My child ate sunscreen. What should I do?

Q: My child ate sunscreen. What should I do?

Sunscreen is minimally toxic. If your child ate sunscreen, give them a few sips of water and watch for vomiting and diarrhea. If these symptoms persist, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222 .

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Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Sunscreen

Sunscreen is minimally toxic .

If your child ate sunscreen, give them a few sips of water and watch for vomiting and diarrhea. If these symptoms persist, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

What to know: Sunscreen

Sunscreen is also known as sunblock or sun tan lotion. Common brands include Coppertone, Hawaiian Tropic, Banana Boat, Neutrogena, Baby Blanket, Blue Lizard and others.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate sunscreen. Is suncreen toxic?

The ingredients in sunscreen are minimally toxic, but can cause an upset stomach.

Symptoms of Poisoning

If your child ate sunscreen, give them a few sips of water and monitor for vomiting or loose stools.

If your child experiences more than one episode of vomiting, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

Sunscreen may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.
If your child got sunscreen in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.