18 Nov 2024
When choosing a sunscreen, understanding what the ingredient list is can make all the difference in finding a product that’s safe, effective, gentle on sensitive skin and better for the planet. Here, we break down the 7 ingredients we use in Smidge — an ideal choice for anyone looking for a safer alternative to conventional sunscreens.
Chemical Vs “Natural” Sunscreen
Firstly, it’s important to know there are 2 types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral (or “natural”). Most sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters, such as oxybenzone and homosalate, which can irritate sensitive skin. Mineral or “natural” sunscreens on the other hand, are those made with physical UV filters such as zinc oxide.
Mineral-Based Sunscreens Safer for Kids and Sensitive Skin
Mineral sunscreens, particularly those with zinc oxide, offer physical protection by reflecting harmful rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat within the skin, mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation or disrupt the skin’s natural balance.
Smidge’s 7 safe ingredients:
1: Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a mineral filter that sits on top of the skin, where it protects against UVA and UVB rays.
It is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin, including eczema-prone or children’s skin. Its effectiveness without harmful chemicals makes it the primary ingredient in safe sunscreens like Smidge, providing SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection.
2: CocoNut Oil
Moisturising, healing and non-greasy, coconut oil helps moisturise and soothe the skin without synthetic fragrances or preservatives, which can often trigger allergies or irritation.
3. Shea Butter
Shea butter is nourishing and can offer a natural boost to the skin barrier, helping maintain moisture even in the sun. Shea creates a creamy, easily spreadable texture, making Smidge application smooth and enjoyable. Our shea butter is fully traceable to the AAK Kolo Nafaso direct sourcing program in West Africa, positively contributing to social, economic and environmental well-being.
4. Candelilla Wax
Candelilla wax is a vegan alternative to beeswax, commonly used to enhance sunscreen's texture and water resistance.
5. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride*
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is plant-based and gives our sunscreen its smooth yet non-greasy feel. It's 100% biodegradable and perfectly safe for use.
6. Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate*
Made from plant oils such as coconut oil and castor oil, this ingredient is soothing on sensitive skin.
7. Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate*
This is another plant-derived ingredient. It is gentle, moisturising on the skin and this ingredient receives the highest score on the EWG scale.
*We use these three ingredients as natural emulsifiers, ensuring Smidge maintains a smooth, creamy texture that doesn’t separate over time, unlike many other "natural" sunscreens.
What’s Not In Smidge Sunscreen
Water: our concentrated formula goes 2-3x further than water-based sunscreens
Chemical UV filters: Avoid sunscreens with synthetic chemicals like oxybenzone and avobenzone if you have sensitive skin
Fragrances: choosing sunscreens without artificial fragrances, parabens, and other potential allergens can help reduce the risk of irritation.
Common Questions About Sunscreen Ingredients
1. Is mineral sunscreen as effective as chemical sunscreen?
Yes! Mineral sunscreens offer reliable broad-spectrum protection and are often a healthier choice for sensitive skin types.
2. Will mineral sunscreen leave a white cast?
While some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast, Smidge is designed to rub in well without a white cast, thanks to our carefully selected ingredients and texture!
3. How often should I reapply?
Dermatologists in New Zealand recommend that all sunscreens should be reapplied every two hours, or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, for best protection. Watch our video on how to apply Smidge
A Smidge Different: Sunscreen that actually feels good
At Smidge, our goal is to provide sun protection that works harmoniously with your skin and the environment. Our Daily Face and Body Sunscreen with SPF 40 includes zinc oxide as the active ingredient, complemented by soothing and moisturising natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. This formulation not only meets the Australia-New Zealand standard for SPF protection (AS/NZS 2604:2021) but also aligns with the needs of those with sensitive skin and a desire for a plastic-free and NZ-made product.
For more information on Smidge Suncare’s ingredients and our commitment to safe, effective sun protection, visit our Safe Sunscreen Ingredients page.