Spending time in the sun can be fun for kids, but it can also leave their skin feeling dry and sensitive. After sun care is important to soothe and protect their delicate skin from the effects of the sun.
Lotions designed for this purpose help restore moisture and calm any irritation.
When choosing the best after sun lotion for kids, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for lotions that are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate young skin.
Ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile are good choices for their soothing properties.
We looked into many after sun lotions to determine which ones provide the best hydration and relief for kids’ skin after a day in the sun.
Best Lotions for Kids After Sun
We’ve carefully selected a list of the best lotions for kids after they’ve spent time in the sun. These products will help keep their skin soft and comfortable. Let’s take a look at the top choices.
Fairy Tales Sun & Swim After Sun Lotion
A good choice for soothing sun-exposed skin, this lotion offers a gentle and nourishing experience for all ages.
Pros
- Gently hydrates and moisturizes
- Packed with natural ingredients
- Free from harsh chemicals
Cons
- Can sting on sunburns
- Some bottles might have an off smell
- Not all kids might like the fragrance
This after-sun lotion from Fairy Tales made quite an impression on us, especially after a day of fun under the sun. We loved how it just glided on, making our kids’ skin feel soft and smooth.
The combination of coconut oil and aloe is both refreshing and soothing.
Packed with natural goodness, this lotion doesn’t leave us worrying about harmful chemicals. Our kids didn’t complain, and they seemed to enjoy the subtle scent, which was a plus for us as well!
It felt so nice on our skin that we found ourselves reaching for it too.
Unfortunately, we encountered a bit of a sting when applying it on already burned skin. We also read that some bottles might have a stale smell. Despite these points, it remains a staple in our summer routine.
Sun Bum After Sun Lotion
This Sun Bum lotion is a solid choice for soothing and hydrating kids’ skin after a sunny day outdoors with its gentle and effective formula.
Pros
- Nice, light texture that absorbs quickly
- Pleasant smell that makes application enjoyable
- Effective in easing sunburn discomfort
Cons
- Some may find it a bit pricey
- The bottle could be more travel-friendly
- Rare issues with packaging consistency
We used Sun Bum’s Cool Down lotion after a sunny day at the park, and it worked wonders in calming our kids’ sun-exposed skin. This lotion feels light and is quickly absorbed without leaving any greasy residue.
Our little ones loved the smell—it’s sweet and reminds us of a tropical getaway.
The lotion not only soothed the sunburned areas but also left the skin feeling softer and well-moisturized. The combination of Aloe and Vitamin E clearly shows its effectiveness by providing immediate relief and helping to prevent peeling.
If there’s one thing to consider, it’s the cost and packaging. While quite effective, we found it can be a bit on the pricey side for a family-sized need. Also, it would be handy if the bottle was designed to be more travel-friendly. But all in all, we think this lotion deserves a spot in your after-sun care routine.
Babo Botanicals After Sun Gel
This soothing and hydrating gel is a must-have for cooling and comforting kids’ skin after a sun-filled day.
Pros
- Works wonders in calming sunburned skin
- Made with natural and safe ingredients
- Refreshing smell and lightweight texture
Cons
- Scent might not appeal to everyone
- Pricey for the quantity offered
- May leave a flaky residue after drying
We recently tried the Babo Botanicals After Sun Gel, and it couldn’t have been more refreshing after a day at the beach. The combination of aloe vera and cucumber creates a cooling effect that immediately soothes the skin.
It’s not greasy and feels gentle enough even for our little ones’ sensitive skin.
While it’s a fantastic option for dealing with sunburns, we noticed the fragrance isn’t to everyone’s liking. Some of us enjoyed the natural smell, but others found it a bit off. Still, its effectiveness in reducing discomfort takes the spotlight here.
Though it’s on the pricier side, the calming and nourishing ingredients justify the investment. We’ve kept it handy all summer long and found ourselves reaching for it after every sunny outing. For anyone looking for a reliable after-sun lotion for kids, Babo Botanicals’ is certainly worth considering.
Biotherm After Sun Body Milk
Biotherm After Sun Body Milk is a smart purchase for keeping kids’ skin healthy and glowing after a day in the sun.
Pros
- Deeply hydrates and calms the skin.
- Easy to apply with a smooth texture.
- Contains soothing thermal plankton extract.
Cons
- Bottle size might be large for travel.
- Some may find the scent too subtle.
- Texture may be too rich for certain preferences.
Our experience with Biotherm After Sun Body Milk has been positive. Right away, we noticed how the lotion soaked into the skin without leaving any greasy feel.
It’s packed with ingredients that deeply hydrate, perfect for soothing sun-exposed skin. The addition of thermal plankton is a nice touch, promoting quick recovery for damaged areas.
Applying this lotion felt refreshing each time. The scent is light and not overpowering, making it suitable for kids who may not enjoy strong fragrances.
Although some users might prefer a richer scent, we found the light fragrance to be calming and pleasant.
However, the large bottle may not fit in small travel bags, which could be a downside for vacationing families. Still, the value it provides in soothing sunburnt skin makes it worthwhile for regular use after sunny adventures. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for post-sun care.
Project Reef Cooling Lotion
This lotion is a great choice for soothing sunburned skin naturally and responsibly.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and peppermint.
- Vegan-friendly and safe for sensitive skin.
- Eco-friendly, with packaging that helps reduce ocean plastic.
Cons
- Some might find the peppermint scent too strong.
- The lotion could feel too light for very dry skin.
- A few users report it isn’t ideal for severe sunburn.
The Project Reef Cooling Lotion provides a gentle touch after a day in the sun. Our experience with it was quite pleasant. We loved the cool feeling it gave, especially on warm days.
The wholesome scent of peppermint isn’t overwhelming, and it pairs well with the refreshing sensation.
A notable highlight is the lotion’s eco-friendly angle. Its sustainable packaging made us feel like we were contributing to the planet’s well-being. Knowing that our purchase helps clean up the ocean is gratifying.
Still, it’s important to mention that while the lotion worked well for mild sunburns, those with more severe sunburn might need a stronger product. All in all, it’s a reliable option for both our skincare and environmental efforts.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best lotion for kids after sun exposure can be a bit tricky. We’re here to help with what features to look for.
Key Features
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Ingredients: Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile. These help soothe the skin. Avoid lotions with alcohol and parabens.
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SPF: Even though it’s for after sun care, an added SPF can give extra protection for outdoor play later. Check for a low SPF in the lotion.
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Moisturizing Power: It’s important the lotion hydrates well. Glycerin and shea butter are great for deep moisturizing.
Texture and Feel
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Lightweight: Pick a lotion that’s not too heavy. A lotion that’s light is more comfortable for kids.
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Non-Greasy: This helps the lotion absorb quickly and leaves less mess.
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Absorption: Fast-absorbing formulas ensure kids aren’t left feeling sticky.
Allergy Considerations
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Hypoallergenic: If your child has sensitive skin, this is vital. It reduces the risk of irritation.
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Fragrance-Free: Some fragrances can irritate delicate skin. A mild scent or fragrance-free option is usually better.
Packaging
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Pump Bottle: Easier to use and controls how much comes out. It’s less messy and more convenient.
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Travel-Friendly Size: Smaller bottles are handy for trips or outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing an after-sun lotion for kids involves understanding their specific skin needs. It’s important to look for options suited for sensitive skin, babies, and toddlers. Natural ingredients can provide added benefits.
What are the safest after-sun lotion options for kids with sensitive skin?
For kids with sensitive skin, lotions with aloe vera and chamomile are gentle and soothing. We recommend checking products labeled hypoallergenic and free from fragrances and harsh chemicals.
Which after-sun lotion is recommended for babies?
Babies need extra care. It’s best to choose a lotion specifically formulated for infants. Products containing calendula or natural oils often work well, ensuring the lotion is mild and safe for their delicate skin.
Is Mustela a suitable after-sun lotion for toddlers?
Mustela is known for making gentle products for young children. Many parents find it effective for toddlers. It often contains ingredients that help restore and soothe delicate skin after sun exposure.
What are the benefits of after-sun body butter for children’s skin?
After-sun body butter is rich and hydrating, which helps replenish moisture loss due to sun exposure. Ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil can nourish and soothe a child’s skin, making it feel soft and smooth.
Can you recommend a good natural after-sun lotion for children?
Natural after-sun lotions with ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter are good choices.
They are typically free from synthetic additives and offer a gentle way to moisturize and calm children’s skin after being in the sun.
How should I treat my child’s skin after exposure to the sun?
After sun exposure, it’s important to cool the skin with lukewarm water and apply a gentle after-sun lotion or body butter to maintain moisture.
Ensure they stay hydrated by drinking enough water, which supports overall skin health.