Reef-friendly sunscreens

Coral bleaching is a significant concern as the largest living organism on Earth depends on the symbiotic relationship with algae. Without this partnership, the coral loses its color and can eventually die.

In a recent study, researchers from Stanford University found that the chemical oxybenzone, commonly found in sunscreen, can exacerbate coral bleaching by turning into a toxin when exposed to UV light.

Did you know that every time you apply sunscreen and jump into the ocean, you could be harming our precious coral reefs? It’s estimated that between 25 to 60 million bottles worth of sunscreen chemicals are washed off into coral reef areas each year! And the problem doesn’t end there – when we shower, these chemicals can wash off our skin and pollute wastewater that ultimately reaches the ocean as well. As someone who cares deeply about the environment, I urge you to switch to reef-friendly sunscreen.

Coral-friendly sunscreens are free of harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs. Some eco-friendly sunscreens include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide natural sun protection without harming the reef. There are a few different types of eco-friendly sunscreens on the market.

Mineral sunscreen: These sunscreens use titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to reflect UV rays away from your skin. They don’t contain any chemicals that could be harmful to you or the environment. The downside of most mineral sunscreens is the difficulty of applying them. It’s hard to rub them in without a thick white layer on your skin. However, some newer formulas are easier to apply and look more natural.

Organic sunscreen: Organic sunscreens are made with plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, green tea extract, and chamomile. They’re good for protecting your skin from both UVB and UVA rays. However, they may not provide enough protection on their own. So it’s important to use a combination of both mineral and organic sunscreens for maximum protection.