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

< Back Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen SPF 6 Nov 2024 Whether you’re heading to the beach or just going about your day, applying sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. But with so many options out there, terms like "SPF" and choosing between SPF 30 and SPF 50 can be confusing. Here’s everything you need to know about SPF, why Smidge is SPF 40, and how to make the most of your sun protection. What is SPF? SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. The higher the SPF, the more protection you get from these damaging rays, but SPF alone doesn’t indicate complete protection. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays, and even high-SPF sunscreens must be reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating, for maximum effectiveness. SPF 30 vs. SPF 50: What's the Difference? SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays. SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays. New Zealand dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher for reliable protection, especially given New Zealand's intense UV exposure. Did you know? All sunscreens now sold in New Zealand have to be independently tested. They also have labelling requirements: sunscreens can’t claim an SPF greater than 50+ Smidge Suncare’s SPF Rating: SPF 40 Sunscreen You Can Trust Our sunscreen meets the rigorous Australia New Zealand sunscreen standard (AS/NZ 2604:2021) , which is printed on the back of every tin, giving you confidence in our products tested protection level. Smidge Suncare’s Daily Face and Body Sunscreen is rated at SPF 40, offering broad-spectrum protection that’s gentle enough for daily use yet powerful enough for long days outdoors. How Do We Test Our SPF? Ensuring reliable sun protection is essential, so our formulations are rigorously tested by Dermatest Eurofins in Australia, a reputable lab that performed the SPF retesting for Consumer New Zealand over the last few summers. SPF testing involves applying sunscreen to the skin of a group of 10 individuals, who are then exposed to controlled UV light. The test measures the time it takes for each person’s skin to begin showing signs of redness, indicating the level of sun protection provided by the sunscreen. These tests confirm that Smidge offers dependable, high-performance sun protection you can count on, whether you’re spending time at the beach or in the backyard. From SPF 30 to Smidge SPF 40: What’s Changed? If you’re a long-time user of our products, you may remember that Seasick Sunscreen was labelled as SPF 30. With the launch of Smidge, we’ve increased the label to SPF 40—but here’s the good news: our formulation hasn’t changed! After consulting with Cosmetics NZ, we were advised that our sunscreen’s actual SPF testing exceeded SPF 40, allowing us to confidently update our label without any alteration to the ingredients or formula. So, while the label reads differently, your favourite sunscreen remains as effective as ever. Will Smidge Release an SPF 50 Sunscreen? For those wondering if Smidge will eventually offer an SPF 50 option, we’re always open to new developments, but at the moment, it’s not on our immediate roadmap. Here’s why: Achieving consistent SPF 50 coverage requires a much higher concentration of UV filters, which can alter the sunscreen’s texture and make it less comfortable for sensitive skin. In fact, some brands claiming SPF 50 have struggled to meet this level when retested. At Smidge, we’re confident that SPF 40 provides high protection and is more than sufficient when applied correctly and reapplied regularly. For ultimate sun safety, remember that sunscreen should always be part of a sun-smart routine, including protective clothing, hats, and time out of direct sun. Are you ready to try Smidge Suncare and experience sun protection that feels as good as it performs? SPF 40 Daily Face Sunscreen Buy Now

< Back 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

< 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?

Plastic-free Sunscreen + Sustainable Practices. Protecting the environment is at the heart of what we do — that's why we take a holistic approach to sustainability. Our Impact Plastic-free Sunscreen + Sustainable Practices Protecting the environment is at the heart of what we do — that's why we take a holistic approach to sustainability. By choosing smidge you are… We donate 2% of our annual revenue — not just profits — to ocean conservation and education. This means your purchase makes a real impact. We're proud to support Blue Cradle with 1% of our revenue to grow ocean literacy, and Love Rimurimu with another 1% to help restore Aotearoa’s seaweed forests. Conventional sunscreens are up to 70% water. Counter-intuitive? Yes, water is a precious resource and that's why Smidge doesn't contain any! This also means our products go 2-3x further than conventional sunscreen. While you won't find palm oil listed on our ingredients , we are required to declare that some of our products MAY contain Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certified ingredients. RSPO certification is an assurance that IF there are any traces of palm oil in our ingredients, it is produced sustainably. Our aluminum tins are infintely recyclable, our labels are made of paper and we ship online orders in bags made from FSC recycled certified paper. The sustainability journey is a work-in-progress for us all but we continue to strive for the most sustainable option in all areas of our business. We’ve teamed up with CarbonClick , a New Zealand company making it easy for people and businesses to help fight climate change. CarbonClick looks like a green button at checkout. When you click it, a small contribution is added to your basket which purchases carbon offsets. These offsets reduce the environmental impact of the carbon emissions related to the purchase. CarbonClick’s offsets fund forest restoration, tree planting, and renewable energy projects around the world. Smidge is a wāhine-led, NZ-owned and operated social enterprise protecting both people and the planet. Thanks for supporting a NZ made sunscreen business!

Get in touch with the Smidge Suncare team today! We're always happy to help. Stay in touch. natalie@smidge.co.nz Email us directly Name* Email* Write a message* Send

Smidge e-gift card $50 Looking for a thoughtful gift? A Smidge e-gift card is the perfect pick — gentle on skin, kind to the planet, and big on impact. Amount $50 $100 $150 $200 Other amount Quantity Add to Cart Buy Now

We have a new look! Seasick Sunscreen is now Smidge Suncare. While our name has changed, you’ll still enjoy the same results with the same products you trust. We've got a new look! Seasick Sunscreen Co. is now Smidge Suncare. Shop Now Made with just seven naturally-derived ingredients. Smidge Suncare feels great and truly works. It's non-greasy, won't sting your eyes, and is gentle enough for kids and sensitive skin— developed by a redhead for the harsh New Zealand conditions! Shop Smidge. 30g, 70g, 140g available Quick View Daily Face & Body SPF 40 Sunscreen Price From $19.99 Save 10% Quick View Travel Sunscreen Bundle - 30g & 70g Regular Price $60.98 Sale Price $54.88 Coming Soon Quick View New Product Alert Out of stock “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...

< Back Safe Sunscreen Ingredients: Why we use just 7 ingredients in Smidge 18 Nov 2024 When choosing a sunscreen, understanding what the ingredient list is can make all the difference in finding a product that’s safe, effective, gentle on sensitive skin and better for the planet. Here, we break down the 7 ingredients we use in Smidge — an ideal choice for anyone looking for a safer alternative to conventional sunscreens. Chemical Vs “Natural” Sunscreen Firstly, it’s important to know there are 2 types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral (or “natural”). Most sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters, such as oxybenzone and homosalate, which can irritate sensitive skin. Mineral or “natural” sunscreens on the other hand, are those made with physical UV filters such as zinc oxide. Mineral-Based Sunscreens Safer for Kids and Sensitive Skin Mineral sunscreens, particularly those with zinc oxide, offer physical protection by reflecting harmful rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat within the skin, mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation or disrupt the skin’s natural balance. Smidge’s 7 safe ingredients: 1: Zinc Oxide Zinc oxide is a mineral filter that sits on top of the skin, where it protects against UVA and UVB rays. It is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin, including eczema-prone or children’s skin. Its effectiveness without harmful chemicals makes it the primary ingredient in safe sunscreens like Smidge, providing SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection. 2: CocoNut Oil Moisturising, healing and non-greasy, coconut oil helps moisturise and soothe the skin without synthetic fragrances or preservatives, which can often trigger allergies or irritation. 3. Shea Butter Shea butter is nourishing and can offer a natural boost to the skin barrier, helping maintain moisture even in the sun. Shea creates a creamy, easily spreadable texture, making Smidge application smooth and enjoyable. Our shea butter is fully traceable to the AAK Kolo Nafaso direct sourcing program in West Africa , positively contributing to social, economic and environmental well-being. 4. Candelilla Wax Candelilla wax is a vegan alternative to beeswax, commonly used to enhance sunscreen's texture and water resistance. 5. 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. 6. Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate* Made from plant oils such as coconut oil and castor oil, this ingredient is soothing on sensitive skin. 7. 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. *We use these three ingredients as natural emulsifiers, ensuring Smidge maintains a smooth, creamy texture that doesn’t separate over time, unlike many other "natural" sunscreens. What’s Not In Smidge Sunscreen Water: our concentrated formula goes 2-3x further than water-based sunscreens Chemical UV filters: Avoid sunscreens with synthetic chemicals like oxybenzone and avobenzone if you have sensitive skin Fragrances: choosing sunscreens without artificial fragrances, parabens, and other potential allergens can help reduce the risk of irritation. Common Questions About Sunscreen Ingredients 1. Is mineral sunscreen as effective as chemical sunscreen? Yes! Mineral sunscreens offer reliable broad-spectrum protection and are often a healthier choice for sensitive skin types. 2. Will mineral sunscreen leave a white cast? While some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast, Smidge is designed to rub in well without a white cast, thanks to our carefully selected ingredients and texture! 3. How often should I reapply? Dermatologists in New Zealand recommend that all sunscreens should be reapplied every two hours , or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, for best protection. Watch our video on how to apply Smidge A Smidge Different: Sunscreen that actually feels good At Smidge, our goal is to provide sun protection that works harmoniously with your skin and the environment. Our Daily Face and Body Sunscreen with SPF 40 includes zinc oxide as the active ingredient, complemented by soothing and moisturising natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. This formulation not only meets the Australia-New Zealand standard for SPF protection (AS/NZS 2604:2021) but also aligns with the needs of those with sensitive skin and a desire for a plastic-free and NZ-made product. For more information on Smidge Suncare’s ingredients and our commitment to safe, effective sun protection, visit our Safe Sunscreen Ingredients page. Shop Now

< Back How Zinc Oxide Provides Safe & Effective Sunscreen SPF Protection 5 Mar 2025 Not all sunscreens are created equal—especially when it comes to sensitive skin. If you’ve ever experienced stinging, redness, or breakouts after applying sunscreen, you’re not alone. Many sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters that can irritate the skin and even disrupt hormones. These ingredients can be absorbed through the skin. “In recent years, studies have also raised concerns about endocrine-disrupting effects of three ingredients: homosalate, avobenzone and oxybenzone ( EWG 2025 ). The good news? There’s a better way to protect your skin—with zinc oxide. Shop Now How Sunscreens Achieve SPF Protection SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen shields your skin from harmful UVB rays —the type of radiation that causes sunburn and skin damage. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection (as long as the sunscreen is being applied properly and re-applied regularly): SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays No sunscreen provides 100% protection! SPF 30 is widely recommended by New Zealand dermatologists as the minimum for daily use—especially given NZ’s harsh UV conditions. But how a sunscreen provides that protection makes all the difference. The Difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens Chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone and octinoxate) absorb into the skin and soak up UV radiation (EWG 2025). M any people find that chemical sunscreens lead to painful skin irritation, redness, and breakouts, especially for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin (learn more about sunscreen for sensitive skin ). Mineral sunscreens, like zinc oxide, form a protective barrier on the skin's surface that primarily absorbs UV rays, despite the common belief that zinc works solely by reflecting or scattering sunburn-causing ultraviolet radiation ( Cole et al. 2015 ). Zinc Oxide is the best SPF ingredient for sensitive skin - it’s often found in nappy rash creams and is safe for babies and children ( Dermaltherapy 2025 ). Smidge: Sunscreen That Puts Skin First At Smidge, we believe sun protection should and can be a good experience for everyone. That’s why our SPF 40 sunscreen is powered by non-nano zinc oxide—giving you safe, effective protection without irritation. 💙 No chemical UV filters 💙 Fragrance free 💙 Lightweight, non-greasy formula SPF 40 Daily Face & Body Sunscreen Buy Now Discover More: Our 7 Safe Sunscreen Ingredients

< Back 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.

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?