Leisure Special

Through trial and error we learn that most of the aerosol sunscreens, while quick and convenient, tend to sting. The spray sunscreens don’t seem to have day-long staying power, plus you need to spend the time to rub them in carefully. Some of the smudge-proof, water-proof, rub-proof products do have staying power, but are too sticky and take too long to absorb into excited kids who are waiting to jump in the water or run around outside. So, after a lot of “eeww!” and “gross!” here are a few great sunscreen products:

• No-Ad Continuous Spray SPF 50, Alcohol-Free – this waterproof spray-on sunscreen is convenient and quick to apply, but because it doesn’t have alcohol like the other aerosol sunscreens, it doesn’t sting kids with sensitive skin.
• Baby Lizard & Blue Lizard-Australian sunscreen – this is chemical-free and fragrance-free with 30-plus SPF. Although a bit on the sticky side, it’s soothing and lasts (with one reapplication) through long days in the sun and pool.
• Sunscreen sticks (Coppertone Water Babies brand with 30 SPF) – they have great staying power and work well when applied to high-exposure spots like faces, ears and shoulders. Their small size makes them easy to have on hand — and kids can apply themselves.
• Sunscreen wipes – while not always waterproof, these are quick to apply and provide ample coverage for days at the park or in the yard.