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In the unlikely event of you not being completely stoked with your sunscreen, please let us know! We're passionate about customer satisfaction so email us and we can chat. Not Satisfied? Refunds and Returns If you aren't completely stoked with your sunscreen please let us know! We're passionate about customer satisfaction so email us and we can chat. Returns If you are not 100% happy with your purchase we offer 30-day fuss-free returns (from the time you place your order) on unopened and unused products. If 30 days have gone by since your purchase or the product has been used, unfortunately, we can’t offer you a refund or exchange. We only replace items if they are defective or damaged. Please note that returned items can not be resold so consider the environmental impact when choosing to return a product. Shipping will not be refunded unless the item is deemed to be faulty. To be eligible for our return policy, your sunscreen must have been purchased from smidge.co.nz and you must provide a valid proof of purchase. We monitor return activity for any abuses of the system and have the right to limit or deny returns in all instances. Refunds (if applicable) Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your returned item. We will also notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund. If you are approved, then your refund will be processed, and a credit will automatically be applied to your credit card or original method of payment, within a certain amount of days. You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund. Please contact us at: natalie@smidge.co.nz for return and refund enquiries

If you're interested in selling Smidge Suncare in your store, get in touch with us today. Interested in Stocking Smidge? Gentle on Skin. Big on impact. Smidge is proud to partner with like-minded retailers who care about people and the planet. We offer high-performing sunscreen made right here in Aotearoa—crafted with naturally derived ingredients and broad-spectrum protection that works. A lready loved by customers across Aotearoa, Smidge is ready to make a difference on your shelves too. Fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch with our wholesale info & pricing. Why Stock Smidge? It Sells Stocked in 50+ locations. Featured in Women’s Weekly, Kia Ora Magazine, and RNZ. Fills a Niche Eco-conscious, sensitive-skin friendly, and trusted by families. Shelf-Ready Compact tins with bold, beautiful branding—perfect for counters, travel sections, and impulse buys. Local & Impact-Led Wāhine Māori-owned. Proudly made in Aotearoa. 2% of revenue goes to ocean conservation. Request a Sample Name* Email* Phone* Store Name or Link to Website* Postal Address for Sample* Why Smidge would be a good fit for your store?* We'll be in touch if we think your store is a good fit! Submit What our retailers are saying "May I say, of all suppliers I have dealt with so far, you are by far the most responsive, organised and thoughtful yet." - Will, Run Pōneke Email us at: natalie@smidge.co.nz for more information

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< Back What is the best sunscreen in NZ? 5 Jul 2022 6 reasons Smidge is the best sunscreen in NZ. I guess that depends on what you mean by ‘best’ so we have broken this down into six categories: the best SPF protection best value for money best feel best look best environmental values/practices best sunscreen for sensitive skin. 1. Best sunscreen - SPF protection The Cancer Council states that SPF50+ filters out 98% of UVB radiation, while SPF30 blocks out 96.7% of UVB - this is only 1.3% more protection . SPF 50 sunscreens can therefore mislead people into thinking they are more protected than they actually are; however, an SPF50 Sunscreen still needs to be reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming and exercise, and applied correctly. SPF 50 requires the use of a large amount of UV filters and is most often achieved by using chemical UV filters and/or nano-particles. In summary, the Cancer Council recommends using a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or above. 2. Best sunscreen - value for money Conventional sunscreens are up to 70% water meaning you need to use a lot to protect your skin. That’s why they are usually sold in 200ml+ bottles. Our formula has no water in it meaning it goes 2-3 times further. Ethique prices their waterless shampoo bars to reflect the fact that they equate to 3 bottles of conventional shampoo. 3x bottles regular shampoo = approx. $33 1x Ethique bar = $22 Our formula has no water in it meaning a little goes a really long way! 3x chemical sunscreen bottles = approx. $45 2x conventional mineral sunscreen containing water = $60 1x Seasick Sunscreen = $33 But don’t take our word for it. Here is what Eco-blogger , Juliet had to say about our sunscreen: “Did you notice that there was no water in that ingredient list? What that means is that a little goes a very long way. I couldn’t believe that tiny amount required to cover my face.” In summary, yes our sunscreen costs a bit more upfront but when applied correctly, it's going to go a lot further than your typical liquid sunscreen that is poured out of a plastic bottle. 3. Best sunscreen - application feel “This sunscreen is awesome! Such a beautiful texture, has no chemical smell and just feels like putting moisturiser on. Amazing product, 100% recommend.” - Amelia, happy customer. The number one thing we hear from people is how much they hate greasy sunscreen! To be perfectly honest, a feature I focused on when I developed my formula but by a stroke of luck we have created a non-greasy sunscreen that sinks right into the skin and feels great! How do we know this? Because each summer we have hundreds of people try our sunscreen at our market days and that is the number one feedback that we hear. 4. Best sunscreen - look Many mineral sunscreens are made with powdered zinc oxide which can leave a white caste on the skin. To avoid this, lots of sunscreens and personal care products are made using nano-sized particles (particle size <100 nanometers) to formulate lotions that rub in more easily and leave less of a tint. I use sunscreen daily (at work, while exercising, outdoor events etc.) so creating a formula that doesn’t leave me looking white like a ghost was a high priority for me. That’s why I searched the world for a zinc dispersion which glides onto the skin and doesn’t leave a white tint! We were able to achieve this without using nano zinc (particle size <100 nanometers). Although good science is still lacking in this area, scientists think that non-nano particles have less of an impact on marine life which is why we only use non-nano zinc. 5. Best sunscreen - for the environment Firstly, let me start by saying, no sunscreen is good for the environment. However, many chemical UV filters and of course plastic pollution have been shown to cause significant damage to the environment. So, when we do need to wear sunscreen, it is important to avoid ingredients that have been shown to cause damage to marine life and avoid plastic and other single-use sunscreen containers where possible! Kaitiakitanga (environmental “stewardship”) is our core value and the health of our oceans is at the heart of every decision we make. We aren’t perfect, but we take sustainability seriously which is why our product is: plastic free (both the sunscreen and shipping materials) made with non-nano zinc and a handful of careful selected ingredients that produced sustainably and are safe for the environment 2% revenue is donated to ocean conservation Our sustainability goals for the future are: to become Aotearoa New Zealand’s first and only reef-safe certified brand. Click here to learn more about the Land and Sea Certification we are working towards. offer tin refills so you can keep using your same tin over and over again. I think it's important to recognise that although we try to minimise our impact on the environment, ultimately we are still using resources and putting stress on the environment when large amounts of tourists/beach goers wearing sunscreen enter the water. So we can minimise our impact even further by covering our skin by wearing long clothing and staying out of the sun during the hottest time of day which helps to reduce the chance of melanoma too! 6. Best for sensitive skin Every summer, I get to meet hundreds of my awesome customers at the summer markets. This is how I learnt how many people out there suffer from painful skin irritations from conventional sunscreen chemicals. Here is what they say: “I have very sensitive dry skin and most of the commercialised sunscreen irritates my skin. I like Seasick Sunscreen because its like a cream and is made of all natural and chemical free ingredients that doesn't irritate my skin.” - Glenda Seasick Sunscreen voted "Staff Pick" at the Sustainability Trust Eco Store! "Seasick Sunscreen is AMAZING! I looked for ages for a good plastic free sunscreen and this one works magic! Made it through the entire summer without a single sunburn! Very economical too!" - Jade, Customer Service Okay, okay we are a bit biased and truly think we do have the best face and body sunscreen in Aotearoa New Zealand. BUT there are some other inspiring brands out there making the best sunscreen in other countries and they deserve recognition too. We are inspired by Badger Zinc Tin from the USA and Mama Kuleana from Hawaii. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen

< 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

Smidge Suncare is better for you and the environment! We have carefully selected a simple list of naturally-derived ingredients that are safe for your body and better for the planet too. Ingredients We have carefully selected a simple list of naturally-derived ingredients that are safe for your body and effective. No harsh chemicals, no fillers. Just what your skin needs. Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Non-nano zinc oxide is a broad spectrum mineral UV filter and is the only active ingredient in Smidge sunscreen. Zinc oxide scores very well in the EWG ratings for low toxicity and is recommended for people with sensitive skin. Smidge does not contain any chemical UV filters (such as oxybenzone or octinoxate). Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil Moisturising, healing and derived from nature. What more do we need to say really.

 Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Shea Butter is obtained from the seeds of the Karite Tree (Butyrospermum Parkii) common in several African countries. This soft, pliant 'butter' is pressed from the seeds. Our shea butter is ethically produced and sustainably refined. Candelilla Cera A plant wax produced from the Candellila tree. This is a vegan alternative to beeswax. 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. Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate Made from plant oils such as coconut oil and castor oil, this ingredient is soothing on sensitive skin. 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. What you won't find in Smidge sunscreen… Petrochemicals Synthetic fragrance Water Parabens Nano-particles Oxybenzone Octinoxate Octisalate Octocrylene Homosalate Avobenzone Titanium Dioxide

Sustainable sunscreen in plastic-free packaging you can trust to protect your skin without harming the environment. Our Story With a background in science, interest in sustainable living and love of nature, in 2019, Natalie created Smidge in her kitchen. MEET THE FOUNDER Kia ora, I'm Nat! As a redheaded sun worshipper who loves travelling, hiking, and diving, sunscreen is a daily essential for me. But I wanted more than just protection. I wanted something I could trust to be kind on sensitive skin, simple to use, and with minimal impact on our planet. As a scientist and passionate conservationist, I rolled up my sleeves and turned my kitchen into a sunscreen lab. I kept it simple: just a handful of naturally-derived ingredients, packaged in plastic-free tins, and made right here in Aotearoa. We’re here to protect people and the places we love, one smidge at a time. - Nat, Founder and CEO (Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa) Join Us Smidge is more than a sunscreen – we’re building a community that cares for people and our planet. If that sounds like you, we’d love to stay connected. Get 15% off Mission Smidge is a social enterprise that makes skin and sun care simple, gentle on skin, and big on impact — so you can live life to the fullest with minimal impact on the environment. Vision Wearing sun protection can be a good experience for everyone. We imagine a future where caring for your skin also means caring for our planet and future generations. Sustainability The health of the planet is key to the health of all people. As children of Papatūānuku (Mother Earth), we have a responsibility to protect our planet, and Smidge contributes by giving back to local environmental programmes and championing low-impact living. Learn more. Thanks for being on this journey with us.... Nat launches in 2019 at Newtown Market, Wellington. Family and friends helping tin sunscreen. Expo Stand Upscaling production after crowdfunding campaign. Smidge on a billboard in Tauranga. Nat launches in 2019 at Newtown Market, Wellington. Family and friends helping tin sunscreen. Expo Stand Upscaling production after crowdfunding campaign. Smidge on a billboard in Tauranga. Nat launches in 2019 at Newtown Market, Wellington. Family and friends helping tin sunscreen. Expo Stand Upscaling production after crowdfunding campaign. Smidge on a billboard in Tauranga. Nat launches in 2019 at Newtown Market, Wellington. Family and friends helping tin sunscreen. Expo Stand Upscaling production after crowdfunding campaign. Smidge on a billboard in Tauranga. Nat launches in 2019 at Newtown Market, Wellington. Family and friends helping tin sunscreen. Expo Stand Upscaling production after crowdfunding campaign. Smidge on a billboard in Tauranga. Nat launches in 2019 at Newtown Market, Wellington. Family and friends helping tin sunscreen. Expo Stand Upscaling production after crowdfunding campaign. Smidge on a billboard in Tauranga.

Smidge e-gift card $50 Amount $50 $100 $150 $200 Other amount Quantity Add to Cart Buy Now

We use 100% plastic-free shipping! Your order will be sent in a FSC-certified cardboard mailer. It can be reused and at the end of its life it can be recycled in a kerbside recycle bin. ​ Our Shipping Policy 100% plastic-free shipping Your order will be sent in a FSC-certified cardboard mailer. It can be reused and at the end of its life it can be recycled in a kerbside recycle bin. Shipping times NZ Urban - 1-3 Business Days NZ Rural - 3-5 Business Days Australia Nationwide - 5-7 Business Days Please Note: Weekends do not count in your shipping days, if you order on a Friday afternoon, Saturday or Sunday your order will be with the courier company on Monday. Shipping costs New Zealand NZ Urban (excluding rural) - $7 NZ Rural - $11* Free shipping on orders over $60 Australia Nationwide - $15 Free shipping on orders over $120 *Please select the correct shipping for your address as we are unable to send your rural order if you select standard.

How to apply our sunscreen? All you need is just a smidge. How to Apply Our Sunscreen Step 1: Just a Smidge Warm a smidge (pea-sized amount) in your palms (this is enough to cover your face). Step 2: Spread Gently Spread gently across your skin - there is no need for vigorous rubbing like you do with liquid sunscreens in plastic squeezy bottles. Our sunscreen spreads easily and doesn’t leave a white cast. Step 3: Repeat Repeat the process using approximately a pea-sized amount for each body part i.e one for each arm, one for each leg and so on, until all areas of exposed skin are covered. Step 4: Re-apply Re-apply at least every 2 hours or as needed. download instructions

< Back When should I wear sunscreen in New Zealand? 27 Mar 2023 Avoid skin damage by wearing sunscreen in Autumn and Winter. 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. On Thursday March 16th between 11:30-3:30 the UV index was between 6-8 which is categorised as High ( Niwa, Today's UV Index ) . According to Dr Richard McKenzie, a NIWA scientist, " when the UV index is 3 that means, for a fair-skinned person, about an hour before you get skin damage . If the UV index is twice as big – 6, it's going to be half an hour, 12, [it's going to be] quarter of an hour " ( RNZ 2018 ). As a fair-skinned redhead, I know for a fact that I would be beetroot red after 30 mins to one hour outside on an Autumn day like today (March 16th 2023, UV index 6-8). How Much Sunscreen Do You Need? Conventional sunscreens have a LOT of water in them so you need to apply at least 1 tsp per body part to get adequate coverage. Seasick Sunscreen contains no water so a little bit goes a long way. We recommend starting with a good pea-sized blog for your face and going from there. How Often Should Your Reapply Sunscreen? This really depends on your own skin tone and what you are doing - for example are you swimming lots and then towel drying? If so then you should reapply more often. It is recommended to reapply all types of sunscreen every 2 hours however, this is unlikely to actually happen, especially in Autumn and Winter. If you are like me, I apply sunscreen first thing in the morning, sometimes under makeup and then go about my busy day....If I am lucky, I will reapply sunscreen to my face, neck and shoulders when sitting outside at lunch time or in the afternoon on a sunny day. Shop Smidge Suncare SPF40 Sunscreen References Niwa. Today's UV Index. https://niwa.co.nz/our-services/online-services/uv-and-ozone/todays-uv-index Skin cancer science: Sunscreen in winter urged as study reveals flaws in UV advice. RNZ Nine to Noon. 18 September 2018. Available from https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2018663002/skin-cancer-science-sunscreen-in-winter-urged-as-study-reveals-flaws-in-uv-advice

Join our newsletter and win with Smidge. Everything you need and nothing you don't - very on brand for us. Good Things Come in Small Packages Sign up to the Smidge newsletter for your chance to win a stay for two in a tiny home in the Coromandel — because if anyone knows the value of a little going a long way, it's us. Ocean views, forest surroundings, and bathed in sunshine. Everything you need, nothing you don't — very on brand for us. This spring, we're giving away a stay in this dream Whitianga escape, valued at over $1,000. Details coming via our newsletter, so pop your email in below! Register for updates