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Our Favourite Sunscreens for Kids

Carruthers & Humphrey Cosmetic Dermatology, Vancouver, British Columbia

Dr. Humphrey and Dr. Beleznay share their top SPF choices for your children.

Sun protection is important throughout the year, but as the summer months arrive and our children long to spend their days outdoors – in the pool, at the beach, or running around the playground – it’s more vital than ever.

Of course, sunscreen is just one facet of sun safe behaviour. We teach our kids to avoid peak UV hours whenever possible, seek shade, and wear protective clothing and hats. Where sunscreen is concerned, we know you’re looking for the very best options available for your kids. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

  • Always choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection (meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays).
  • We suggest a minimum of SPF 30.
  • Opt for a water-resistant formula if you’re swimming or playing in the water.
  • For those with sensitive skin, consider mineral formulas rather than chemical. Because mineral sunscreens don’t absorb
  • into the skin the way chemical sunscreens do, they’re generally less irritating.
  • Re-apply regularly.

Even with these points in mind, the choices might seem overwhelming. Luckily, there are many great options we have vetted for you. Here are some of the products we love and use on our own families.

Sunforgettable® Total Protection™️ Brush-on Shield SPF 50

Sunforgettable is a product we faithfully buy for ourselves, as well as using it on our kids – it’s so convenient and easy to use. This 100% all-mineral sunscreen provides unmatched protection against UVA/UVB rays, pollution exposure, blue light, and infrared radiation. It’s water resistant, hypoallergenic, and free from parabens, sulfate, phthalate, oil and fragrance. We love it for kids because it’s easy to quickly brush on while they’re on the move.

La Roche Posay Anthelios XL Protection Stick SPF 60

The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use; when it comes to kids, the best sunscreens are often those they’ll let you put on them. That’s why we love the La Roche Posay Anthelios XL Protection Stick. This gentle stick sunscreen is created without parabens, oil, or fragrance. It’s SPF 60 and water-resistant, perfect for a day at Kits Pool.

Vichy Idéal Soleil SPF 60

This elegant sunscreen is a favourite for its lightweight texture (i.e. no sticky residue). It offers broad spectrum SPF 60 protection against UVA/UVB rays and free radicals, as well as being water resistant and suitable for sensitive skin.

Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60

Another recommended option for the whole family, Neutrogena Clear Face – which, despite its name, can be used on the body as well – provides photostable, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection in SPF 60. It’s oil and fragrance free, and leaves a weightless, breathable finish.

These are just a few of the products (and habits) that help us relax and enjoy summer with our little ones in tow. We’d be happy to make further recommendations and guide you towards an SPF your household will love – ask us at your next visit!

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