In recent years, more research has been emerging around the detrimental effects of sun cream on the environment, notably on coral reefs. According to the US National Park Service, up to 6,000 tonnes of sun cream wash off swimmers and into oceans worldwide every year. However, the problem isn’t only coming from swimmers in the sea. An even larger quantity of sun cream is coming from water waste through sewage systems, for example, through washing off remains in the shower or down the sink. The American Chemical Society say that this figure jumps to 13,000 tonnes when including all bodies of water.
The chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, commonly found in most sunscreens, are particularly harmful to coral. They can cause bleaching, as seen on the Great Barrier Reef, as well as negatively impacting reproduction and general health. This is hugely problematic for the environment as coral reefs play a major role in the aquatic ecosystem, providing habitat and food for around a quarter of all marine species. Reefs are also heavily relied on by communities who obtain their income from food and they protect coastal areas by reducing the impact of waves on the shores.
Although the “reef-friendly” term is not regulated, bans in many tropical locations, such as Hawaii, Palau, the Virgin Islands, Key West, Aruba, Bonaire and parts of Mexico, prohibit the use of sun creams with oxybenzone and octinoxate, as well as octocrylene, OD-PABA, homosalate, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, triclosan, parabens, nanoparticles, and microplastics like exfoliating beads.
There are many reef-friendly sun creams on the market that are free from these harmful ingredients and the good news is, they’re still just as protective as regular ones. Since nanoparticles, usually present in spray products, are also harmful, when choosing a sunscreen, look at the ingredients for micro-sized or non-nano (greater than 100 nanometres) zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Less chemicals are equally beneficial for us too since our skin absorbs sunscreen. There are creams now containing organic ingredients and aimed at sensitive skin, just look for natural certifications on the bottles. Although one downside of these has been a white staining effect on the skin, there are now products emerging that absorb quickly, moisturise the skin and are free from artificial smells.
Ultimately, what matters most when buying a sun cream, particularly if you’re going to be in water, is choosing water-resistant and high SPF creams to protect aquatic life and yourself from sun-damage. If you’d rather avoid frequent use of sun cream altogehter, spend less time in the sun and wear UV protective clothing.
