The choice of baby sunscreen is as important as choosing the right gynaecologist to deliver your bundle of joy. Okay, not as expensive maybe. But, a well informed one. There are so many products in the market and the best way to narrow down your options is to buy each and every one and try it on yourself (just kidding, but go ahead if you have the time and energy) or through thorough research.

Based on my mommy brain analysis and research that I did with my best friend Google (isn’t she every mommy’s best friend?) I have put together few parameters. Hope they help you in protecting your baby’s skin.

Sun protection factor (SPF) is the best way to determine how effective a sunscreen really is. It measures the sunscreen protection from UVB rays, the rays which cause sunburn and wrinkling. But, it does not help prevent exposure from UVA rays, which are more life-threatening.  SPF 50 Sunscreen is considered ideal by dermatologists, contrary to the belief that higher the SPF more the protection.

  • Chemical-Based or Mineral based

Chemical sunscreen absorbs the rays into your skin and then dispels the heat back off through a chemical reaction. It is easier to apply, but it’s better to avoid chemicals, as their long-term effects are still unknown.

Whereas mineral-based sunscreens use active mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide to reflect the sun’s rays like a mirror and protect the exposed skin. The application requires little time and effort but you don’t have to wait for 20 minutes after applying to step out. And it’s non-toxic and definitely a safer option.

  • Toxic/Non – toxic

Fight evil with evil is not a good motto to follow when it comes to sun protection. An effective sun protection which is non-toxic at the same time is every mommy’s dream. Some harsh chemicals to look out for are:

  1. Oxybenzone
  2. Parabens
  3. Octocylene
  4. Sulfates
  5. Phthalates
  6. Petroleum
  7. Mineral Oil
  8. Synthetic fragrances or dyes

  • Non-Allergenic

Make sure you choose a sunscreen that is Hypoallergenic. That is, it does not contain any ingredient that can cause an allergic reaction on your baby’s skin.

  • Non-greasy

Last but not the least, a non-greasy sunscreen is always a blessing. It does its job and still makes you look good. Quite contrary to us mommies; wish I could look good doing my job. Maybe I would if I just lost a little bit of weight, or maybe if I just managed to comb my hair more often, or just get a time machine! Well, at least my baby looks good.

If you find a sunscreen which satisfies all your parameters, grab it! I found my best friend in MamaEarth’s Mineral based sunscreen for babies with SPF 20+.

(Sorry, Google you are still my first love) It is Asia’s first Made Safe certified non-toxic brand, which is also hypoallergenic and non-greasy (buhahahaha at my maid).  And it is affordable and easy to order online too.

Congrats on selecting a good sunscreen for your babies by yourself. Just remember UV rays are at their peak between 10 AM – 4 PM to ensure you don’t expose your baby to direct sunlight around this time without sunscreen.

UV rays are equally powerful during winter so continue using your sunscreen. Though a good sunscreen will protect your baby from sunburn, hats and umbrellas will help in protecting them from more dangerous and life-threatening UVA rays to a great extent. And don’t forget to keep them well hydrated and clothed in covered but airy clothes. Go, Mommy! Or Daddy!