Choosing Sunscreen: Balancing UV Protection and Marine Safety

Choosing the right sunscreen is challenging due to various factors such as SPF, formula type, and environmental impact. Research shows that both chemical and mineral sunscreens can harm marine environments. To mitigate this, consumers need to be more informed, and brands should prioritize environmentally-friendly formulations.

Choosing which sunscreen to use can be overwhelming due to the myriad factors involved, from the SPF rating to the choice between chemical and mineral-based formulas. With growing concern about environmental impact, it begs the question: does the sunscreen I use harm marine life?

Research confirms that sunscreen ingredients can cause coral bleaching, damage marine life, and affect water quality. Both chemical and mineral-based sunscreens contribute to these issues, with chemical UV filters like oxybenzone being particularly harmful.

Approximately 10 million tonnes of UV filters are produced annually, and about 25% of sunscreen washes off within 20 minutes of submersion. This not only impacts coral reefs but also affects marine mammals, turtles, and fish. As awareness rises, brands must be transparent about their eco-friendly claims and invest in greener alternatives.