All You Need to Know About Reef-Safe Sunscreens

Protecting our skin from the harmful rays of the sun is important, but did you know that some sunscreens can harm our ocean’s coral reefs? If you want to make sure you’re not contributing to the damage, it’s worth learning about reef-safe sunscreens.

So, what is a reef-safe sunscreen? It is a product that is free from harmful chemicals and small particles that can destruct coral health. Over the years, the negative impact of sunscreens on aquatic life has become a growing concern, with studies highlighting the effects of certain ingredients found in these products.

While avoiding harmful ingredients is vital, it’s not enough to ensure your sunscreen is reef-safe as the size of its particles also plays a big role. Non-nano particles and traditional zinc oxides, which are larger than 100 nanometres, are generally considered safe, while ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and benzophenone-1 are detrimental to marine life.

Although purchasing a reef-friendly sunscreen is essential, it’s equally important to check the ingredients as the term “reef-safe” is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). American media website CNET suggests going for a mineral-based sunscreen instead of a mist or spray, as it offers better skin protection and environmental safety.

With the increasing demand for reef-safe sunscreens, many consumers are turning to skin doctors for expert recommendations. According to dermatologists, the best mineral-based sunscreens are those that provide comprehensive protection while being mild and non-irritating to the skin. Some of their top picks include IDSIN Eryfotona Ageless Sunscreen (S$124) and Blue Lizard Sensitive SPF 30+ Sunscreen (S$99), both of which are available on Ubuy Singapore.