Sunscreen is a given for kids spending a lot of time outdoors, but knowing which ones will actually protect your family can be tricky.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG), an American environmental organisation that specialises in research and advocacy in the areas of toxic chemicals, agricultural subsidies, public lands, and corporate accountability, has just released their list of the worst sunscreens for kids and babies.
14 sunscreens to avoid
- Banana Boat Kids Continuous Spray Sunscreen, SPF 100
- Banana Boat Kids Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 100
- Coppertone Foaming Lotion Sunscreen Kids Wacky Foam, SPF 70
- Coppertone Sunscreen Continuous Spray Kids, SPF 70
- Coppertone Sunscreen Lotion Kids, SPF 70
- Coppertone Sunscreen Lotion Water Babies, SPF 70+
- Coppertone Sunscreen Stick Kids, SPF 55
- Coppertone Sunscreen Stick Water Babies, SPF 55
- Coppertone Sunscreen Water Babies Foaming Lotion, SPF 70
- CVS Health Children’s Sunstick Sunscreen, SPF 55
- Equate Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 70
- Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunscreen, SPF 60+
- Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray, SPF 70+
- Up & Up Kids Sunscreen Sticks, SPF 55
What sunscreen should I be using?
In Australia, Canstar Blue recently put together a list of the most effective sunscreens available, as rated by consumers.
‘Canstar Blue reviews sunscreens from ALDI, Banana Boat, Cancer Council, Coles, Hamilton, Le Tan, Neutrogena, Nivea, SunSense and Hamilton based on factors including scent, value for money, and effectiveness,’ the website states.
In first places was Hamilton sunscreen, which was given a five-star rating for over all satisfaction and effectiveness.
In equal second place came Aldi’s sunscreen brand, Cancer Council, Le Tan, Neutrogena, Nivea and Sun Sense, all receiving four stars for overall satisfaction and effectiveness.
The Australian Cancer Council recommends parents look for a sunscreen that is labelled broad spectrum, water-resistant and SPF30 or above.