The American Chemical Society estimates that up to 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in the world’s oceans each year, contributing to the degradation of marine life. In summer and on holiday, many of us spend more time outdoors, making sun protection crucial. However, our skin care routines shouldn’t come at the expense of the ocean’s health. That’s why it's important to understand which chemicals in sunscreen are harmful, how they impact marine ecosystems, and what alternative products are available. In 2021, Hawaii led the charge in marine conservation by banning sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals known to harm aquatic life. Shockingly, a study revealed that oxybenzone is found in over 3,500 sun care products.
Coral reefs are not only vital to marine life but also to humans. These ecosystems provide habitat, food, and protection for countless marine species while shielding coastlines from storms and erosion. Additionally, they sustain more than half a billion people worldwide through food and income.
Sunscreen chemicals disrupt marine life at all levels, from single-celled algae to large marine mammals. These additives can interfere with fish reproduction, causing male fish to develop female characteristics. In dolphins, the chemicals accumulate in tissues and may even be passed on to their young. Corals, however, are among the most heavily impacted organisms, and their struggle against sunscreen chemicals will be the focus here.
When sunscreen chemicals build up in coral tissues, they can cause coral bleaching, DNA damage, developmental deformities in young corals, and even death. Coral bleaching happens when corals are stressed and expel zooxanthellae—a type of algae that lives within their tissues. Without these algae, corals lose their primary sources of food and oxygen, turning white and becoming severely weakened.
Fortunately, there are steps we can take to protect coral reefs and other marine species without sacrificing our skin health. A simple yet impactful change is to avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. Instead, look for ‘reef-safe’ non-nano mineral sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. While there has been some debate about the environmental impact of these alternatives, they are generally considered safer for marine life. Additionally, consider avoiding aerosol sunscreens and choosing products with credible reef-safe certifications.
To further reduce sunscreen use, try seeking shade or staying indoors during peak UV hours (10 am to 4 pm). Not only does this benefit the ocean, but it also offers added protection for your skin. Another great option is to wear a rash top with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor), which can shield you from harmful UV rays while minimising chemical exposure to marine ecosystems. For those concerned about plastics, brands like Finisterre offer eco-friendly options made from recycled materials, including ocean plastic waste and reclaimed yarn.
Protecting the ocean doesn’t have to mean sacrificing sun protection. By making mindful choices, we can help preserve marine life and keep our skin safe—all while enjoying the beauty of our planet’s beaches and waters. Let’s make the switch to coral-friendly sunscreens and be part of the solution!
Here are some sunscreens that are reef friendly:
Sun Bum 50 SPF Sunscreen Lotion
Pipette mineral sunscreen
Suntegrity Mineral Body Sunscreen SPF 30
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