6 Nov 2024
Whether you’re heading to the beach or just going about your day, applying sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. But with so many options out there, terms like "SPF" and choosing between SPF 30 and SPF 50 can be confusing. Here’s everything you need to know about SPF, why Smidge is SPF 40, and how to make the most of your sun protection.
What is SPF?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. The higher the SPF, the more protection you get from these damaging rays, but SPF alone doesn’t indicate complete protection.
No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays, and even high-SPF sunscreens must be reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating, for maximum effectiveness.
SPF 30 vs. SPF 50: What's the Difference?
SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.
SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
New Zealand dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher for reliable protection, especially given New Zealand's intense UV exposure.
Did you know?
All sunscreens now sold in New Zealand have to be independently tested. They also have labelling requirements: sunscreens can’t claim an SPF greater than 50+
Smidge Suncare’s SPF Rating: SPF 40 Sunscreen You Can Trust
Our sunscreen meets the rigorous Australia New Zealand sunscreen standard (AS/NZ 2604:2021), which is printed on the back of every tin, giving you confidence in our products tested protection level.
Smidge Suncare’s Daily Face and Body Sunscreen is rated at SPF 40, offering broad-spectrum protection that’s gentle enough for daily use yet powerful enough for long days outdoors.
How Do We Test Our SPF?
Ensuring reliable sun protection is essential, so our formulations are rigorously tested by Dermatest Eurofins in Australia, a reputable lab that performed the SPF retesting for Consumer New Zealand over the last few summers.
SPF testing involves applying sunscreen to the skin of a group of 10 individuals, who are then exposed to controlled UV light. The test measures the time it takes for each person’s skin to begin showing signs of redness, indicating the level of sun protection provided by the sunscreen.
These tests confirm that Smidge offers dependable, high-performance sun protection you can count on, whether you’re spending time at the beach or in the backyard.
From SPF 30 to Smidge SPF 40: What’s Changed?
If you’re a long-time user of our products, you may remember that Seasick Sunscreen was labelled as SPF 30. With the launch of Smidge, we’ve increased the label to SPF 40—but here’s the good news: our formulation hasn’t changed! After consulting with Cosmetics NZ, we were advised that our sunscreen’s actual SPF testing exceeded SPF 40, allowing us to confidently update our label without any alteration to the ingredients or formula. So, while the label reads differently, your favourite sunscreen remains as effective as ever.
Will Smidge Release an SPF 50 Sunscreen?
For those wondering if Smidge will eventually offer an SPF 50 option, we’re always open to new developments, but at the moment, it’s not on our immediate roadmap. Here’s why:
Achieving consistent SPF 50 coverage requires a much higher concentration of UV filters, which can alter the sunscreen’s texture and make it less comfortable for sensitive skin. In fact, some brands claiming SPF 50 have struggled to meet this level when retested. At Smidge, we’re confident that SPF 40 provides high protection and is more than sufficient when applied correctly and reapplied regularly.
For ultimate sun safety, remember that sunscreen should always be part of a sun-smart routine, including protective clothing, hats, and time out of direct sun.
Are you ready to try Smidge Suncare and experience sun protection that feels as good as it performs?