Finder Green Fave: Surfmud
This reef-safe sunscreen, made with natural zinc, will shield you from the intense Aussie sun.
There's no shortage of sunscreens on supermarket and pharmacy shelves. But, how well do you know the ingredients that are protecting you?
Fortunately, there are a bunch of environmentally-friendly local brands using natural ingredients to keep us and the environment safe.
One such example is Surfmud, a tried and tested sunscreen that's handmade on the Sunshine Coast and sold online for both kids and adults.
You can either get the long-lasting tinted covering cream if you're going to be spending hours in the water. Or, the SPF30 lotion sunscreen (4 hours water resistant) for more casual sun protection.
What makes Surfmud eco-friendly?
Surfmud was launched by a couple of guys on the Sunshine Coast for lasting protection during long surf sessions.
It uses ethically sourced, cruelty-free natural ingredients to help environmentally conscientious consumers feel more comfortable about their choices. Whether that's out in the water, during sports or for basking in the sun.
Surfmud uses non-nano zinc oxide that is non-irritating and non-allergenic. Other ingredients include Coco Caprylate/Caprate, organic beeswax, natural lanolin, Australian clay and iron oxides for natural colour.
It comes in recyclable, low impact packaging to keep up with its theme of being an eco-friendly brand.
We tried Surfmud and loved it
As a scuba diver and all round beach lover, my obsession with the ocean is almost surreal.
That and Sir David Attenborough's documentaries are what inspired my switch to reef safe sunscreens.
I came across Surfmud about a year back and haven't looked back since.
The Surfmud tinted cream is a thick application and may take some getting used to. However, I find it manageable and like the soft consistency it has once it's on my face.
I have extremely sensitive skin but haven't faced any irritating breakouts or rashes.
There's only one skin tone available – the more you apply, the darker it gets on your face. I usually apply a light layer and it works well for me.
Because the tinted cream comes in a small aluminium twist tub, it's easy to carry around and takes up minimal space.
Surfmud recommends keeping it in a cooler area when you're not using it.
Note. Everyone's skin is different and will react differently. With any skincare product, it's recommended that you do a test patch if you're feeling unsure.
Another thing to remember is you will need some sort of facial cleansing wipe to get the Surfmud tinted cream fully off before washing your face as you normally would.
Where can I buy it?
You can order Surfmud products directly from the brand's website.
It's also available through other online retailers such as SuperPharmacy and eBay
Finder Green Fave is a regular column that highlights our favourite sustainable, eco-friendly, ethical and cruelty-free products. Looking for more information about eco-friendly choices? Check out Finder Green.
