As a parent, I often find myself on sunny days, chasing my kids with a bottle of sunscreen in one hand and a towel in the other. When we plan a beach trip, I generously apply sunscreen to their skin before we even set foot on the sand, adding a little extra on their noses once we arrive. Despite their dramatic faces and protests, I feel a sense of accomplishment knowing I’m doing my part to shield them from painful sunburns and potential skin cancer. #Winning.
Over the past three decades, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays have become more potent due to the thinning ozone layer, which normally protects us from these harmful rays. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ve likely noticed the surge in products that claim to offer UV protection—from sunscreens and body lotions to hats and specialized swimwear.
Walking into any drugstore today reveals a vast array of sunscreen options, which is a positive development. However, the contents of many of these products can be concerning. A major ingredient found in numerous non-mineral sunscreens is oxybenzone, a chemical that has detrimental effects on marine life, particularly coral reefs.
Oxybenzone functions as a chemical sunscreen by forming a barrier on the skin that absorbs UV rays. Unfortunately, it has been shown to contribute to coral bleaching, with high concentrations found in popular reef areas like Hawaii and the Caribbean. A 2015 study published in the Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology revealed that oxybenzone exposure leads to deformities and disrupts the DNA, reproduction, and growth of coral, resulting in ecosystems that resemble ghost towns, devoid of vibrant marine life.
While oxybenzone isn’t the sole culprit in the global decline of coral reefs, its impact combined with rising ocean pollution makes recovery for these ecosystems exceedingly difficult, as noted by marine biologist Tom Harris in an interview with The Guardian.
Beyond harming the environment, oxybenzone poses risks to human health as well. This chemical can be absorbed through the skin, potentially leading to allergic reactions and acting as a hormone disruptor. It has been linked to elevated risks of endometriosis in women and diminished sperm quality in men. The question arises: why would we apply such a harmful substance to our own skin or that of our children?
So what are the best alternatives for safeguarding against the sun while also protecting coral reefs? One effective strategy is to dress kids in rash guards that cover much of their skin, reducing the need for excessive sunscreen. However, I understand that many children dislike the feeling of wet fabric against their skin, which brings us back to the topic of sunscreen. Fortunately, there are safer, non-chemical alternatives available.
When selecting sunscreen, prioritize those with natural mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Unlike chemical sunscreens, these options sit on the skin’s surface to block and scatter UV rays. They may leave a noticeable white cast, but this minor drawback is worth it when considering the avoidance of harmful chemicals and the protection of our environment.
Local governments are also taking action to mitigate the negative impacts of oxybenzone on marine ecosystems. National Parks in Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and southern Florida now encourage visitors to opt for non-chemical sunscreens. Some ocean reserves in Mexico even mandate their use. While there is currently no legal ban on chemical sunscreens, many Hawaiian resorts are educating guests and providing non-chemical alternatives at no cost.
In summary, the health of our coral reefs and ocean life is at risk, and our sunscreen choices contribute to this crisis. While climate change plays a role, our individual choices matter significantly. By opting for oxybenzone-free sunscreens, we can actively participate in preserving our oceans. To learn more about home insemination options, check out this post on cryobaby home insemination kits. For more information on pregnancy, visit Womens Health. Don’t forget to explore this resource for further insights on this critical topic.