Dear Terra,
I’m so excited to be going on vacation in Hawaii this year but heard that some sunscreens have been banned there. Is this something new?
Beach Bound
Dear Beach Bound,
Yes! Chemicals in many sunscreens are contributing to coral bleaching, especially in areas with high concentrations of visitors. Hawaii and other areas are banning some products to save their reefs. Since no one wants to risk getting skin cancer, let’s look at our sunscreen options!
*Chemical blockers are the ones we most commonly use and absorb the sun’s rays, converting them to a different form of radiation. Hawaii has banned use of the following chemicals in sunscreens; oxybenzone and octinoxate.
*Physical blockers deflect the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them. These contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are often broken down, or micronized, into smaller “nanoparticles” so it’s easier to apply and disappears on the skin. To be truly “reef safe” or “marine safe”, look for “non-nano” types, however. Some even come in refillable containers, a win-win!
*Behavior changes are important as well. Limit sun exposure during the hottest part of the day. Wear UPF clothing or even just long sleeves or pants to cover more of the body so less sunscreen is needed and add sunglasses and hats to protect eyes and face. Stay in the shade as much as possible. Wear a rash guard/swim shirt to protect arms and back and reduce sunscreen when in the water.
Besides the type of sunscreen you use, limit all personal care products (lotions, gels, moisturizers, fragrances, etc.) when in the water. The fewer chemicals going into the ocean the better off we’ll all be!
Aloha,
Terra