Believing nature holds the secret to human health, two American brothers, Sidney and Albert Musher began studying the benefits of oat in 1945. Oat was an ingredient used in skincare since ancient times for its ability to soothe and nourish the skin. The brothers discovered the powers of finely milled colloidal oatmeal to manage dry skin conditions. The famous Mayo Clinic dermatologists recognised their pioneering work and the AVEENO® brand was born. Since then, we’ve published 70 years of clinical evidence supporting the benefits of oat and other natural ingredients. More recently, our research has been instrumental in advancing the scientific understanding of the microbiome throughout the human body, at every stage of life. Today, AVEENO® scientists are industry experts on the microbial diversity of both healthy and compromised skin.

I recommend using mineral-based sunscreen [to my patients],” says Dr. Day. “It offers physical protection and does not penetrate through the skin, especially on babies and infants, over the absorbed alternatives.” She noted that mineral-based sunscreens contain active ingredients (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), which sit on top of the skin's surface to deflect UV rays. This is opposed to chemical sunscreens, which “contain avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, [and] are absorbed into the skin.” What SPF should baby sunscreen have? Sunscreen is typically synonymous with summertime, swimming pools, and sunshine, but it’s important to use throughout the year. As long as the sun’s ultraviolet rays reach our planet, the chance of skin damage is real. Look for a SPF level of 30 or higher. “What’s most important when searching for a new sunscreen is the SPF,” says Madfes. “We always want our sunscreens to have an SPF of 30 or higher.” The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) also recommends sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher.

She says that the FDA doesn’t recommend sunscreen for babies under 6 months of age. “Children at this age should be protected with shade and protective clothing.” Who should use sunscreen? Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Broad spectrum coverage: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends sunscreen products that provide broad spectrum coverage, meaning that it includes both UVA and UVB protection, says Dr. Camp. UVA is responsible for aging the skin and UVB is responsible for burning the skin, so it's safe to say you'll want to be protected from both! The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t recommend sunscreen for infants under 6 months of age. Infants should have their skin covered by hats and loose, long-sleeved clothing or be kept out of the sun whenever possible, such as under an umbrella or shady tree, says the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Chemical-based sunscreens are often powered by reef-damaging ingredients and although Shiseido excludes major perpetrators oxybenzone and octinoxate, making the formula Hawaii-compliant, it still contains others like homosalate and octocrylene which are believed to damage aquatic organisms. So, as Castilla notes, make sure to wear this one strictly on pool days or simply out and about rather than in the ocean. For this article, she worked closely with Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann, who has touched, researched, tested and evaluated thousands of products for almost a decade. She carried out various studies from sunscreens (including formulas for sensitive and oily skin and mineral types) and more. She also lends a hand when it comes to explaining skincare ingredients and verifies product claims. American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2021). Confused about sunscreen? New American Academy of Dermatology survey shows Americans need a refresher on sunscreen application and SPF [Press release].While most sunscreen ingredients are either considered generally safe or are undergoing further research, you should try to avoid sunscreens with the ingredient oxybenzone. This chemical may have hormonal properties, says the AAP. Sunscreen type

Reef-damaging ingredients: Oxybenzone and octinoxate are two common ingredients found in chemical sunscreens that are highly toxic to ocean life and products containing the two ingredients are banned in many places in an effort to preserve coral reefs. However, there are other ingredients in sunscreens including homosalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone that are believed to also be dangerous for the environment. We will continue to partner with scientists who are discovering natural ingredients that enhance the skin’s well-being, because we are mindful of our legacy of innovation.Dr. Day and Dr. Stephens had a lot to say on this topic. It’s no wonder, according to the National Library of Medicine, the incidence of atopic dermatitis has increased two- to three-fold in industrialized nations, impacting approximately 15% to 20% of children. Dr. Day says, “It's important to also consider selecting a sensitive formula that doesn’t contain parabens, fragrances, dye, or chemicals that could further irritate the skin.” She notes that zinc is usually well tolerated (“It’s the same ingredient that’s used for treating diaper rash!”). Dr. Stephens adds that formulas with titanium dioxide are also a good bet.