We know the sun causes skin cancer. But we also know that certain toxic chemicals used in sunscreens have been found in our bodies and that these same chemicals are also destroying the life in our oceans, rivers and lakes. What can we do? Today I’m sharing the best natural sunscreens for kids, or really anybody. These natural sunscreens are formulated without toxic chemicals that can damage humans, animals, and our earth, and work just as well at blocking the sun’s damaging rays as their harmful counterparts.

I’ve always been interested in natural and organic products. But once I had kids, I really stepped up my game to learn all about how the products on the shelves of our grocery stores aren’t necessarily safe, as there are really no government regulations as to what ingredients companies are allowed to use.

This means we, unfortunately, have to educate ourselves and understand that just because something is for sale on a store shelf in the United States of America, doesn’t mean it’s safe. This is a sad truth we need to share with our families and friends who may not know any better. The good news is, with all the new, widespread information about the health risks of these toxic chemicals and the detriment they are to our planet, there are more companies than ever creating safe, natural sunscreens.

Here are some parents’ favorites, and the best natural sunscreens for kids (or anyone):

*Disclaimer* The following statements are opinions only. Do not take as medical advice & always consult your doctor to decide which sunscreen will work best for you & your family.

 

Alba Botanica Sunscreen–with an SPF of 50 and a clear application, this is my absolute favorite sunscreen for my family. Plus it’s got 100% natural fragrance and no toxic chemicals like Oxybenzone or Octinoxate. And it’s reef safe & biodegradable. This, in my opinion, is one of the best natural sunscreens for kids (or anyone). -Katie

 

 

Aveeno Positively Minerals Sunscreen–I like this sunscreen because its active ingredient is naturally-sourced 100% zinc oxide. It’s  free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates and dyes and doesn’t irritate my daughter’s eczema. -Becka

 

 

Babyganics SPF 50+ Sunscreen Lotion–I’ve been using this on my kids since they were babies. It’s got no PABA, phthalates, parabens, fragrances, nano particles or Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. I can’t imagine using anything else. -Daniel

 

 

Coppertone Pure & Simple–I just started using this sunscreen but it has become my go-to. I didn’t know much about all the bad chemicals in sunscreens until recently. I went shopping and found Coppertone Pure & Simple which is naturally sourced and I’ve been using it ever since. -Liz

 

 

Goddess Garden Organics–I use Goddess Garden for my kids because it’s thick but goes on smooth. I don’t have to reapply it all the time and most importantly, it’s made with organic ingredients so I don’t have to worry about toxic chemicals getting into my family’s bodies. -Shabana

 

 

Kiss My Face SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray Lotion–I’ve been using Kiss My Face forever. It’s pricey but well worth it. It’s moisturizing and has only good ingredients. I wouldn’t use anything else on myself or my kids. -Kay

 

Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Stick–I love using the Babo stick. It’s easy to apply to my kids’ faces, ears, and lips and it goes on so smoothly. It’s natural and compact so I just carry it in my bag all the time. -Kelly

 

 

Banana Boat Natural Reflect–I was happy when Banana Boat started making natural sunscreen because it’s the brand I used as a kid. Now I feel good about using it on my kids because it’s got none of the toxic chemicals like parabens and Oxybenzone. Plus it’s recommended by the skin cancer foundation. -Sara

 

 

Jason Sun Kids Sunscreen–I use all Jason products and I love their sunscreen. It’s natural and very moisturizing without being sticky or greasy. -Eliza

 

 

Badger Anti-Bug Sunscreen–My wife started using this on our kids. We go down to the river a lot and need a bug repellent and a sunscreen. This is 2-in-1 and seems to work well. -Russ

 

These are, in our opinions, the best natural sunscreens for kids. Do you have a favorite natural sunscreen not on this list? Leave a comment below.

 

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