The Importance of Your Sunscreen Selection on World Oceans Day
On this World Oceans Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the value of coral reefs - one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, providing billions of dollars in economic and environmental services (National Ocean Service). However, these delicate habitats face serious threats from climate change, unsustainable fishing, land-based pollution, coastal development, disease, invasive species, and other sources.
One way we can help protect our oceans is by making better sunscreen choices. Standard sunscreens often contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate, which damage coral reefs and impact sea life in significant ways, including impairing green algae growth, damaging coral, and affecting fish reproduction (sources 1, 3).
Fortunately, there are alternatives. The best ocean-friendly (reef-safe) sunscreens typically use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active UV blocking ingredients. Some recommended brands include Stream2Sea Coral Care, Raw Elements SPF 30, Thinksport SPF 50, Badger SPF 30, and Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen (source 1). Many of these use natural, non-toxic ingredients and are biodegradable or packaged sustainably, posing less risk to marine life.
For children and sensitive skin, sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide plus gentle natural oils and botanicals are recommended, such as Zoey Naturals Sheer Finish Mineral Sunscreen and Earth Mama Organics Uber Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen (source 2).
If you're feeling adventurous, you might consider making your own sunscreen at home. A popular DIY recipe includes coconut oil, beeswax, and non-nano zinc oxide, with optional ingredients like cacao powder, Red Raspberry Seed Oil, Carrot Seed Oil, vanilla essence, or lavender essential oils (source 4). However, it's important to note that homemade sunscreens should be used cautiously as their SPF and broad-spectrum protection are difficult to verify without laboratory testing.
The author of this article plans to try the DIY sunscreen recipe from the Plastic Free Mermaid for the summer. For those who prefer a pre-made option, Badger sunscreen is a natural sunscreen choice that comes in a regular cream-style sunscreen and a stick that children may enjoy applying on themselves (source 5).
In conclusion, protecting our oceans can be as simple as looking for better sunscreen choices when heading to the beach. Whether you opt for a pre-made version with natural ingredients or make your own sunscreen at home, every little effort counts. The author encourages readers to consider the ingredients in their sunscreen and make ocean-friendly sunscreen choices. If making the DIY sunscreen at home is not practical, consider using Badger sunscreen, which is a natural sunscreen option. And remember, every drop of sunscreen that washes off our bodies can have a lasting impact on our oceans.
For more information about the DIY sunscreen recipe or to subscribe to email updates, visit the Plastic Free Mermaid website.
References:
- Roat and Divers. (2020). Why Should You Use a Reef-Safe Sunscreen in Roatan? [online] Available at: https://roatandivers.com/blog/why-should-you-use-a-reef-safe-sunscreen-in-roatan
- Green Child. (2020). Sunscreen. [online] Available at: https://www.greenchildmagazine.com/sunscreen/
- Janine in the World. (2020). Best Biodegradable Sunscreen for Mexico You Need to Try. [online] Available at: https://www.janineintheworld.com/best-biodegradable-sunscreen-for-mexico-you-need-to-try
- TikTok. (2020). Homemade Sunscreen. [online] Available at: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/homemade-sunscreen
- The author's personal experience.
- By choosing reef-safe sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, we can minimize the harm to coral reefs and marine life, protecting our oceans' valuable ecosystems.
- Adopting a sustainable lifestyle at home and garden, such as using natural and biodegradable sunscreens, is an essential step in reducing the impact of climate change on our oceans and supporting environmental science.
- Driven by concerns for the environment, many individuals opt for plastic-free alternatives like eco-friendly sunscreens that prioritize sustainable living and limit harm to coral reefs and marine life.
- If you wish to experiment further, you can explore the fascinating world of environmental-science by learning how to make your own natural sunscreen at home using simple ingredients like coconut oil, beeswax, and non-nano zinc oxide.
- As we strive for a sustainable living, it's crucial to remember that any steps – big or small – taken towards lifestyle adjustments, such as using ocean-friendly sunscreens, can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and address critical issues like climate change and coral reef conservation.
