How does sunscreen work?
Sunscreens are composed of UV filters, which disperse UV rays so they are not absorbed by the our skin. These UV filters can be made of chemicals or minerals.
Chemical UV filters use chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate to deflect UV rays from our skin by converting light energy into heat energy, which is then released by our skin. These chemicals can have negative effects on not only corals, but also us humans.
Mineral UV filters instead use Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide to reflect and scatter the UV rays, blocking them from being absorbed by our skin. When formulated responsibly, they are considered less harmful to us and marine life, and break down more naturally in the environment.
How do I avoid these chemicals?
You can avoid the bad side effects of chemical sunscreens by opting to use mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens use Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, both naturally occurring minerals, as the only active ingredients to scatter and reflect UV rays to protect the skin. Unlike chemical sunscreen, Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide can reflect both UVA and UVB rays. Non-nano zinc oxide is best, as the larger particle size prevents absorption in our bodies, and ingestion by marine life.
Key Takeaway: Sunscreens labeled as “Reef Safe” do not always mean mineral. Always check the active ingredients list and look for Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide as the only active ingredients. You can also opt for alternative sun protection, such as brimmed hats, sun shirts, sun leggings, UV sunglasses, using an umbrella, and seeking shade from 10 AM to 2 PM (prime sun-light hours).
Sunscreen Recommendations
*Most major sunscreen brands carry a mineral option. These are typically marketed as kids, baby, or sensitive skin sunscreen!
Remember: Sunscreens labeled as “Reef Safe” do not always mean mineral. Always check the active ingredients list and look for Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide as the only active ingredients.
Alternative Sun Protection
Check out Waterlust for long lasting, durable sun gear! (10% of items purchased in the Parrotfish Protection line is donated to Reef Relief.)
Florida Keys Businesses that Sell Ocean Friendly Sunscreen
If you are a business that sells Ocean-Friendly Sunscreen, please take our pledge and sign up for our sunscreen audit to be recognized by Reef Relief’s Protect Your Skin Protect Our Reef Campaign.