Why You Should Use Reef-Friendly Sunscreen While Traveling
What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self? For me, it would be to avoid those harmful tanning beds and always use SPF when I go outside. As someone with fair skin, I learned the hard way that a “sun-kissed glow” often just meant painful burns and a higher risk of getting skin cancer when I’m older. If there’s one thing I never travel without now, it’s sunscreen. Whether I’m hiking in Hawaii, lounging under the sun in Mexico, or wandering a new city in Europe, protecting my skin is a top priority. But here’s the thing—what we put on our skin doesn’t just affect us. It also impacts the environment, especially the oceans and coral reefs.
When you plan a beach vacation, sunscreen should be at the top of your packing list. But many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like that contribute to a phenomenon called coral bleaching and harm marine life. The good news? Making the switch to a more eco-friendly sunscreen is easy once you know what to look for!
You might not know this about me, but I worked at an aquarium for four years, and during that time, I learned just how incredible – and fragile – coral reefs really are. These underwater ecosystems are so much more than just a pretty place to snorkel; they’re essential to the health of our oceans and our planet. In this post, I’ll explain why reef-safe sunscreen matters, what ingredients to look for (and avoid), and even share some of my favorite brands. Plus, I’ll highlight destinations where using non-reef-safe sunscreen is actually banned so you don’t accidentally break the rules on your next trip.
Here’s why you should use reef-friendly sunscreen while traveling.
The Impact of Sunscreen on Marine Life
Our oceans are home to some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, with coral reefs being one of the most important. These underwater wonderlands support roughly 25% of all marine life, providing shelter, food, and breeding grounds for countless species. But their importance goes far beyond that – reefs also act as natural barriers, protecting coastal communities from storm surges and erosion, they help produce oxygen for the planet, and they even play a role in groundbreaking medical advancements, with compounds found within coral reefs being used in medical treatments and pharmaceuticals.
Why Coral Reefs Matter
- Biodiversity Hotspots – They support about 25% of all marine life, despite only covering 1% of the ocean floor.
- Coastal Protection – Reefs protect land from erosion, storms, and flooding.
- Fisheries & Food Security – They provide habitat for many species that millions of people rely on for food and income.
- Tourism & Economy – Coral reefs attract divers and tourists, contributing billions of dollars annually to local economies.
- Medical Discoveries – Many reef organisms are used in developing medicines.
Unfortunately, coral reefs are in serious trouble, and the sunscreen we sometimes mindlessly slather on before diving into the ocean is part of the problem. Many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are toxic to marine life. When we swim, snorkel, or even shower after a day at the beach, these chemicals wash off and seep into the water, harming delicate reef ecosystems.
One of the biggest concerns is coral bleaching, a phenomenon where stressed corals expel the algae they rely on for energy and color, leaving them weak, vulnerable, and ghostly white. Studies have shown that even tiny amounts (we’re talking a single drop) of oxybenzone can contribute to coral bleaching and DNA damage in young coral.
And it’s not just corals that are affected. Sunscreen pollution has been linked to deformities in fish, reproductive issues in sea urchins, and toxicity in algae, which are the base of the marine food chain. Each year, an estimated 14,000 tons of sunscreen washes into our oceans, adding to the stress caused by rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and overfishing.
But I’m not trying to just focus on the negatives—there’s good news! By making a switch to reef-safe sunscreen, we can help protect these vital ecosystems and ensure that future generations can experience the beauty of coral reefs.
What Makes a Sunscreen Reef-Friendly?
With so many sunscreen options out there, it can be tricky to know which ones are actually safe for marine life. The term “reef-safe” generally means the sunscreen does not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate – two ingredients that have been linked to coral bleaching and marine toxicity. However, some brands use misleading labels, so it’s important to check the ingredients yourself.
To truly be reef-friendly, a sunscreen should avoid:
Instead of harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, look for mineral-based sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or non-nano titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays, rather than absorbing into your skin (and the ocean). Non-nano simply means the particles are larger and less likely to be ingested by marine life.
Of course, the absolute best way to protect coral reefs is to wear a rash guard or UPF clothing instead of relying solely on sunscreen. However, that’s not always practical when faced with the sun’s harsh rays. That’s why it’s important to always double-check the ingredient list to be sure you’re choosing a sunscreen that’s genuinely safe for both your skin and the ocean. But even the safest sunscreens still leave some impact, so it’s also crucial to avoid touching coral, kicking up sediment, or doing anything else that could harm these delicate ecosystems.
Destinations That Require Reef-Safe Sunscreen
In recent years, more destinations have taken action to protect their marine ecosystems by banning sunscreens that contain harmful chemicals. If you’re traveling to one of these places, it’s important to check your sunscreen label before you go – using the wrong one could not only harm the reefs but also land you with a fine! While I urge you to always travel with it regardless of where you are going, here are some of the most popular destinations that require reef-safe sunscreen:
- Hawaii – The first U.S. state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, effective since 2021.
- Key West, Florida – Enacted a similar ban to protect its coral reefs, though enforcement has faced challenges.
- Palau – This Pacific island nation has one of the strictest bans, prohibiting sunscreens with over 10 harmful chemicals and even confiscating non-compliant sunscreens upon arrival.
- Aruba – Banned oxybenzone-based sunscreens to protect its marine life, particularly in popular snorkeling areas.
- Mexico’s Protected Marine Areas – Locations like Cozumel, Xcaret, and parts of the Riviera Maya require reef-safe sunscreen in eco-parks and marine reserves. Some tour operators won’t let you in the water if you’re wearing chemical-based sunscreen.
So what happens if you use non-compliant sunscreen while traveling to one of these destinations? In some places, like Palau, customs officials will confiscate banned sunscreens upon entry. In others, such as Hawaii and Aruba, retailers are no longer allowed to sell them, making it harder to find traditional sunscreen locally. Tour operators in Mexico may ask you to wash off non-reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water, and fines may be issued in protected areas. When I swam with whale sharks in Cancun, our tour operator was especially strict about sunscreen use, prohibiting anyone on our boat from reapplying once we were on the water. To avoid any issues – and to protect the reefs – bring a truly reef-safe sunscreen with you on your travels. It’s an easy way to be a more responsible, eco-conscious traveler while keeping your skin protected!
Take care of the reef
Coral reefs are an incredibly vital ecosystem to the animals that live on them, as well as to humans. But coral reefs are becoming increasingly threatened by climate change and human activity. Refrain from damaging or polluting the reefs around the world by “leaving no trace,” not damaging corals while swimming or snorkeling, and using reef-friendly sunscreen.
Benefits Beyond the Reef: Why It’s Better for You Too
Switching to reef-friendly sunscreen isn’t just good for marine life – it’s better for you, too! Here’s how:
- Safer for Your Health – Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone, which can be absorbed into the bloodstream and have been linked to hormone disruption. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sit on the skin’s surface instead, reducing chemical exposure.
- Gentler on Skin – If you have sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, mineral sunscreens are often less irritating and less likely to cause allergic reactions.
- Long-Lasting Protection – Reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection and tend to last longer on the skin, making them a great option for extended outdoor adventures.
By choosing reef-friendly sunscreen, you’re not just protecting the environment—you’re also making a healthier choice for yourself!
Top Reef-Friendly Sunscreen Brands I Recommend
If you’re ready to make the switch or still searching for your favorite, here are some trusted reef-safe sunscreen brands that offer effective sun protection without harming marine life.
Blue Lizard
Dermatologist-recommended, great for sensitive skin, and changes color in UV light as a sun exposure reminder
Sun Bum Mineral
A well-known brand and easy-to-find option that’s budget-friendly and available in most large stores.
ThinkSport
High SPF, sweat- and water-resistant
All Good
Organic and a lightweight feel
Waxhead
Clean ingredients & super water-resistant
Pros & Cons of Mineral-Based Sunscreens:
While mineral sunscreens take some getting used to, the benefits far outweigh the downsides. Plus, with so many great brands out there, it’s easier than ever to find one that works for your skin and lifestyle!
Pros
Cons
Final Thoughts
Making the switch to reef-friendly sunscreen is a simple yet powerful way to protect our oceans while also choosing a safer option for your skin. Coral reefs are essential to marine life, coastal protection, and even medical advancements, and avoiding harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate can help preserve them for future generations.
As travelers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of our impact and make choices that support the places we love to explore. By opting for reef-safe sunscreen, we can enjoy the sun without harming the ecosystems that make our travels so incredible. So before your next beach trip, take a moment to check your sunscreen ingredients and make the switch!
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