Testing suncare products for children
With the summer months just around the corner, it's the perfect time for parents to stock up on children's suncare products. Since toddlers' skin is very fragile, protecting it from UV rays is important. The sun's rays can cause alarming damage, including sunburn, dehydration and even allergic reactions.
With so many sunscreens on the market, it's easy to be confused about which product to choose. That's why Familiprix, in collaboration with the Vie de Parents team, put eight children's sunscreen products to the test so we could share their impressions with you.
First, it's important to know that there are certain recommendations for babies under 6 months and those over 6 months.
Babies under 6 months
According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, you can use a small amount of sunscreen on babies under six months of age (e.g., hands and face), although it's best to avoid the sun and use shade and clothing instead.
Careful! It is recommended that you test the product by applying a tiny amount in the crook of the baby's arm and waiting 48 hours to see if there is any allergic reaction.
Babies aged 6 months and over
Babies aged 6 months and over should wear long, light clothes and a wide-brimmed hat outdoors. However, it is possible to apply sunscreen to unprotected areas of the body 30 minutes before going outside.
First of all, please note that:
- The sun care products tested for this benchmark have been pre-approved by Familiprix health professionals.
- Cost-per-quantity calculations have been made in either $/ml or $/g. The indications "$, $$ or $$$" represent this ratio.
- Note that products offering sun protection specifically for the face are often more expensive than those designed for the face and body.
- The tests were carried out with nine families. Thanks to the mothers of Amélie, Estelle, Anne-Marie, Miriam, Justine, Christine, Catherine, Élise and Mathieu for testing the products with your little ones! All in all, 17 child testers made this product tests possible.
Discover our eight suncare products for babies (6 months and over) and children that we tested.
Avène - High Sun Protection - Kids Spray SPF 50+
Approved by the Canadian Dermatology Association, Avène’s High Sun Protection - Kids Spray SPF50+ protects children's sensitive skin on their faces and bodies. This sunscreen features a patented filtering system containing four sunscreens (double organic + mineral-based protection) for very broad, stable UVB-UVA protection and optimum skin tolerance. Moreover, it's infused with Avène thermal spring water, which enhances soothing, anti-irritating properties. Fragrance-free, it leaves no white residue on the skin. Children can play outside without parents worrying!
Price: $$$
Parent opinions:
"This has been a favourite product for years. It’s the perfect mix of texture, scent and product quality. The spray is super easy without losing any product like an aerosol. It's liquid enough to spread well. This is our go-to sunscreen!" Élise
"My favourite product of the test! It’s very easy to apply without leaving an oily feel." Amélie
"Quite an expensive product, but it's worth it for the quality and properties." Estelle
Banana Boat – Kids Sunscreen Lotion Roll On SPF 50+
Designed for children's delicate skin, Banana Boat's Kids Sunscreen Lotion Roll On SPF 50+ offers safe, effective protection against a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB rays. Its lightweight formula also nourishes, moisturizes and revitalizes their skin without clogging pores. Moreover, it's water-resistant (up to 80 minutes) and doesn't leave the skin feeling greasy. It’s a perfect product for children who love to be in the water!
Price: $$
Parent opinions:
"The kids loved the principle of the roll-on applicator. I prefer this product for touch-ups rather than a full application. It has a fluid texture thanks to the rolling ball. It has a great scent, though!" Amélie
"Perfect for getting kids excited about applying sunscreen. Have them apply it on easier areas and supervise them for better coverage." Justine
"A great product for value. I love the pocket size and roll-on application. It is ideal in scorching weather. However, it is more difficult to apply on large areas of the body." Catherine
Biomedic - Ultra Lotion SPF 50+
Biomedic's sun lotion is ideal for children (from the age of 6 months) and adults alike. Formulated without oxybenzone or parabens, the lotion is rated SPF 50+ for high protection against UVA and UVB rays. The lotion is water-resistant for 80 minutes. It also moisturizes, offering unrivalled comfort to all family members on hot summer days!
Price: $
Parent opinions:
"Great smell, the pump is perfect for parents and children. It’s the perfect size to leave near the front door or the pool area. More than perfect value for the money." Miriam
Daughter Eva comments: "Mommy’s cream is good for you!"
"A favourite product for its value and practical format, so you remember to apply sunscreen to your kids! Buy it in the spring and keep it all summer with 1 litre of protection. It has a very neutral scent and a reasonably thick texture without complicating application. I really like it." Élise
Coppertone - Kids Sunscreen Continuous Spray SPF 50
This sunscreen is specially designed specifically for children. This hypoallergenic, oil-free formula can be applied to both the child's body and face. It offers excellent protection against the sun's UVA and UVB rays. It is water-resistant for around 80 minutes. The spray application is easy to use and gives an even result. It is perfect for kids to enjoy some great times outdoors!
Price: $
Parent opinions:
"Super convenient. Smells great. I have 3 hyperactive kids. I like the aerosol application. It's fast and effective. Tip: Apply indoors!" Catherine
"The kids liked the colours and design of the product. It’s easy to find around the house. The spray is practical. It is important to explain to children that it's not a toy. Good value for the money." Christine
La Roche-Posay - Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50+ Sunscreen for Kids
La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50+ Sunscreen for Kids is ideal for the face and body. This sunscreen is dermatologically and pediatrically tested, protecting children's fragile skin from the sun's UVA and UVB rays while being very safe. The formula, in which ingredients are carefully selected with children in mind, includes nourishing shea butter. It's fragrance- and paraben-free. It is easy to apply to the skin. Your kids will be able to play outside safely!
Price: $$$
Parent opinions:
"Very fluid texture: it takes longer to penetrate skin than other products tested. Finishes a little sticky, but that's probably because of the quality of the coverage/product." Justine
"The price is a little high, but if you use it for more sensitive areas (face, neck, ears) or the start of the season, the purchase is worth it, considering the quality." Anne-Marie
Neutrogena - Kids Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Recommended by dermatologists, this new children's sunscreen in stick form protects the body and face against ultraviolet rays that can burn the skin. Its multivitamin formula leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable. It is water-resistant for around 80 minutes. The stick format is ideal for family travel or activities, such as cycling, swimming or hiking!
Price: $$$
Parent opinions:
"As a busy dad, this is my favourite product! It’s super practical, the kids love it when I apply it, and it's easy for them to do it too. A big hit for applying sunscreen on my kid’s face! We created an event of it in front of the mirror before going out to play!" Mathieu
"The perfect combo of value for money, format, type of application and quality. I discovered a new favourite product!" Estelle
"My gang loved it. So did I! It’s more practical than a spray because you don't lose product in the wind, and it’s super-easy to apply." Justine
Ombrelle - Kids Wet 'N Protect Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60
Ombrelle's hypoallergenic protective lotion is specially designed for children's sensitive skin, and can even be applied to damp skin. It offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is water-resistant for around 80 minutes. Fragrance- and dye-free, it has a light texture that leaves skin feeling soft. Comfortable to wear, it allows children to play outdoors without parents worrying.
Price: $$
Parent opinions:
"Handy for a backpack, diaper bag, handbag or travel bag. I like the tube because you can more easily measure the cream needed for application. Even the kids managed to use it without getting it everywhere. It’s more hygienic, too." Miriam
"It’s not too thick, has a decent scent, and penetrates the skin well." Amélie
Vichy - Capital Soleil Kids UV Lotion SPF 50 – Face and Body
Vichy's Capital Soleil offers children a high level of protection against the sun's harmful rays. Hypoallergenic and containing vitamin E, this sunscreen lotion moisturizes and nourishes the skin. It remains water-resistant for around 40 minutes. During the summer, your children will be properly protected.
Price : $$$
Parent opinions:
"It has a very pleasant texture, and it’s easy to apply. I liked it" Anne-Marie
"I like the fact that it moisturizes as well as protects. It's a win-win. The lotion is more fluid than the cream, which makes it easier to apply. It’s a personal preference, but I like this texture better than the cream—and so do the kids." Élise
Friendly advice:
If your children spend several hours outdoors, it's important to apply sunscreen several times a day, according to the instructions on the product. This is especially important if your child is involved in any physical activity (sweating) or swimming (adapt your product according to their activities).
Final tips from our parent testers:
Sunscreen application is extremely important, especially at the start of summer. To make this sometimes Twister-like task easier, why not involve them in the process? Don't forget the power of choice: offer 2 or 3 cream options and have your child choose. Then, ask them which part of their body they want to apply the sunscreen first. Ask your child to help you apply the cream to certain areas.
To make the most of summer this year, make sure your children are well protected, and above all, don't forget about yourself as a parent. No one is immune to sunburns!
Related services
- First aid kit
