How to Choose Coral Friendly SPF

Our commitment to “clean” beauty extends beyond just the ingredients we put on our skin. It also involves reducing waste, minimizing our environmental impact, and being mindful of our consumption habits. The concept of reef-safe sunscreen is appealing, considering the crucial role coral reefs play in supporting marine ecosystems and benefiting us on land. However, the term “reef-safe” is not regulated, and the research on its impact is ongoing. To help navigate this complex landscape, we consulted experts in dermatology to shed light on what truly makes a sunscreen reef-safe and offer recommendations for environmentally-friendly options. If you’re concerned about the health of our oceans and the well-being of coral reefs, choosing a mineral sunscreen with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is a good place to start. Look for products labeled as “mineral” or “physical” and avoid ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of sunscreen on marine life, opting for reef-safe options may be a step in the right direction.