Miami Sunscreen: Salt Air Hiding Toxic Chemicals?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 1, 2026

Imagine sinking into the turquoise waters off South Beach, the sun kissing your skin, the gentle waves lapping at your feet. But what if that blissful moment came at a hidden cost? The sunscreen you diligently apply to protect yourself might be silently harming the very ecosystem that makes that paradise possible. It’s time we talked about the sunscreen you’re using in Miami and its potential impact on our precious coral reefs.

Many sunscreens readily available in Miami contain chemicals that are now known to be harmful to marine life, specifically coral reefs. These chemicals, including oxybenzone and octinoxate, are absorbed by coral and can cause:

Coral bleaching: This weakens the coral, making it more susceptible to disease and death.
DNA damage: This can disrupt coral reproduction and growth.
Endocrine disruption: This can interfere with the development of marine animals.

Hawaii was the first state to ban the sale and distribution of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, with other locations following suit. While Florida hasn’t yet enacted a statewide ban, the science is clear: these chemicals pose a significant threat.

So, what’s a sun-loving Miamian to do? The good news is that reef-safe alternatives are readily available, both in local stores and online. Look for sunscreens labeled “mineral-based” or “reef-safe.” These sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients, which are considered safer for marine environments.

Here are a few brands you can easily find in Miami:

Raw Elements: Available at many health food stores and online retailers. They offer a tinted version that blends well with various skin tones, a common complaint with mineral sunscreens.
Badger Balm: Another widely available option, often found at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens. Their sunscreen sticks are particularly convenient for on-the-go application.
Thinksport: A popular choice for athletes and active individuals, offering high SPF protection and water resistance. Check out Whole Foods Market or online retailers.

These brands avoid the harmful chemicals and provide effective sun protection. Don’t just take the label at face value, though. Always double-check the ingredient list to ensure it doesn’t contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, or avobenzone. These are the common culprits to avoid.

But what if you’re feeling adventurous and want to take matters into your own hands? Making your own sunscreen is easier than you might think! Here’s a simple DIY recipe:

DIY Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Ingredients:

1/4 cup Coconut Oil: Provides a moisturizing base.
1/4 cup Shea Butter: Adds thickness and skin-nourishing properties.
2 tablespoons Zinc Oxide Powder (non-nano): The active ingredient for sun protection. Important: Use non-nano zinc oxide to avoid it being absorbed into the skin.
Optional: A few drops of essential oil for fragrance (lavender, chamomile, or vanilla are good choices).

Instructions:

Melt the coconut oil and shea butter in a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
Once melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Slowly add the zinc oxide powder, stirring constantly to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Avoid inhaling the powder.
Add essential oils, if desired.
Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it cool completely. The sunscreen will solidify as it cools.

Important Considerations:

SPF Level: It’s difficult to accurately determine the SPF of homemade sunscreen. This recipe provides a moderate level of protection, but it’s best used in conjunction with other sun-protective measures like wearing hats and seeking shade.
Patch Test: Always test a small amount of the sunscreen on your skin before applying it to your entire body to check for any allergic reactions.
Storage: Store your homemade sunscreen in a cool, dark place. It should last for several months.

Now, let’s address a crucial, often overlooked aspect: proper disposal of traditional chemical sunscreens. Simply tossing them in the trash can lead to these harmful chemicals leaching into the environment. Miami-Dade County offers several options for proper disposal of hazardous waste, including:

Home Chemical Collection Centers: Miami-Dade County operates several permanent collection centers where you can drop off unwanted household chemicals, including sunscreens. Check the county’s website for locations and operating hours.
Mobile Collection Events: The county also hosts periodic mobile collection events in different neighborhoods. These events provide a convenient way to dispose of hazardous waste without having to travel to a permanent collection center.
Retail Take-Back Programs: Some retailers that sell sunscreens may offer take-back programs for unwanted products. Contact your local stores to inquire about their policies.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Assuming all “natural” sunscreens are reef-safe: Always check the ingredient list. Some natural sunscreens may still contain harmful chemicals.
Using expired sunscreen: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date and discard any expired products.
Not applying enough sunscreen: Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to achieve the stated SPF. Use at least one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Forgetting to reapply: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
Ignoring other sun-protective measures: Sunscreen is just one part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy. Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.

Living in Miami means embracing the sun and the ocean. By making informed choices about the sunscreen we use and how we dispose of it, we can protect our skin and our precious coral reefs for generations to come. Let’s make Miami a beacon of sun-safe and reef-friendly practices.