Find our where to buy Smidge Suncare using our store locator. Stockists Where to Find Smidge Suncare in Stores Use the store locator below to find your closest retailer. Is your local not here? Send us an email and we will get in touch to ask them to become a stockist. North Island Northland Auckland Coromandel Peninsula Waikato Bay of Plenty Rotorua Taupō Hawke's Bay Palmerston North Wellington Northland Stockists Bin Inn Whangārei Skin Cancer Doctors Whangārei Dive! Tutukaka Tūtūkākā Life Pharmacy Orss 48 Cameron Street Whangārei Paihia Dive Paihia The Providor's Gallery Urupukapuka Island Unichem Orss Pharmacy Dargaville 69 Victoria Street Unichem Orss Pharmacy Kaikohe Kerikeri Unichem Orss Pharmacy Tui Maunu Unichem Orss Pharmacy Maungaturoto 144 Hurndall Street Unichem Orss Pharmacy Ruakākā Marsden Point & Peter Snell Roads auckland Stockists Auckland iSite Queens Wharf Bin Inn Wholefoods Warkworth & Silverdale Commonsense Organics Mount Eden Healthcare Pharmacy Rosedale Natural Health Co Howick & Devonport Refill Nation Te Atatū Peninsula & Titirangi Green Space Waiheke Island Naturally Organic Northridge Albany & Glen Innes Organics Outwest Glen Eden Pharmacy on Hurstmere Takapuna waikato Stockists Bare Refill Grocery Hamilton Raglan Longboards Raglan (on the way to the beach) bay of plenty Stockists Be Organics 6 Tawa Street, Mount Maunganui Emroce Swimwear Pop Up Trailer (around Mount Maunganui) Mount Pharmacy 132 Maunganui Road Tay Street Store Marine Parade Mount Maunganui Bethleham Health Shop Main Road Bethleham Simply Organic NZ Tauranga South Sustainable Pantry Waihī Nature Zone Health Shop Whakatāne Whakatāne Organics Boon Street Waihi Beach Chemist Waihi Beach rotorua Stockists Aotearoa Dive Eruera Street Millennium Hotels (coffee shop) Hinemaru Street coromandel peninsula Stockists Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel Hahei Earth Store Whitianga Dive Zone Whitianga Gump's Outdoors Whangamatā hawke's bay Stockists Chantal Shop Napier palmerston north Stockists Organic Buzz Broadtop Shopping Centre The Herb Farm Ashhurst wellington Pōneke Stockists Bin Inn Petone Cable Car Museum Kelburn Commonsense Organics Tory Street, Kilbernie, Lower Hutt & Kāpiti Good Housekeeping Cuba Street (REFILL OPTION AVAILABLE) Nil (formally Munch Cupboard) Berhampore Paekākāriki Fruit Supply Paekākāriki Run Pōneke 1 Clyde Quay Wharf Tuatua Cafe Waterfront Wellington Museum Store  Jervois Quay Wellworks Pharmacy Taranaki Street Central North Island Stockists Bin Inn Spa Gate Shopping Centre, Taupō Earthy Foods 38 Horomatangi Street, Taupō Opus Fresh Apparel Co , Ohakune Railway Station South Island Christchurch Queenstown Dunedin Southland Christchurch Stockists Ballantynes Department Store (Gift Section) Cashel Street Unichem Cashel Pharmacy Cashel Street Frances Nation The Arts Centre Queenstown stockists Life Pharmacy Wilkinsons Corner the Mall and rees Street dunedin Stockists Taste Nature 131 High Street southland Stockists Freshlink Grocer 82 Anderson Road Milford Road Merchant Te Anau Stewart Island Botanicals Main Street International Viana Bay Dive Resort, Fiji Niue Blue

< Back Is Smidge Sunscreen Reef Safe? 3 Feb 2025 Is Smidge Sunscreen Reef Safe? Is Smidge sunscreen reef safe? Great question! The term reef safe can be a bit misleading—it’s not a regulated label and is often used for greenwashing. At Smidge, we focus on transparency and emphasise the tangible steps we take to reduce our environmental impact. Read on to learn more. Shop Now What Does Reef Safe Sunscreen Mean? In 2021, Hawaii passed a law ( bill SB2571 ) banning the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemical UV filters shown to harm coral reefs. For sunscreen to be considered reef safe or reef friendly, brands should exclude ingredients known for their toxicity to marine life. At Smidge, we do not use oxybenzone or octinoxate—the two key ingredients banned under Hawaii’s Safe Sunscreen Bill. While this means we meet the criteria often associated with the term reef safe, we avoid using it loosely. Why? Because the term ‘reef safe’ is frequently misused in greenwashing. For instance, does simply removing harmful ingredients while packaging products in plastic truly make a sunscreen reef safe? We don’t think so. “Of course, the best chance coral reefs have of survival is to slow the progress of climate change”- Smithsonian, 2022 More importantly, the leading threat to coral reefs isn’t sunscreen toxicity—it’s climate change. That’s why Smidge focuses on broader, meaningful sustainability efforts. Smidge Approach to Sustainability Protecting the environment is at the heart of Smidge. Here’s what we do to make a difference: ✅ Support ocean conservation: 2% of your purchase is donated to ocean conservation. ✅ Say no to plastic: We use plastic-free, recyclable packaging and FSC-certified shipping materials. ✅ Reduce our carbon footprint: Smidge sunscreen is made locally in New Zealand, reducing transport emissions. ✅ Save water: Smidge doesn't contain any of this precious resource! Make every Smidge count! Our waterless formulas last 2–3x longer than conventional sunscreens, proving that less is more—better for you and better for the planet. Want to learn more? Check out our Our Impact page. SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen Buy Now Learn More: Our 7 Safe Sunscreen Ingredients

< Back 4 reasons why people avoid wearing sunscreen. 6 Sept 2023 Research shows why people aren't wearing sunscreen. Something I hear a lot from people is "I don't wear sunscreen" and "I don't like wearing sunscreen". New Zealand has the highest melanoma rate in the world and sunscreen is an important part of protecting yourself against skin cancer. So why are so many people avoiding wearing sunscreen? In one study done in New Zealand, participants were asked what would get them to wear sunscreen more often (Douglas et al 1997). The top four reasons given were: If I thought I was at higher risk Lower cost More proof that it works Sunscreen being less greasy Whilst this study is a bit outdated, I still hear these same reasons being given to me at the market days. In this article, I will shed some light on each of these reasons and explain why you should never avoid wearing sunscreen again. Conventional Sunscreens Are Greasy The main reason why people don't like wearing sunscreen that I hear is because they don't like how it feels. Conventional sunscreens are often very greasy due to the high quantities of chemical UV filters (used to provide SPF), silicone and acrylate polymers in the formulation. It is the chemical UV filters that can also cause breakouts and skin irritations . Did you know? Seasick Sunscreen is formulated without any chemical UV filters! Sunscreen Is Expensive in New Zealand There is no doubt about it, sunscreen is expensive in New Zealand and cost is definitely a barrier to people applying sunscreen on a daily basis. To cut down on cost, people often look to buy sunscreen in bulk. However, more isn't necessarily more! Take a solid shampoo bar for example - one shampoo bar is the equivalent of 3 plastic bottles of shampoo. So whilst the upfront cost of a shampoo bar may seem more expensive, it actually works out to be the same cost as you get far more uses out of it. This is exactly the same with Seasick Sunscreen which I like to describe as a concentrated sun balm more than a typical sunscreen. Because our formula contains no water, a little goes a long way and a 70g tin is the equivalent of approximately 200ml of liquid sunscreen! People Want More Proof that Sunscreen Actually Works With so many major sunscreen brands failing to meet their SPF claims, there is no wonder that people don't have a high level of trust that sunscreen actually works. I often hear people say that they applied sunscreen but got burnt anyway. So why aren't sunscreens providing the protection that they should? Some brands completed their SPF testing at labs that were found to have falsified results Chemical UV filters degrade overtime so may not be providing the same level of SPF that is labelled on the bottle People often don't re-apply often enough or are applying sunscreen incorrectly Lots of people I talk to are suspicious that a "natural sunscreen" such as Seasick Sunscreen won't work. Interestingly, zinc is actually the original form of sun protection but they zinc sunblock went out of fashion and were largely replaced by chemical-based sunscreens because they often leave a white cast on the skin. We worked hard over several years to create a formula that rubs in really well and leaves no white cast, even on darker skin tones. Sunscreen Helps to Protect Against Skin Damage and Melanoma Whilst you may have some reservations about wearing sunscreen, it's well demonstrated that sunscreen does help to protect you from skin damage and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. It's unfortunate that so many people (myself included) have had so many bad experiences with sunscreen that they being to avoid wearing it at all. Before creating Seasick Sunscreen, I was that person! I want everyone to have the opportunity to try our formula and to change the way people think about and experience sun protection. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References Douglass, H.M., McGee, R. and Williams, S., 1997. Sun behaviour and perceptions of risk for melanoma among 21–year–old New Zealanders. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, 21(3), pp.329-334. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1467-842X.1997.tb01708.x

< Back Natural sunscreen: Is it really 100% natural and chemical free? 11 Jul 2022 The truth about '100% natural' and 'chemical-free' sunscreen claims. With the rising demand for sunscreen made without 'chemical' UV filters, many sunscreen brands are claiming to be 100% natural and chemical free. Unfortunately, it is just marketing bullsh*t. There is no such thing as 100% chemical free sunscreen and “natural” sunscreen isn’t necessarily healthier for us or better for the planet. Why? Because everything around us is made of chemicals. I get it! When I see the word “natural” on a product I think ooh yes I like nature and natural things! But then my science brain (and people like the Sustainable Scientist , whom this blog post was inspired by) makes me search for a more scientifically accurate answer. And here it is. Chemistry 101 A chemical is defined as “any substance consisting of matter”. Water is a chemical!. Chemicals can however be natural or synthetic (created in a lab).“Natural chemicals” are also not necessarily better than synthetic. Example: mercury, arsenic and cyanide are all natural chemicals, but are extremely toxic. Some natural substances, like unsustainably harvested palm oil, are having a devastating effect on our environment. Imagine if we could make palm oil in a lab, without destroying rainforests in the process. We often see the words “toxic chemicals” thrown about, especially on social media. But the truth is that the dose makes the poison. Everything is toxic in certain amounts , including water! (Yes, even water is harmful when you have too much of it). Science of Sunscreens Active ingredients in sunscreens come in two forms, mineral and chemical filters . While minerals are ultimately made up of chemical elements, they are distinguishable from chemical UV filters as they are physical particles that sit on top of the skin (as opposed to being absorbed). Sunscreens that are made with mineral UV filters are more likely to be branded as “natural” and “chemical-free”. You won’t find any of the following ingredients in our sunscreens: Petrochemicals FD&C dyes Synthetic fragrance Parabens Nano-particles oxybenzone octinoxate octisalate octocrylene homosalate avobenzone titanium dioxide Read the ingredient list Ultimately, the most important thing to keep in mind is to read the ingredient list and buy products with simple ingredients that you recognise and trust. We believe less is more which is why our sunscreen is made with as few ingredients as possible and we have detailed information available on our website about all of our ingredients. All of our ingredients are “non-toxic” when used in the expected concentration in a cosmetic product. Learn more about our safe sunscreen ingredients. This blog post was inspired by Alysha, 50% Scientist, 50% Hippy A.K.A the Sustainable Scientist . Alysha is a microbiologist and climate activist. She educates, inspires and connects people with science through her awesome instagram profile. We highly recommend following her! Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen

< Back A Guide to Vegan Sunscreen 17 Dec 2024 A Guide to Vegan Sunscreen Smidge Suncare Vegan & Cruelty-free At Smidge, we believe that sun protection should align with your values. That’s why our vegan Daily Face and Body Sunscreen is formulated without any animal-derived ingredients or testing on animals. It’s our way of ensuring that protecting your skin and the planet can go hand-in-hand. What Is Vegan Sunscreen? Vegan sunscreen is free from animal-derived ingredients and is not tested on animals. Many conventional sunscreens include ingredients like: Beef tallow: Used in some moisturisers as a fatty base. Beeswax: A common thickener and water-repellent. Sheep lanolin: Derived from wool, often added for its emollient properties. At Smidge we use vegan ingredients instead to offer a completely plant-based, ethical option for sun protection: Shea butter instead of beef tallow Candelilla Wa x instead of beeswax Coconut oil instead of sheep lanolin Smidge Suncare: Certified Vegan and Proud Member of the Vegan Society NZ Smidge Suncare is proudly certified by the Vegan Society of New Zealand . This ensures our products meet strict standards for being free of animal products and cruelty-free. Our commitment doesn’t stop there. Our vegan sunscreen is also packaged in recyclable aluminium tins and our formulas are made right here in Aotearoa New Zealand, minimising our carbon footprint. Meet Our Vegan Ambassador: Paula’s Life Paulas.life , our Smidge Vegan Ambassador, embodies everything we stand for. Living in sunny Northland, Paula spends her days running, walking, and enjoying the beach—all while keeping her skin protected with Smidge. Whether you’re active like Paula or simply enjoy soaking up the sun responsibly, Smidge is the perfect choice. Vegan, Cruelty-Free, or Animal-Friendly: What’s the Difference? With so many labels in the cosmetics industry, it’s easy to get confused. Here’s what they mean: Vegan: Free from animal-derived ingredients. Cruelty-Free/Animal-Friendly: Indicates no animal testing, though it doesn’t necessarily mean the product is vegan. Not Tested on Animals: In New Zealand, cosmetics testing on animals has been banned since 2015 ( Consumer NZ, 2023 ). How Does Smidge Test Its Products? Our sunscreen undergoes rigorous SPF testing on willing human participants . At Dermatest Labs in Australia, we evaluate our formulas under controlled conditions to ensure SPF and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Rest assured, no animal testing takes place. 3 Tips on How to Shop for Vegan Sunscreen and Skincare Buy NZ Made: Animal testing is banned for cosmetics made in Aotearoa. Check Ingredients: Look for common animal-derived ingredients and only buy products that align with your values. Research Brands: check that brands that are claiming to be vegan or cruelty-free are affiliated with or have certifications from regulatory bodies such as Vegan Society of New Zealand. Smidge makes it simple—our vegan sunscreen ticks all the boxes, offering a high-performing, and ethical option for your skincare routine. Make the switch to Smidge vegan sunscreen today and experience sun protection that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your skin. 💛 Buy Now Learn More: Our 7 Safe Sunscreen Ingredients

< Back Reef safe sunscreen: false claims and certifications explained. 17 Aug 2022 How to know if your sunscreen is truly reef safe. Even if a sunscreen is labeled as "reef safe" there's no guarantee that it actually won't harm the corals, fish and other marine life. This is because there is no regulation when it comes to marketing a product as reef safe. More research and tighter regulations are much needed but thankfully, the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory (HEL) is already doing some great work in this space. Reef Safe Sunscreen Certification HEL is a non-profit, scientific organisation on a mission to conserve wildlife and ecosystems, just like us! Products labeled with HEL’s Protect Land + Sea Certification means that the product has been laboratory‐tested using analytical‐forensic techniques to verify that the product is free of the chemicals that are known pollutants in many different environments (freshwater streams, river, beaches, and ocean systems) or harmful to wildlife such as corals, fish, birds, marine mammals, sea turtles. These chemicals aren't just bad for coral reefs; they can also be harmful to your body. One of the most common toxic ingredients in sunscreen is oxybenzone , an emerging human and environmental contaminant often used in conventional sunscreens ( DiNardo & Downs, 2018 ). Damaging Sunscreen Chemicals Pollutants HEL checks for when certifying a product include: Any form of microplastic sphere or beads. Any nanoparticles like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Oxybenzone Octinoxate 4-methylbenzylidene camphor Octocrylene Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) Methyl Paraben Ethyl Paraben Propyl Paraben Butyl Paraben Benzyl Paraben Triclosan Our products do not contain any of these ingredients AND our sunscreen is also plastic-free . Packaging is often forgotten about when it comes to "reef safe" claims and certification yet most sunscreen packaging is difficult if not impossible to recycle. The impact of plastic pollution on marine life is well known. Read more about our safe sunscreen ingredients. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References DiNardo J. C., Downs C. A., 2018. Dermatological and environmental toxicological impact of the sunscreen ingredient oxybenzone/benzophenone-3. J Cosmet Dermatol, 17(1):15-19. DOI: 10.1111/jocd.12449 Haereticus Lab. Protect Land and Sea Certification. Retrieved 17 August 2022, available from https://haereticus-lab.org/protect-land-sea-certification-3/

< Back The new Sunscreen NZ regulations explained. 8 Sept 2022 Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen Regulations Shocking but true - sunscreens being sold in New Zealand have not needed to be independently tested or certified for SPF claims before now. A law change that came into effect on the 8th September 2022 means any company whose sunscreen product fails to meet its advertised SPF could be fined up to $600,000 with the commencement of the Sunscreen Act . With the highest rate of melanoma in the world ( Melanoma New Zealand ), it is pretty crazy that sunscreen brands haven't needed to back up their SPF claims until now. Just yesterday, an Australian skincare company pleaded guilty to false claims as it failed to meet its SPF claims. Why? Because the lab they used to do their SPF testing (AMA Laboratories in the US) falsified results. So, how do you know if your sunscreen meets the new standards? Does Seasick Sunscreen as a "natural" sunscreen need to meet the new regulations? There's no need for you to get burnt, physically or metaphorically...just read on and find our all you need to know about the new sunscreen regulations in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our Sunscreen Meets the New Sunscreen SPF Regulations Full 10-person SPF testing report completed in September 2022 First things first, all of our sunscreens are independently tested to the New Zealand Sunscreen Standard (AS/NZS 2604:2021) by Eurofins Dermatest in Australia (the same lab that does the Consumer NZ testing). Eurofins Dermatest is a trusted provider of sunscreen and skin care product evaluation services to international and local clients in accordance with recognised global protocols. A photo of our most recent SPF test re port for the Daily Face and Body Sunscreen is shown above. Phew, don't sweat it - we've got you covered! How Sunscreen is Tested Dermatest conducts SPF testing using a solar simulator, which imitates the UV light emitted by the sun. The testing is conducted on humans. The sunscreen is applied to small areas of the back, then exposed to UV light for varying periods of time. The patches are then evaluated after 16 to 24 hours to identify the first area showing slight sunburn. This is used to calculate the SPF. To meet the new regulations you must complete the full 10 person SPF study - something we have been doing since we started way back in 2019! “Until now the sunscreen standard has only been voluntary in New Zealand and it was possible to sell a sunscreen that hadn’t undergone any efficacy testing.” - Consumer NZ chief executive Jon Duffy What do the new regulations mean for natural sunscreens? All sunscreens must meet the new requirements whether they claim to be "natural" or not. Natural sunscreens usually refer to sunscreens made with mineral UV filters such as zinc, as opposed to chemical UV filters. It can be a misleading term - find out whether your sunscreen is really "100% natural" and "chemical free". What to Look For Check your sunscreen for this label: AS/NZS 2604:2012 (or it might say 2021 if it has been tested more recently). If in doubt, ask a sunscreen brand to provide its SPF report and stay clear of sunscreens doing their testing at dodgy labs that are known to falsify claims. We are happy to provide a full copy of our results for the 10 person study, just email us and we will send you a copy. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References Melanoma New Zealand. Melanoma Facts & Risk Factors. Retrieved on 7 September 2022 from https://www.melanoma.org.nz/facts-risk-factors New Zealand Legislation. Sunscreen (Product Safety Standard) Act 2022. Retrieved on 7 September 2022 from https://legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2022/0004/latest/whole.html

< Back Sunscreen That Won’t Sting Your Eyes 17 Mar 2025 If you’ve ever had sunscreen sting your eyes, you’ll know how painful it can be. Whether you're out on the water or exercising, finding a sunscreen that won’t run into your eyes when you swim or sweat is key. In this guide, we’ll explore why sunscreen can cause eye irritation and why a waterless sunscreen like Smidge is the perfect solution. Shop Now Why Does Sunscreen Sting Your Eyes? Many sunscreens contain ingredients that, when mixed with sweat or water, run into your eyes and cause burning. The main culprits include: Chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone, which can be irritating ( National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2022 ). Water-based formulas that break down easily when exposed to sweat or water. Fragrances and preservatives , which can trigger sensitivity. What to Look for in a Sting-Free Sunscreen If you want a sunscreen that won’t sting your eyes, choose one with: ✅ Zinc oxide – a physical or mineral UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection by reflecting and scattering UV radiation. It is photostable and generally recognised as safe, with minimal skin penetration, reducing the risk of irritation ( National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2022 ). ✅ Fragrance-free & hypoallergenic – Less chance of eye sensitivity. ✅ Waterless, oil-based formula – Unlike water-based sunscreens, an oil-based formula won’t break down with sweat or water, meaning it stays put and won’t run into your eyes. Why Smidge Sunscreen Won’t Sting Your Eyes Here’s why Smidge won’t sting your eyes: 🌿 Made with Non-nano Zinc Oxide – Smidge is a mineral sunscreen providing broad-spectrum protection without harsh UV chemicals. 🚫 No Fragrance or Irritating Additives – We keep it simple to reduce sensitivity, making it the best sunscreen for kids and adults alike. Learn more about our safe sunscreen ingredients . 💧 Waterless & Oil-Based – Unlike traditional sunscreens, Smidge doesn’t contain water, so it won’t break down when you sweat or swim. Instead, it stays put, keeping your skin protected without running into your eyes. World Champion Cyclist Joanna Sharpe Chooses Smidge Joanna Sharpe, a world champion cyclist , recently set a new world record , circumnavigating the South Island solo and unsupported. Facing relentless heat and headwinds , she needed a sunscreen that wouldn’t sting her eyes or wear off. Joanna first discovered Smidge at a summer market, where she met Smidge founder Nat while searching for a sunscreen that wouldn’t cause eye irritation when cycling and getting sweaty. After cycling 2400km over 9 days, she’s become a Smidge fan, saying: “Thanks to Smidge Suncare for preventing sunburn in all the heat – and let’s not forget the relentless headwinds!” If Smidge can stand up to the extreme conditions of a world-record cycling challenge, you can trust it to protect your eyes and skin every day! We believe that wearing sunscreen can be a good experience for everyone Sunscreen shouldn’t be a painful experience! By choosing a waterless, zinc-based, fragrance-free sunscreen like Smidge, you can enjoy all-day protection without worrying about irritation. Are you ready to make the switch? SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen Buy Now Learn More: Sunscreen Buying Guide: Find the Best Sunscreen for You and Your Family

< Back Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen SPF 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? SPF 40 Daily Face Sunscreen Buy Now

< Back What is Octocrylene and why we avoid it in our sunscreen. 23 Aug 2023 Octocrylene is a chemical UV filter: here's why you will never find it in our sunscreens. Conventional sunscreens often contain chemical UV filters like Octocrylene, which some research has demonstrated the potential negative effects on human health and marine ecosystems . A t Seasick Sunscreen Co, our commitment to protecting both you and the ocean has led us to formulate a mineral sunscreen with just 7 naturally-derived ingredients and no chemical UV filters. In this blog post, we will delve into what Octocrylene is and why it will never be used in our sunscreen . Understanding Octocrylene at a Glance: Octocrylene is: a synthetic compound commonly used as an active ingredient in sunscreens protects the skin from UV radiation (primarily UVB). also used in lip balms creams, makeup and plastic packaging. Basically, octocrylene is commonly used in sunscreen as it helps to prevent sunburn . Health Concerns of Octocrylene from Sunscreen While it effectively shields the skin from sunburn, Octocrylene has come under scrutiny due to its potential to interact with other chemical filters and create harmful by-products when exposed to sunlight. Additionally, Octocrylene has been linked to skin irritation and may have adverse effects on the endocrine system . Smidge Suncare was developed by an eczema sufferer - so we understand the painful irritations that most sunscreens can cause and are committed to making sunscreen products that are safe, effective, and gentle on sensitive skin. Research has suggested that Octocrylene can penetrate the skin and may accumulate in the body over time. The gradual accumulation of octocrylene (bioaccumulation) in fish and other seafood may also affect human health by altering your metabolism ( Ko et al. 2022 ). Environmental Impact of Octocrylene from Sunscreen One of the main reasons we steer clear of Octocrylene in our sunscreen is its detrimental impact on marine ecosystems. When people swim in the ocean wearing sunscreens containing Octocrylene, the compound leaches into the water, posing a serious threat to marine ( Schneider & Lim, 2019 ). Due to its extensive use in sunscreen and other cosmetics, a significant level of octocrylene is detected in marine and freshwater environments . 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen is estimated to enter the ocean each year ( Downs 2016 ) Studies have shown that chemical UV filters such as octocrylene have "been found in a range of species worldwide including shrimp, sea urchin, clams, mussels, corals, fish, sea turtles, dolphins and in the eggs of seabirds" ( Lebaron 2022 , pg 24). What Makes Our Sunscreen Different At Seasick Sunscreen Co, we take pride in our dedication to creating high-quality sunscreen products that offer broad-spectrum protection without the use of harmful chemical filters like Octocrylene. Instead, we rely on a mineral UV filter, non-nano zinc oxide which are safer alternatives for both your skin and the environment. These mineral filters work primari ly by absorbing UV rays ( Cole et al. 2016 ), ensuring you stay protected while minimising the risk of any adverse effects. We hope this blog post helps you make an informed choice about the sunscreen that you choose to use on yourself and your family. By opting for sunscreen products that avoid chemical UV filters like Octocrylene, you can protect your skin while doing the things that you love. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References Cole, C., Shyr, T., & Ou‐Yang, H., 2016. Metal oxide sunscreens protect skin by absorption, not by reflection or scattering. Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine, 32(1), 5-10. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/phpp.12214 Downs, C.A., Kramarsky-Winter, E., Segal, R., Fauth, J., Knutson, S., Bronstein, O., Ciner, F.R., Jeger, R., Lichtenfeld, Y., Woodley, C.M. and Pennington, P., 2016. Toxicopathological effects of the sunscreen UV filter, oxybenzone (benzophenone-3), on coral planulae and cultured primary cells and its environmental contamination in Hawaii and the US Virgin Islands. Archives of environmental contamination and toxicology, 70, pp.265-288. Available from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00244-015-0227-7 Ko, H., An, S., Ahn, S., Park, I.G., Gong, J., Hwang, S.Y., Oh, S., Ki, M.W., Jin, S.H., Choi, W.J. and Noh, M., 2022. Sunscreen filter octocrylene is a potential obesogen by acting as a PPARγ partial agonist. Toxicology letters, 355, pp.141-149. Available from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378427421009012 Lebaron, P., 2022. UV filters and their impact on marine life: State of the science, data gaps, and next steps. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 36, pp.22-28. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jdv.18198 Schneider, S.L. and Lim, H.W., 2019. Review of environmental effects of oxybenzone and other sunscreen active ingredients. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 80(1), pp.266-271. Available from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0190962218321893

< Back How Zinc Oxide Provides Safe & Effective Sunscreen SPF Protection 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. Shop Now 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). M any 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 SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen Buy Now Discover More: Our 7 Safe Sunscreen Ingredients

< Back Sunscreen That Funds Ocean Conservation 14 Apr 2025 Every time you choose Smidge, you're doing more than protecting your skin — you're also helping protect the moana. Because you chose Smidge, we were able to donate $1,243 — 2% of our revenue from the last financial year — to ocean conservation. Your impact is real, and it's already making waves! Shop Now Where Your Support Went With ocean ecosystems under threat from climate change, pollution and habitat loss, restoring biodiversity and building resilience in our oceans is at the forefront of the battle against climate change ( Filbee-Dexter et al. 2022 ). Your purchases helped fund: 💙 Love Rimurimu Love Rimurimu is working to restore underwater forests by regenerating native seaweed in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. With seaweed forests vanishing globally, this mahi is critical. Not only are these forests vital carbon sinks, they’re also home to countless marine species. Our Smidge donation is helping fund seaweed plant-out efforts this year, with an intended 2000 more 'green gravel' heading out into the moana this winter at restoration sites around Te Motu Kairangi. 💙 Blue Cradle Blue Cradle’s Ocean Literacy programme equips rangatahi and communities with the knowledge and tools to understand and care for our marine environment. From schools to science centres, their mahi is making marine conservation more accessible and inspiring the next generation of ocean conservationists. Tell Us What Causes Matter to You At Smidge, we’re all about impact — using simple, naturally derived ingredients, staying plastic-free, and supporting projects that restore our environment. Learn more about Our Impact . We want to hear from you. Join our private Facebook group and tell us what matters to you. Together, we’re building something special — a community creating positive impact for people and the planet. Join The Smidge Collective Learn More: Is Smidge Reef Safe?