To protect their skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and to prevent skin cancer, sunscreen is necessary. Recent research has shown that sunscreens are dangerous for the environment, especially coral reefs and marine organisms. Is it possible to make reef-safe sunscreen? And how can consumers find the best environment safe sunscreen?
Evidence was discovered in 2008 that sunscreen ingredients can bleach coral reefs. Sunscreen manufacturers responded to this discovery by creating ‘reef safe’ sunscreens, using alternative UV filters like zinc oxide. Recent research has shown these options are not safer for our environment.
Why is sunscreen bad for the environment
Sunscreen is removed from the skin during water sports and recreational activities in natural waters to disperse in surrounding environment. After 30 minutes, some chemicals can be absorbed through skin and found in urine. They can be absorbed through the skin and subsequently enter septic tanks or sewers when people flush the toilets or use the shower to wash off the sunscreen. Sunscreen pollution is inevitable when there are no sophisticated water treatment systems or sewage management systems in the towns.
There are two types of sunscreen that can be purchased in stores. Both work in different ways but both have harmful active ingredients.
Organic (chemical)The most widely used sunscreen is chemical sunscreens. They absorb and reduce UV rays’ ability to penetrate the skin.
The most harmful active ingredients were identified in the following: oxybenzone and butylparaben. A 2008 study. Researchers discovered that the chemicals could trigger latent viral infections in the symbiotic bacteria that corals rely upon for their nutrition. Further studies revealed that chemical sunscreens can have a harmful effect on coral reefs as well as marine organisms. According toA 2015 studyWe found that oxybenzone causes coral bleaching by lowering corals’ tolerance to heat stress. We also discovered that oxybenzone can cause severe and even fatal damage to coral DNA. Worst of all, oxybenzone can also disrupt the endocrine system.
Physical (mineral and inorganic).: The second type, often marketed as environmentally-friendly and reef safe, is still less popular than chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens block or reflect both UVA and UVB rays but leave a whitish tinge on people’s skin and are often oily and difficult to rub in.
Zinc oxide is the most popular ingredient in sunscreens. A study published recentlyNon-coated zinc oxide was found to be more effective than coated zinc oxide. The titanium dioxide nanoparticles are less than 35 nanometers wide. This means that they can be toxic to corals, fish and other reef organisms. Because of their small size and interaction with cells, they can cause oxidative stress in sunlight (coral bleaching) which can damage hard corals and symbiotic algae.
Sunscreen overall: Other than the active ingredients, sunscreen can be toxic to aquatic ecosystems. Methoxycinnamate and camphor are on the International Chemical Secretariat’s SIN (Substitute it Now) list due to their activity as endocrine disruptors to humans and wildlife. Plant-based oils can also cause damage to reef organisms. Pyrethrins are toxic to marine species and Chrysanthemum oil has them. The oils of neem and eucalyptus as insect repellents or pesticides may also be toxic to insects. Organic ingredients are not always safe.
Are There Any Sunscreens That are Environmentally and Reef-Safe?
Experts disagree with the conclusion of many studies that show that primary active ingredients in physical and chemical sunscreens can cause damage to marine environments. However, there are still many other studies that have been conducted. These experts suggest that laboratory studies may not be able to capture conditions on the reef because pollutants are quickly dispersed. Although sunscreen ingredients in some research may have higher concentrations than those found in natural environments, their negative impact on aquatic organisms is not to be underestimated.
This might make consumers feel discouraged about their efforts to protect their skin and the environment. Scientists are developing new solutions, but there is still hope. A team at the College of Pharmacy at Florida is working to develop a sunscreen that uses shinorine, an ingredient that absorbs ultraviolet light from algae.
The following guidelines will help consumers select the best sunscreen for their needs.
- Use the sunscreen you have already bought.. It will end-up in the environment regardless of how you throw it, so it is inefficient and wasteful.
- Be discerning.Most sunscreens that advertise themselves as being environmentally friendly do not.
- Pay attention to labels. Avoid sunscreens containing the following chemicals: Oxybenzone and Benzophenone-1, Benzophenone-8. OD-PABA, 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor. 3-Benzylidene Camphor. Octinoxate, Octocrylene. Octinoxate, Octocrylene. Homosalate.
- Organic does NOT necessarily mean safe. Look for plant-based oils that are safe for living organisms.
- Spray-on sunscreen is not recommended. Spray-on sunscreens are a popular choice due to their ease of application. However, they are not the best option. Much of the stream ends up in the environment without ever protecting anyone’s skin. It is also dangerous to inhale.
- Use plastic-free packaging Minimum 14 Million TonsEach year, 80% of all marine debris is plastic. Plastic debris can cause injuries and death in marine organisms, as they can be ingested or entangled. Companies are more concerned about the environmental impact than their products and will choose to use recyclable or non-plastic packaging.
- Look out for physicals containing non-nano Zinc Oxide and titanium dioxide Transparent companies make sunscreens. Researchers discovered that non-nanotised (above150 nanometers in diameter), coated zinc oxide or titanium dioxide did not readily show acute toxicities.
- Wear sunscreen and cover exposed skin with hats, long sleeves, or a visor.. Although this is the most environmentally-friendly option, skin cancer still remains a concern on the neck, chest, and hands.
There are many non-nano-zinc oxide-based sunscreens that can satisfy most of these guidelines. Raw Love SunscreenUses 100% plant-based, organically produced ingredients. Some consumers may be put off by the oily texture and slight skin tint from application. However, others find it attractive because of the small number of easily identifiable natural ingredients. Another option: Hello Bellos SunscreenMineral Lotion is sold in a tube. However, the lotion’s scent and texture is similar to other chemical sunscreens. It makes it easier for people to switch to non-nanozino-based sunscreens. Last but not the least Raw Elements SunscreenThe ingredients list does not contain any toxic plant-based oils. The container is recyclable/reusable and the packaging is non-plastic.
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