Why Florida's "Healthy" Sunscreens Cause More Harm
By Franklin Everett ShawThe turquoise waters of South Florida beckon, promising sun-drenched days and vibrant marine life. But beneath the surface, a silent crisis unfolds, fueled in part by a product we slather on with good intentions: sunscreen. Many sunscreens marketed as “reef-safe” in Florida, especially in tourist meccas like Miami Beach and Key West, are anything but.
This isn’t just about misleading labels; it’s about the slow poisoning of our coral reefs and potentially, ourselves. Let’s cut through the marketing hype and expose the truth about “reef-safe” sunscreen in Florida.
The term “reef-safe” is unregulated. This means any company can slap it on their product, regardless of the ingredients. The biggest offenders are sunscreens that claim to be reef-safe but still contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. While Florida banned these two chemicals in 2021, many sunscreens still contain other harmful ingredients.
Oxybenzone and octinoxate disrupt coral reproduction and growth, leading to bleaching and ultimately, death. But the problem doesn’t stop there. Other chemicals like octocrylene, homosalate, and avobenzone, while not explicitly banned, are increasingly linked to coral damage and potential human health concerns.
Octocrylene, for example, can accumulate in coral tissues and cause endocrine disruption. Homosalate is suspected of disrupting hormones and may enhance the penetration of pesticides into the skin. Avobenzone, while generally considered safer, can break down into harmful byproducts when exposed to sunlight.
So, what’s a sun-loving Floridian or tourist to do? The key is to become a savvy label reader. Look beyond the “reef-safe” claim and scrutinize the ingredient list.
Avoid sunscreens containing:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- Avobenzone (use with caution and research)
- Parabens
- Phthalates
- Microplastics
- Nanoparticles (specifically zinc oxide and titanium dioxide)
Instead, opt for mineral sunscreens containing non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. “Non-nano” is crucial because nanoparticles can be ingested by coral and cause internal damage. These minerals create a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UV rays rather than absorbing them.
But even mineral sunscreens aren’t created equal. Some contain hidden plastic polymers that contribute to microplastic pollution. Look for sunscreens that are explicitly labeled as “plastic-free.”
Finding truly reef-safe sunscreen in Florida can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Here are some specific brands and retailers to consider:
- Raw Elements: This brand offers a range of mineral sunscreens in plastic-free packaging. You can find them at select Whole Foods Market locations throughout Florida, as well as online.
- Stream2Sea: Another excellent option with a focus on marine-safe ingredients. Check their website for retailers in your area. Many dive shops in Key Largo and Islamorada carry Stream2Sea products.
- Badger Balm: Badger Balm offers simple, effective mineral sunscreens with minimal ingredients. Available at many health food stores and online retailers.
- All Good: This brand offers a variety of reef-friendly sunscreens, including tinted options. Check their website for local retailers.
Challenge: Many mineral sunscreens leave a white cast on the skin.
Solution: Look for tinted mineral sunscreens or apply the sunscreen in thin layers and rub it in thoroughly. Some brands also offer formulations with smaller particle sizes that minimize the white cast.
Pitfall: Assuming that a sunscreen sold at a “natural” store is automatically reef-safe.
Solution: Always read the ingredient list, regardless of where you purchase the sunscreen.
Common Mistake: Not applying enough sunscreen.
Solution: Use at least one ounce (about a shot glass full) of sunscreen for your entire body and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Beyond choosing the right sunscreen, consider other sun protection strategies:
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
- Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses.
- Avoid tanning beds.
The health of Florida’s coral reefs is inextricably linked to our own well-being. By making informed choices about sunscreen, we can protect these vital ecosystems and ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty of Florida’s underwater world. Don’t be fooled by deceptive marketing. Read the labels, choose wisely, and help preserve our precious reefs. The future of Florida’s marine environment depends on it.