Protecting Our Skin and the Oceans: The Rise of Nontoxic Reef-Safe Sunscreens

As summer approaches and we gear up for sunny days spent outdoors, it's crucial to protect our skin from harmful UV rays. However, it's equally important to protect the delicate ecosystems of our oceans, particularly coral reefs, which are under threat from toxic chemicals found in many sunscreens. By choosing nontoxic reef-safe sunscreens, we can enjoy the sun all day long!

Ingredients to Avoid

1. Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: These chemicals are commonly found in sunscreens and have been linked to coral bleaching, which can ultimately lead to the death of coral reefs. They can also disrupt marine life's reproductive systems.

2. Octocrylene: Another chemical often found in sunscreens, octocrylene has been shown to be toxic to certain marine animals and can accumulate in the environment over time.

3. Avobenzone: While not as harmful as oxybenzone and octinoxate, avobenzone can still have negative effects on coral reefs, particularly when combined with other chemicals.

4. Nano Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: While these ingredients are effective at blocking UV rays, they can be harmful to marine life in their nanoparticle form, as they can be ingested by corals and other organisms.

Nontoxic Reef-Safe Sunscreens

Thankfully, there are many nontoxic reef-safe sunscreens available that will protect your skin from the sun without the toxins. 

1. Olita: Their formulas are gentle on the skin and safe for coral reefs. They even have a tinted option to give your skin a glow!

2. Raw Elements: Raw Elements' sunscreens are made with certified natural and organic ingredients, including non-nano zinc oxide. They are gentle, effective, and safe for marine life. 

3. Badger: Badger is known for its natural and organic sunscreen products. Their sunscreens are reef-safe, biodegradable, and provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.

4. Babo Botanicals: Babo Botanicals formulas are free of harsh chemicals and safe for coral reefs.

5. Coral Safe: Coral Safe's sunscreens are specifically formulated to be safe for coral reefs. They are biodegradable, non-toxic, and provide effective sun protection without harming marine life.

6. Mad Hippie Hydrating Facial spf 25: I love Mad Hippie for their skincare, and their hydrating facial is perfect for any beach day to keep your skin nourished and protected from getting burnt.