Or did you ever think of replacing your standard product with biodegradable sunscreen? According to research by National Institute of Environmental Health Science, sunscreen causes rapid and complete bleaching of corals even at very low concentrations.
Coral bleaching has a strong negative impact on the biodiversity of reef ecosystems, causing the illness and death of many marine organisms. The only way to avoid bringing further damage to coral reefs while staying protected is switching to biodegradable reef safe sunscreen brands. Biodegradable sunscreen is a cosmetic product formulated to break down naturally into organic compounds upon exposure to heat, moisture, and micro-organisms. The main difference between biodegradable and conventional sunscreen in the absence in the former of chemicals known to harm the ecosystem when they degrade, such as oxybenzone, camphor, butylparaben, octinoxate, 4-methyl benzylidene, and benzophenone-2 BP Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, University of Florida, claim that between 6, and 14, tons of conventional sunscreen wash off people into reef areas each year.
In research published in the journal Archives of Environmental Toxicology , the same experts demonstrate that oxybenzone , alongside other chemicals commonly found in skincare products, poses the third-biggest threat to coral reefs after climate change and nutrient pollution. Therefore, a simple way to make a positive impact is to ditch your conventional sunscreen and pick a biodegradable one instead.
Many of those taking vacations in exotic places rarely consider the impact their habits have on the environment. Media has told us UV rays are harmful, but the same media rarely promotes biodegradable skincare products. Q: Are there certain ingredients to watch out for? A: Some of the most harmful ingredients that many sunscreens contain, including some that are actually biodegradable such as those made by Nature's Gate, are PABA, octinoxate, oxybenzone, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor and the preservative butylparaben.
If your sunscreen has any of these ingredients, it is not safe for use on the reefs. Q: What kind of damage does sunscreen do to the marine ecosystem? A: One of the most harmful things to the natural underwater environment of Mexico and elsewhere is the sunscreens, oils, and sunblocks worn by tourists.
We don't think of it, but when we swim in the water, these oils come off and settle on the coral reefs and other marine life, and in volume can almost act like an oil slick in the water, creating damage to the delicate ecosystems. The reefs are suffocated, and sunscreens are one of the biggest causes of bleaching to our reefs, and the death of much of the world's coral. In addition, they promote viral growth and sunscreens containing oxybenzone have been shown to actually feminize fish!
Q: Why does coral get bleached? Biodegradable or reef-friendly sunscreens refer to formulas that break down over time and don't contain ingredients believed to be harmful to ocean life. This typically means that they don't contain chemical UV filters, and instead use mineral blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect against broad spectrum rays, explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
Mineral sunscreens could also be a better choice for certain skin types. Without potentially irritating ingredients like octinoxate, oxybenzone, butylparaben, and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, biodegradable sunscreens are ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies, notes New York City-based dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD. If using biodegradable sunscreen is important to you, reach for one of these reef-safe SPF formulas.
Nazarian loves this non-greasy, fast-absorbing sunscreen because it features sulfate-free zinc oxide, goes on completely clear, and is made without dyes, parabens, or perfumes. Perfect for all skin types, the lotion contains soothing organic oils think: jojoba, coconut, and avocado and moisturizing shea butter to help prevent and relieve chapped skin on your face, lips, and ears. All Good offers reef-friendly, biodegradable sun protection in countless forms—butters, lotions, sprays, and sun sticks—for convenient, non-sticky application.
This lightweight formula is packed with organic green tea, rose hips, and buriti oil to repair damaged skin. Bonus: It's vegan and doesn't contain oxybenzone, making it safe for a dip in the ocean. This lightweight and non-irritating eco-friendly sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide, blue phytoplankton, and microalgae in order to protect your skin against UVA and UVB rays, pollution, and even blue light from electronic devices. Hey there! Want to help us change the world every day through easy, achievable, eco-friendly tips and tricks?
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