Chemicals in some sunscreens can harm marine life. Avoid oxybenzone, benzophenone-1, benzophenone-8, OD-PABA, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, 3-benzylidene camphor, nano-titanium dioxide, nano-zinc oxide, octinoxate, and octocrylene.
Mineral sunscreens (e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) are generally safer choices (though not perfect because of the nanoparticles in them).
Do not use spray-on sunscreen. Much of the stream ends up in the environment without ever protecting anyone’s skin. It is also unhealthy to inhale.
Shower before going into natural waters, as personal care products like sunscreen, oils, leave-in conditioners wash off into the waters, build up over time and disrupt the ecosystem.
Avoid using sunscreen altogether by covering exposed skin with hats, long sleeves, and hand coverings. While this is the only truly environmentally friendly option, skin cancer is still a concern on the face and neck, so be sure to cover up there, too.
Seek shade between 10 am and 2 pm, when UV radiation from the sun is greatest.
Comments