As a parent, safeguarding your child's skin from the sun's harmful rays is a year-round responsibility. New guidance from the NHS recommends that children in the UK should wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 from March through October, even on overcast days. With a vast array of products on the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. To help, we rigorously tested around 50 formulas over two spring and summer periods to bring you a definitive list of the best sunscreens for kids in 2025.
Expert Advice for Choosing Kids' Sunscreen
Consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, Dr Derrick Phillips, emphasises the importance of robust protection for young skin. "Children's skin is more sensitive and vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV rays, which can cause sunburn, blistering and increase the risk of skin cancer later in life," he says. He often recommends mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin as they start working immediately and are less likely to cause irritation.
When shopping, look for broad-spectrum protection (guarding against both UVA and UVB rays), a high SPF – ideally SPF 50 – and water resistance. In the UK, a five-star UVA rating is the gold standard. Remember, even waterproof formulas need reapplying after swimming or heavy sweating.
Our Top Tested Picks for 2025
Our testing panel, which included children and adults of various ages and skin types, evaluated each product on ease of application, texture, scent, and performance in real-life conditions like beach trips and garden play. Here are the standout winners.
Best Overall Performer
The Altruist Family Sunspray SPF 50 (£11.50) emerged as our top choice. Its non-slip trigger spray allows for quick, fuss-free application, even on wriggly toddlers. The light texture absorbs rapidly without leaving a sticky residue or white cast. It offers high broad-spectrum protection with a five-star UVA rating, is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and water-resistant, making it excellent value for the whole family.
Best Budget Buy
Aldi's Lacura Sun Lotion SPF 50 (£2.99) has earned its cult status. This incredibly affordable lotion is designed for sensitive skin, rubs in easily without greasiness, and offers solid SPF 50 protection. While it may require slightly more frequent reapplication than some premium brands, its price point makes it easy to stock up for impromptu outdoor adventures.
Best for Sensitive Skin
For children with eczema-prone or highly reactive skin, La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Dermo-Pediatrics Invisible Spray SPF 50+ (£25.50) is a premium but high-performance option. It provides ultra-high UVA protection, absorbs well with no white cast, and contains soothing ingredients like vitamin E and shea butter. The bottle design can be tricky to use, but the formula is exceptionally gentle.
Best for Water Resistance
The Ocean Freedom Surf Clay Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ (£13) is a fun and functional choice for serious water play. Its coloured clay formula (available in pink or blue) makes it easy to see where it's been applied, ensuring no spot is missed. It's reef-safe, made with non-nano zinc oxide, and offers robust, long-lasting protection for surfing, swimming, or beach days.
Key Sunscreen FAQs for Parents
How often should I apply my child's sunscreen? The NHS advises applying it twice before sun exposure: 30 minutes before going out and again just before leaving. Reapply liberally every two hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Mineral or chemical sunscreen? Mineral (physical) sunscreens sit on the skin's surface and deflect UV rays, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and neutralise UV rays; they often blend more easily, especially on darker skin tones. The choice depends on skin sensitivity and preference.
Can adults use kids' sunscreen? Yes, unless stated otherwise by the brand. Children's formulas often use gentler, hypoallergenic ingredients, making them a good option for adults with sensitive skin.
The Final Verdict
After extensive testing, the Altruist Family Sunspray SPF 50 stands out as the best all-rounder, offering ease, efficacy, and value. For budget-conscious families, Aldi's Lacura lotion is unbeatable. Those needing specialist care for sensitive or acne-prone skin should consider Eucerin's Kids' Sun Gel Cream SPF 50+ or the La Roche-Posay spray. Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one you'll apply generously and reapply often, ensuring your child's skin stays protected throughout the year.
