5 Mar 2025
Not all sunscreens are created equal—especially when it comes to sensitive skin. If you’ve ever experienced stinging, redness, or breakouts after applying sunscreen, you’re not alone. Many sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters that can irritate the skin and even disrupt hormones. These ingredients can be absorbed through the skin. “In recent years, studies have also raised concerns about endocrine-disrupting effects of three ingredients: homosalate, avobenzone and oxybenzone (EWG 2025).
The good news? There’s a better way to protect your skin—with zinc oxide.
How Sunscreens Achieve SPF Protection
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen shields your skin from harmful UVB rays—the type of radiation that causes sunburn and skin damage. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection (as long as the sunscreen is being applied properly and re-applied regularly):
SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays
No sunscreen provides 100% protection! SPF 30 is widely recommended by New Zealand dermatologists as the minimum for daily use—especially given NZ’s harsh UV conditions.
But how a sunscreen provides that protection makes all the difference.
The Difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone and octinoxate) absorb into the skin and soak up UV radiation (EWG 2025). Many people find that chemical sunscreens lead to painful skin irritation, redness, and breakouts, especially for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin (learn more about sunscreen for sensitive skin).
Mineral sunscreens, like zinc oxide, form a protective barrier on the skin's surface that primarily absorbs UV rays, despite the common belief that zinc works solely by reflecting or scattering sunburn-causing ultraviolet radiation (Cole et al. 2015). Zinc Oxide is the best SPF ingredient for sensitive skin - it’s often found in nappy rash creams and is safe for babies and children (Dermaltherapy 2025).
Smidge: Sunscreen That Puts Skin First
At Smidge, we believe sun protection should and can be a good experience for everyone. That’s why our SPF 40 sunscreen is powered by non-nano zinc oxide—giving you safe, effective protection without irritation.
💙 No chemical UV filters
💙 Fragrance free
💙 Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Discover More:
Our 7 Safe Sunscreen Ingredients
