Common sunscreen chemicals are devastating coral reefs worldwide. Even small amounts can cause bleaching, DNA damage, and death in marine organisms.
Coral Bleaching 14,000 tons of sunscreen enter coral reef areas each year. Oxybenzone causes coral bleaching at concentrations as low as 5 parts per billion.
DNA Damage Chemical sunscreen ingredients damage coral DNA and reproductive systems, preventing reefs from recovering from stress.
Marine Life Harm Chemical filters impair fish neurological and reproductive abilities, increase disease rates, and act as hormone disruptors that impact immune systems.
If you use chemical sunscreen, it's not just on you—it's in you. Over 90% of people tested by the CDC had oxybenzone in their urine. Sunscreen chemicals are absorbed through skin and have been found in breast milk.
The FDA recently proposed removing all over-the-counter chemical sunscreen ingredients from their 'Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective' list due to insufficient safety data and potential hormone disruption."
INGREDIENTS
What to Look For
The terms 'reef safe' and 'reef friendly' aren't regulated. The only way to know for sure is to read the label.
Size matters: Look for 'non-nano' or 'micro-sized' mineral particles. Nanoparticles are small enough to be absorbed by marine life and your body.
SUN PROTECTION TIPS
5 Simple Ways to Stay Sun Safe and Ocean Friendly
Cover Up Rash guards, hats, and UPF clothing reduce the need for sunscreen.
Choose Mineral Always opt for non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Skip Sprays They often end up in the sand and air, not on your skin.
Check Labels Reef Safe' and 'Reef Friendly' aren't regulated. Learn the ingredients.
Tell Friends Help spread the word about reef-friendly sunscreen by sharing this guide with your friends.
Cover Up
Rash guards, hats, and UPF clothing reduce the need for sunscreen.
Choose Mineral Always opt for non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Skip Sprays They often end up in the sand and air, not on your skin.
Check Labels Reef Safe' and 'Reef Friendly' aren't regulated. Learn the ingredients.
Tell Friends Help spread the word about reef-friendly sunscreen by sharing this guide with your friends.
FAQ
Common Questions
Yes. Non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. They work by physically blocking rays rather than absorbing them.
Mineral sunscreens sit on top of skin rather than absorbing. Look for "tinted" or "sheer" formulas. The slight tint is a trade-off for ocean safety.
Most outdoor retailers, natural grocery stores, and online.
No. Sunscreen chemicals wash into waterways, lakes, and rivers through wastewater. Choosing reef-friendly sunscreen helps all aquatic ecosystems!
Use it for non-water activities if you prefer not to waste it, but switch to mineral sunscreen for beach and water use.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Download our free, science-backed guide to reef-friendly sunscreens! Protect our skin and the ocean, starting today.
