By Anastasia Baklushina
As lockdown starts to ease around the world, many of us understandably want to spend more time outdoors (whilst keeping in mind all social distancing rules).
However, more time outside also means more time exposed to ultraviolet rays which are especially strong over the summer. Available in various forms and in a range of SPF levels, sunscreens definitely are the best skin protection tool.
Unfortunately, nothing in this world is ideal, nor are all of the sunscreens on the market are safe to use – both for your health and for the wellbeing of nature.
More specifically, the marine system is fragile and is made even more vulnerable with the swimming season recommencing. It’s so important to be a conscious consumer when it comes to purchasing sunscreen, as we are personally responsible for the repercussions of using it. To make it easier, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide so you know what to look out for when trying to protect your skin and the planet.
According to U.S. National Park Service, "4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen enters reef areas annually."
Step 1: Understand how chemical sunscreen may damage the marine system
The amount that waterways are affected by our use of chemical-containing sunscreens is, to tell the truth, quite shocking. When we shower or swim in the ocean, toxins in the product get into the water and wreak havoc. The National Ocean Service has researched potential after-effects that sunscreens may leave onto the marine life:
- Corals: left bleached by chemicals and with their DNA damaged
- Green Algae: sunscreen ingredients impair their growth and photosynthesis
- Mussels: may lead to growth defects in young creatures
- Sea Urchins: their immune and reproductive systems are affected
- Fish: can result in a decrease in fertility and reproduction, as well as feminine characteristics that could appear among the male fish
Dolphins: dangerous chemicals can accumulate in their tissues and be passed on to younger generations
Step 2: Always be aware of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate
These two chemical ingredients are most commonly found In the regular sunscreens and have been proven to be most harmful not only to the marine system but also to human health. A link found between the toxic chemicals and hormone disruption showed the seriousness of the potential consequences that their usage might provoke.
Legislation in Hawaii has already been successful in banning sunscreens that contain these two chemicals. Other potentially dangerous chemicals to be wary of are:
- Benzophenone-1
- Benzophenone-8
- OD-PABA
- 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor
- 3-Benzylidene camphor
- nano-Titanium dioxide
- nano-Zinc oxide
So, always make sure to double-check the label with particular care.
Step 3: Choose mineral sunscreens
Mineral means natural and, in the case of sunscreens, this is the best option. In contrast with chemical sunscreens which soak into the skin to provide protection, the mineral alternatives are almost totally “reef-safe”. Rather than absorbing the UV rays as the chemical products do, mineral (also known as physical) sunscreens sit on top of the skin and provide a physical barrier between your skin and the sunlight. As a result, they don’t include chemical ingredients and are instead made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and are calming on the skin.
Step 4: Look for some extra NGO’s tips
But how can we be sure that we are choosing the right, less-harmful option? Apart from being aware of dangerous ingredients, another precaution to take is to check the websites of NGOs working to protect the ecosystem.
A great place to start is with this “Sunscreen Guide”, created by a non-profit Environmental Working Group, which helpfully explains each ingredient and their direct level of risk to humans and marine life.
Based on our own research and the EWG’s guide, we’ve selected some of our favourite natural sunscreens below.
Light Protection
Antipodes Immortal Face & Body Moisturiser (SPF 15)
Consciousness: No synthetic ingredients and fragrance-free
Best for: Hydration and skin-brightening
Marine safety: Chemical-free with Zinc Oxide
Evolve Climate Veil Tinted For Face & Neck (SPF 20)
Consciousness: Vegan, cruelty-free, recycled
Best for: Natural glow and non-whitening effect
Marine safety: Reef-safe, Zinc oxide-based
Madara Weightless Sun Milk (SPF 20)
Consciousness: Organic, natural, nut- and gluten-free.
Best for: Full body coverage and invisible effect
Marine safety: Mineral with Zinc Oxide
Medium Protection
Clean Screen Mineral Mattifying Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum (SPF 30)
Consciousness: Vegan, cruelty- and silicon-free, recyclable packaging
Best for: Face protection and anti-aging
Marine safety: Chemical- free and non-toxic to marine life
Bum Bum Sol Body Oil (SPF 30)
Consciousness: Vegan, cruelty-free, sustainably sourced
Best for: Moisturising
Marine safety: Non-toxic to marine life
Black Girl Face & Body Sunscreen (SPF 30)
Consciousness: Cruelty-free, natural, vegan
Best for: Dark skin tones
Marine safety: Reef-safe (Oxybenzone-free and octinoxate-free)
For more beauty brands best for diverse skin conditions and ethnicities, take a look at our latest article where we featured 9 natural beauty brands owned by women of colour.
Hampton Sun Kids Mineral Face Stick (SPF 50)
Consciousness: Vegan, cruelty-,oil-, PABA- and oil-free
Best for: Children (hypoallergenic) and traveling
Marine safety: Mineral and chemical-free
Find more organic creams for the little ones on our natural and organic products for you and your baby article.
Ilia Beauty Super Serum Face Skin Tint (SPF 30)
Consciousness: Vegan, cruelty-, silicone-, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Best for: 18 different tone shades and make-up foundation
Marine safety: Chemical-free
Find more organic creams for the little ones on our natural and organic products for you and your baby article.
Nuori Mineral Face Defense Sunscreen (SPF 30)
Consciousness: Vegan, organic, fragrance- and colorants-free
Best for: Daily non-sticky and lightweight application
Marine safety: Reef-safe, biodegradable
De Mamiel Exhale Daily Hydrating Nectar (SPF 30)
Consciousness: Organic, natural, vegan
Best for: Sheer tint and skin regeneration
Marine safety: Mineral with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide
High Protection
Salt and Stone Face Stick (SPF 50)
Consciousness: Organic ingredients
Best for: Calming irritated skin and antioxidant effect
Marine safety: No harsh chemicals
Seventy-one Percent Eco Sun Schield (SPF 50+)
Consciousness: Organic, natural, paraben-, silicone- and alcohol-free
Best for: Very high sun protection and family usage
Marine safety: Mineral with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide
Step 5: Seek for the combo approach rather than mono sunscreens application
Although sunscreens are necessary to protect your skin, they’re most effective when used in combination with other actions. To avoid sun overexposure, plan your time outdoors by checking in advance the UV Index and being aware of the midday sun.
If you’re planning on being outside for long periods of time, look for the shady spaces or use a summer umbrella or parasol. Wearing sunglasses and a hat are effortless (and stylish) ways to protect your face from rays, and long-sleeves offer extra protection in the water.
As is often said, “forewarned is forearmed” – meaning that it is hugely important to raise awareness about the danger of chemicals in the sunscreens.
What may seem as a minor act in our everyday life, may actually leave a significant and long-lasting impact on the whole planet.
If you are getting summer ready and looking for the best eco-swimwear, we did a selection of our favourite ethical swimwear brands for you.
Anastasia Baklushina
Anastasia has always followed her passion to write about things that matter and inspire for change. Apart from finishing her BA in Liberal Arts, you can find her traveling, learning new languages or enjoying sunsets.
4 comments
Thank you for sharing a wonderful blog