Safe Fun in the Sun for Baby: 2015 Recommendations

With summer now officially in full swing, many families find themselves exchanging their diaper bags for beach bags as they head to the beach or pool (or backyard, or splash-pad…). We know how important it is to slather ourselves in sunscreen, but what is considered “safe” for our little one’s delicate skin?

For those under 6 months, the recommendation is to keep them out of the sun as much as possible, but that doesn’t mean you should cancel your plans or stay indoors all summer. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggest keeping your wee one in the shade and in protective clothing when out in the sun. If necessary, you can apply sunscreen on small areas of the body, like their face; check with your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns about what sunscreens might be best. For those babies older than 6 months, protective clothing is still recommended, but sunscreen can be safely used on all areas of the body.

So as you’re getting ready to head out for some fun in the sun, what should you be sure to pack in your beach bag?  We took a look at what weeSpring parents love to use and weighed input from the latest guide from the Environmental Working Group (whose research analyzes the safety and effectiveness of sunscreens) and came up with the list of sunscreens and other products below to help you and your family stay safe this summer. All sunscreens below received a rating of 1, the highest (and safest) rating the EWG gives out. (Unless otherwise noted, all sunscreens are SPF 30.)

What are your go-to products to keep your little ones safe in the sun?  Be sure to rate them on weeSpring or if they’re not listed, suggest them here!

SUNSCREENS:

Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream — Badger Sunscreens have been a family favorite for years and as a certified natural and organic sunscreen, offers broad spectrum protection utilizing zinc oxide as the only active ingredient.  The baby formula is water resistant for 40 minutes, pediatrician tested and approved, and safe for sensitive skin.  Some weeSpring parents note a preference for the unscented formula, if you or your little ones are sensitive to smells. While there’s no real reason you can’t use this version on all members of your family, their kid sunscreen is also amazing (and smells great, too!).

Blue Lizard Australian Baby —  Leave it to the Australians to really know their stuff when it comes to sunscreen.  Blue Lizard is 100% chemical-, paraben-, and fragrance-free, and offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.  This particular formula isn’t water resistant, though, so if you have a water baby, slather on Blue Lizard Sport instead, which offers protection up to 240 minutes in the water.

California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion — weeSpring parents love this non-chemical sunscreen created especially for those who cannot tolerate fragrances or have other skin sensitivities.  It’s water resistant up to 80 minutes, is non-staining, and is free from nut oils, gluten, soy, oat, and dairy.  Comprised of zinc oxide, it provides full broad spectrum protection for all skin types.  Parents do note that this is one of the more expensive products available, but stand by it’s high quality.

Honest Sunscreen — This non-toxic, non-whitening, non-nano mineral sunscreen has only one active sunscreen ingredient:  zinc oxide. This baby-safe product is water resistant (40 minutes), vegetarian, biodegradable, unscented, and provides broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection.  It’s also available as both a lotion and a stick, which is super helpful when your squirming tot can’t sit still (plus the smaller size is perfect for an already-jam-packed diaper bag). Added bonus?  A handful of Honest products (including sunscreen) are available at a few retail chains, including Target, Buy Buy Baby, and Whole Foods, if you can’t wait for it to be shipped or don’t subscribe to their bundles.

PROTECTIVE GEAR:

Hanna Andersson Swimmy Rash Guard Suit — Available in a variety of colors and patterns, these zip-up, easy-off-and-on rash guard suits offer 99% UVA/UVB protection for your little one.  Their comfy design is great for little explorers and won’t restrict movement while splashing away in the pool or waves (or playing in the sand).

iPlay Sun Hat — This lightweight, machine-washable hat is made of UPF 50+ fabric that’s perfect for shading little faces, necks, and shoulders.  The wide brim offers 360 degree coverage from the sun, along with an adjustable drawstring that helps to fit snuggly on any baby’s head.  According to weeSpring parents, the only challenge is choosing from the many colors and patterns!

ro•sham•bo  Sunglasses —  weeLove these sunglasses!  BPA- and paint-free, these Italian-made shades are perfect for helping to protect your little ones’ eyes from harmful UV rays all while being practically indestructible and super stylish.