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- What is the best sunscreen in NZ? | Smidge Suncare
< 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
- When should I wear sunscreen in New Zealand? | Smidge Suncare
< 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
- Newsletter Signup | Smidge Suncare
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- Safe Sunscreen Ingredients | Smidge Suncare
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. Better for you + the environment We have carefully selected a simple list of naturally-derived ingredients that are safe for your body (yes, our sunscreens are safe for babies and children) and better for the planet too. The health of the environment is at the heart of every decision we make, which is why we do not use chemical UV filters. We also avoid nano-particles and our sunscreen is plastic free. Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Using non-nano zinc oxide as the only active ingredient in our sunscreen, is incredibly important to us! Why? Because it is a safer UV filter for both you and the environment than chemical UV filters, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate which have been linked to coral bleaching (Madhusoodanan, 2022 ). Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil Moisturising, healing and non-greasy. 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. Up to 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen end up in the ocean every year. Did you know that chemical UV blockers (such as oxybenzone and octinoxate) commonly used in sunscreens have all been found in marine life, surface seawater and sand? Up to 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen is estimated to enter the ocean every year (American Chemical Soc, 2019 ). What you won't find in our sunscreens… Petrochemicals Synthetic fragrance Parabens Nano-particles Oxybenzone Octinoxate Octisalate Octocrylene Homosalate Avobenzone Titanium Dioxide Learn More: Is your sunscreen really natural and chemical free?
- Why Are Skin Cancer Rates So High in New Zealand? | Smidge Suncare
< Back Why Are Skin Cancer Rates So High in New Zealand? 31 Mar 2025 New Zealand has some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world ( Science Learning Hub, July 29, 2008 ). 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. Shop Now Burn time within minutes in NZ Aotearoa New Zealand often ranks highest globally for skin cancer rates, with people able to burn within minutes even on cloudy days. Our location closer to the ozone hole means UV rays are more intense, increasing the risk of skin damage ( The Starfish, 2024 ). The peak UV season — typically from September to April — can catch people off guard, especially during cooler, cloudy days when the sunburn risk still exists. We love the outdoors Whether it's at the beach, tramping in the bush, or enjoying a summer barbecue. This active, outdoor lifestyle often results in extended sun exposure. While our love for the sun is a big part of who we are, it also means we need to be more vigilant about sun protection. Limited Awareness and Prevention According to a recent report from MelNet ( MelNet Press Release, Scoop, 2025 ), a national strategy has been launched to address New Zealand's high skin cancer rates through improved prevention and early detection. Despite increased efforts, many Kiwis still underestimate the dangers of sun exposure. Common misconceptions, like thinking sunburn is harmless or that a “base tan” provides protection, contribute to the issue. The New Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy Developed by the Melanoma Network of New Zealand ( MelNet) in collaboration with skin cancer experts and stakeholders (including Consumer NZ ) the strategy outlines 12 key recommendations to strengthen prevention and early detection efforts. Consumer health spokesperson Belinda Castles said the strategy’s recommendations regarding sun-protection products are consistent with what Consumer NZ has been advocating for over many years. The strategy outlines 12 key recommendations: Establish a comprehensive, multi-sectoral, nationally co-ordinated skin cancer prevention and early detection programme. Provide all health professionals working in New Zealand with structured training in the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. Develop a nationally consistent triage and audit service for the early detection and management of skin cancer that involves both primary and secondary care. Plan and deliver public education campaigns that promote sun safety and early detection, and evaluate their reach and impact. Adopt World Health Organization recommended sun protection guidelines in all education settings. Mandate and enforce sun protection policies for workplaces with workers who work outdoors. Adopt sun protection policies in sports settings where participants are exposed to high levels of solar ultraviolet radiation. Integrate sun protection into planning for outdoor recreation areas where people congregate. Increase access and affordability of high-quality sun protection products. Review existing sun protection guidelines and related position statements to ensure they reflect latest research and are consistent across platforms. Implement an outright ban on the importation, manufacture, sale and rental of sunbeds for commercial or private use. Ensure all skin cancer prevention and early detection interventions are informed by robust research and quality data. Credit: Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Strategy 2024 - 2028 MelNet’s full report can be accessed via this link: Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Strategy 2024 - 2028: https://strategy.melnet.org.nz How Can We Protect Ourselves? At Smidge, we believe wearing sunscreen can be a good experience for everyone. We understand that finding effective sun protection is challenging, especially for children and those of us with sensitive skin. Choosing a zinc sunscreen is best for sensitive skin - learn more . Here’s how you can take positive, practical steps to keep your skin safe year-round: Slip, Slap, Wrap, and Smidge: Slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, wrap on sunglasses, and apply a smidge of our SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen to yourself and the kids. Here’s how to apply Smidge properly. Seek Shade: When possible, stay in the shade, especially during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Use Niwa’s handy tool to check the daily UV index in your region . Check Your Skin: Keep an eye on any changes to your skin and get a skin check-up. Did you know AA Members are entitled to a 20% discount at MoleMap !! SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen Buy Now Learn More: Zinc Sunscreens are Best for Sensitive Skin
- Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen SPF | Smidge Suncare
< 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
- Returns & Refunds | Smidge Suncare
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
- Privacy Policy | Smidge Suncare
View information around the Smidge Suncare Privacy Policy. Privacy Policy This Privacy Policy describes how your personal information is collected, used, and shared when you visit or make a purchase from smidgesuncare.co.nz (the “Site”). Personal information we collect When you visit the Site, we automatically collect certain information about your device, including information about your web browser, IP address, time zone, and some of the cookies that are installed on your device. Additionally, as you browse the Site, we collect information about the individual web pages or products that you view, what websites or search terms referred you to the Site, and information about how you interact with the Site. We refer to this automatically-collected information as “Device Information”. We collect Device Information using the following technologies: - “Cookies” are data files that are placed on your device or computer and often include an anonymous unique identifier. For more information about cookies, and how to disable cookies, visit http://www.allaboutcookies.org - “Log files” track actions occurring on the Site, and collect data including your IP address, browser type, Internet service provider, referring/exit pages, and date/time stamps. - “Web beacons”, “tags”, and “pixels” are electronic files used to record information about how you browse the Site. Additionally when you make a purchase or attempt to make a purchase through the Site, we collect certain information from you, including your name, billing address, shipping address, payment information (including credit card numbers), email address, and phone number. We refer to this information as “Order Information”. When we talk about “Personal Information” in this Privacy Policy, we are talking both about Device Information and Order Information. How do we use your personal information? We use the Order Information that we collect generally to fulfill any orders placed through the Site (including processing your payment information, arranging for shipping, and providing you with invoices and/or order confirmations). Additionally, we use this Order Information to: - Communicate with you; - Screen our orders for potential risk or fraud; and - When in line with the preferences you have shared with us, provide you with information or advertising relating to our products or services. We use the Device Information that we collect to help us screen for potential risk and fraud (in particular, your IP address), and more generally to improve and optimize our Site (for example, by generating analytics about how our customers browse and interact with the Site, and to assess the success of our marketing and advertising campaigns). Sharing you personal Information We share your Personal Information with third parties to help us use your Personal Information, as described above. For example, we use Shopify to power our online store--you can read more about how Shopify uses your Personal Information here: https://www.shopify.com/legal/privacy We also use Google Analytics to help us understand how our customers use the Site. You can read more about how Google uses your Personal Information here: https://www.google.com/intl/en/policies/privacy/ You can also opt-out of Google Analytics here: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout Finally, we may also share your Personal Information to comply with applicable laws and regulations, to respond to a subpoena, search warrant or other lawful request for information we receive, or to otherwise protect our rights. Behavioural advertising As described above, we use your Personal Information to provide you with targeted advertisements or marketing communications we believe may be of interest to you. For more information about how targeted advertising works, you can visit the Network Advertising Initiative’s (“NAI”) educational page at http://www.networkadvertising.org/understanding-online-advertising/how-does-it-work. You can opt out of targeted advertising by using the links below: - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/settings/?tab=ads - Google: https://www.google.com/settings/ads/anonymous - Bing: https://advertise.bingads.microsoft.com/en-us/resources/policies/personalized-ads Additionally, you can opt out of some of these services by visiting the Digital Advertising Alliance’s opt-out portal at: http://optout.aboutads.info/ Do not track Please note that we do not alter our Site’s data collection and use practices when we see a Do Not Track signal from your browser. Data retention When you place an order through the Site, we will maintain your Order Information for our records unless and until you ask us to delete this information. Changes We may update this privacy policy from time to time in order to reflect, for example, changes to our practices or for other operational, legal or regulatory reasons. Contact Us: For more information about our privacy practices, if you have questions, or if you would like to make a complaint, please contact us by e‑mail at natalie@smidgesuncare.co.nz
- Blog | Smidge Suncare
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...
