What is Natural sunscreen?
Natural sunscreen, also known as mineral or physical sunscreen, is a type of sunscreen made with natural ingredients that provide a physical barrier to block and reflect the sun’s harmful rays away from the skin.
The two main ingredients in natural sunscreen are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which have been deemed safe for use in cosmetics by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
One of the benefits of natural sunscreen is that it is better for the skin, as it does not contain potentially harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates. This makes it a great choice for people with sensitive skin or for use on babies and young children.
Another benefit of natural sunscreen is that it is better for the environment. Chemical sunscreens can pollute the water and harm marine life when they are washed off, but natural sunscreen does not have this negative impact.
When choosing a natural sunscreen, it is important to look for products that are certified organic and free of harmful chemicals. This will ensure that you are getting a product that is safe for you and your family, as well as for the environment. Stick till the end of this article to find the out more about the best Natural sunscreen for babies.
Benefits of Natural Sunscreen for Babies
1. Protection from UV radiation: Natural sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays, shielding babies’ delicate skin from harmful radiation.
2. No harmful chemicals: Unlike chemical sunscreens, which may contain ingredients that can irritate or even harm babies’ skin, natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients that are gentler and safer.
3. Non-toxic: Natural sunscreens are free from synthetic chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to health problems.
4. Hypoallergenic: Many natural sunscreens are hypoallergenic, making them less likely to cause allergic reactions or skin irritations.
5. Soothing for sensitive skin: The natural ingredients in many sunscreens can soothe and moisturize babies’ sensitive skin, reducing dryness, redness, and other skin irritations.
6. Environmentally friendly: Many natural sunscreens are also eco-friendly, biodegradable, and reef-safe, reducing their impact on the environment.
7. Long-lasting protection: Natural sunscreens provide long-lasting protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication and keeping babies safe in the sun for longer periods.
8. No synthetic fragrances: Natural sunscreens do not contain synthetic fragrances, which can be irritating or overpowering for babies.
9. Gentle for the eyes: Many natural sunscreens are formulated to be gentle around the eyes, reducing the risk of stinging or irritation.
10. Easy to apply: Natural sunscreens are often easier to apply than chemical sunscreens, with formulas that blend smoothly into the skin without leaving a white or greasy residue.
Tips for choosing the best natural sunscreen for babies
1. Look for a mineral-based sunscreen: Mineral sunscreens are made with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide a physical barrier to block the sun’s harmful rays away from the skin.
2. Choose a product with a high SPF: Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. For babies, it is recommended to use a product with an SPF of 30 or higher.
3. Check the ingredients list: Make sure the sunscreen does not contain harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates. Look for certified organic products.
4. Consider the texture: Some natural sunscreens can have a thicker texture, which may be difficult to apply on a wriggly baby. Look for a product with a smooth and easy-to-apply texture.
5. Test the product on a small patch of skin: Before applying the sunscreen to the whole body, test it on a small patch of skin to make sure your baby does not have an allergic reaction.
6. Look for a water-resistant formula: Babies love to play in the water, so it’s important to choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant and won’t wash off easily.
7. Avoid fragrances: Fragrances can be irritating to a baby’s sensitive skin, so it’s best to choose a fragrance-free sunscreen.
8. Choose a trusted brand: Look for a sunscreen from a reputable brand with good reviews and a proven track record of safety.
9. Check the expiration date: Sunscreen can lose its effectiveness over time, so it’s important to check the expiration date before using it on your baby.
How to apply sunscreen on babies
Step 1: Choose the right natural sunscreen for your baby. Look for a mineral-based sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher that does not contain harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates.
Step 2: Apply sunscreen to all areas of the baby’s skin that will be exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, arms, legs, and feet.
Step 3: Begin by applying a small amount of sunscreen to your baby’s skin, and gently rub it in. Be sure to cover all areas of the skin evenly.
Step 4: If your baby has sensitive skin, you may want to do a patch test first to make sure they do not have an allergic reaction to the sunscreen.
Step 5: Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. This will ensure that your baby stays protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
Step 6: If your baby is under 6 months old, it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible, as their skin is still very delicate and sensitive.
Step 7: To make sure your baby is comfortable while wearing sunscreen, dress them in light, breathable clothing that covers as much of their skin as possible.
Best Natural sunscreen for babies
1. Badger Baby Sunscreen
This sunscreen Offers mineral-based SPF 30 protection that is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
- Pros: Made with natural and organic ingredients, free of synthetic fragrances, and non-comedogenic.
- Cons: Can be thick and difficult to spread, and may leave a white residue.
2. Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen
This is a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 50+ protection that is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Pros: Non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals, easy to apply, and provides strong sun protection.
- Cons: Can leave a white cast on the skin, and may be a bit greasy.
3. Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Sunscreen
This is a Fragrance-free, non-greasy sunscreen that offers SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Made with natural and organic ingredients, non-comedogenic, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Cons: May be too thick or hard to spread, and may leave a white residue on the skin.
4. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Baby
Mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30+ protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
- Pros: Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, non-greasy, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Cons: Can be thick and difficult to rub in, and may leave a white residue.
5. All Good Baby & Kids Sunscreen
Mineral-based sunscreen that offers SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Made with organic ingredients, non-greasy, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Cons: Can be thick and difficult to spread, and may leave a white cast.
6. Honest Mineral Sunscreen Stick
This is a natural sunscreen in stick form with SPF 50+ protection.
- Pros: Convenient and easy to apply, non-greasy, and provides strong sun protection.
- Cons: May not provide as even coverage as a lotion, and can be expensive.
7. Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
This is a natural sunscreen with SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Cons: Can be a bit thick and difficult to rub in, and may leave a white residue.
8. California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen
This is a Fragrance-free, mineral-based sunscreen that provides SPF 30+ protection using titanium dioxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, easy to apply, and free of common allergens.
- Cons: May be too thick or difficult to rub in, and may leave a white cast.
9. Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion
This is a natural sunscreen lotion that offers SPF 50+ protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and provides strong sun protection.
- Cons: Can be thick and difficult to rub in, and may leave a white residue.
10. Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunscreen Kids
This is another natural sunscreen for babies with SPF 40 protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
- Pros: Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, non-greasy, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Cons: May be a bit thick or difficult to spread, and can leave a white cast.
11. Suntegrity Baby Mineral Sunscreen
This is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Cons: May be a bit thick or difficult to spread, and can leave a white residue.
12. Green Goo Baby Balm with Sunscreen
This is a natural sunscreen in balm form that provides SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Easy to apply, non-greasy, and made with natural and organic ingredients.
- Cons: May not provide as even coverage as a lotion or spray, and can be expensive.
13. Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Baby Lotion
This is a natural sunscreen for babies that provides SPF 50 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and provides strong sun protection.
- Cons: May be a bit thick or difficult to spread, and can leave a white residue.
14. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen
Mineral-based sunscreen that provides SPF 50 protection using zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, easy to apply, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
- Cons: May not be as water-resistant as other sunscreens, and can leave a white cast.
15. Goddess Garden Organics Baby Natural Sunscreen
This is a natural sunscreen for babies that provides SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and made with organic ingredients.
- Cons: Can be thick and difficult to spread, and may leave a white cast.
16. BurnOut Ocean Tested Baby Physical Sunscreen
This is a mineral-based sunscreen for babies that provides SPF 35 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and made with natural and organic ingredients.
- Cons: May be too thick or difficult to spread, and can leave a white cast.
17. Loving Naturals Adorable Baby Sunscreen
This is a mineral-based sunscreen for babies that provides SPF 30 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, easy to apply, and free of harsh chemicals.
- Cons: May not be as water-resistant as other sunscreens, and can leave a white residue.
18. Raw Elements Baby + Kids Sunscreen
This is a natural sunscreen for babies that provides SPF 30+ protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, non-greasy, and made with natural and organic ingredients.
- Cons: Can be thick and difficult to spread, and may leave a white residue.
19. Burt’s Bees Baby Nourishing Mineral Sunscreen
This is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides SPF 30 protection using non-nano titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
- Pros: Non-greasy, easy to apply, and made with natural and organic ingredients.
- Cons: May not provide as even coverage as other sunscreens, and can be a bit thick.
20. Manda Organic Sun Paste
Taking the last of the 20 top sunscreen for babies is the Manda organic sun paste. It is a natural sunscreen in paste form that provides SPF 50 protection using non-nano zinc oxide.
- Pros: Easy to apply, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and made with natural and organic ingredients.
- Cons: May not provide as even coverage as a lotion or spray, and can be expensive.
Conclusion
Natural sunscreen is a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to chemical sunscreens. When it comes to babies, natural sunscreen is especially beneficial due to its non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and gentle properties.
You can use the Veet gold baby lotion along with a natural sunscreen and when choosing a natural sunscreen for your baby, it is important to look for a mineral-based product with a high SPF, free of harmful chemicals, and easy to apply. By following the tips provided, you can ensure that your baby stays protected from the sun’s harmful rays while enjoying the outdoors.
