Safe Sunscreen Ingredients — We Share Our 'Not-So-Secret' Formula

When choosing a sunscreen, the ingredients matter. Whether you're navigating eczema-prone skin or just want a gentler, more sustainable option, understanding what’s in your SPF is the first step.

Here’s a closer look at the 7 safe, effective ingredients we use in Smidge — and why that makes all the difference.

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The 7 Ingredients in Smidge Sunscreen

Smidge is designed for everyday life — from kindy runs to kayak trips. We use only essential, science-backed ingredients to create sunscreen that works with your skin, not against it.

• SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection

• Naturally-derived and sensitive-skin friendly

• Plastic-free tins and NZ-made impact

We only use 7 carefully chosen ingredients, each with a purpose:

1. Zinc Oxide

A naturally occurring mineral and broad-spectrum UV filter. It provides SPF 40 protection by physically blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Non-irritating and reef-conscious, it's ideal for sensitive and children’s skin.

2. Coconut Oil

Moisturising and soothing, coconut oil helps hydrate the skin without relying on synthetic fragrances or preservatives.

3. Shea Butter

Shea butter enhances the skin’s barrier and improves spreadability. Ours is sourced through the AAK Kolo Nafaso initiative — supporting ethical and sustainable farming in West Africa.

4. Candelilla Wax

A vegan alternative to beeswax that improves texture and adds natural water resistance to the formula.

5. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride*

A plant-based, biodegradable emollient that gives Smidge its light, non-greasy feel.

6. Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate*

Derived from coconut and castor oils, this gentle emulsifier helps bind ingredients while being kind to sensitive skin.

7. Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate*

Another plant-based emulsifier that moisturises and helps stabilise the formula. It scores 1 (safest) on the EWG Skin Deep 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

🚫 Water – Our concentrated balm goes 2–3x further than traditional sunscreens.

🚫 Chemical UV filters – No oxybenzone, octinoxate, or avobenzone.

🚫 Fragrance or preservatives – Great for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

FAQs About Our Sunscreen Ingredients

❓ Is our mineral sunscreen as effective as a chemical sunscreen?

Yes — zinc oxide provides excellent broad-spectrum protection and is ideal for those with sensitive skin.

❓ Will Smidge leave a white cast?

Our formula rubs in clear on most skin tones. Thanks to our non-nano zinc and creamy texture, it’s easy to apply and designed to disappear. Watch our video on how to apply Smidge Sunscreen.

❓ How often should I reapply?

Health New Zealand and dermatologists recommend every 2 hours, or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.