The Best Baby Suncreams for 2025

Finding a sunscreen that is suitably tailored to your little one’s needs is so important. But, with a huge selection of sun protection formulas for the face and body to choose from, narrowing down the ideal baby suncream can feel daunting. If you're feeling baffled as to what you need to be putting on your baby’s skin, then you're certainly not the only parent out there.

What’s the Best Type of Sunscreen for Babies?

When shopping for the best baby sunscreen, it’s important to choose a formula that’s both gentle and effective. Look for SPF 50 or higher, which offers strong protection from both UVA and UVB rays—the two main types of ultraviolet radiation that can damage delicate skin. You’ll also want to check for a UVA star rating (four or five stars is ideal) to ensure broad-spectrum protection.

For babies and toddlers with sensitive skin, mineral-based (physical) sunscreens are a good option to explore. These use natural filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to sit on top of the skin and reflect the sun’s rays, rather than absorbing them like chemical sunscreens. They’re less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions and start working immediately on application.

Opt for fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free formulas to reduce the risk of flare-ups, especially if your little one has eczema or other skin sensitivities. And don’t forget to check for water resistance—you’ll want a sunscreen that holds up during paddling pool splashes or beach days, with reapplication every two hours.

Can You Use Sunscreen on a Baby Under 6 Months?

According to NHS advice, sunscreen is not recommended for babies under six months old. Their skin is extremely delicate and more vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV rays. Instead of applying sun cream, the best way to protect your baby is to keep them out of direct sunlight, particularly between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.

When venturing outside, dress your baby in loose, long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and ensure their pram or pushchair is fitted with a sunshade or parasol. Shade is your best friend at this stage.

Once your child reaches six months or older, you can begin applying high-SPF, mineral-based sunscreens to any exposed skin. Stick to SPF 50+ with a high UVA rating, and always patch-test a new product to check for any reaction.

Of course, the best way to protect that delicate skin of theirs is to limit the time spent in the sun as much as possible, but on a family holiday that is usually easier said than done. With the NHS advising that young infants and babies should be wearing sunscreen between March and October in the UK, you may want to start researching the best baby sunscreens for your little ones. But which formula won’t upset that gentle baby skin, or aggravate skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis?

We’ve found the best baby sunscreens that'll keep your baba’s skin looking and feeling as soft as, well, a baby’s bottom. Step outside safe in the knowledge that your precious little one’s skin is fully protected and ready to take on the day with our round-up of the best baby suncreams on the market.

1. Avène Very High Protection Spray For Children SPF 50

Best for sensitive skin & water resistance

Avène is a great brand to lean on when you're looking for high-grade body care. But did you know that they also offer an array of gentle sunscreens that are suitable for your baby too? Don't let unwanted sunburn ruin your little one's holiday this year; instead, use the Avène Very High Protection Spray For Children to protect your kid's sensitive skin. This factor 50 SPF protects against UVA and UVB rays, preventing the likes of sun damage and prickly heat reactions. This SPF is also waterproof, so when your kiddos are splashing about on the beach or in the pool, you know they're still protected from the sun's rays.

2. Heliocare 360 Pediatric Mineral SPF 50+

Best mineral sunscreen for babies over 6 months

For use on babies and children from 6 months old on the face and body, this light, hydrating fluid from Heliocare is easy to apply and leaves skin feeling silky without any white residue. It is suitable for sensitive and atopic skin, and for use around sensitive eyes. It is sand resistant (which means protection doesn’t rub off on contact with sand) and very water resistant, just what you need to protect your child!

3. Riemann P20 Sun Protection Kids SPF 50+

Best long-wear SPF for active toddlers

This hypoallergenic, gentle cream formula provides high UVA/UVB protection for up to ten hours and is even water resistant for up to three hours, perfect for pool- and sea-side holidays. And with its fast absorption and easy application, it's ideal for wriggly kiddies impatient to start playing in the sun.

4. Heliocare 360 Pediatric Atopic Lotion Spray SPF 50

Top choice for eczema-prone skin

Providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection suitable for Fitzpatrick skin types I - V, this gentle formula from Heliocare 360 is one you need to add to your beach bag. Suitable for young ones aged 6 months and over, it's fragrance-free and features a handy spray nozzle for easy application. This Atopic Lotion Spray will cover all bases when it comes to providing the ultimate SPF protection for your kids.

5. Malibu Kids Sun Lotion Spray

Budget-friendly classic with broad protection

An oldie but goldie. Malibu is a staple name when it comes to summer beauty routines, and their sun protection spray is great for kids. As well as having high protection against UVA and UVB, it's also clinically proven to be kind to skin. Little ones can enjoy the sun without compromising their complexion.

Found the best baby suncream for your child? Now it's your turn! It's equally as important to make sure your skin is protected from those harmful rays, too. So why not check out The Top 5 Pro-Ocean Sun Lotions and The Best After Sun Products?

FAQ: Baby Sunscreen Advice

When can you put sunscreen on a baby?
You can apply sunscreen to babies over 6 months old. For younger infants, keep them out of direct sunlight and use protective clothing instead. Always choose a baby-safe SPF 30+ with mineral filters.

What SPF is best for babies?
SPF 50 is ideal, offering the highest protection from UVA and UVB rays. Look for a five-star UVA rating and broad-spectrum formulas designed for delicate or sensitive skin.

What ingredients should I avoid in baby suncream?
Avoid chemical filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone. Choose fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and mineral-based SPFs using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for the safest protection.

Is adult sunscreen safe for children?
In a pinch, yes—but it’s not ideal. Children’s suncreams are gentler, often mineral-based, and better suited to sensitive skin. Adult formulas may cause irritation or allergic reactions in babies.

What’s the best waterproof sunscreen for babies?
Look for “very water-resistant” formulas like Riemann P20 Kids or Avène Spray SPF 50. Reapply frequently, especially after swimming or towel-drying.