Safer Sunscreens for Kids

Shielding your child’s skin from the sun is crucial—but many popular sunscreens are packed with toxic chemicals and fragrances. Experts at the Environmental Working Group advise avoiding those that contain oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, which have been linked to health problems ranging from allergic reactions to hormone disruption. Also smart: passing up aerosolized spray sunscreens and powders, which pose inhalation risks, and towelettes, which offer questionable protection. These products (shown clockwise from left) meet our safety standards and offer sufficient protection for kids:

Goddess Garden Kids Natural SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion was developed after the founder’s daughter had an allergic reaction to some of the chemicals in conventional skincare products ($15, goddessgarden.com).

Sunology Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and includes antioxidants that improve skin health ($15, sunology.com).

Jersey Kids Petrochemical-Free SPF 30 Sunscreen is baby-safe and made with organic ingredients ($19, jerseyshoresun.com).

The Honest Company SPF 30 Sunscreen won’t cause coral reef bleaching, so it’s safe for the environment—and the whole family ($14, honest.com).

California Baby’s Broad Spectrum SPF 30+ Sunscreen Stick is scented naturally with gardenia and lemongrass ($15, californiababy.com).

Related: You’re vigilant about slathering your child with sunscreen, but protecting your skin is just as important. Here, 5 natural sunscreens we love to keep your skin protected without the harmful chemicals.