How to Buy Organic Baby Sunblock

The popularity of organic baby sunblock grows every summer because of its lack of synthetic ingredients. Regular sunblock includes parabens, a synthetic preservative, in the ingredients. Organic sunblock doesn't have parabens, so no synthetic chemicals get absorbed by the skin. Organic baby sunblock also moisturizes the skin with natural oils while providing sun protection.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Look for a baby sunblock that guards the skin using zinc oxide rather than titanium dioxide. Although studies suggest titanium dioxide doesn't do harm, zinc oxide is a better choice for baby skin.

2. Check that the sunblock protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA protection is the most important because it's the ray that does the most damage.

3. Read the labels and ingredients for a listing of the organic products in the baby sun block. Common organic sunblock ingredients include sesame oil, green tea extract, grape seed extract and oil, almond oil, beeswax, vitamin E and sunflower oil.

4. Purchase organic baby sunblock that is free of fragrance and artificial colors. These substances can cause allergic reactions in babies with sensitive skin.

5. Buy water resistant organic sunblock for your baby. Even if they don't go in the water, their sweat can wash away the sunblock.

6. Get a sunblock with a no-tear formula. This is most important for babies who go in the water and wipe at their eyes.

Tips & Warnings

• Pediatricians recommend keeping babies 6 months and younger out of the sun. Most sunblocks shouldn't be used on babies younger than 6 months, so speak to the seller of the organic sunblock before buying it for an infant.

• PABA is an ingredient used in some organic sunblocks. PABA is a type of amino acid and too much absorbed into the body can cause allergic reactions. Stay on the safe side and buy PABA-free baby sunblock.