Top reef-safe sunscreens that won’t damage the ocean and environment

The sun blockers that won’t have an impact on coral reefs and protect your skin

MAY 21, 2020 5:11 PM EDTMAY 21, 2020, 5:11 PM EDT

Don’t forget to wear sunscreen - are the voices in your head from your mom telling you the number one technique against early aging and skin cancer. Though wearing sunscreen is highly recommended by dermatologists and skin specialists, we would be remiss not to mention the perilous effects these chemicals have on coral reefs. Hawaii was the first state to ban sunscreens with coral-harming chemicals and also the Florida Senate passed a bill to ban the sale of these detrimental products.

Most sunscreen brands contain oxybenzone or octinoxate - dangerous chemicals that are damaging to marine life. According to experts, these chemicals contribute to coral bleaching which can lead to long term deterioration of the coral reefs. But that doesn’t mean this issue has to impact our skin health. Thankfully, many beauty brands are gaining awareness and developing reef-safe sunscreens that are clean for the aquatic life and nourishing to the skin. These are the top sun creams to wear this summer while protecting the ocean and wildlife.

Hawaiian Natural

Kokua’s natural zinc sunscreen does not contain toxic chemicals and is eye-sting free. It is infused with seven antioxidant-rich Hawaii-grown botanicals and a natural coconut-vanilla scent naturally derived from plant extracts to make your skin feel smooth.

Alba Botanica

The Sweet Pea Sheer Shield Lotion SPF 45 provides a lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly and is infused with Sweet Pea Flower extract for a soothing scent. Its formula is hypoallergenic and great for sensitive skin.

StriVectin

StriVectin’s new Full Screen Broad Spectrum delivers sun protection with a super dose of skin-boosting Vitamins A, B, C and Pro-Vitamin D. Also, you won’t have to worry about the greasy and clumpy texture. This sunscreen has an illuminating finish that you can wear with your makeup and free dive without worrying about the toxic chemicals.

C’est Moi

C’est Moi Sunshine Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45 is reef-friendly and water-resistant, allowing you 40 minutes of fun under the sun before re-applying. This mineral product is made for delicate skin and is infused with antioxidant ingredients that protect the coral reefs.

Love Sun Body

Whether you decide to wear sunscreen daily or at the beach, Love Sun Body’s natural sunscreen features a lightweight formula with non-nano zinc oxide protection. Besides being safe for the body and the planet, the sunscreen contains anti-inflammatory ingredients such as raspberry seed oil and sunflower oil that help rejuvenate the skin.

Supergoop!

Fight wrinkles and fine lines with Supergoop! mineral-based sunscreen that is water-resistant, reef-safe and gentle enough for sensitive skin. Also, it contains antioxidant-rich microalgae to nourish the skin while enjoying the outdoors.

Coola

Cool down with a sunscreen that is vegan, reef-safe, cruelty-free and comes in recyclable packaging. This mineral face sunscreen lotion offers a hint of coverage that blurs imperfections for a line-smoothing and matte finish. You will be fighting UV rays and protecting the ocean while scuba diving.