Staying Sun-Safe: How to pick the best sunscreen
Living in sunny Long Beach means we’re lucky to have year-round access to the beach, parks, and plenty of outdoor fun, but it also means sunscreen is a non-negotiable for our families. Whether you’re chasing toddlers on Mother’s Beach or relaxing on a blanket at Bluff Park, protecting your family’s skin should always be top of mind. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the best sunscreen for you and your little ones!
Start with the Basics
When choosing a sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which are essential for preventing sunburn, skin aging, and long-term damage.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, SPF 15-30 is the minimum recommendation for children, but higher is often better, especially for active outdoor days. Mineral sunscreens, which use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are particularly gentle and are often recommended for babies and sensitive skin.
Matching Sunscreen to Needs
For babies and toddlers (6 months and up), stick to fragrance-free, mineral-based options like Thinkbaby or Babo Botanicals—both EWG-approved and pediatrician-recommended. School-age kids who won’t sit still for lotion might do better with stick or spray formulas; La Roche-Posay Anthelios Kids and Sun Bum sprays are easy to apply and are just as effective.
If your teen is dealing with sensitive or acne-prone skin, lightweight face sunscreens like EltaMD UV Clear or Versed’s Guards Up mineral sunscreen are great choices. For daily, non-beach use (think running errands around Retro Row or 2nd street) a sheer SPF 30+ will do the trick, as long as it’s reapplied every two hours.
If you’re looking for a great all-around family sunscreen, Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral SPF 50 is a top choice. It’s gentle, non-toxic, and backed by the Environmental Working Group. Hello Bello’s Mineral SPF 55 is also a budget-friendly pick that doesn’t compromise on safety.
For heavy sun exposure or water days, like hanging out at Rosie’s Dog Beach or kayaking in the Naples Canals, Thinksport SPF 50+ offers 80 minutes of water resistance and is reef-safe. If you or your teen need a reliable facial sunscreen that won’t clog pores, EltaMD UV Clear is a consistent dermatologist favorite.
Application Tips You Shouldn’t Skip
No matter which sunscreen you choose, how you apply it matters. Use about one ounce (a shot glass full) for full coverage and apply it at least 30 minutes before heading outside. Reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating. Don’t forget areas like the ears, tops of feet, back of the neck, and even the scalp if your kids have fine hair. Keep an SPF lip balm in your beach bag and toss a wide-brimmed hat into the car for impromptu outings like visiting one of the many local Farmer’s Markets.
Go Reef-Safe Whenever You Can
We love our ocean, so let’s protect it! Mineral sunscreens that are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate are safer for marine life. Brands like Thinksport, Stream2Sea, and Hello Bello all offer eco-friendly options (but always make sure to check the label). It’s a small change that makes a big impact on our local environment.
** This is for informational purposes only and is not to be taken as medical advice. Always consult your doctor about specific sunscreens and/or sunscreen tips for your family.
