Ocean-Friendly Sunscreen Guide: Choosing Reef-Safe Products to Protect Our Coral Reefs
Welcome to Gulfview Getaways!
Here at Gulfview Getaways, we are passionate about sustainability and ecotourism, especially when it comes to protecting our beautiful coral reefs in Marathon, Florida. One important way we can all contribute to reef conservation is by choosing ocean-friendly sunscreen products. Let’s dive into our Ocean-Friendly Sunscreen Guide to help you make safe choices for our coral reefs and for your own skin!
Why Choose Reef-Safe Sunscreen?
Traditional sunscreens have been a staple in our beach bags for years, but the truth is that many of these products contain harmful chemicals that can devastate our coral reefs. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are two of the most common culprits, which can accumulate in the water and cause coral bleaching, a process that can lead to the death of coral polyps. When we swim in the ocean with these traditional sunscreens, the chemicals wash off our skin and into the water, where they can persist for months or even years. This can have a ripple effect on the entire marine ecosystem, disrupting the delicate balance of marine life and potentially causing long-term damage.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen Tips
But there’s a solution: reef-safe sunscreen! These sunscreens use active mineral ingredients that are gentle on coral reefs and don’t contribute to coral bleaching. Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are physical barriers that sit on top of the skin and don’t absorb into the water. Mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are great options as they are less harmful to coral reefs. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Top Reef-Safe Sunscreen Brands (from EWG sunscreen guide)
- Badger
- Sea Weed Bath Co.
- Blue Lizard
- Alba Botanica
- Raw Elements
- Bare Republic
- All Good
- Mad Hippie
- Babo Botanicals
Make a Difference for Our Coral Reefs
By choosing reef-safe sunscreen, we can help protect our precious coral reefs and marine life. We can also support businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. So next time you’re heading to the beach, make sure to choose a reef-safe sunscreen to help keep our Marathon marine life healthy and thriving for generations to come.
Least Favorite Sunscreen Brands (from EWG sunscreen guide)
- Banana Boat
- Coppertone
- Hawaiian Tropic
- Neutrogena
- Aveeno
- Store Brands like CVS, Walgreens, Up & Up
Summary of Key Points:
- Avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming.
- When it comes down to it, some protection is better than no protection so use what you have.
- Search EWG for your sunscreen if you’re curious on how it performs.
- Light Sun Clothes & Wide Brimmed Hats are excellent for protecting your skin from the sun’s UV rays.
- Plan activities in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid high sun between 10am – 2pm.
- If you can find a shade spot or bring a umbrella/tent that’s always a good way to protect your skin.
- Sunglasses are important to protect your eyes too!
- Check UV indexes when you’re planning your outdoor activities.