Let’s be real—putting sunscreen on a squirmy toddler is basically a full-contact sport. I’ve been there, wrestling little limbs while trying not to get lotion in their eyes (or mine!). But thankfully, there are some genius sunscreen applicators for kids that actually make this easier—for both you and your little one. Whether they’re toddlers, preschoolers, or even big kids, you’ll probably love using a sunscreen applicator! I’ve tested a bunch of them and narrowed it down to a few great options that are easy to use, less messy, travel-friendly, and kid-approved.
These are great for daily use, park trips, Disney days, beach trips, and so much more. If you struggle with getting your little one to let you put their sunscreen on (when you need to use it), a sunscreen applicator may be your new best friend. Here are the best ones I found!
1 Ubbi Sunsqueeze | 2 Palksky Brush | 3 Mothercould Brush | 4 Boon Yuvi | 5 Solar Buddies | 6 Kyhdiya
Need a sunscreen recommendation? I recommend the best clean mineral sunscreens for babies and kids in my guide to the best non-toxic baby sunscreens (and yes, I actually use baby sunscreen for the whole family!).
1. Ubbi Sunsqueeze Refillable Applicator
The Ubbi Sunsqueeze is my favorite sunscreen applicator for kids! It’s cute, colorful, and completely made from silicone. This makes it a healthier choice than the other products that are made with plastic or foam applicators. That’s why it tops our list.
You could describe the Ubbi as almost a refillable roll-on bottle topped with super soft silicone bristles instead of a sponge. This makes it easy to use on the whole body, including your little one’s face. It’s easy to dispense sunscreen, and it’s kind of fun to use the applicator and apply sunscreen to yourself (adults included!).
The Ubbi Sunsqueeze made to be leak-proof, with a tight cap that prevents leaks in your bag. And because you’re not squirting lotion into your hands, there’s a lot less mess and product waste. It also has a nice hanging loop so that you can carry it with you or attach it to a stroller, beach bag, or backpack. Plus, little ones enjoy using this fun product. A total must-have for your sun days!
2. Palksky Sunscreen Applicator Brush
The Palksky Sunscreen Applicator is a soft bristle brush that you use to apply sunscreen to your child’s skin. It’s kind of like a paintbrush for sunscreen, which makes it a wonderful option in my opinion. The bristles are very densely packed and soft, designed specifically for children’s delicate skin. The brush does a good job of not absorbing too much sunscreen, which makes cleanup easier.
In addition to being pretty mess-free, using a sunscreen brush is a great idea because it adds a sensory aspect to applying sunscreen.
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3. Mothercould Sunscreen Brush
For smooth and mess-free sunscreen application, try the Mothercould Sunscreen Brush. This is a set of two brushes — one for the face and one for the body — that allows you to apply sunscreen to your little one with ease. This is a convenient option for using at home before you head out for a day in the sun, but I would say this is going to be a less portable option than some of the other sunscreen applicators on the list. Although the brushes come with a cover, this product wouldn’t be my top choice if you will be out for a long day and will need to reapply sunscreen. Go for one of the leak-proof options on this list instead.
4. Boon YUVI Sunscreen Applicator
The Boon YUVI is a squeeze-and-sponge style applicator. It has a silicone reservoir and a gentle foam sponge at the tip. You fill the bulb with up to 3 ounces of sunscreen lotion, and when you squeeze, the sunscreen moistens the sponge for you to rub on your child’s skin. The only reason I didn’t rank this higher is because this product (and all those below) contain foam that makes contact with your child’s skin, and the sunscreen. It does apply sunscreen pretty quickly and evenly, and it’s very easy to use. It also has a twist-cap design that prevents the tube from leaking sunscreen, which is great.
5. Solar Buddies Refillable Sunscreen Applicator
Solar Buddies is the most popular sunscreen applicator on the market. It has a roller ball and sponge combo that makes applying sunscreen smooth and easy. Just fill it with your preferred lotion sunscreen, snap on the cap, and let your child glide it on. It’s pretty mess-free and the bright chunky design makes it kid-free too. It does contain foam, which is the only reason it’s not ranked higher on this list.
6. Kyhdiya Travel Sunscreen Applicator
This one is kind of stylish! This applicator by Kyhdiya features a soft sponge brush and ergonomic handle, allowing for precise and even distribution of sunscreen. Its compact size and handle make it ideal for travel.
Have Fun in the Sun!
I’ll be honest—I’m not a huge fan of slathering sunscreen on 24/7. Our kids need sunshine; it’s essential for healthy vitamin D levels, immune support, and overall well-being. That said, there are definitely times when sunscreen makes sense—like long days at the beach, summer hikes, or anytime we’re out in full sun for extended periods. In those moments, having a safe, kid-friendly way to apply it makes all the difference.
I hope this list of sunscreen applicators has been helpful!
Recommended:
- Best Non-Toxic Baby Sunscreen Brands
- Sun-Safety Tips: A Guide to Safe Sun Exposure for Babies
- The Best Non-Toxic Bubble Bath for Kids (That Still Make Lots of Bubbles!)
- The Best Non-Toxic Bath Toys: Plastic-Free Toys for Bath Time
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