Who doesn’t love spending time outdoors especially during the summer? But when you bring your little one outdoors, it’s important to slather on a good mineral-based sunscreen to keep the skin well-protected. After 6 months of age, you can start applying sunscreen on your baby. Before this age though, it’s better to protect your baby from the damages of the by using protective clothing.
There’s an abundance of mineral-based sunscreens on the market now. Because of this, it can be quite challenging to look for just one product to use for your baby. Fortunately, there are some things you can keep in mind to help make a choice easier. For the basic features, make sure that the sunscreen is tear-free, non-greasy, and contains protective but safe ingredients.
In this article, we’ll talk about some excellent mineral-based sunscreen products. We’ll also go through a buying guide to help make your choice a lot easier.
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Coppertone WaterBabies Pure & Simple Mineral Based Lotion
This is a pediatrician-recommended product that’s sure to protect your baby’s skin. It’s a hypoallergenic and gentle product which is mineral-based and meant to protect your little one’s body and face. It’s SPF 50, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and its PABA-free too. It will protect your child from both UVA and UVB rays.
The Coppertone WaterBabies Pure & Simple Mineral Based Lotion contains zinc oxide in its gentle formulation. It’s completely free from fragrances and dyes which may cause irritations in the sensitive skin of babies. Whenever you go outside, apply this sunscreen to your baby’s skin so you won’t have to worry about sun damage.
It’s perfect for different kinds of outings and outdoor activities. It’s able to stop all but 2% of the most damaging rays of the sun. Just make sure to use the product properly to get all its benefits.
Pros
- A pediatrician-recommended product that’s effective but gentle.
- Protects the baby’s face from the damages of the sun.
- Water-resistant sunscreen which is hypoallergenic too.
Cons
- It’s expensive.
- Has a thick consistency.
CeraVe Baby Sunscreen SPF 45 with Mineral Sunscreen
This is another superb product which you can use to protect your baby from the damages of the sun. Keep in mind that your little one has delicate skin which needs a unique kind of protection. The kind of protection you can get from this mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 45.
The CeraVe Baby Sunscreen SPF 45 with Mineral Sunscreen contains naturally-sourced ingredients to provide your baby with superior protection from UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen contains the essential ceramides which can aid in repairing and restoring the protective barrier of the skin. It’s also free of fragrance, phthalates, sulfates, and parabens.
The hypoallergenic sunscreen is both gentle and effective. It has a good consistency, so it won’t get into your baby’s eyes and cause irritation. It’s also water-resistant which is a great feature especially if your little one enjoys swimming.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic, water-resistant lotion which doesn’t contain parabens, fragrances, and sulfates.
- Helps restore and repair the natural protective barrier of the skin.
- Suitable for different types of skin.
Cons
- Not suitable for babies with eczema.
- Doesn’t absorb into the skin too well.
Bare Republic SPF50 Mineral Baby Lotion
This great sunscreen is mineral-based and extra sensitive. It will also provide your baby with protection from the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. The Bare Republic SPF50 Mineral Baby Lotion doesn’t contain any synthetic fragrances and chemical components. It’s easy to apply, and it also contains soothing ingredients such as shea butter, aloe, chamomile extract, and baobab oil.
Pros
- Non-GMO sunscreen lotion for babies 6 months and up.
- Protects baby’s skin and is even suitable for sensitive skin.
- An unscented lotion which is gentle but effective.
Cons
- Has a fairly thick consistency.
- It tends to rub off on clothes.
Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen
This product comes from a well-known brand which produces superior beauty products. It’s a mineral-based sunscreen which contains naturally-sourced ingredients to protect the delicate skin of babies. The Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen is made with a tear-free formula and contains a Purescreen Technology. This helps in the absorption, reflection, and dispersion of the sun’s rays.
Pros
- Made with a gentle and tear-free formulation.
- Water-resistant lotion that’s hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested.
- Protects the skin of babies from UV rays.
Cons
- May cause rashes in some babies.
- Doesn’t blend into the skin too well.
Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion
Sunburn isn’t pleasant, especially for babies. That’s why it’s important for you to protect your little one using the right sunscreen. Consider the Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion. It’s another excellent product which is made with certified organic and plant-based ingredients. It’s made with a special blend of oils and comes with SPF 50 protection from UVA and UVB rays. It’s also tested by pediatricians and dermatologists.
Pros
- An organic and plant-based lotion which doesn’t contain artificial components.
- Protects baby’s skin while under the sun.
- Glides on the skin smoothly for an effortless application.
Cons
- May cause stinging in the eyes.
- May cause irritation in some babies.
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Here’s another great product from a famous brand. The Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen Stick contains naturally-sourced ingredients and a Mineral Guard Technology. It has a special formulation which will form a protective barrier on top of your baby’s skin which will absorb then scatter the sun’s rays for superior protection. It’s an oil-free product which is also water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Pros
- Mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 50.
- Soothes the skin and glides on smoothly.
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, sweat-resistant, and water-resistant.
Cons
- Leaves a white color on the skin.
- It’s quite sticky.
Noodle & Boo Baby Mud Sunscreen
The Noodle & Boo Baby Mud Sunscreen is ultra-light, non-oily, water-resistant, and gets absorbed by the skin quickly. This mineral-based sunscreen will moisturize and nourish your baby’s skin while providing superior protection from the rays of the sun. The SPF 30 sunscreen will provide coverage for both UVA and UVB rays. It contains zinc oxide without any chemical additives.
Pros
- All-natural sunscreen that’s suitable for sensitive skin.
- A dermatologist-tested product which nourishes and protects the skin.
- Doesn’t contain GMOs, parabens, sulfates, and other harmful components.
Cons
- May cause stinging in the eyes.
- May cause dryness.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, SPF 30+, Baby Formula
Here’s another cool product for you to consider. This mineral-based sunscreen is made with the highest-quality minerals, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. The Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, SPF 30+, Baby Formula is clinically-proven to provide UVA and UVB protection, and it’s gentle enough to be used daily. It also comes in a Smart Bottle that’s BPA-free and changes its color when exposed to harmful UV rays.
Pros
- Protects baby’s skin and is gentle enough for the body and face.
- Comes in a clever bottle which changes color to show how much UV rays are present.
- Free of fragrance, parabens, and chemicals.
Cons
- Makes the skin shiny and oily.
- It’s not water-resistant.
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
This effective sunscreen is mineral-based and free of chemicals which are biologically harmful. The Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ is easy to apply, it’s non-oily, and it contains a special zinc oxide formulation. It’s water-resistant and doesn’t contain dioxane, phthalates, parabens, and PABA. It provides SPF 50 protection to keep your little one safe from the damages of the sun. It’s another top-rated product which would be great for your baby.
Pros
- Water-resistant and free of chemicals which are biologically-harmful.
- Non-oily and is easy to apply.
- Also, doesn’t contain phthalates, parabens, and dioxane.
Cons
- It’s expensive.
- May cause irritation in the eyes.
California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30
Finally, the California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30 will provide high-level protection against painful sunburn. It’s a water-resistant sunscreen which will stay on your baby’s skin for up to 80 minutes even though he’s sweating or swimming. It’s a great product especially for babies who have sensitive skin or who are allergic to fragrances. It’s a simple sunscreen that’s elegant and easy to apply. It’s also made with a non-staining formula.
Pros
- Baby-safe sunscreen which effectively protects baby’s skin.
- Protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays.
- An allergy-tested product that’s suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons
- Leaves a white color on the skin.
- Some customers don’t appreciate the smell.
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Who Needs Mineral-Based Sunscreen?
Every child needs protection from the sun. Kids, no matter what their skin tone is, must wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. Of course, those with darker skin have more melanin, but kids with these skin tones can also get sunburns which may cause pain.
If your baby is six months or younger, it’s still safe to use mineral-based sunscreens. But it’s only advised to use the product in the exposed areas and only to use very little amounts. To ensure protection, it’s best to keep young infants out of direct sunlight. Also, it’s recommended to dress babies in clothing which will keep them protected even while outdoors.
Babies need sunscreen, but you should first check if the product won’t hurt your little one. First, do a patch test to check if there’s any reaction. Then you can start applying it more liberally. It’s also a good idea for parents to wear sunscreen to serve as a good role model for babies and kids.
What Are the Benefits of Mineral-Based Sunscreen?
Just like adults, babies can benefit a lot from sunscreens. If you’re afraid of all those chemicals which are usually found in sunscreens, then you can go for the mineral-based variety which is new. Let’s look at some of the benefits of such products, so you know exactly what you’re getting before you choose a product for your little one.
First and foremost, mineral-based sunscreens are meant to protect your baby’s skin. Although some sun exposure is good for babies, too much can be very harmful. This may have some adverse effects on the skin of your little one. Too much exposure might cause sunburn, early aging, discolorations, skin cancer, and more.
You may not notice the effects of sun exposure immediately, but they may manifest later. For instance, babies and kids who’ve been exposed to the sun too much as babies may be at risk of skin cancer when they grow into adults. To avoid this, you must apply sunscreen before going outdoors.
Unlike adults, babies have very sensitive skin. This makes it more important to use sunscreen. However, babies who are younger than 6 months old shouldn’t be exposed to the sun too much, even while wearing sunscreen. If you want to get the most out of the product, make sure to check the ingredients to see if they’re all safe for your baby.
Mineral-based sunscreens are a lot safer for your baby’s skin. They don’t get absorbed by the skin. Instead, they stay on the surface and reflect the sun’s rays with their special components. These sunscreens are also specially formulated for babies. It’s best to use these products instead of sunscreens for adults who may contain harsh components.
Unlike the chemical ingredients, those found in mineral-based sunscreens will protect your baby’s skin without the risk of negative side effects. But it’s important to perform a patch test first before slathering on the product generously on your baby’s skin. In doing this, you can make sure that your little one won’t have an allergic reaction to the sunscreen.
Another great benefit of these sunscreens is that there are special products for babies at different ages. First, there are products which are meant for newborns and infants 6 months and below. You can use these if you’re outdoors and your baby isn’t dressed protectively. Just apply a minimal amount to your baby’s skin so as not to overwhelm.
There are also sunscreens means for babies 6 months and up. You can use these on all the exposed areas of your baby’s skin. When you’re making a change of sunscreen, do the patch test again. If there’s any adverse reaction, then speak to your pediatrician about any products which he/she may recommend for your little one.
No matter which product you use, be very careful when applying the sunscreen to your baby’s face. If you have a squirmy baby, you can either use a toy as a distraction or wait until he/she calms down. If any of the product goes into the eyes, wipe them carefully using a damp cloth. Also, wipe your little one’s hand to ensure that no more product goes into the eyes.
No matter what the season is, don’t forget to apply sunscreen when going outdoors. Even during the winter, the glare of the snow and the rays of the sun can cause painful sunburn. Also, keep in mind that the clouds filter the UV rays, not block them. So, you need to take steps to keep your baby’s skin protected.
There are so many products out there for you to choose from. In the previous section, we’ve reviewed some of the best ones available right now. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, then you can search online for other products. You can also go to the store to check and see what’s available.
What Are Mineral-Based Sunscreens?
One look at your baby and you’ll know how delicate he/she is. That’s why babies need their mineral-based sunscreen which will keep them protected whenever you’re outside. It may have been challenging to find a good product in the past, but now, these are readily available. But have you ever thought about what makes these products so special?
Mineral-based sunscreens usually contain mineral blockers and are designed especially for babies’ sensitive skin. Adults can use products which contain mineral and chemical blockers, but these aren’t ideal for kids as they may have some harmful effects. A lot of parents are concerned when it comes to the components of their baby’s sunscreen. But parents won’t have to worry as much about these mineral-based products.
By far, the best protection you can provide for your baby is to dress appropriately when going outside and avoid too much and too long exposure. Sometimes though, you just can’t stay inside. This is where sunscreens shine. If you apply them to the exposed parts of your baby’s skin, they can provide adequate protection.
Since sunscreens for babies are safe, it means you can use them too! In fact, they’re also great for adults who have sensitive skin as they’re meant for the delicate skin of babies. Usually, these products contain zinc oxide which doesn’t cause irritations, and which can even help calm skin that’s inflamed.
Not all mineral-based sunscreens are made equally. There are sunscreens for babies with normal skin, those with sensitive skin, those who need hypoallergenic products, and more. Of course, there are water-resistant products too. That’s why you should read the product labels or specifications before you make a choice.
What Types of Mineral-Based Sunscreens Exist?
There are different types of sunscreen products available. So, when you’re trying to think about which product you’ll buy, it’s helpful to know them all. The creams work best in the areas of the skin which are dry. The sticks are great for the eye area, especially when applying the sunscreen on kids.
On the other hand, gels are great for areas which have hair such as the scalp. Probably the worst kind you can use for babies and kids are the sprays. For one, you won’t know if you’ve already applied enough product. Also, there’s a chance that your little one with breath in the fumes when you spray on the product.
No matter which type you choose, try to avoid those who have PABA in the list of ingredients as these might cause allergic reactions. If your baby has sensitive skin, it’s best to go for the products which have titanium oxide as an active ingredient.
When and How to Use a Mineral-Based Sunscreen
If you want your mineral-based sunscreen to work properly, you must also know when and how to use it. For one, you should always apply the product when you know that your baby will be out in the sun. The best thing to do is apply the sunscreen about half an hour before going outside.
Apply the product on all the exposed parts of your baby’s body. This includes the hands, feet, ears, nape, shoulders, and more. Don’t forget to lift the straps of your little one’s suit and apply the sunscreen underneath too. Speaking of applying the sunscreen, make sure to do so generously.
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors, it’s important to reapply the sunscreen at least every 2 hours or so. Also, reapply after your baby swims or if he/she sweats a lot. If you want to take your little one swimming, try to find a water-resistant sunscreen.
Finally, check the expiration date of the product. Once it has already passed, throw it out. Do the same if you’ve already had the same bottle of sunscreen for 3 years or more. Remember that you’re trying to protect your baby’s skin. So, you should be careful in how and when you use the mineral-based sunscreen.
Important Factors to Keep in Mind
Ingredients of the Mineral-Based Sunscreen
When it comes to choosing mineral-based sunscreens for babies, you need to consider some important things. One of the most important things to check in such products are the ingredients. Since the sunscreen is mineral-based, that means it should contain either titanium oxide, zinc oxide or both ingredients.
These minerals are very important because they act as a sort of sun deflector. These minerals will sit on top of your baby’s skin rather than being absorbed by it. Then they get those short-wave rays of the sun before they can even hit the skin. This is one of the most important functions of these products.
Some sunscreens contain chemicals which help filter the UV rays. They may also contain other types of chemicals which help the sunscreen adhere to the skin. If you don’t want your baby’s skin to absorb these chemicals, then check the label of the product first before you select.
As you read the labels of the mineral-based sunscreens, try to avoid products which contain ingredients that you can’t understand or pronounce. Also, try to steer clear of products which contain parabens, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and phthalates.
Features of the Mineral-Based Sunscreen
One of the first features to look out for is the SPF level of the sunscreen. Try to look for SPF 30 or higher. This sun protection is a measurement factor which will tell you how long the product will keep your skin protected from the UVB rays which cause sunburn. For instance, a product with an SPF of 40 will keep your baby protected for 40 times longer.
These products will block that harmful UVB (and UVA) rays to prevent any sun damage. Also, try to look for mineral-based sunscreens which have the words “broad spectrum” on their label. This means that the sunscreen will protect your baby’s skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays are the ones which cause deep-skin damage. On the other hand, UVB rays are the ones which cause sunburn. Also, both these harmful rays of the sun can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Finally, another important feature to look out for is the water-resistant feature. When a product is water-resistant, this doesn’t mean that water won’t wash the product off. It just means that the product will stay on your baby’s skin for a longer time before to keep it protected.
SPF Rating of the Mineral-Based Sunscreen
Since SPF is found in all sunscreen products, let’s reiterate its importance. Remember that the SPF ratings measure the protection against ultraviolet light. Yes, this means that sunscreens will keep your kids protected. But that doesn’t mean that you should expose your baby to the sun for a longer time.
The SPF rating is an indication of how effectively the sunscreen will filter the UVB rays which cause sunburn. But the UVA rays are the ones who cause more damage, even increasing the risk of cancer. So, if you want protection from both the types of ultraviolet rays, look for the products which say “broad spectrum” on the label.
Be careful of sunscreens which have high SPF ratings; they might be more harmful. Therefore choosing a mineral-based sunscreen is challenging, especially when it comes to products for babies. Also, keep in mind that just because you’ve applied sunscreen on your baby, that doesn’t mean that it’s safe to keep him/her under the sun for a long time.
The Chemical Content of Mineral-Based Sunscreens
As you look at different sunscreens for babies, it’s only natural to be concerned about their chemical contents. Especially since you’ll be rubbing these products on your baby’s skin. Although mineral-based sunscreens are generally safe for babies, there’s one ingredient which you should be concerned with.
Oxybenzone is a type of chemical which has been associated with the disruption of hormones in babies and children. So, if you’re looking at the ingredients in the product and you find this one, steer clear of it. This doesn’t mean that all chemicals are harmful though. In fact, these are the ones who will protect your child from the damages of the sun.
Remember that sun exposure without adequate protection is extremely dangerous. That’s why you need to apply sunscreen even though they do contain some chemicals. Therefore mineral-based sunscreens are better because they won’t get absorbed by the skin. So, there’s a lesser chance that the potentially harmful effects of the ingredients contained within the sunscreen will affect your baby.
Types of Mineral-Based Sunscreens
Mineral-based sunscreens are new products but are becoming more and more popular. This is because unlike the regular sunscreens, these are considered as “barrier” sunscreens. This means that they will form a physical barrier between your baby’s skin and the harmful rays of the sun. Then they reflect or scatter those rays, so they won’t cause damage.
Although they’re very effective and they’re considered as to be safer because they don’t contain harmful chemicals, they do have a major drawback. They’re generally thicker in consistency, and they may leave a white residue or hue on your baby’s skin. There are different types of sunscreens you can choose.
First, there are creams or lotions which will provide the deepest coverage. There are also sprays which are more convenient. However, they may pose a danger if inhaled, so it’s best not to use these types of sunscreens on babies. Mousse sunscreens are like sprays regarding application. The difference is, you still need to rub them on the skin. Finally, there are also sticks which are great especially when you’re applying the product to the face.
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Conclusion
Simple as they seem, mineral-based sunscreens are very useful. Whenever you go out into the sun especially for long periods of time, you would apply sunscreen to your skin to prevent any sun damage. This is even more important for babies because their skin is more sensitive and fragile. That’s why you need a good product to prepare your baby for the great outdoors.
We’ve reviewed some excellent products for you to consider. We’ve also gone through some of the important factors you must keep in mind when searching for the best sunscreen for your babies. Armed with all this knowledge, you’re sure to find a great product which you can use for your little one.
