The Importance of Ocean-Safe Sunscreen

The Team
Jan 19
2 min read

The Importance of Ocean-Safe Sunscreen: Protecting Our Planet One Drop at a Time

Every year, millions of people flock to beaches around the globe, lathering on sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. While shielding ourselves is essential, many conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that are harmful to marine life and coral reefs. Ocean-safe sunscreen is more than a buzzword—it’s a crucial step in preserving the health of our oceans and the ecosystems they support.

Why Does Sunscreen Affect the Ocean?

When we swim, snorkel, or even rinse off after a beach day, the sunscreen on our skin washes into the water. Studies estimate that up to 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in the ocean annually. Unfortunately, many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which:

Damage Coral Reefs: These chemicals contribute to coral bleaching by disrupting coral growth and reproduction, ultimately weakening the reef ecosystem.
Harm Marine Life: Ingredients in conventional sunscreens can be toxic to fish, sea turtles, and other marine organisms.
Persist in the Environment: These chemicals don’t break down easily, meaning their harmful effects accumulate over time.

What is Ocean-Safe Sunscreen?

Ocean-safe sunscreens, also called reef-safe or eco-friendly sunscreens, are free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, they use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin’s surface to reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them. These ingredients are not only safer for the ocean but also gentler on sensitive skin.

Why Choose Ocean-Safe Sunscreen?

Protect Marine Ecosystems: By choosing reef-safe sunscreen, you’re helping to preserve coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
Support Local Economies: Healthy reefs attract tourism and sustain fishing industries, providing livelihoods for millions of people worldwide.
Prevent Long-Term Damage: By minimizing harmful chemical runoff, we ensure future generations can enjoy thriving oceans.
Enjoy Personal Benefits: Mineral-based sunscreens are less likely to cause skin irritation and often offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

How to Identify Ocean-Safe Sunscreen

When shopping for sunscreen, look for products labeled "reef-safe" or "ocean-friendly." Check the ingredient list to avoid harmful chemicals and prioritize those containing:

Non-nano zinc oxide
Non-nano titanium dioxide

These ingredients are biodegradable and safe for marine life. Ensure the product is water-resistant to minimize runoff and opt for eco-friendly packaging when possible.

Additional Tips to Protect the Ocean

Cover Up: Wearing UV-protective clothing reduces the need for sunscreen on larger areas of your body.
Stay in the Shade: Limit direct sun exposure during peak hours to minimize sunscreen use.
Rinse Before Swimming: Rinse off any lotions, oils, or sunscreen that could harm the water.

A Simple Change with Big Impact

Switching to ocean-safe sunscreen is a small change that can have a massive positive impact on the environment. By making mindful choices, we can enjoy our time in the sun while preserving the beauty and vitality of the ocean for years to come.

Next time you head to the beach, pack sunscreen that protects not just your skin, but also the marine world beneath the waves. Together, we can create a ripple effect for change, one sunscreen bottle at a time.