What ingredients to avoid for reef safe sunscreen

Hawaii is the first state in the US to ban the sale of sunscreen containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Hawaii is the first state in the US to ban the sale of sunscreen containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, ushering in a new era of reef safe sunscreen. The new law goes into effect January 1, 2021, but many visitors and residents are already trading in their non-reef safe sun protection.

Oxybenzone and octinoxate are two ingredients believed to contribute to coral bleaching. When coral bleaches, it is not dead, but under significant stress and subject to increased mortality levels. According to the National Park Service, 14,000 tons of sunscreen enter coral reefs every year. These now banned chemicals are believed to be one of the contributing factors to the coral reef destruction. Most popular sunscreen brands are known to contain these dangerous chemicals. These brands include Coppertone, Hawaiian Tropic and Banana Boat, to name a few. However, we are starting to see a trend of these big brands creating new, less toxic sunscreen lines such as Banana Boat’s Simply Protect which is made without oxybenzone & parabens.

Choosing the right sunscreen is important not only to protect skin from burns and cancer, but also to preserve our oceans and marine life. Selecting a sunscreen that is both effective and reef safe can be overwhelming.

Here is a check list to take along when shopping for sunscreen that will protect both your skin and the reefs, as well as a list of sun protection considered reef safe.

Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid:

• Avoid sunscreens containing petrolatum, commonly known as mineral oil, which takes years to biodegrade, and are known to be harmful or fatal to aquatic life and waterfowl.
  
• Avoid sunscreens with high content of Titanium Dioxide. This mineral does not biodegrade and is found to react in warm seawater to form hydrogen peroxide which is harmful to all sea life.
  
• Oxybenzone and octinoxate, the two chemicals recently banned in Hawaii and are believed to cause coral bleaching.

Reef Safe Sunscreen:

Here is a list of sunscreens considered to be reef safe. Made in Hawaii sunscreens are marked with an *asterisks.

While traditional sunscreens contain ocean-damaging chemicals, reef-friendly products allow us to soak up rays without harming the precious marine environments we're out to enjoy. As we learn more about the effects of some chemicals on marine life, many popular destinations, including the U.S. Virgin Islands and Hawaii, have even banned specific ingredients that harm coral reefs and other ocean species. There are plenty of eco-conscious sunblock options that provide proper protection without violating these bans or sacrificing your skin's comfort.

Currently, the Food and Drug Administration is working on outlining official cut-and-dry rules on what qualifies as reef-safe. This means any "reef-safe" or "reef-friendly" label claims are primarily used by companies as a marketing tactic, and are usually applied to products free from the two main chemicals known to harm marine life: oxybenzone and octinoxate. So keep your eyes peeled for these ingredients in any products that claim to be reef-friendly.

If you're looking for a cheatsheet, we've rounded up the best reef-safe sunscreens for protecting your skin and the marine environment, whether you're on the beach or at home. (Reef-safety goes beyond your days on the shore — skincare products go down the drain after you wash them off.) After consulting a dermatologist and a professional surfer, Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen is our first pick for sun protection. But if you want the best reef-safe spray, stick, or sensitive skin formula, we found expert-approved options for those too.

These are the best reef-friendly sunscreens for your outdoor adventures:

Our Top Picks

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Best for Dark Skin :

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Best Vegan:

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Best Overall: Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

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Why We Love It: It's sweat-resistant enough to use for sports and comfortable enough to wear every day.

What to Consider: It may leave a slight white cast on darker skin.

Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen checks every box on our reef-friendly checklist, and it's perfect for numerous outdoor activities and occasions. The broad spectrum cream uses non-nano zinc oxide to create a protective layer against UVA and UVA rays. If you're one of those people who hates the feeling of being slathered in gooey sunblock, Thinksport could be a game-changer. The lightweight formula goes on smoothly, and it disappears quickly with zero-to-minimum white cast and greasy residue. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it's the perfect beach companion whether you'll be sipping piña coladas in a cabana or sweating through a hardcore wave-riding session. The gentle, non-irritating formula makes it a good choice for wearing everyday (yes, you should be wearing sunscreen every single day) on your face or body as well, even for sensitive skin types. A bonus? It's also vegan.

Price at time of publish: $23

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Best for Everyday Use: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Gentle Mineral Sunscreen

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Why We Love It: It contains antioxidants to combat free radicals.

What to Consider: The label does not specify non-nano ingredients.

Los Angeles-based dermatologist Dr. Jasmine Yun wears reef-safe sunscreen every day and recommends getting into the habit of always applying a thin layer of sun protection on any exposed areas, especially the face. Her pick for daily use is La Roche-Posay Anthelios Gentle Mineral Sunscreen. "Because reef-safe sunscreens do not use chemical UV blockers, they are super safe for the face and body," she says. "I have peace of mind when I wash my face at night, knowing the water going down the drain is safe for ocean life."

The oil-free formula uses 100 percent mineral UV blockers of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and uses silica powder to combat shiny residue. Note that La Roche-Posay does not use "reef-safe" marketing terms, nor does it specify whether its main ingredients are non-nano. The company does state that it lab tests each of its face and body sunscreens to ensure they are marine safe.

Price at time of publish: $22

SPF: 50 | Size: 3 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Best Mineral: Badger SPF 30 Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream

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Why We Love It: This mineral sunscreen is made from just five ingredients.

What to Consider: It needs to be reapplied after only 40 minutes of water contact.

Badger Active Mineral Sunscreen has an SPF 30 rating and protects against broad spectrum UV exposure. Scan the ingredients lists on this product and you'll only find organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, uncoated zinc oxide, sea buckthorn extract, and sunflower vitamin E. Badger sunscreens are also one of the few brands that take the extra step to have its products run through lab tests to verify the absence of all harmful chemicals on the HEL list, earning this product a certification seal from Land + Sea that assures consumers it's free from environmental pollutants. The product is also vegan, cruelty-free, non-GMO, made with solar power, and packaged in 50 percent recyclable materials. The main downside is that it's only water and sweat resistant for up to 40 minutes, whereas other sunscreens on this list last for 80 minutes.

Price at time of publish: $18

SPF: 30 | Size: 2.9 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 40 minutes

Best Spray: Alba Botanica Hawaiian Coconut Clear Spray SPF 50

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Why We Love It: The tropical scent smells like a dream vacation.

What to Consider: It contains avobenzone, which may react harmfully to chlorine.

This Alba Botanica mineral sunscreen spray is a favorite for its tropical scent and easy spray-on application. It's an ideal buy for beach-goers who like to take dips in the ocean and don't want to fuss with sandy applications (or reapplications) of sunscreen throughout the day. It also comes in clutch for boating trips or relaxing water activities like river tubing when you don't want to fuss with applying creams or sticks and need protection on hard-to-reach areas. Some shoppers may choose to skip this biodegradable sunscreen if they plan to head to the pool, however, as it contains avobenzone, an ingredient that had a concerning reaction to chlorine in one study. It also contains a few other chemicals some beach-goers try to avoid, namely homosalate and octocrylene.

Price at time of publish: $14

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

The Best Sun-protective Clothing for Women

Best for Dark Skin : Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

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Why We Love It: It doubles as a daily moisturizer.

What to Consider: It is not considered reef-safe in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black-owned brand that offers daily SPF 30 protection specifically designed for use on darker skin colors. This sunscreen is vegan and cruelty-free and contains natural moisturizers such as jojoba, avocado, and sunflower oils. The ultra-sheer formula dries clear with no residual white cast and is ideal for wearing under makeup. Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, it meets basic non-regulated guidelines for being reef-friendly. However, this sunscreen is not compliant with the U.S. Virgin Islands reef-safe policy since it contains octocrylene.

Price at time of publish: $30

SPF: 30 | Size: 3 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

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Best Tinted for Light to Medium Skin: Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

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Why We Love It: It minimizes pores for a more flawless look.

What to Consider: Tint can transfer to clothing, bedding, or towels.

Not only does this sunscreen provide UVA and UVB protection, Supergoop! Mattescreen 100% Mineral Sunscreen also works to block blue light emitted from electronics. The product's translucent tint helps hide the dreaded white cast created by some mineral-based sunscreens and works on a wide range of light to medium skin tones. As a professional surfer in the World Surf League, Kirra Seale says applying Mattescreen is part of her daily reef-safe sun protection routine. The oil-free formula functions as a primer, pore-minimizer, and sunscreen all-in-one. "I put it on first thing in the morning before I leave the house," she says. "It has a light sheen and leaves my face looking smooth."

Price at time of publish: $38

SPF: 40 | Size: 1.5 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Best Vegan: Sun Bum Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

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Why We Love It: The vegan formula is hypoallergenic and not tested on animals.

What to Consider: Active ingredients include octocrylene, a chemical that is banned in the U.S. Virgin islands.

"I use Sun Bum in SPF 50 lotion for my body whenever I go surfing and when competing in events like the WSL Longboard Tour," professional athlete Kirra Seale says. "Having sunscreens that are reliable in different parts of the world where the UV rays can be more intense is crucial." Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Lotion uses a vegan, cruelty-free formula that is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking for a vegan sunscreen that offers the highest possible approved SPF protection and longest water-resistancy. While this product is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate and labeled reef-friendly, it contains octocrylene, an ingredient that is banned in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Price at time of publish: $19

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Best for Sensitive Skin: California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30 Lotion

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Why We Love It: It's free from common allergens such as gluten, soy, oats, and most nuts.

What to Consider: The new formula is no longer fragrance-free.

This vegan, marine-friendly sunscreen is made without common allergens, including dairy, gluten, soy, and oats, making it our top pick for adults, kids, and babies with sensitive skin. "I bring loads of it in my luggage on vacation to be prepared to slather it on my three kids," says Dr. Yun. The mineral-based formula uses titanium dioxide as a barrier sunblocker, and is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. It's also made without chemicals of concern such as avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate. Originally produced as fragrance-free, this product is now scented with gardenia and lemongrass essential oils. Although it's not listed on the label, the company claims this product is "coral reef-safe."

Price at time of publish: $27

SPF: 30+| Size: 2.9 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

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Best Splurge: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+

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Why We Love It: It has a dual wetforce and heatforce shield.

What to Consider: This sunscreen works best when exposed to water or heat.

"I love using the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion," says surfer Kirra Seale. "Their formula is ocean-friendly and Hawaii-compliant. It rubs on so silky and smooth and the water-resistant veil means less product washes off when you enter the ocean." This sunscreen is formulated to increase the invisible barrier protection when exposed to external heat and water or sweat, making it ideal for very sunny days spent in the waves. Still, buyers should be aware that, while free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, this product does contain avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene.

Price at time of publish: $49

SPF: 50+ | Size: 5 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Best for Sports: All Good Makes Everything Better Sport Face & Body Sunscreen Lotion

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Why We Love It: This non-greasy sunscreen won't become runny as you sweat.

What to Consider: Moisturize before applying if you have dry skin so it doesn't become streaky.

For travelers who plan their vacation around water sports, a reef-safe and long-lasting sunscreen is a crucial buy. This All Good mineral sunscreen is both water- and sweat-resistant so you can enjoy your go-to beachside sport without worrying about your skin. It's made with a blend of coconut oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter, so your skin will stay hydrated no matter how much you sweat without making you feel sticky or greasy.

Price at time of publish: $14

SPF: 30 | Size: 3 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Best for Kids: Earth Mama Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40

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Why We Love It: It doesn't contain any chemicals or artificial scents, perfect for delicate baby skin.

What to Consider: This sunscreen is only water resistant up to 40 minutes, so you should reapply frequently.

We know reapplying sunscreen after less than an hour on your little one doesn't seem practical, but hear us out. This pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested sunscreen is said to be extra sensitive on even the most gentle of skin types. In addition to protecting against UVA and UVB rates, it contains organic shea butter and organic calendula, and is completely cruelty-free. While you may have to reapply this product more frequently, you can do so knowing your child's baby-soft skin will remain safe and protected.

Price at time of publish: $15

SPF: 40 | Size: 3 ounces | Water resistance: Up to 40 minutes

Best Stick: Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+

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Why We Love It: It's gentle enough to use on top of makeup.

What to Consider: This sunscreen moisturizes skin, so can feel greasy after multiple reapplications.

This clear sunscreen is perfect for anyone who loves looking pool-side glam. The lightweight and natural ingredients are gentle on any type of skin and can even be applied over makeup, so you can stay protected all day long. The dermatologist-tested stick keeps you safe from harmful UVA and UVB rays and also includes soy and licorice extract (said to help prevent wrinkles, dark spots, and dullness). Plus, this compact stick is small and convenient, so you can stick it in your bag to use on every vacation, not just those spent on the beach.

Price at time of publish: $29

SPF: 50+ | Size: 0.7 ounces per stick | Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes

Tips for Buying Reef-safe Sunscreen

Consider active and inactive ingredients

As there are no official reef-safe designations (more on that below), you'll want to check the label's active and in-active ingredients to make sure they are free from known chemicals and particles that harm the environment. Remember that being labeled "organic" does not mean a product is reef-friendly. If buying organic is important to you, be sure to check for an official certification seal somewhere on the product label in addition to checking the ingredients lists for harmful substances.

Read product descriptions carefully

Sunscreens that claim to be reef-friendly and absorb into your skin should be carefully scrutinized. Products that work by fully absorbing into the skin often contain nanoparticles that are harmful to ocean life. Likewise, if your sunscreen claims to do double-duty as an exfoliant or create a shimmer effect, it may contain nanoplastics, which are harmful to the marine environment.

Choose a type of sunscreen that fits your needs

There are many different varieties of sunscreen, and choosing the right one for your UV protection is an important part of the selection process. Sunscreen creams and sticks that are ideal for snorkeling trips or watersports aren't going to give the same lightweight feeling or barely-there look you'll want to seek out in an everyday sunscreen for your face. A few things to consider when choosing the right type of sunscreen for your needs are method of application, SPF level, length of water-resistance, portability, and appearance after application.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes sunscreen reef-safe?

  Generally speaking, reef-safe sunscreens are considered to be free from chemicals and nanoparticles that are known as harmful to ocean and coral reef environments. Currently, there are no set rules or requirements needed for a sunscreen brand to label a product as reef-safe (but the FDA is working on it). Reef-safe labeling is primarily used by brands as a marketing term. As a non-official baseline, products that are claimed to be ocean-friendly tend to be free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. Brands are beginning to replace "reef-safe" with "reef-friendly" in order to offer a more accurate description of their products.

• Which sunscreen ingredients are not reef-safe?

  Sunscreens ingredients widely believed to be harmful to coral reef systems include oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, para-aminobenzoic acid, parabens, and triclosan. Buyers should also be on the lookout for sunscreens that contain nanoparticles or do not specify the use of "non-nano" or "micro-sized" zinc or titanium. Nanoparticles are often found in sunscreens that absorb into the skin versus creating a UV barrier or filter that rests on top of the skin.

• Where is it illegal to use sunscreen that isn't reef-safe?

  Palau was the first country to ban the use of sunscreens that can cause harms to reefs. Hawaii, Key West, parts of Mexico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Aruba, and Bonaire also have bans or restrictions on sunscreens that aren't considered reef-safe.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Katherine Alex Beaven researched and tested dozens of reef-friendly sunscreens, consulted with a dermatologist, and spoke to a professional surfer to see which products make the cut to keep you — and the ocean — protected on sunny days.

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