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 Waikato Bay of Plenty Coromandel Peninsula Rotorua Taupō Hawke's Bay Manawatū-Whanganui Wellington Northland Stockists Little Soul Co Moir Street Mangawhai Mangawhai Pharmacy Mangawhai Heads Origin Northland Waipū Keri Berries & Farm Store Kerikeri Hardy's Whangārei 41 Cameron Street Kensington Pharmacy Kensington Whangārei 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 Allen's Village Pharmacy Kūmeu Bin Inn Wholefoods Warkworth & Silverdale Belmont Pharmacy 143 Lake Road Devonport Campus Books University of Auckland Kate Edger Information Commons, City Campus Commonsense Organics Mount Eden Life Pharmacy Eastridge Mission Bay Natural Health Co Howick & Devonport Refill Nation Te Atatū Peninsula & Titirangi Green Space Organic Shop Waiheke Island Naturally Organic Northridge Albany & Glen Innes Organics Outwest Glen Eden Wellness Store Orewa 24 Hillary Square Orewa The Goodness Grocer Waiuku Unichem Massey Pharmacy Massey waikato Stockists The Herbary 214 King Street Pukekohe Bare Refill Grocery Hamilton Organic Nation 245 Commerce Street Frankton Hamilton Tonic Health Chartwell Shopping Centre Hamilton Raglan Refill 15 Bow Street Raglan 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 Waihi Beach Chemist Waihī Beach Sustainable Pantry Waihī Adamsons Unichem Pharmacy 52 King Street, Whakatāne Unichem Kope Pharmacy 78 King Street Whakatāne Nature Zone Health Shop Whakatāne Whakatāne Organics Boon Street rotorua Stockists Aotearoa Dive Eruera Street Millennium Hotels (coffee shop) Hinemaru Street coromandel peninsula Stockists Lawnmower's Son Art Gallery & Kayaks Hahei Whitianga iSite 66 Albert Street Whitianga Earth Store Whitianga Gump's Outdoors Whangamatā All Things Organic Tairua Tairua-Pauanui Pharmacy 226 Main Road Tairua hawke's bay Stockists Chantal Shop 45 Hastings Street, Napier Cornucopia The Organic Shop 221 Heretaunga Street East, Hastings Manawatū-Whanganui Stockists TCB Ski Board Bike Ohakune Opus Fresh Apparel Co , Ohakune Railway Station Ohakune Healthcare Depot , 21 Goldfinch Street Organic Buzz Broadtop Shopping Centre, Palmerston North Health for Life Fielding & Palmerston North The Herb Farm Ashhurst Moana Rd Outlet Shannon Shirley's Strawberries Ohau Levin wellington Pōneke Stockists Cable Car Museum Kelburn Commonsense Organics Tory Street, Kilbernie, Lower Hutt & Kāpiti Good Housekeeping Cuba Street (REFILL OPTION AVAILABLE) Paekākāriki Fruit Supply Paekākāriki Tuatua Cafe Waterfront Wellington Museum Store  Jervois Quay Taupō Serendipity Beauty Taupō Earthy Foods 38 Horomatangi Street, Taupō South Island Marlborough Nelson Christchurch Dunedin Queenstown Wānaka Southland Christchurch Stockists The Apothecary The Tannery Woolston Christchurch Ballantynes Department Store (Gift Section) Cashel Street Beckford Health Pharmacy St Martins Shopology Little Riverside Laneway Unichem Cashel Pharmacy Cashel Street Unichem Elmwood Pharmacy 3 Normans Road, Strowan Frances Nation The Arts Centre Marshalls Health Shop New Brighton Nomad Wholefoods Akaroa Rolleston Bin Inn Tennyson Street Rolleston Unichem Medical Corner Pharmacy (Rangiora and Woodend) Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre Arthur's Pass Village Queenstown stockists Life Pharmacy Wilkinsons Corner the Mall and rees Street Unichem Remarkables Pharmacy Frankton Queenstown Unichem Jack's Point Pharmacy Jack's Point dunedin Stockists Bin Inn Dunedin 126 Crawford Street southland Stockists Unichem Alexandra Pharmacy 4/6 Centennial Ave Alexandra Milford Road Merchant Te Anau Stewart Island Botanicals Main Street Wānaka stockists Aspiring Pharmacy 29 Helwick Street Freshlink Grocer 82 Anderson Road Wānaka iSite 103 Ardmore Street Nelson/Tasman Stockists Māpua Wharf Shack Aranui Road Nelson Lakes National Park Visitor Centre St Arnaud Marlborough stockists Blenheim iSite 8 Sinclair Street, Blenheim Picton iSite The Foreshore, Picton International Viana Bay Dive Resort, Fiji Niue Blue

Smidge Suncare feels great and truly works. Our natural sunscreen is SPF 40 and gentle enough for kids and sensitive skin — developed by a redhead for the harsh New Zealand conditions! Convenient SPF Save time, money, and space. Shop Now Smidge. Simple ingredients. Effective. Nothing unnecessary. Just what your skin needs. All Products Quick View Daily Face & Body Sunscreen SPF 40 - for sensitive skin and travel From $24.90Sale Price Add a cleanser — 50% off with any SPF Add to Cart Quick View 2 handy sizes On-the-Go SPF Bundle I Travel Sunscreen Regular Price $64.90 Sale Price $49.90 Add to Cart Quick View $104.70 value save $24.90 Protect & Cleanse Bundle + Free Travel-size SPF Regular Price $104.70 Sale Price $79.80 Add to Cart Quick View 45g = up to 65 uses Powder Based Cleanser & Mask Price $39.90 Add a cleanser — 50% off with any SPF Add to Cart “As someone with fair, sensitive skin, sunscreen is a daily must for me," - Nat, Smidge Founder and CEO our story What our customers are saying "Finally, a sunscreen that ticks all the boxes! Comes in a tin so you can get every last bit of it and 100% recyclable. A tiny amount goes a very long way. Most importantly, my face doesn't break out in allergies when I put it on (unlike almost every other product)" - Saba, Verified Customer As seen in... sign up

< Back Zinc sunscreens: how they work and why to use them. 2 May 2025 This blog was updated on May 2, 2025. Everything you need to know about zinc sunscreens. There are so many types of sunscreen available that choosing one can be seriously confusing. Zinc-based sunscreens have gained significant popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we'll explore how zinc sunscreens work, their advantages over other types, and why you should use them in your sun protection regimen. Zinc Oxide in Sunscreen Zinc oxide is a mineral compound derived from zinc, which is a naturally occurring element. Zinc is added to a sunscreen formulation to provide broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. For most people, zinc conjures up images of surfers and cricket players with a white layer of sunscreen smeared thickly across their face. Thankfully, it is possible to make a zinc sunscreen that doesn’t leave the white cast on your skin (which is exactly what we have done). How Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Works Unlike chemical sunscreens that are absorbed into the skin, zinc oxide sits on top, forming a protective layer. When UV rays reach this layer, zinc oxide acts as a filter—protecting the skin primarily by absorbing ultraviolet radiation ( Cole et al. 2016 ). While reflection and scattering do occur, they contribute minimally compared to absorption, which provides the majority of UV protection in mineral sunscreens. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays. This is one reason the term ‘sunblock’ is falling out of favour—it implies complete blockage, which isn’t accurate - learn more about sunscreen versus sunblock . Our Sunscreen Rubs in Clear Zinc has long been used by hardcore outdoors people for its superior sun protection qualities. Traditionally, it's made into a thick paste which stays on for hours in the water or when sweating and as well as protecting against UV rays, it also creates a physical barrier trapping moisture and protecting against salt and wind. However, having the white ghost look isn’t for everyone. Few people want a thick white paste smeared on their face and body when sunbathing or applied under makeup on a daily basis. That's why we expertly formulated a zinc sunscreen that rubs in well and doesn't leave a white cast . Are nanoparticles safe in sunscreen? Firstly, what on earth are nano-particles? They are ultra-fine particles of zinc or titanium dioxide that are added to sunscreens to provide SPF protection. Nano particles are smaller than non-nano zinc (non-nano zinc is what we use in our sunscreen). Zinc oxide is a common ingredient in 'natural sunscreen' but concerns have been raised about the safety of its nanoparticle (NP) form. Drawing on the best available evidence, sunscreen containing nanoparticles appears to be safe and do not pose a risk. However, we continue to monitor research. “Repeated application of ZnO-NPs to the skin, as used in global sunscreen products, appears to be safe, with no evidence of ZnO-NP penetration into the viable epidermis nor toxicity in the underlying viable epidermis” (Mohammed et al. 2019). While research shows that zinc nanoparticles do not penetrate the skin there is some evidence that titanium dioxide nano-particles may be absorbed systemically Adler and DeLeo (2020). Titanium dioxide is another mineral UV filter commonly used in natural sunscreens. We do not use titanium dioxide in our products. Are nano-particles safe for marine life? Research shows that zinc oxide nano-particles caused coral bleaching under controlled conditions (Adler and DeLeo 2020). However, available data may not adequately account for realistic reef conditions and UV filter concentrations. How Sunscreen Impacts the Ocean In areas where there are lots of swimmers and snorkelers, sunscreen washes off people's bodies and can reach such high concentrations that the sunscreen chemicals are toxic to marine life . Honestly though, sunscreen is just a tiny drop in the sea when it comes to threats to the ocean. Climate change is the predominant driver of coral reef bleaching. Plastic production has a huge carbon footprint and is a significant source of ocean pollution. Here's why our sunscreen is plastic-free : On average, the initial production process produces about 6kg of CO2 per 1kg of plastic. 8 million tonnes of plastic pollution enters the ocean each year. Just under half of plastic comes from product packaging. Instead of using plastic, we package our sunscreen in aluminium tins that are infinitely recyclable. Aluminium is so recyclable that nearly 75 percent of all the aluminium ever produced is still in use today. You can keep your tin in circulation by wiping out your empty tin and popping into your recycling bin. Are chemical sunscreens or mineral sunscreens better? There are many advantages of using a zinc sunscreen. Here are 3 of the main reasons we recommend using a mineral sunscreen instead of chemical - Gentle on the skin: Zinc oxide is considered to be non-irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Unlike some chemical sunscreens, zinc oxide is less likely to cause skin irritation, making it an ideal choice for individuals with delicate or reactive skin. Immediate protection: Zinc sunscreens start working as soon as they are applied to the skin. There's no need to wait for any chemical reactions to take place, unlike some chemical sunscreens that require approximately 20 minutes to become effective. Stability: Zinc sunscreens maintains their effectiveness over time, providing reliable protection throughout sun exposure. Chemical sunscreens tend to degrade which is one of the reasons many sunscreen brands fail to meet their SPF claims. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References Adler, B.L. and DeLeo, V.A., 2020. Sunscreen Safety: a Review of Recent Studies on Humans and the Environment. Curr Derm Rep 9, 1–9. 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. Mohammed, Y. H., Holmes, A., Haridass, I. N., Sanchez, W. Y., Studier, H., Grice, J. E., H., Benson & Roberts, M. S., 2019. Support for the safe use of zinc oxide nanoparticle sunscreens: lack of skin penetration or cellular toxicity after repeated application in volunteers. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 139(2):308-315.

< Back Can you recycle plastic sunscreen bottles? 28 Aug 2022 8 million tonnes of plastic enters the ocean every year and over 40% of plastic comes from product packaging. Technically some plastic sunscreen bottles can be recycled. But is that the best way to deal with plastic waste? We think not, that's why our sunscreen is plastic free . Very few plastic sunscreen bottles can be recycled. Some plastic sunscreen bottles are grade 4 (the grade is indicated inside the recycling symbol (triangle) on the item) which can be recycled if cleaned properly which can be very difficult with sunscreen as it's almost impossible to squeeze the last of the sunscreen out. Plastic sunscreen lids are rarely recycled Most sorting machines don't recognise plastic lids as recyclable items so they get sorted into landfill. From landfill they can make their way into water streams and out into the ocean where they end up as plastic pollution, eventually breaking down into microplastics. Microplastics have been detected in marine organisms from plankton to whales, in commercial seafood, and even in drinking water. “Most contamination is from people who are trying to do the right thing” - Waste Management Institute chief executive Paul Evans. What you can do to avoid contaminating recycling? councils have different recycling rules so it's best to check what you can and can't recycle. See what your council can do to help you . Why our sunscreen is plastic free Our plastic free sunscreen is here to help you ditch plastic products! Our aluminium tins are infinitely recyclable - better yet, you can repurpose them into all kinds of things. Collect your coins, hair ties, or use it to keep your headphones safe. You can even turn the tin into a mini plant pot for a succulent. Watch this cool video on how to repurpose your empty sunscreen tin here. All orders placed from our online store are shipped plastic-free in a FSC certified, recyclable cardboard mailer. What is FSC? Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) promotes environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests. FSC is the only trustable guarantee used by Seasick Sunscreen on our products to inform our customers about the sustainable sourcing of our paper/cardboard-based packaging. 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 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?

< 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 Zinc Sunscreens are Best for Sensitive Skin 18 Feb 2025 Zinc sunscreens are best for Sensitive Skin Is Smidge the best sunscreen for your sensitive skin? We’d love to hear from you! If you’ve tried Smidge, leave a review and help others discover a sunscreen that truly works for sensitive skin. Tell Us What You Think Why Zinc Oxide Sunscreen is Best for Sensitive Skin Zinc oxide is a natural mineral filter that sits on top of the skin, providing broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, zinc forms a protective barrier without absorbing into the skin, making it a gentler option for those prone to irritation or allergies. Top Tip: Choosing a sunscreen free from artificial fragrances, parabens, and harsh preservatives can help reduce the risk of irritation. Zinc vs. Chemical Sunscreens Most conventional sunscreens contain chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octocrylene, often paired with artificial fragrances and preservatives—common triggers for skin irritation (Keyes et al. 2019) . For babies under six months and those with sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend avoiding chemical sunscreens altogether ( The Australasian College of Dermatologists 2022 ) . Smidge is formulated without harsh chemicals, making it safe for sensitive, eczema-prone, and children's skin. With SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection, it shields your skin without causing irritation. ⭐️ So great for my skin! – Michael, Verified Buyer "For years, I battled rosacea and struggled to find a sunscreen that didn’t cause irritation. Chemical sunscreens always made it worse. Smidge is the ONLY product that doesn’t wreak havoc on my skin. In fact, I use it to calm my skin when it flares up. Such an amazing product!" The Smidge Sunscreen Story “I suffered from painful eczema as a child and remember how sunscreen would sting and burn my skin.” Coming from a family of eczema sufferers, Natalie (Founder of Smidge) made sure her first test subjects were her sister and cousins, whose young children also had sensitive skin. Smidge passed the test, and six years later, it’s now available in pharmacies and health stores, earning a reputation as the best sunscreen for sensitive skin. SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen Buy Now Learn More: What Sunscreen Can I Use If I Have Eczema?

Latest News 14 Apr 2025 Sunscreen That Funds Ocean Conservation Every time you choose Smidge, you're doing more than protecting your skin — you're also helping protect the moana. Read more... 31 Mar 2025 Why Are Skin Cancer Rates So High in New Zealand? New Zealand has some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Understanding why this is the case can help us make informed choices to protect ourselves and our whānau from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Read more... 17 Mar 2025 Sunscreen That Won’t Sting Your Eyes If you’ve ever had sunscreen sting your eyes, you’ll know how painful it can be. In this guide, we’ll explore why sunscreen can cause eye irritation and why a waterless sunscreen like Smidge is the perfect solution. Read more... 5 Mar 2025 How Zinc Oxide Provides Safe & Effective Sunscreen SPF Protection Our SPF 40 sunscreen is powered by non-nano zinc oxide—giving you safe, effective protection without irritation. Read more... 18 Feb 2025 Zinc Sunscreens are Best for Sensitive Skin Has Smidge made a difference for your skin? Learn why zinc sunscreens are best for sensitive skin. Read more... 3 Feb 2025 Is Smidge Sunscreen Reef Safe? At Smidge, we focus on transparency and emphasise the tangible steps we take to reduce our environmental impact. Read more... 19 Jan 2025 Sunscreen Buying Guide: Find the Best Sunscreen for You and Your Family With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the right sunscreen for you and your family. To make things easier, we’ve created a handy guide to help you select the best sunscreen for every need. Read more... 17 Dec 2024 A Guide to Vegan Sunscreen 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. Read more... 2 Dec 2024 Eczema and Sunscreen: What Sunscreen Can I Use If I Have Eczema? Smidge Suncare is designed to be gentle, effective, and suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Read more... 18 Nov 2024 Safe Sunscreen Ingredients: Why we use just 7 ingredients in Smidge Find out about the 7 ingredients we use in Smidge — an ideal choice for anyone looking for a safer alternative to conventional sunscreens. Read more... 6 Nov 2024 Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen SPF Here’s everything you need to know about SPF, why Smidge is SPF 40, and how to make the most of your sun protection. Read more... 22 Oct 2024 Welcome to Smidge Suncare: Same Great Sunscreen, Fresh New Look We’re excited to introduce just a smidge, of something new, whilst keeping everything you love. Seasick Sunscreen has evolved into Smidge Suncare, with the same trusted sunscreen but a fresh look and name. Read more... 2 May 2025 Zinc sunscreens: how they work and why to use them. There are so many types of sunscreen available that choosing one can be seriously confusing. Zinc-based sunscreens have gained significant popularity in recent years. Read more... 6 Sept 2023 4 reasons why people avoid 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? Read more... 23 Aug 2023 What is Octocrylene and why we avoid it in our sunscreen. Octocrylene is a chemical UV filter: here's why you will never find it in our sunscreens. Read more... 27 Mar 2023 When should I wear sunscreen in New Zealand? The short answer is yes, you need to wear sunscreen year-round in Aotearoa New Zealand due to the high intensity of our UV rays. Even in Autumn and Winter. Read more... 26 Oct 2022 How to stop getting sunburnt so easily. As the founder of a sunscreen company, I probably shouldn't admit to getting burnt...but even I make bad judgements when it comes to adequately protecting my fair skin from the harsh New Zealand sun - especially at the start of every summer! Read more... 8 Sept 2022 The new Sunscreen NZ regulations explained. Shocking but true - sunscreens being sold in New Zealand have not needed to be independently tested or certified for SPF claims before now. Read more... 28 Aug 2022 Can you recycle plastic sunscreen bottles? 8 million tonnes of plastic enters the ocean every year and over 40% of plastic comes from product packaging. Read more... 17 Aug 2022 Reef safe sunscreen: false claims and certifications explained. 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. Read more...

< 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 to stop getting sunburnt so easily. 26 Oct 2022 7 tips on how to avoid sunburn this summer. As the founder of a sunscreen company, I probably shouldn't admit to getting burnt...but even I make bad judgements when it comes to adequately protecting my fair skin from the harsh New Zealand sun - especially at the start of every summer! So please learn from my mistakes and use this guide to avoid getting a nasty sunburn this summer . You can still burn on cloudy days Apply sunscreen before your skin is red Be vigilant at the start of summer Protect your nose You need more than just sunscreen Apply sunscreen correctly Check your sunscreen is SPF certified Did you know? Over 90% of all skin cancer is due to excess sun exposure ( Health Navigator NZ ) and the highest reported rates of melanoma in the world are in Australia and New Zealand ( DermNet ). 1. Even when it's cloudy, you can still get burnt Probably one of the worst sunburns I have ever had was on a cloudy day. It was nice and warm so I was in and out of the water a lot - not even really drying off enough between swims to apply sunscreen to my body...or at least that's how I justified it at the time. I had terribly painful and red burn on my chest, so badly that it blistered. Even on cloudy days, 80% of the sun's rays can reach your skin causing sunburn and skin damage. 2. Don't wait until your skin is showing signs of redness to apply sunscreen When I was younger, I thought as long as my skin wasn't pink or red that I was doing just fine. What I didn't know is that by the time the red appearance of sunburn starts to show, the damage has well and truly been done . So don't wait until you see visible signs of sun damage before applying sunscreen. In fact, you should apply sunscreen before you leave the house, giving it time to sink in. 3. Be extra vigilant at the start of summer You are more likely to get burnt at the beginning of summer for several reasons: Your skin is likely to be more fair and soft after winter and therefore will burn easily Cooler temperatures means you are less likely to think of applying sunscreen. Don't be fooled - the sun in New Zealand especially is very strong and can cause skin damage year-round. You are likely to be more complacent about sunscreen application because chances are, you haven't worn sunscreen since last summer. Our top tip: check the expiration date on your sunscreen. If it is passed the date then it may not provide you with the level of SPF labelled! Our plastic free sunscreen tins are great because you can see exactly how much sunscreen you have left so you are less likely to waste it and you know exactly when it is time to top up. 4. Protect your shnoz! Your nose, face, scalp and other commonly sun-exposed areas are the most likely parts of the body to be sun damaged and get melanoma. So wear a hat and reapply sunscreen to these areas more often. 5. You need more than just sunscreen Sunscreen isn't the only thing you need to protect yourself from sunburn. Wear long shirts, a sarong or a beach poncho to keep your skin covered when possible. Seek shade in the middle of the day when the UV rays are the strongest and wear a hat and sunglasses. 6. How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly Applying sunscreen incorrectly is one of the easiest ways to get a sunburn - this is because you think you are protected when you're not. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply before you go outside, and re-apply every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. 7. New Sunscreen Regulations New Zealand In September 2022, a new sunscreen safety bill became law in New Zealand. All sunscreens sold in New Zealand must meet the AS/NZ 2604:2012 sunscreen standard meaning they must be independently tested for SPF levels. It is very important to choose a sunscreen that meets these regulations otherwise you may not be getting the level of SPF protection that you think. Learn more about the new sunscreen NZ regulations here. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References DermNet. Melanoma. Retrieved on 11 September 2022 from https://dermnetnz.org/topics/melanoma Health Navigator New Zealand. Skin Cancer. Retrieved on 11 September 2022 from https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/s/skin-cancer/

< Back The difference between sunscreen, sunblock and suncream. 16 Jul 2022 The terms sunscreen, sunblock and suncream are often used interchangeably. But do they actually mean the same thing? According to the Oxford dictionary… Sunscreen is a cream or lotion rubbed on to the skin to protect it from the sun Sunblock is a cream or lotion for protecting the skin from the sun and preventing sunburn Suncream is a creamy preparation spread over the skin to protect it from sunburn So, based on these definitions, the difference between the three terms is minimal. It isn’t unusual to hear the words sunblock and sunscreen used interchangeably, but according to some people, sunscreen and sunblock are two very different types of sun protection. According to Healthline sunscreen is a chemical defence, penetrating the skin and absorbing the UV rays before they reach and damage the dermal layers while sunblock is a physical way to defend against UV rays where mineral particles sit on top of the skin and acts as a barrier. However, there are two problems with this: Some sunscreens use a combination of both chemical and physical UV filters. According to a scientific paper by Cole et al. (2016) , the definition for ‘sunblock’ was subsequently dropped in the 1999 Final Rule for Sunscreen Products primarily to recognise that the term ‘sunblock’ suggested total protection which was not appropriate for any sunscreen. Is there a difference between Sunscreen SPF and Sunblock SPF? According to the Cancer Council SPF50+ filters out 98% of UVB radiation, while SPF30 blocks out 96.7% of UVB. So regardless of the SPF value of a sunscreen, sunblock or sun cream, some radiation is still reaching your skin. Based on that, we think it’s more appropriate to use the term sunscreen. Suncream I couldn’t find a whole lot on the history and use of the term suncream but I think sunscreen more accurately describes the purpose of sunscreen which is to screen a proportion of the sun’s rays before they reach your skin. Seasick Sunscreen Non-nano zinc oxide is the only active ingredient we use in our sunscreen. It is a "natural" sunscreen made with a mineral (or physical) UV filter that provides great protection for your skin whilst being much safer for the environment than chemical UV filters. Our sunscreen is broad-spectrum sunscreen meaning it gives extra protection because it filters out both UVA and UVB rays. This is important because: UVA radiation goes deep into the skin, causing long-term damage such as wrinkles, blotchiness, sagging and skin cancer. We call this UVA for ageing. Learn more about sunscreen and ageing. UVB radiation gets into the top layer of skin and can cause sunburn, skin damage and skin cancer. We call this UVB for burning. Our sunscreen meets the AS/NZ 2604:2021 (SPF certification) and ISO 24444:2019 (broad spectrum certification) sunscreen standards. Always check that your sunscreen is SPF certified. Melanoma (skin cancer) is the most common form of cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand and UV rays are the primary cause of premature ageing. So if you take one thing away from this blog it’s that you should wear sunscreen on your face, neck and other exposed skin daily! 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. doi: 10.1111/phpp.12214 .