Love your skin
Reef friendly sunscreens are gaining traction globally – and for good reason.
What does ‘Reef Friendly’ mean?
In 2018, Hawaii passed Act 104 prohibiting the sale, offer of sale, and distribution of non-prescription sunscreens that contain the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate from 2021. With these chemicals shown to be detrimental to coral health, the intent of the law is to preserve marine ecosystems, including coral reefs.
These products aren’t just better at safeguarding our marine ecosystems, though. They’re also better for our bodies.
Here we explore the 5 top reasons to use a reef friendly sunscreen.
1. Protect your health
It’s estimated ultraviolet (UV) radiation – in the form of UVA and UVB rays from the sun – is responsible for more than 95% of skin cancers. These rays penetrate the skin and cause harm to cells, which can contribute to skin cancer.
Using a broad spectrum SPF50+ reef friendly sunscreen that can filter these rays and shield your skin is, therefore, essential.
2. Improve your skin
UVA and UVB radiation damages elastin and collagen, proteins vital for skin strength, elasticity and radiance. UVB rays are also a primary cause of sunburn.
That’s why embracing a reef friendly broad-spectrum sunscreen that filters both UVA and UVB rays helps reduce skin ageing, sagging, scarring, and wrinkling and is a daily skincare must.
In Awe’s SPF50+ Mineral Sunscreen Lotion includes Kakadu Plum, which is packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that’s important for skin growth and repair.
3. Protect sensitive skin
Using a reef friendly sunscreen means avoiding the chemical oxybenzone. Although uncommon, oxybenzone is known to cause allergic reactions in some people so, if you’re sensitive, it’s wise not to lather it on your skin.
Reef friendly sunscreens also aren’t allowed to contain the chemical octinoxate, which blocks UVB rays but is known to harm marine ecosystems. Is it safe for your skin? The science isn’t settled, so it’s perhaps not a bad idea to steer clear of it, too.
In Awe’s Natural SPF50+ Mineral Sunscreen Lotion with Kakadu Plum 75g, and Chemical (organic) SPF50 Sunscreen Lotion with Kakadu Plum & Coconut 150g, are both free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, parabens (preservatives which research suggests could impact human health over the long-term) and PABAs.
Mineral sunscreen lotions use zinc oxide, which is naturally derived and physically blocks UV radiation.
4. Safeguard our oceans
Oxybenzone (BP-3) and octinoxate (OMC) have been banned in Hawaii because of their toxic effects on marine ecosystems, including coral reefs.
Choosing a reef friendly sunscreen without these ingredients is, therefore, a great way to help safeguard our oceans and precious marine life, and be more environmentally conscious.
5. Save money
High quality reef friendly sunscreens contain less water and fillers. With more active ingredients, they work more effectively, so you can use less and still protect yourself!
Reef friendly sunscreens may also mean fewer funds are needed to repair marine ecosystems.
