwear
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Why we love it: Built-in UPF 50+ protection without the mess of reapplying lotion every 10 minutes.
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Bonus: Zipper in the back makes diaper changes slightly less like a wrestling match.
But Do I Really Need to Be That Intense About Sun Protection?
Short answer: Yes, Karen.
Long answer: Kids under 6 months shouldn't be in direct sun at all. For older babies and toddlers, you’re looking at hats, sunglasses, UPF clothing, shade, AND sunscreen. Because while sunburns might fade, the long-term skin damage? Not so much.
Also—babies are not fans of being slathered in cold lotion, so you’ll need distraction tactics. We recommend singing, bribery (with snacks), or pretending it’s a spa treatment. “Oooooh fancy sunscreen for your cheeks!” is surprisingly effective.
Real Talk: What’s Your Go-To Sunblock?
We’ve shared our favs—but what about you?
Drop your sun-protecting holy grails in the comments. Got a hack for applying sunscreen on a toddler who’s basically greased lightning? WE NEED TO KNOW.
Until next time, stay shady (literally and emotionally). And remember: the sun may be spicy, but your baby’s skin should stay cool and protected.
