Is my sunscreen "reef safe"..... You should double check!

Because the chemicals in sunscreen can wash off our bodies and potentially harm marine life and coral reefs, many areas around the world are getting strict with what is allowed to be sold by local merchants and used by tourists visiting the area.

A great example is Maui who has now banned the use of all non-mineral sunscreens. The only sunscreen allowed are made with non-nanotized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Hawaii is one of the most isolated archipelagos on earth and home to a variety of unique marine life and corals. But Hawaii is not alone, many other countries have enacted similar policies and it is only a matter of time before this becomes the norm around the world and especially in high-tourist areas where sunscreen use is prevalent.

What ingredients are considered "unsafe"? Some of the ingredients that you'll want to check the label for include: oxybenzone, butyloctyl salicylate, octocrylene, octinoxate, SLS, parabens, artificial fragrances.

Why is there a need for change? Many studies have shown that certain chemicals that have been traditionally found in sunscreens can cause coral bleaching & DNA damage, decreased fertility and reproduction in fish, and accumulation of chemicals in the tissues of dolphins and other mammals that can then be transferred to their young.

Are their other options? Yes, glad that you asked! You can safeguard your skin from damaging UV rays by seeking shade when available and wearing UV protective clothing. There are a variety of UV shirts and rashguards that provide 50+ UV protection and are as comfortable as wearing a regular cotton tshirt (which, by the way, does not provide the same sun protection). The variety and selection of acceptable sunscreen is increasing as awareness and demand continue to rise.

Check out our selection of products:

UV Shirts & Rashguards

Sunscreen

Reef Safe Mask Defog

Other Eco-Friendly Items