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Summer is almost here, which means it's time to stock up on sunscreen! But before you grab any old bottle off the shelf, it's essential to consider the impact your sunscreen has on the environment. Many traditional sunscreens can be extremely harmful to our oceans, particularly the coral reefs and marine life. Fortunately, there are plenty of eco-friendly, reef-safe options available.
Here's what you need to know:
Look for natural, mineral-based ingredients. Non-nano zinc oxide provides effective sun protection without harming the environment.
Choose products that are labelled as "reef-safe" or "ocean-friendly." These products are formulated without chemicals that can damage coral reefs and other marine life.
Consider packaging. Look for products that come in plastic-free or low-waste packaging, such as recyclable or biodegradable containers.
Non-nano zinc is important because it is a natural, mineral-based ingredient that protects the skin from harmful UV rays without being absorbed into the body or harming the environment. It is also reef-safe because it does not contribute to coral bleaching or damage, unlike chemical sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are toxic to marine life and coral reefs. Non-nano zinc is preferred over titanium dioxide, which can also harm marine life if it is not non-nano and can harm the environment if it is mined from non-sustainable sources.
Studies have shown that certain chemicals in sunscreen, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, can cause coral bleaching, DNA damage, and death. When these chemicals enter the water, they get absorbed by the corals and interfere with their reproduction and growth. In addition, sunscreen chemicals can also be ingested by marine life, leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification of these harmful substances up the food chain.
The impact of sunscreen on reefs is devastating.
Over time, coral reefs that are exposed to high concentrations of these chemicals become weakened, brittle, and more susceptible to disease. The ocean’s biodiversity is at risk since coral reefs provide a vital ecosystem for many marine species. Moreover, the reefs also protect coastlines from storms and waves and serve as an essential source of food and income for many communities worldwide.
But the impact of sunscreen isn’t just limited to the ocean. Chemicals in traditional sunscreens have also been linked to hormone disruption, allergies, and skin irritation in humans. This is important to note for those who go deep diving into the challenging ocean's depths wearing non-reef safe sunscreen protection. Many people are concerned about the negative environmental impact of plastic packaging that most sunscreens come in.
Fortunately, there is a solution.
Mineral sunscreens contain natural ingredients such as non-nano zinc oxide, an eco-friendly and reef-safe alternative to traditional sunscreens. Not only do they protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, but they also contain natural ingredients that nourish and hydrate your skin.
At Oceanspire, we believe in promoting sustainable living by providing eco-friendly and plastic-free products that are both good for you and the environment. We offer a range of natural, mineral-based sunscreens that are ocean-friendly and toxin-free, helping you protect your skin without harming our planet.
Our SPF 20 and 30+ options are made with 100% natural ingredients, including non-nano zinc oxide, which creates a natural skin protective barrier. Our packaging is also plastic-free, made from renewable and sustainably sourced kraft paper lined with plant-based wax.
By choosing reef-safe, eco-friendly sunscreen, you can help protect our oceans and marine life such as sea turtles, whales, and dolphins, while still enjoying the sunshine. Plus, many of these products are also better for your skin and your health. Join us in the mission to make the world a better place, one sustainable product at a time.
This summer, be part of the solution and make the conscious choice to choose a sunscreen that's good for you and the reefs!
References:
1. "Sunscreens can harm coral reefs. What should travelers do?" National Geographic. Retrieved from: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/sunscreen-destroying-coral-reefs-oxybenzone-free-products-sustainability
2. "10 Reasons Why Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Sunscreen is the Safest, Most Effective Choice for Your Family." Suntegrity Skincare. Retrieved from: https://www.suntegrityskincare.com/blogs/news/10-reasons-why-non-nano-zinc-oxide-sunscreen-is-the-safest-most-effective-choice-for-your-family
3. "Zinc oxide versus titanium dioxide: differences, similarities and which is best for you." Healthline. Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/sunscreen-zinc-oxide-vs-titanium-dioxide
So sad what's happening to the reefs being bleached 😥