The Truth About "Reef-Safe" Sunscreen

If you're a sunscreen fiend such as myself, you've definitely seen companies advertise their products as "reef-safe". There are a lot of misconceptions around this phrase and what it means for the environment. Let me help break it down for you! Here's what it really means when a sunscreen is labeled "reef-safe".

Defining "Reef-Safe"

To put it simply, labeling a product as reef-safe or reef-friendly is suggesting that it does not negatively impact the marine environment. For many companies, this just means that their product does not contain oxybenzone or oxinoxate. These two chemicals are common UV blocking ingredients. They've both been directly linked to coral bleaching (stressed corals), which can lead to reef death. It's great that companies are working without these harmful ingredients!

Unfortunately, excluding these ingredients does not necessarily mean that the sunscreen is safe for use in marine environments. The phrases "reef-safe" or "reef-friendly" are not actually regulated by the FDA in any way. So basically, any company can use these terms no matter the ingredients in their product.

Finding Reef-Safe Sunscreens

So if you can't trust the label, how do you find a reef-safe sunscreen?

You check the ingredients! This sounds scarier than it really is. American sunscreens will have a box with their active ingredients near the top of the bottle. Here's a great list of active ingredients that should be avoided. It includes oxybenzone and oxinoxate, as well as parabens and micro-plastics.

Look for non-nano mineral sunscreens.

A mineral formula means that the sunscreen has no chemical UV filters. Furthermore, any other sun-blocking particles are large enough that they can't be accidentally ingested by corals or other marine organisms. Mineral sunscreens are a lot more cosmetically elegant than in the past; no more white-cast or greasy skin! If you tried (and hated) one before, now is a great time to check out how far the formulations have come.

Wear UV protective clothing.

What doesn't wash off in water, need to be reapplied, or leak all over your travel bag? UPF clothing! UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF rating is just like SPF in that it's an FDA regulated standard for how protected you'll be from the sun. Many professionals wear UPF clothing rather than (or in addition to) sunscreen when out on the water all day.

Nothing is perfect.

No matter how hard you look, you'll never find a sunscreen that has zero environmental impact. But by being aware of the ingredients you're introducing into the environment, you're already taking steps in the right direction!

Protect Your Skin, Respect the Sea

Our marine ecosystems are beautiful and delicate, just like our skin! Take the time to find a reef-safe sunscreen that works well for your routine. Your complexion (and the ocean) will thank you!

Do you have any favorite reef-safe sunscreens? I'd love to hear your recommendations!

As always, thanks so much for reading! See you soon.

xoxo,

Lindsay