The sun produces UV rays that can be damaging with prolonged exposure, so sunscreen for your baby or child is a must, and this is especially so for kids with eczema. Sunburn, heatstroke and skin cancer are just some of the harmful effects of the sun, but if your child suffers with eczema or sensitive skin they may be more likely experience flare-ups because of the warmer weather or due to having adverse reactions to sunscreens while trying to stay safe in the sun. This is why it's so important to choose your sunscreen carefully when it comes to a child more susceptible to skin irritation.
When selecting the right sunscreen for a child with eczema or sensitive skin, you want the best level of protection from the sun that will last while they have fun outside, but you also want a formula that won't irritate their more delicate skin. It's important for them to be safe, but you also don't want their holiday ruined by an uncomfortable flare or allergic reaction.
We've sourced some expert advice and put together a guide that recommends the best sunscreen for kids with eczema and sensitive skin. That way, you can be assured your kids can safely play under the sun without the risk of a flare-up.
We've searched through customer reviews to find out and share the best sunscreen products for kids with eczema. Keep reading to find out which ones parents liked the best!
The best sunscreen for kids with eczema at a glance:
The best sunscreen for kids with eczema and sensitive skin
Best sunscreen for kids with eczema with a variety of applications
Shortlisted in Mother & Baby Awards 2022 for Best Sun Protection Cream
In the form of spray, cream and roll-on, Childs Farm has a range of highly rated sunscreen that is shortlisted in the M&B Awards and comes highly recommended on Amazon. One reviewer described it as, "Really light, almost watery coconutty after sun cream!" They admitted that their baby didn't necessarily get much sun when wearing the sun cream but said that the bottle was the perfect size to bring for a week away, and that they found it to be very moisturising after baths. "It smells lovely and leaves skin super soft" they said.
You'll be pleased to know that this SPF 50+ unfragranced sunscreen is suitable for those with sensitive skin, is registered with the vegan society and is also water resistant. Childs Farm sunscreen has also undergone clinical dermatological testing and has been paediatrician-approved. It's a great option, but just be careful when applying, as it may stain your child's clothing.
Pros
- Variety of applications to choose from
- Spray-on option means fuss-free application
- Registered with vegan society
- Unfragranced
Cons
- May stain clothing
Best organic sunscreen for kids with eczema
www.greenpeople.co.uk
With certified organic ingredients, this wonderful sunscreen by Green People has been designed specifically for children and their delicate skin. One reviewer said, "I have been using this product for my 10-year-old son since he was a baby. It is extremely gentle for his delicate sensitive skin which can be prone to eczema.' The product is unscented, vegetarian-friendly and suitable for kids with eczema. it is a highly-rated sunscreen that is also water-resistant for fun days out at the local beach or hanging out by the pool. This reviewer confirms "He has never burnt in the sun even when out in the sea snorkelling and playing on holiday." If you've used this product before, note that the formula has been changed, so it may not be exactly as you recall.
Pros
- Uses certified organic ingredients
- Vegetarian friendly
- Unscented
Cons
- Formula has been changed
Best sunscreen range for kids with eczema
www.laroche-posay.co.uk
A much sought-after sunscreen, LaRoche-Posay have an excellent brand of skincare that's great for more sensitive skin. One reviewer said, ""I have a child with very sensitive skin and this is the first suncream she has had no reaction to at all." The fabulous sunscreen, Anthelios Dermo-Paediatrics Lotion, is designed especially for kids with certain sensitivities. With high SPF 50+ protection and water resistance, this sunscreen has a lovely moisturising effect on the skin. This reviewer says, "It feels light on your skin and it kept her protected from the sun. Perfect!" This is a very popular brand though, and it often goes out of stock, so get you hands on it now if you can.
Pros
- Very water resistant
- Designed for sensitive skin
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Popular brand, so goes out of stock often
Best sunscreen for babies with eczema
Aveeno continues to be a brand that delivers, containing zinc oxide to offer broad spectrum SPF 50 protection. It's also water and sweat resistant for added peace of mind. And designed with sensitive skin in mind, it's suitable for babies, and is particularly good for applying on delicate skin.
One reviewer whose son has eczema expresses that they find it difficult to buy sunscreen to protect his skin, while not triggering his eczema. They say, "He's got on well with other Aveeno products so I gave this a go. When I washed it off that evening his eczema hadn't flared up at all, which is what always happened to my skin with other sunscreen brands" (the parent says they also suffer from eczema) "Like all baby sunscreens, this is very thick" they said, "and takes time to rub in, but definitely worth it. Highly recommend and will buy again."
We like that the product is made from naturally sourced products, is non-greasy and suitable for adults as well as babies, but keep in mind that it may not be the best value sunscreen for the price as the product is quite small.
Pros
- Not just suitable for babies!
- Non-greasy
- Naturally sourced products
Cons
- Small product, especially given the price
Best sunscreen stick for babies with eczema
This sunscreen stick from Neutrogena may be small, but it's perfect for a day trip out to the beach. With a broad spectrum - zinc oxide and SPF 60 protection, it's perfect for protecting kids with sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic with added water-resistant properties, they'll be splashing in the ocean without a care in the world in no time.
One reviewer said, "My daughter has very sensitive skin, her face flared up using other sunscreens, but this one is an exception." They admitted it does take longer to rub the product in, but said that they didn't mind this so much, and the only thing that did bother them was that the product is too small.
We think that this can also have it's plus points though, as it makes it a handy size to carry on-the-go, which is great for top-ups throughout the day. Be aware that because it does apply quite thickly, it will leave a white residue on the skin, and take extra timw to rub in completely.
Pros
- High SPF protection
- Handy to carry due to small size
- Unscented
Cons
- Leaves white residue on the skin
Best moisturiser for kids with eczema with SPF protection
www.boots.com
Having been recommended and trusted by doctors and dermatologists for over 70 years and being product approved by the National Eczema Association, this SPF 50+ moisturiser has been formulated with sensitive skin, allergies and eczema in mind. One reviewer said, "I'm really aware of the importance to wear a high SPF every day, however, I don't want to use a million products as my skin is sensitive and acne prone. This moisturiser has really impressed me it's lightweight but high SPF."
Keep in mind that this is a moisturiser with SPF protection, that hydrates the skin and protects from the sun while being less likely to cause a flare-up – this means that you\ll have to apply it liberally for full effect. The reviewer said they were apprehensive at first because of their sensitive skin, as they were worried it would clog up their pores, however, because the product in pH balanced and fragrance-free it didn't cause them any problems, and they said, "so far so good!"
Pros
- Allows pores to breathe
- High SPF protection
- Unscented
Cons
- Have to apply very liberally for full effect - remember, this is a moisturiser with SPF protection.
Best lightweight sunscreen for kids with eczema
www.sosserum.co.uk
From sensitive skin brand SOS, this lightweight sunscreen is paraben and fragrance-free. One reviewer confirmed it to be a light cream that absorbs into the skin very quickly. It is a broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen, vegan-friendly and with a cruelty-free formula that includes vitamins and minerals, such as zinc oxide, to protect against UVA. And most importantly, it is suitable all skin types, including sensitive and eczema-prone skin, this sunscreen had to make it on our list. The reviewer said it; "Appears to give good sun protection and doesn't cause flare-ups of my hyper-sensitive skin. Will definitely buy more."
Pros
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Non-greasy
- Unscented
Cons
- Quite a small container
How to choose products for kids with eczema and sensitive skin
We spoke to expert Paediatric Dermatologist Dr Jess Felton on behalf of Oilatum products for dry skin - as well as Bruce Green, Chartered Scientist and founder of SOS Serum Skincare, who advised on the best course of action when it comes to eczema and sensitive skin.
Dr Jess Felton explained, "Skin in children is thinner and more sensitive. Children's skin and hair do not need such frequent washing as adult skin, and water by itself can be very drying. Strong perfumes are best avoided, for example, in a bubble bath or soap product, as they may irritate the child's skin further."
"Some products aimed at children also contain things like glitter and colouring, which, again, can be irritating. I also advise parents to avoid food and nut products in leave-on creams, as there is a theoretical risk of an allergy developing," Dr Jess advises.
Similarly, founder of SOS Serum Skincare, Bruce Green, suggests:
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Look for fragrance-free products
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Look for mineral-boosted products with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide
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Look for Broad-Spectrum products.
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And finally, look for a formulation designed especially for sensitive skin.
The effects that sun exposure can have on eczema
"The warmer weather, although welcomed by many, can bring with it its problems for the skin," Dr Jess explains. "Naturally, as the temperature increases, we sweat more, and the salts found in sweat can aggravate and irritate the skin. As a result, we also wash our skin more which can, in turn, dry it out."
Likewise, Bruce Green advises, "Eczema sufferers' skin does not like getting hot and sweaty. So stay cool and look for shade. Too much sun can inflame the skin and lead to eczema flares. Always wear a sun protective product."
How to manage eczema in the sun
Green advises, "Use multi-application. Before putting on sunscreen, moisturise first. Follow with two thin film applications of your selected sunscreen. Allow 10 minutes between applications. Our recommended product would be the SOS SPF 50 Sun Cream."
Felton advises, "Look for a physical or mineral sun cream over a chemical one. Physical sun creams create a protective barrier over the skin and tend to be better for people with skin sensitivities, as the skin is not directly absorbing the chemicals.
"Drink enough water to keep the body and skin hydrated. Wear loose, cotton clothing. Avoid prolonged exposure to chlorinated water and be sure to rinse off with clean water after swimming, removing wet clothing as soon as possible to help minimise any irritation to the skin.
"Keep on top of your skin routine and keep skin moisturised. Our recommended products for caring for eczema-prone skin would be the Oilatum Soothe & Protect Head to Toe Wash (£5.29)."
These are all fantastic options. You can also try the Oilatum Soothe & Protect Junior Bath Foam too.
Best body wash for kids with eczema
www.boots.com
Developed by dermatologists, this Oilatum body wash has been formulated with eczema and sensitive skin in mind. One reviewer said, "Absolutely love this product, it smells amazing in the bath and has done wonders for my son's patches of eczema." As well as having a moisturising effect, this gentle cleanser contains no irritants meaning their skin is less likely to react. To help reduce the occurrence of dry skin, Oilatum respects the natural moisture barrier in young skin. It does take a little while to wash out of the hair though.
Pros
- Quick results
- Moisturising formula
- Unscented
Cons
- Takes a while to wash out of hair
How to protect your kids from the sun
Here are some measures that you can take to ensure your children are safe and protected while they're playing outdoors in the sun. It's important to follow these steps to prevent the damage that the sun can have.
Shaded areas
Ensure your children have enough shade to protect them from sunburn and sunstroke. If you're going to be in an area that has minimal shade, provide some with beach tents, parasols and pram sunshades.
Keeping cool
Prevent overheating and heatstroke by investing in a portable fan or cool snack to take with you to help regulate their temperature.
Staying hydrated
Another way to regulate their temperature is by making sure they drink plenty of water. Prevent dehydration by taking a big bottle of water wherever you go.
Wearing sun protection
Dressing for the weather is the best way to keep your children cool and protected from the sun. Sun hats, UV-protected and correctly fitting sunglasses and rash vests will stop skin, eyes and scalp from being damaged by the sun.
Applying sunscreen
Of course, regularly applying sunscreen, whether a waterproof sunscreen for kids or not, is extremely important. The higher factor, the better, as this will provide more of a barrier against harmful UV rays. There are specially formulated sunscreens for those with sensitive and eczema-prone skin. You may find aftersun lotions useful too for leaving your little one's skin feeling soft and moisturised after a day at the beach.
About the experts
Paediatric Dermatologist Dr. Jess Felton trained in London and Sussex qualifying as a Dermatology Consultant in 2011. She then undertook a specialist fellowship at Guys and St Thomas' Hospital for advanced dermatology training. Her broad expertise allows Dr Jess to provide expert and safe skin care for all ages and conditions.
Chartered Scientist, Founder of SOS Skincare Bruce Green has 25 years' experience in formulation chemistry, specialising in three market areas, skincare, infection control and food hygiene, in both the UK and North America and is responsible for many famous name products.
How we test and choose recommended products
Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.
Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.
For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.
About the author
Samantha 'Sam' Price is a Beauty, Fashion & Wellness Products Writer at Bauer Media, working across a number of brands including Mother&Baby, Closer, heatworld, Grazia, Yours and Spirit & Destiny amongst others.