5 Reef Safe Sunscreen Alternatives (2023)
Find out which reef-safe sunscreen is right for you before your next vacation.
Did you know that Hawaii banned non-safe reef sunscreens in 2021? You might not even be aware of it, but the sunscreen you wear when snorkeling or swimming in the ocean is attributed to coral mortality. This is why in Palau, Maui, and the Big Island, you cannot wear non-reef-safe sunscreen.
Globally, it has been found that over 50 percent of our world's coral reefs have died within the last 30 years, while up to 90 percent may die within the next century.
Protecting ecosystems native to local regions is crucial in order to maintain the Earth's biodiversity. Biodiversity is an essential factor in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of our ecosystems support our planet's overall health and functionality.
In this article, learn what chemicals are slowly killing coral species and how to prevent this from happening in your next visit to the ocean.
Why is sunscreen killing coral?
When living a sustainable lifestyle, we must consider any of the possible impacts our interactions with nature may have.
Sunscreens that contain harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate leach into the ocean and wreak havoc on coral health.
Studies have shown that these substances can cause coral bleaching, hinder the growth of young corals, and even contribute to coral mortality.
With millions of tourists visiting coral reef destinations each year, the cumulative impact of sunscreen pollution is alarming.
The chemicals in these sunscreens have proven to be a slow and steady toxin that weakens these vibrant underwater communities.
Choosing reef-safe sunscreen, free from harmful chemicals, becomes a simple yet impactful way to help protect the mesmerizing beauty of our coral reefs.
5 of our favorite reef-safe sunscreens
It’s been proven that wearing reef-safe sunscreen is an effective way to protect marine life.
The following sunscreens were tested in 2023 by Travel + Leisure in their New York City lab, day-to-day settings, and on sun-soaked getaways.
Maui Naturals has been making reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaii since 2009. Their reef-friendly formula is free of oxybenzone, petrochemicals, and
nanoparticles, which are chemicals that are harmful to marine life. This sunscreen doesn't transfer, is sweat-proof, is easily absorbed, and doesn't leave the residual white cast often found in traditional sunscreens.
Blue Lizard is our top pick for its effectiveness and top reef-safe rating. Our favorite part? Each Blue Lizard sunscreen bottle uses smart-cap technology.
Take the bottle out of your bag, and if there is harmful exposure to UV rays outside, the cap will turn blue! This sunscreen is hydrating and lightweight,
with a slight white cast.
Reef Repair's Suncream has gentle and safe ingredients (no oxybenzone or octinoxate!), making it an excellent choice.
This sunscreen has a thicker-consistency sunscreen that blends and has plenty of coverage. It was also found that it worked well in underwater activities and didn't slide off the skin.
This sunscreen has a plant-based formula and is water-resistant for 80 minutes. With its sheer formula, it absorbs quickly and doesn't come off when exposed to water. The ingredients include macadamia nut oil and plumeria, supporting local agriculture and sourced ethically in Hawaii.
This mineral body sunscreen is ideal for your next adventure. Enjoy its gentle ingredients: aloe vera, cucumber extract, and jojoba oil. Also enjoyed is its non-slick or greasy feel, minimal white cast, and citrus scent.
How else can I prevent coral mortality?
Unfortunately, there are various threats to coral reefs —very few pristine coral reefs still exist.
Wearing reef-safe sunscreen is only one of the current strategies that have recently become popular.
Here are several strategies that can help prevent coral reef degradation and death:
Sustainable fishing methods, such as avoiding destructive fishing techniques and supporting well-managed marine protected areas, allow
fish populations and coral ecosystems to thrive.
Supporting local initiatives and policies that regulate and reduce coastal and marine pollution is crucial for recovering reef ecosystems.
Choosing eco-friendly tourism options helps prioritize the protection of coral reefs.
Coral Reef Conservation Organizations conduct research, implement conservation projects, and work to raise awareness about the importance of coral reefs.
Coral reef restoration projects aim to replant and rehabilitate damaged coral areas with coral nurseries to grow and transplant resilient coral species.
Combating coral mortality requires a multi-faceted and collaborative approach involving individuals, communities, governments, and international organizations
to address local and global threats to these invaluable ecosystems. On your next visit to the ocean, you can do your part by taking the time to make a small effort to
switch to reef-safe sunscreen.
Share this article with a friend to help spread the word!
Carom Cares
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Key Points
It has been found that over 50 percent of our world's coral reefs have died within the last 30 years, and 90 percent may die within the next century.
Sunscreens that contain harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate leach into the ocean and wreak havoc on coral health.
Choosing reef-safe sunscreen, free from harmful chemicals, becomes a simple yet impactful way to help protect the mesmerizing beauty of our coral reefs.
