We all know that the sun produces UV rays that can be damaging with prolonged exposure, so sunscreen for your baby or child is a must, especially a sunscreen for kids with eczema. Sunburn, heatstroke and skin cancer are just some of the harmful effects of the sun. Additionally, those with eczema may also find themselves affected, flaring up in warmer weather or reacting to sunscreens while trying to be safe in the sun.
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. You want them to be safe, but you also don't want their holiday ruined by an uncomfortable flare or allergic reaction. So, what should you do?
The best sunscreen for kids with eczema at a glance:
• Best sunscreen for kids with eczema with a variety of applications: Childs Farm Baby Sun Lotion Spray SPF 50+ - View offer on Amazon
• Best organic sunscreen for kids with eczema: Organic Children Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30 - View offer on Green People
• Best sunscreen for babies with eczema: AVEENO Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Lotion Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50 - View offer on Amazon
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.
The best sunscreen for kids with eczema and sensitive skin
Best sunscreen for kids with eczema with a variety of applications
Description
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. 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.
One reviewer said: "Really light, almost watery coconutty after sun cream! To be honest our baby didn't get much sun but this was the perfect size bottle to bring for a week away for moisturising after baths etc. It smells lovely and leaves skin super soft."
Pros
- Variety of applications
- Registered with vegan society
- Unfragranced
Cons
- May stain clothing
Best organic sunscreen for kids with eczema
www.greenpeople.co.uk
Description
With certified organic ingredients, this wonderful sunscreen by Green People has been designed specifically for children and their delicate skin. Unscented, vegetarian-friendly and suitable for kids with eczema, this highly-rated sunscreen is also water-resistant for fun days out at the local beach or hanging out by the pool.
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 He has never burnt in the sun even when out in the sea snorkelling and playing on holiday."
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
Description
A much sought-after sunscreen, LaRoche-Posay have an excellent brand of skincare that's great for more sensitive skin. Just take their fabulous sunscreen, the Anthelios Dermo-Paediatrics Lotion, 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.
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. It feels light on your skin and it kept her protected from the sun. Perfect!"
Pros
- Very water resistant
- Designed for sensitive skin
- Non-greasy
Cons
- This brand is so sought after that the products go out of stock often
Best sunscreen for babies with eczema
Description
Aveeno continues to be a brand that delivers. Including zinc oxide to offer broad spectrum SPF 50 protection, it's also water and sweat resistant for added peace of mind. It's designed with sensitive skin in mind and, as it's suitable for babies, is particularly good for applying on delicate skin.
One reviewer said: "My little boy has eczema, just like me, which makes buying sunscreen to protect his skin while not irritating eczema is difficult. 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. Like all baby sunscreens, this is very thick and takes time to rub in, but definitely worth it. Highly recommend and will buy again."
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
Description
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. It does take longer to rub in, but don't mind much about it. The only thing I don't like is it's too small."
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
Description
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. This moisturiser hydrates the skin and protects from the sun while being less likely to cause a flare.
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. I was apprehensive at first because of my sensitive skin and was worried it would clog up my pores but the product is pH balanced, fragrance-free and 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
Description
From sensitive skin brand SOS, this lightweight sunscreen is paraben and fragrance-free. A broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen, this vegan-friendly and cruelty-free formula include vitamins and minerals, such as zinc oxide, to protect against UVA. For all skin types, including sensitive and eczema-prone skin, this sunscreen had to make it on our list.
One reviewer said: "Light cream that absorbs into the skin very quickly. 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 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
Description
Developed by dermatologists, this Oilatum body wash has been formulated with eczema and sensitive skin in mind. 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.
One reviewer said: "Absolutely love this product, it smells amazing in the bath and has done wonders for my son's patches of eczema."
Pros
- Quick results
- Moisturising formula
- Unscented
Cons
- Takes a while to wash out of hair
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, "Look for fragrance-free products. Look for mineral-boosted products with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. Look for Broad-Spectrum products. 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 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.
Meet the expert: This article contains expert advice from Paediatric Dermatologist Dr. Jess Felton and Chartered Scientist, Founder of SOS Skincare Bruce Green.
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.