5 Best Sunscreens for Tweens and Teens in 2026 (Tested for Summer)
By Mauve Juliette van Marle
Summer is loading! Everyone loves summer: pool parties, endless days in the sun, beach trips, and vacations. It's one of the best times of the year. But you know the last thing you want to get? A sunburn.
Sunburns sting, burn, peel, and can make your whole summer feel ruined. The good news? They're mostly preventable.
One word: sunscreen.
Wearing sunscreen every day helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, aging, and skin damage. But when you walk into a store or scroll through Sephora, there are so many options. Which sunscreen actually works? Which ones are worth your money?
I've tested quite a few, and these are my top sunscreen picks for tweens and teens.
Blue Lizard Sensitive SPF 50+
My number one pick is Blue Lizard.
This sunscreen feels lighter than many mineral sunscreens and provides really great protection. One thing I especially like is that it doesn't run into your eyes easily, which is great for swimmers, athletes, or anyone spending lots of time outdoors.
The only downside is that if you have a deeper skin tone, it can leave a slight white cast. Even with that, the protection and comfort make it one of the best sunscreens I've used.
Supergoop! Glow Screen SPF 40
If you love skincare and makeup, you've probably heard of Supergoop! Glow Screen. This sunscreen gives your skin a healthy glow and comes in different shades to suit different skin tones.
It can make your skin look bright, almost like you're wearing a lightweight highlighter. That's one reason it's so popular on social media and at stores like Sephora.
The reason I wouldn't rank it higher is because some people with sensitive skin may find some of the ingredients a little strong. It's also more of a beauty-focused sunscreen, so it may not be the best choice for younger kids who just want simple sun protection.
Sun Bum SPF 50
Sun Bum is one of the most recognizable sunscreen brands out there, and for good reason.
Now, I personally wouldn't recommend putting it on your face because it can sting around the eyes. But for your body, it works really well.
I've used it in some seriously hot places like Jamaica and Punta Cana, where the sun is intense, and it definitely did its job. It's easy to apply, smells great, and offers reliable protection for beach days, vacations, and outdoor activities.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50+
For anyone with sensitive skin, this is a great choice.
La Roche-Posay is known for making products that are gentle and dermatologist-recommended. The Anthelios Dermo-Kids Lotion provides strong SPF 50+ protection while still feeling comfortable on the skin.
It doesn't feel overly heavy or sticky, and it works well for everyday use. If your skin gets irritated easily, this sunscreen is definitely worth considering. It also doesn’t have a strong smell like some of the other sunscreens.
Thinkkids Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
This mineral sunscreen is designed for sensitive skin, which makes it a great option for tweens, teens, and adults too. It provides excellent SPF 50+ protection and stays on well during sports, swimming, and outdoor activities.
One thing people often mention is that it's a bit thicker than some other sunscreens. If you're looking for one of the best mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin, Thinkkids is one worth considering.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen
When shopping for sunscreen, here are a few things to look for:
- SPF 30 or higher
- Broad-spectrum protection
- Water resistance if you'll be swimming
- A formula that works for your skin type
- A sunscreen you'll actually want to wear every day
Final Thoughts
One thing I've learned about summer is this: seriously, don't skip sunscreen.
Sunscreen is one of the most important parts of any summer skincare routine. Without it, you could end up looking like a red Sour Patch Kid after a long day outside.
Whether you choose Blue Lizard, Thinkbaby, Sun Bum, La Roche-Posay, or Supergoop!, protecting your skin is always worth it. Have a favourite sunscreen I didn't mention? Let me know! And if you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out my other summer beauty and skincare articles:
