Back in 2004 Badger Bill saw an employee putting on sunscreen in the middle of winter. Her dermatologist had recommended this because of a skin condition she had. He read the ingredients, freaked at all the chemicals, and wondered if there was something he could do about it. He thought “Let’s see, our Bali Balm is good for sun parched skin, what if we just put some zinc oxide in it?” Everyone was convinced that this thick zinc oxide cream would never sell. “It was a guaranteed failure. We just did it because it was the right thing to do” says Bill. We only sold 11000 tubes in 2005. We decided to keep making it just for our die-hard natural fans.
A few years later the EWG published their first sunscreen report which got mentioned on The Today Show. Badger was rated #1 of 750 sunscreens on the EWG website and we sold out our entire year’s stock of sunscreen overnight. From that point forward Badger was recognized as the leader in extremely natural, safe and effective sunscreens.
We then formulated new versions, including Unscented, Anti-Bug, Stick and Baby versions. We also made smart decisions concerning ingredients and certifications and we had independent labs test for all sorts of things so that we can prove that our sunscreens are as good as we say they are.
Now it’s 2011 and we have the best-selling natural sunscreens around. Moral of the story: the good guys don’t always finish last.
What's new in 2011
Watch a video of Rebecca describing the features and benefits of Badger’s new sunscreens.
What’s New
Why?
•All SPF 30 sunscreens are now SPF 30+ (average SPF=34 after water resistance testing)
•We now use a better dispersion (mixing of the zinc oxide), and a different type of zinc oxide. We actually use 10% less zinc oxide and get a higher SPF.
•Now using uncoated zinc oxide particles.
•By improving our mixing methods we can now effectively use uncoated zinc oxide particles.
1)Customer demand for non-nano. Although we remain confident that the particles we had been using were completely safe
2)We have a new method mixing larger particles into our sunscreens to provide better UVA and UVB protection, while being no more whitening, than our current sunscreens
•Now using naturally derived Vitamin E as the preservative
•We switched from using Rosemary CO2 extract to using Vitamin E as the product preservative because the Rosemary reacted with the uncoated zinc oxide and Vitamin E did not.
•Now certified ‘Natural’ by the NPA and certified ‘Contains Organic Ingredients’ by NSF.
•We believe that third party certifications take the guesswork out of our authenticity. These certifications help us prove that we are genuinely natural and organic. Most of our sunscreens contain >80% certified organic ingredients.
•UVA protection tested as ‘Superior 4 stars/PA+++’
•Independent laboratory verification that our sunscreens effectively protect from UVA rays. This testing is required in other countries and will be required soon in the USA. We are trying to stay ahead.
•We spent $$$ to prove that our sunscreens biodegrade. Many other sunscreens that make these claims don’t actually test for it.
•SPF30+ Face Stick is now ‘Very Water Resistant’
•By improving our mixing techniques, this is now water resistant for at least 80 minutes of activity in the water or sweating.
•All sunscreens now internationally compliant in Canada, Japan, EU, Australia & New Zealand.
•The US FDA sunscreen regulations are more lax than these other countries. Our sunscreens meet or surpass the more stringent international protection and safety regulations.
•BPA and Phthalate free packaging made from >50% PRC #2 plastic (easily recyclable).
•Our packaging does not contain BPA and Phthalates, so they won’t get in the product, so they won’t get into your bodies.
High Performance Natural Sunscreen
• Stays on the skin when you sweat or play in the water (water-resistant)
• Won't run and drip into your eyes when you sweat
• Starts working as soon as you put it on. No waiting
• Allows your skin to breathe
• Is strong and effective enough to protect you from extreme conditions
• Has no irritating ingredients
Highest Ratings for Safety and Efficacy
Don’t just take our word for it. According to the Environmental Working Group's 2010 Sunscreen Guide, Badger makes some of the world's safest and most effective sunscreens. Most recently they recommended Badger sunscreens over 1400 commonly available sunscreens! Our sunscreens provide broad spectrum protection and do not contain chemicals that may be harmful to human health and the environment. We are also at the top of SafeMama.com's 2010 Safer Sunscreens Cheat Sheet and in Consumer Report’s top 10 recommended sunscreens.
Protects with Minerals not Chemicals
Badger sunscreens use zinc oxide is a mineral that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It works by sitting on top of your skin, acting as a protective barrier that blocks the sun’s damaging rays before they reach your living skin. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties and is considered the safest and most protective active sunscreen ingredient. Learn more about our zinc oxide.
A Badger fan in the BVIs.
Natural and Organic Sunscreen Ingredients
All of our natural and organic sunscreens contain 100% USDA Certified Organic plant oils and beeswax as the base that carries the particles of zinc oxide. Because our formulas contain no water they do not need any chemical emulsifiers, and are preserved with natural vitamin E. Badger's organic sunscreens do not contain any synthetic fragrances, preservatives, dyes, or chemicals of any kind.
Good for Your Skin
The plant oils in our natural and organic sunscreens provide ultra-moisturizing nourishment for your sun exposed skin. We use organic and natural botanicals like extra virgin olive oil, jojoba oil, shea and cocoa butters, and seabuckthorn berry. These are all rich in vitamins, polyphenols and other antioxidants that act as ‘free radical scavengers’ further protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging rays.
Water Resistant Protection
Badger natural and organic sunscreens are formulated in an oil and wax balm base (no water) and they are naturally quite water resistant. All Badger sunscreens are tested for water resistance by an independent laboratory. Each sunscreen has been found to retain its original SPF on human skin after 40 minutes of exposure to vigorous warm water. Our SPF30+ All Season Face Stick is 'Very Water Resistant', meaning it retains its original SPF after 80 minutes. We still recommend that you reapply as needed, based on your skin type, for maximum protection. Click here to read more about water resistant sunscreens
Un-named Badger slacking at the pool.
Blocks UVB and UVA Rays
For decades most sunscreens only protected skin from UVB rays, the ones that cause sunburn. Scientists have since learned that UVA rays are also very damaging to the skin and dermatologists now recommend sunscreens that offer ‘broad spectrum’ protection, or protection from UVB and UVA rays. Our active sunscreen ingredient, zinc oxide, is a simple mineral that does an excellent job of protecting skin from UVB and UVA. It does this better than any other single sunscreen ingredient. Badger Sunscreens have been independently lab tested and provide superior UVA protection, meeting strict European, Japanese and Australian standards. Read more about broad spectrum UVA protection in sunscreen.
A lover of all things Badger
(and an inspiration for our
Anti-Bug Sunscreen!)
Safe for your Whole Family
Our natural and organic sunscreens contain simple wholesome ingredients that have all been used in personal care products for hundreds of years. Our active ingredient, zinc oxide, is the main ingredient in diaper rash cream and calamine lotion and it is approved for use on sensitive skin. Our other ingredients are all USDA Certified Organic food grade plant oils, butters, and beeswax. Badger has signed the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics committing to making products that are free of questionable and potentially harmful ingredients.
Safe for the Environment
Recent scientific studies have shown that several common synthetic sunscreen ingredients can harm corals and other marine organisms. Many eco-resorts, coral reefs, and swim-with-the-dolphins parks now require that their patrons only use mineral based natural sunscreens in an effort to minimize impact on the local marine life. Badger is exactly the type of sunscreen they are hoping you will have.
The active ingredient in Badger sunscreens is the mineral zinc oxide. The base of our sunscreens is made entirely of natural plant oils, butters, waxes and extracts. Our sunscreens have passed independent laboratory biodegradable testing and they do not contain ingredients that have been shown to harm coral. Read more about: Biodegradable Sunscreen or Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen.
Cruelty Free
Badger complies with the Leaping Bunny Standard ensuring that none of our products or ingredients are ever tested on animals. For this we proudly bear the Leaping Bunny Logo on all of our products.
Badger Sunscreen Frequently Asked Questions
Badger Chris surfing, Cape Cod!
How do I use Badger's natural sunscreens?
To be effective, sunscreen must be applied liberally to all exposed skin. An average sized body (in a swimsuit) requires about 1oz for full and complete coverage. The FDA tests sunscreen efficacy using 2 miligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin. The average human body is 18,000 square centimeters. By our calculations this means 1.2oz of sunscreen would adequately cover an entire human body.
Rub in sunscreen to reduce whitening effect.
Mineral based sunscreens, such as ours, are immediately effective and do not require time between application and sun exposure.
If separation in product occurs, knead tube to remix product before use.
Our natural sunscreens may contain small beads of shea or cocoa butter. Simply rub gently and they will melt into your skin.
To maintain maximum effectiveness, sunscreen should be reapplied often (depending on skin type), particularly when sweating, in the water or after towel drying.
For sensitive skin, always do a skin patch test*. Apply a small amount of the product to test before full use.
Keep out of eyes and keep off broken or unhealthy skin.
Adult supervision recommended when using this product on children.
Are all Badger’s sunscreens OK to use on babies?
Yes. Even though we’ve formulated a new ‘Baby Sunscreen’ all of our sunscreens are safe to use on kids and babies. The FDA recommends that you consult your pediatrician or doctor when using any sunscreens for babies under 6 months of age.
What was the pediatrician testing for the baby sunscreen?
Our Baby Sunscreen was tested by an independent laboratory to ensure that it is safe for little people’s skin. This test was done on 50 adults with varying levels of skin sensitivities. Our Baby Sunscreen was applied under a patch to their backs in nine consecutive 24 hour periods and they were monitored for any reactions. After a 14 day rest, they were retested and re-evaluated. These results were reviewed and approved by a consulting pediatrician. Our results: “NO ADVERSE REACTIONS OF ANY KIND WERE NOTED DURING THE COURSE OF THIS STUDY.”
Do Badger sunscreens contain PABA?
No. The active ingredient in our sunscreens is uncoated, non-nano zinc oxide which is very gentle and non-irritating. We would not use an ingredient like PABA in our natural and organic sunscreens.
What is the expiration date for your natural and organic sunscreens?
These products have been tested to remain stable when unopened for at least two years from the date they are manufactured. That is the expiration date that is printed on the crimp of the tube. After you open the product, it is good for 1 year. After that, they may not protect effectively from the sun and you should dispose of the old tube and replace it.
What is the difference between “physical barrier” and “chemical” sunscreens?
Physical barrier sunscreens (like Badger's) form a film on top of the skin that reflects and scatters UV light. Physical barrier sunscreens use either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. We choose non-nano zinc oxide for our sunscreens because we feel it is the safest & most effective option - and zinc oxide has been used on the skin for hundreds of years.
UV light is divided into three wavelength bands: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVA and UVB are the two that reach the earth and physical barrier sunscreens are effective at blocking both. By the way, our sunscreen covers a spectrum of protection that also blocks UVC light. So this would be a good option for astronauts and pilots, who are exposed to UVC - no kidding! Read more about Broad Spectrum UVA Sunscreen Protection.
Chemical sunscreens differ from physical barrier sunscreens as they soak into the skin, absorbing UV rays before they can do any damage. Most chemical ingredients protect against either UVA or UVB, but not for both. So for broad-spectrum protection, you would need to choose a chemical sunscreen containing several chemical active ingredients. Chemical sunscreens can be absorbed into the skin, are more likely to cause irritation or allergy, and several have potentially serious health effects.
Badger Rebecca sailing, USVIs.
What is an SPF rating anyway?
SPF, or Sunburn Protection Factor, is a measurement of how well a sunscreen will protect skin from UVB rays, the kind of radiation that causes sunburn and is thought to contribute to some types of skin cancer. Visit our What Does SPF Mean? page for more detailed information about SPF ratings for sunscreens.
What about nanoparticles in sunscreens?
As of March 1st, 2011, we manufacture our sunscreens using uncoated, non-nano zinc oxide. Some earlier tubes that may contain some zinc oxide nanoparticles will still be on some shelves. These do not have the non-nano logo on the front.
Sunblock, sunscreen or sun screens; what's the difference?
Short answer: Sunblocks are an out of date term for skin products that block the sun's rays. The FDA no longer allows the use of the term 'sunblock'. Sunscreens are skin products that either reflect or absorb UVB and/or UVA rays and are FDA registered drugs in the USA. Sun screens are some sort of physical object like a screen, an umbrella or clothing. Please visit our Sunblock, Sunscreen or Sun Screen page for more.
*Skin Patch Test: Apply a small amount of the product you are testing to the inside of your elbow or any other sensitive area. Best to cover it with a band-aid. Leave it overnight. In the morning check for signs of irritation or other skin sensitivity.
