Summer and the warm sun means lots of fun times outdoors with the kids.
It is also the time when we start thinking about packing sun protection like getting sunscreen, hats and clothes. This is particularly important for newborns and young babies as their skin is so delicate and could burn more easily.
However, being health conscious we might look for a more natural, or organic, sunscreen to put on our kids skins vs traditional chemical sunscreens.
We’ve put together a short buying guide for you, to take a look at some of the best options available today.
Top 5 Best Natural Sunscreens in the UK for 2024
1. Green People Children’s Sun Lotion Scent Free SPF 30
Key Features
- Sun Protection Factor 50
- UVA and UVB protection
- Certified 84% Organic Ingredients
- Scent-free
- Water Resistant for 40mins
- 100% Reef friendly
- Vegetarian not vegan due to beeswax content
- Suitable for babies who may be prone to eczema and psoriasis
- Plant-based packaging
2. Badger Sunscreen Baby SP30
Key Features
- Sun Protection Factor 30
- UVA and UVB protection
- Certified 94% Organic and 100% Natural Ingredients
- Certified Gluten-free
- Scent-free
- Water Resistant
- Vegetarian not vegan due to beeswax content
3. Yaoh Suncare Organic Hemp Seed Oil Sun Block SPF 30
Key Features
- Sun Protection Factor 30
- UVA and UVB protection
- Made from Organic Hemp
- Certified Vegan Friendly
- Not Water Resistant
- Not Scent-Free
- Not Tested on Animals
4. Jason Natural Care Broad Spectrum Family Sunscreen SPF 45
Key Features
- Sun Protection Factor 45
- UVA and UVB protection
- Tear-Free
- Non-Greasy
- Water Resistant
- Fragrance-Free
- Reef Friendly
5. Thinkbaby Sunscreen Baby SPF 50+
Key Features
- Sun Protection Factor 50+
- UVA and UVB protection
- Water Resistant
- Non-Oily Feel
- Pocket Style
- Certified Gluten-Free
- Certified Vegan-Friendly
- Reef Friendly
Who Should Buy Natural Sunscreens
Parents who have babies and young children who have delicate skin that could have allergic reactions to the chemical ingredients in regular sunscreens creams and oils, would benefit from using a natural sunscreen option.
Also people who are environmental conscious and want to know the products they are using are also good for the environment like the sea and animals.
Benefits of Natural Sunscreens
- Contains no petroleum additives like parabens, phthalates and sulfates
- Mineral based and tend to be better for the environment like the coral reef
- Tend to only use the two FDA approved sunscreen ingredients of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
- Tend to follow cruelty-free testing following the Leaping Bunny program
- Can be Gluten-Free
- Can be Vegan or Vegetarian Friendly
Side-Effects of Natural Sunscreens
The only possible side-effect would be a possible reaction to one of the natural ingredients, so always read the label of ingredients if concerned.
Types of Sunscreen
- Lotions
- Creams
- Sticks
- Gels
- Oils
- Butters
- Pastes
- Sprays
Recommended Usage
For newborn babies and up to 6 months old it is advised to not use, or only apply minimal, sunscreen lotions or creams of SPF 15 to avoid possible irritation to their skin. If applied use it 30 mins before sun exposure for the UV protection to take effect.
Other sun protection habits are recommended like avoiding prolonged direct sunlight exposure (especially during peak UV radiation times of 10am -2pm), wearing protective clothing like long sleeve baby grows, and a wide brim hat with sunglasses.
For babies and infants 6 months and older applying a minimum SPF of 15 broad spectrum sunscreen regularly every two hours, or after swimming or sweating is recommended. If concerned about possible allergic reaction apply to a small area on the back of the hand to test to see if a rash appears.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Babies Under 6 Months Wear Sunscreen?
Sunscreen manufacturers cannot guarantee product safety for infants younger than 6 months and the American Academy of Pediatrics and the NHS recommend to try avoid prolonged direct sunlight exposure to babies younger than 6 months or use minimal amount of SPF 15 sunscreen creams or oils.
What is the Difference Between Baby Sunscreen and Regular Adult Ones?
The only difference might be that baby sunscreens only contain the two FDA approved UV filter ingredients of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide which act as physical barriers to UV light so less likely to be absorbed into skin.
How Much Sunscreen Should I Apply?
Apply enough lotion or spray to create a visibly whitening coat of sunscreen to all exposed skin then rub the cream or lotion in to reduce the whitening effect on the skin.
How Does Sunscreen Differ from Sunblock?
Sunblock is the outdated term and has been replaced with the term sunscreen. EU law prohibits the marketing term sunblock as it may imply 100% protection from UV radiation by using by using these products which they do not do.
Is Oxybenzone in Sunscreen Harmful?
Yes oxybenzone might be harmful and the FDA raised concerns in a 2019 sunscreen ingredient report as it is unknown how safe the amount absorbed are to regular sunscreen users.
Summary
Protection from UV radiation is important for preventing sunburn in babies and young children. Sunscreen in the form of creams, oils and spray on lotions are all good options. Using a natural sunscreen that doesn’t contain harmful chemical ingredients and is good for the environment is also a way you can make a better consumer buying decision for your family health and the health of the planet.