Florida's "Natural" Sunscreens: A Toxic Swamp?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 12, 2026

The Florida sun, a glorious beacon for tourists and residents alike, also poses a significant threat to our skin and, surprisingly, our coral reefs. We slather on sunscreen, thinking we’re doing our part, but are we truly protecting ourselves and the delicate marine ecosystems that make Florida so unique? The truth is, many sunscreens marketed as “natural” or even “reef-friendly” are anything but, containing chemicals that wreak havoc on coral reefs. This isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a Florida issue, impacting our tourism, our economy, and our very way of life.

Let’s cut through the marketing hype and get down to brass tacks.

The biggest culprits are oxybenzone and octinoxate. These chemicals, common in many popular sunscreens, are proven to damage coral DNA, disrupt their reproduction, and even cause bleaching. Florida banned these chemicals in 2020, but that doesn’t mean they’ve disappeared from shelves. Many sunscreens still contain them, especially those from older stock or brands that haven’t reformulated.

So, how do you, a concerned Floridian in Miami, Tampa, or Jacksonville, navigate this confusing landscape?

First, become a label detective. Don’t trust the front of the bottle; flip it over and scrutinize the ingredients list. Look for active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These are mineral-based sunscreens that create a physical barrier against the sun, rather than absorbing UV rays with chemicals. They are generally considered reef-safe.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking your sunscreen:

1. Locate the “Active Ingredients” section: This is usually found on the back of the bottle, near the Drug Facts label.
2. Scan for oxybenzone and octinoxate: If you see either of these listed, put the sunscreen back. It’s not reef-safe.
3. Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide: These are your friends. Aim for sunscreens that use these as their primary active ingredients.
4. Be wary of “nano” particles: Some studies suggest that nano-sized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide particles may also have negative impacts on marine life. Look for “non-nano” on the label, although this isn’t always a guarantee.
5. Check the inactive ingredients: While the active ingredients are the primary concern, some inactive ingredients can also be harmful. Avoid sunscreens with parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.

Now, let’s talk about where to find truly reef-safe sunscreens in Florida.

Publix and CVS, staples in almost every Florida town, are increasingly stocking mineral-based sunscreens. However, selection can vary widely from store to store. Don’t assume that just because one Publix carries a reef-safe brand, all of them do.

Here are a few recommended brands that are often available in Florida:

• Thinksport: This brand is widely available and offers a range of sunscreens for adults and children. They are consistently rated as reef-safe.
• Badger Balm: Badger Balm is another reliable option, known for its simple, natural ingredients.
• Raw Elements: Raw Elements is a popular choice among surfers and divers, offering high-performance sun protection.
• Stream2Sea: Stream2Sea is specifically formulated to be reef-safe and biodegradable.

These brands are a good starting point, but always double-check the ingredients list before purchasing.

One common pitfall is falling for the “natural” label. Many sunscreens use this term loosely, even if they contain harmful chemicals. Don’t be fooled by clever marketing. Always read the ingredients.

Another challenge is the price. Reef-safe sunscreens tend to be more expensive than conventional sunscreens. However, consider it an investment in your health and the health of our environment. Look for sales and discounts, and buy in bulk when possible.

Let’s consider a real-world scenario: You’re visiting John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. You want to protect yourself from the sun while snorkeling, but you also want to protect the reef. Before you go, check the ingredients of your sunscreen. If it contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, leave it at home. Instead, purchase a mineral-based sunscreen from a local dive shop or pharmacy.

Here’s a crucial point: application matters. Apply sunscreen liberally and evenly, at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

Furthermore, consider alternative sun protection methods. Wear a rash guard, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Seek shade during peak sun hours. These simple steps can significantly reduce your reliance on sunscreen.

The fight to protect Florida’s coral reefs is a collective effort. By making informed choices about our sunscreen, we can all contribute to a healthier future for our oceans and our state. Don’t be a passive consumer; be an active advocate for reef-safe practices. Educate your friends and family, and demand transparency from sunscreen manufacturers.

Remember, the future of Florida’s reefs depends on it.