If you are heading to the beach this summer, it’s time to read up so that you don’t do something stupid like use a harmful sunscreen in the ocean that contributes to killing the coral reefs. We all want to protect the environment now days so grabbing a reef safe sunscreen is a no-brainer. Reef Safe Sunscreen is a must for anyone who enjoys spending time in the ocean. Learn all about the ingredients, benefits, and application of Reef Safe Sunscreen, and find out what you need to know to keep your skin safe while enjoying the ocean.
Sunscreen is an essential product for everyone, especially those who work or play outside. Unfortunately, most commercially available sunscreens contain ingredients that, while they provide protection from the sun’s UV rays, are harmful to marine life — not to mention you. The ingredients that cause the most concern are Oxybenzone, Octinoxate and 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC). These sunscreen are NOT considered to be Reef Safe Sunscreen.
One of the best ways to protect both your skin and the environment is to use water-resistant sunscreens. Water-resistant sunscreens are formulated to last longer in water, so they are perfect for swimming or other activities that involve prolonged contact with water. However, it is important to be aware that not all sunscreens are designed with reef health in mind.
Certain chemical ingredients found in some sunscreen products can cause coral bleaching when they come into contact with coral reefs. To prevent this from happening, it is important to research and purchase sunscreen products that are non-toxic and specifically designed for reef conservation. Doing so will help ensure that you stay protected from the sun without endangering delicate marine ecosystems.
Learn about sunscreen that is reef safe.
- • Understand the differences between chemical and mineral sunscreen.
- • Identify water resistant sunscreens.
- • Explore non-nano particle sunscreens.
- • Discover how coral reef bleaching is caused by certain types of sunscreen use.
When it comes to protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, one of the best things you can do is to invest in a quality sunscreen that is both reef safe and water resistant. It is important to understand the differences between chemical and mineral sunscreens so that you can make an informed decision when selecting the right sunscreen for your needs.
Chemical Sunscreens Harm Coral Reefs
Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, homosalate and octocrylene which work by absorbing ultraviolet rays before they penetrate the skin. Chemical sunscreens are likely to be harmful to the beautiful and delicate coral reefs due to the ingredients they contain. These ingredients, such as Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, have been shown to cause serious reproductive, developmental, and behavioral health issues in a variety of sea life, including coral, fish, and other marine animals. When these chemicals leach into the ocean, they can have devastating effects on the fragile ecosystem, and can even lead to population declines in some species. Therefore, it is important to use environmentally friendly sunscreens whenever possible to minimize the harm to sea life.
Mineral Sunscreen Are Safer for Both You and the Ocean
Mineral sunscreens on the other hand, use physical blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that deflect UV rays away from your skin. These chemicals are found in more than 3,500 personal care products, including moisturizers, makeup, hair products and sunscreen.“These chemicals can enter the body through the skin or gums, and pose significant risks to your health and the health of your family and children.
Mineral sunscreens are recommended by dermatologists as they contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, compounds that physically block the penetration of UV rays into your skin. Mineral sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that is made with mineral ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. It works by creating a physical barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters the sun’s harmful UV rays away from it. This type of sunscreen is generally non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and water-resistant, making it an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin. It also provides broad-spectrum protection, shielding against both UVA and UVB rays. Mineral sunscreen is often a preferred choice over chemical sunscreen, as it is considered to be more safe and natural.
What’s Up With Non-Nano Particles?
Non-nano particles in sunscreen are larger particles that are visible to the naked eye. They are commonly found in mineral sunscreens and include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These particles physically block UV radiation, meaning they sit on top of the skin and reflect light away, rather than being absorbed into the skin like chemical sunscreens. Non-nano particles are considered to be safer than nano particles as they are not absorbed into the skin, reducing the risk of skin irritation that can sometimes be caused by nano particles.
Non-nano particles in sunscreen are larger than nano particles and are considered reef friendly because they do not penetrate the skin as deeply, making it less likely that they will end up in marine ecosystems. These particles also create a barrier on the surface of the skin, blocking UV exposure and protecting the skin from sun damage. Non-nano particles are often composed of minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which can have the added benefit of providing additional antioxidant protection. Non-nano particles are larger in size and are less likely to be inhaled or ingested, making them safer and more effective than nano particles.
Non-nano particles are a growing threat to coral reefs in the ocean. These particles come from a variety of sources, including human activities and natural processes, and can be carried by currents to accumulate around coral reefs. Non-nano particles can interfere with photosynthesis and respiration, which are essential for the health of coral reefs. They can also block the light needed for the coral to grow and reproduce, disrupt the coral’s lifecycle, and reduce the availability of nutrients in the water. In addition, these particles can also cause physical damage to the coral, such as abrasion, smothering, and tearing. In extreme cases, these particles can also lead to coral bleaching and death.
Reef Safe Sunscreen is People Safe Sunscreen
Reef safe sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that is specifically designed to have minimal impact on the environment, particularly ocean ecosystems. It is typically composed of natural ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide, both of which are known to be safe for marine life. Many reef safe sunscreens are also free of other potentially harmful chemicals found in conventional sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Additionally, reef safe sunscreens are designed to remain on the surface of the skin instead of seeping through and into the oceans, thereby preventing the damage to coral reefs caused by chemical sunscreen. By choosing reef safe sunscreens, we can help to preserve and protect the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems around the world.
Many communities have passed laws and ordinances that do not allow any sunscreen on the beach that is not reef safe. See Hawaii’s guide to reef-safe sunscreen.
Who Need Water Resistant Sunscreen?
Water resistant sunscreens are also essential if you plan on going swimming or playing in water to ensure maximum protection from UV exposure over a longer period of time.
Water resistant sunscreen is a product specifically designed to provide longer-lasting protection against the sun’s harmful rays. This type of sunscreen is formulated with special ingredients that reduce the amount of water evaporation and help the sunscreen to stay on the skin longer. Most water resistant sunscreens are effective for up to 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, so they are ideal for athletes, swimmers, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Water resistant sunscreens are also beneficial for those with sensitive skin because they are less likely to cause irritation. It is important to remember to reapply water resistant sunscreen even after swimming or sweating, as it does not provide indefinite protection.
—–