The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens to Protect Your Skin & the Environment

If you’re planning a trip to a place with water and sun, of course you want to pack sunscreen to protect your skin. But some sunscreens contain chemicals that can be harmful to the delicate ocean ecosystem. So, if you want to protect your skin and the environment, it’s important to look for products with certain ingredients. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best safe, reef-friendly sunscreens that you can wear with confidence on your next vacation. Let’s break down what you should be looking for and shopping for

What does “reef safe” or “reef friendly” sunscreen mean?

Sunscreens called “reef safe” or “reef friendly” generally do not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, two common UV-blocking chemicals that damage coral reefs, and the state of Hawaii has even prohibits the sale. sunscreens containing these ingredients.

However, these conditions are not regulated or managed by any organization, so you can’t always trust products that claim they are “safe.” Reports have shown that other chemicals, such as octocrylene, homosalate, avobenzone, and oxybenzone, may also have harmful effects, so read your labels. None of the choices below contain any of these ingredients.

What else to consider when choosing sunscreen

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, according to the American Association of Dermatology. It is therefore important to reduce your risks and look for a sunscreen with SPF 15 (at least). Additionally, consider the water resistance of your sunscreen. Sunscreen that stays on your skin longer is less likely to come off when you swim.

So keep scrolling to find the best safe, reef-friendly sunscreens that will make a positive impact this Earth Day and beyond. Protect your skin (and the ocean too) and enjoy your time in the water.