CNET key takeways
- This affordable sunscreen applicator retails for $15 or less and is effective for sun protection on young children.
- It’s mess-free, BPA-free and travel-friendly.
- Since it’s kid-friendly, older kids can apply sunscreen on their own.
If you have a toddler like mine, you know what a battle it can be to get them out the door. It’s an even bigger challenge when I apply sunscreen to my son’s face, arms and legs. It’s the equivalent of wrestling an alligator, and as much as I’d love to skip this step altogether, as a wellness writer, I know it’s essential to keep our skin protected from the sun. However, this process became easier when I discovered the SolarBuddies sunscreen applicator.
For $15 or less on Amazon, this little tool has saved me when I’m trying to rush out the door with my son during peak summer hours. You unscrew the top and fill it with the sunscreen lotion you choose (it can hold up to 3.4 fluid ounces). Its roller ball and sponge make it easy and mess-free to apply sunscreen anywhere on the body.
My experience with the Solar Buddies sunscreen applicator
Since I started using this applicator, my toddler thinks he’s getting pampered with a massage, so he lets me apply sunscreen without a fuss. I don’t worry about potential spills if he touches the plastic applicator because it remains securely shut. I also liked this product enough that I got a second one solely for my adult sunscreen when I go out for a run or if we plan to be outdoors all day.
I also appreciate how the small applicator is travel-friendly and can be easily used by older, more self-sufficient kids. If you care about buying products made out of sustainable materials, the Solar Buddies sunscreen applicator is BPA-free and made of 94% recycled plastic. The one downside is that the sponge will need replacing over time, but you can purchase replacements online for $13, plus $6 delivery fee.
The specs
- Amount of product it holds: 100ml or 3.4 fl oz
- Product size: 3.94 x 2.36 x 3.94 inches
- Features: BPA-free, made of 94% recycled plastic, efillable, travel-friendly
- Color options: 10
CNET’s buying advice
The Solar Buddies sunscreen applicator is a must-have for parents who want an easier way to apply sunscreen to their children that they’ll also enjoy. It’s affordable at $14, so you can buy multiple dispensers at a time if you and your kids use different sunscreens. The normal retail price is about $15, but I have seen select colors go on sale for $12 on Amazon.
When they’re on sale, buy a couple at a time so you can keep one in your car, diaper bag or at home, so you always have one available in case of emergency.
