Taking care of your child’s skin is important all year round, but especially during the warmer months when UV rays from the sun are stronger. Sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to protect against sunburn, skin damage, and long-term risks like skin cancer. However, not all sunscreens work the same way. There are two main types: physical (also known as inorganic) and chemical (also known as organic). 

What is Physical Sunscreen?  

Physical sunscreen, also known as mineral or inorganic sunscreen, contains natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (1,2). 

These ingredients stay on the surface of the skin and act like a shield. They reflect UV rays away from the skin, blocking UVA rays (which age the skin) and UVB rays (which burn the skin). The main features of physical sunscreen: 

• Starts working immediately after you apply it and there is no need to wait 

• Often labeled as broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays

• Gentler on sensitive skin, making it a great choice for babies, young kids, and people with eczema or allergies 

• Typically doesn’t cause irritation or allergic creations 

• May leave a white cast on the skin, especially noticeable on medium to dark skin tones, however newer formulas now minimize this effect. 

Mineral sunscreens are widely recommended by dermatologists for infants and children because they do not absorb into the bloodstream and have a low risk of side effects (1,2)

What is Chemical Sunscreen? 

Chemical sunscreen, also known as organic sunscreen, contains ingredients such as avobenzone, octinoxate, oxybenzone, homosalate and octocrylene (2,3). 

Unlike mineral sunscreens, these chemicals soak into the top layers of the skin. Once applied, they absorb UV rays, convert them into heat, and release the heat away from the body

The main features of chemical sunscreen: 

• Has a lighter, smoother texture that blends easily into the skin 

• Does not usually leave a visible layer, which makes it popular for daily use or under makeup 

• Needs 15 to 30 minutes after application to start working 

• More likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in babies and people with sensitive or reactive skin 

• Some ingredients (like oxybenzone) have raised health and environmental concerns in recent years and are not recommended for use on infants 

Chemical sunscreens may be appropriate for older children or adults who need invisible or lightweight formula, but they are not the first choice for babies or children with sensitive skin (2,3). 

Which type of sunscreen is best for children? 

Choosing the right sunscreen depends on your child’s age and skin type. For babies older than 6 months, physical sunscreens are usually best with a broad-spectrum formula with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. It should be labeled fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and made for sensitive skin. It should be reapplied every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating (3). 

For babies under 6 months, sunscreen should be avoided if possible. A baby’s skin is extremely delicate and can absorb ingredients more easily. The best protection is to keep babies out of direct sunlight, use protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and shade (like a stroller canopy or umbrella). If you must apply sunscreen (for example, on a small area like the face or back of the hands), use only a small amount of mineral sunscreen and monitor for any reactions (3). 

Children’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than adult skin. It burns more easily and is more vulnerable to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Even a few serious sunburns in childhood can increase the risk of skin problems later in life. That’s why sun protection including the right sunscreen is essential for children of all ages (3). 

Final Tips for Sun Safety: 

• Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and a hat with a brim (3)

• Avoid the sun during peak hours (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM) when UV rays are strongest (3)

• Use sunglasses with UV protection for older children (3) 

• Find shade whenever possible, especially for babies (3)

References

1. McDonald KA, Lytvyn Y, Mufti A, Chan A-W, Rosen CF. Review on photoprotection: a clinician’s guide to the ingredients, characteristics, adverse effects, and disease-specific benefits of chemical and physical sunscreen compounds. Arch Dermatol Res. 2023 May; 315(4): 735-749

2. Fivenson D, Norton SA. Sun Exposure in Travelers. CDC Yellow Book: Health information for International Travel. 2025 April 23.

3. Solish N, Humphrey S, Waller B, Vanderveen S. Photoprotection with Mineral-Based Sunscreens. Dermatol Surg. 2020 Dec; 46(12): 1508-1513