7 Safe Sunscreens
Seeking safe sunscreen? Shield baby's skin from the harsh rays with these natural lotions.
By Jessica Hartshorn
Mineral-based sunscreens are best for your baby. (And not a bad idea for you either!) In the following seven sunscreens, zinc oxide is the primary active ingredient; it stays on top of your baby's skin to physically block rays.
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An additional mineral, titanium dioxide, helps get Aveeno Baby Natural Protection Lotion up to an SPF 50. Even so, you'll want to reapply after you've been outside awhile, and it's always best to avoid being out between 10am and 2pm. ($10-$11)
Green Babies SPF 30 Sunscreen is lightly scented with essential oil. It's also PABA-and paraben-free. With all sunscreens, put them on before you head outdoors if possible. ($17)
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Coppertone Water Babies Pure & Simple SPF 50 stays water-resistant for 80 minutes. Reapply after you towel-dry your baby. The price is especially nice considering it's a large 8-ounce bottle! ($10)
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Mustela's latest for littles is hypoallergenic, phthalate- and paraben-free, and boasts an SPF 50 thanks to both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. ($22)
Seventh Generation Broad Spectrum SPF 30, made with extra virgin olive oil and water-resistant for 80 minutes, earned the title of Top Sunscreen 2012 by the Environmental Working Group. ($14)
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Babo Botanicals SPF 30 is a clear lotion that offers the protection of zinc without its usual white residue. ($19)
A mom of two created BabyHampton, an organic SPF 30 brand with moisturizing ingredients such as grape-seed extract, shea butter, and jojoba oils. ($20)
This article first appeared in the May 2013 issue of American Baby magazine.
