Our 5 Top Reef Safe Sunscreens
Why choose reef safe sunscreen?
The reefs in Hawai’i are being affected by chemical sunscreens. According to research by Ocean Conservancy coral reefs in Hawai’i alone are exposed to over 6,000 tons of sunscreen lotion every year, with a total of over 14,000 tons that end up in coral reefs each year. NOAA ocean service also states that healthy coral reefs are one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth. So our existence literally depends on coral reefs alongside all the dolphins, coral, algae, sea urchins, fish and even sharks! Being the ocean enthusiasts that we are, we also notice the impact the sunscreen has on the coral reefs. As we move into the more dense tourism areas where toxic sunscreens are being used, the reefs seem more worn down and bleached out. We also notice the filmy residues that these sunscreens leave behind and also can smell the harmful fragrances that are entering into the ocean. The other point that scientists are making is that if these ingredients are bad for the coral reefs they could also be bad for us. The scientist research from Stanford University says that, “Previous studies have suggested that oxybenzone could pose health risks to people, and some researchers have recently called for more research into its safety.”
What to look for in a reef safe sunscreen?
Look for mineral based UV blocking ingredients such as titanium dioxide, non-nano zinc oxide (don’t get confused with nano zinc). Be careful of misleading labels, if it says reef safe on the front it can still contain harmful ingredients like the ones listed below. Always check the back for active and inactive ingredients.
Harmful chemicals to look for:
- Oxybenzone
- Butylparaben
- Octinoxate and
- 4-methylbenzylidine camphor
- Octocrylene
- Benzopheone-1
- Benezophenone-8
- OD-PABA
- Nano-titanium oxide
- Nano-Zinc oxide
These are harming marine life, killing and bleaching out the reefs. Plus harming your skin!
Our saying is if you cannot eat it then do not put it on your skin but please don’t eat your sunscreen. It goes the same for the reef and fish. They eat and take in everything us humans put into their water so please be mindful. Here are our top picks of sunscreen that we trust.
1. Kokua Sun Care – Our number one is Kokua Suncare and that’s for a good reason. A family run company by ocean enthusiasts and world travelers but home based on the island of O’ahu. Their sunscreen contains Hawai’i grown antioxidant ingredients, gentle for skin and reef safe formula, biodegradable, and has naturally derived ingredients and it nourishes the skin while it protects. Your skin feels better and glowing after using it. We have trusted Kokua Sun care for the past five years as our main sunscreen to use for surfing, adventures, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and everyday outdoor activities. Don’t forget to check out their new line of products they carry such as after sun care, tinted sunscreen and more! Use discount code Mahina15 for a discount if you order on their webpage.
“Professionally formulated to go on like a moisturizing lotion and light enough for everyday use, this sunscreen with its superior water resistance also stays on through sweat and swells and protects you from the harshest UV rays.” – Kokua Sun Care