Think it’s hard to make the switch to reef safe sunscreen? Think again! It’s easier than you think. With so many options available at your local retailers and even more online you can make the switch for good!
Let’s be honest, there are MANY things impacting our oceans and marine life – Global warming, the fishing industry, garbage finding it’s way into waterways just to name a few. If your an ocean lover and a worrier like me, it’s enough to sometimes have your head spinning and full of despair.
But, fear not! We cannot solve the overall problem here today but we can all take baby-steps toward improvement. We can each make decisions in our daily life that hopefully will move the needle in the right directions.
Switching to a reef safe sunscreen is a way that you can make a difference. Something that I like to call “grow the good”. Are these products perfect? No, but again, it’s a step in the right direction.
Over the last couple of years, I have committed to purchasing and using more planet-friendly sunscreen. I have to say, it’s been a pretty easy transition. My family hasn’t noticed a difference and they are effectively protected from sunburns while I feel better about helping protect our planets great resource.
Here are a few fair skinned tested and approved Reef Safe Sunscreen options.
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What I love about this Reef Safe Sunscreen – Safe Sea
Probably the most truly ocean-friendly choice on this list is the Safe Sea Protection Lotion. I love that this reef safe sunscreen option is dual purposed. Not only does it provide effective sun protection but it also covers select ocean “issues” as well. For example, there is an option for Jelly Fish deterrent as well as an option that protects against Sea lice and Sand fleas.
We have had some pretty unfortunate experiences with sea lice and sand fleas during our travels so this is a WIN for our sensitive skin family.
What I love about Sun Bum
Oh my goodness…the smell! The smell of Sun Bum sunscreen just screams hand me a fruity cocktail because I’m at the beach!
There are a few negative reviews regarding the packaging but I haven’t had any issues personally. I think as with all lotions, there is a risk when shipping or when flying due to the pressurization. I always travel with lotions in a Ziploc or reusable sealed bag.
The Sun Bum Lotion I have pictured here is an option which is Oxybenzone free but still is not labeled “reef-friendly”. However, it’s better than most and I prefer the full coverage of a lotion. For a true reef-friendly option go for their mineral formula spray which is Oxybenzone & Octinoxate Free and therefore can be labeled “Reef Friendly”.
I’m also seeing the mineral option in the lotion form so I will be ordering the Sun Bum Mineral Lotion to test out on our next beach day. I’ll keep you posted!
Don’t forget to protect your lips. If you have to pick just one chapstick with sun protection, grab Sun Bum. Love it!
What I love about this Reef Safe Sunscreen – alba botanica
I find that our alba botanica sunscreen is the one that I reach for most often. It is the most consistently effective sunscreen that we have used as a family. It is also sold throughout the spring/summer season at my local Costco so it’s an easy purchase.
We have all used it on family float trips, on several cruises and beach days without a burn.
Our daughter is extremely fair-skinned so we are diligent about reapplying and making sure everyone is thoroughly covered but (knocking on wood) it has been quite effective.
Worrier’s Guide:
A note about Aerosols
Many popular brands have an aerosol option. I feel that it’s difficult to properly coat the skin with the aerosol (if you are outdoors in the wind) as well as the fact that aerosols are harmful to our environment.
However, they are an easy option for things like feet, hairlines and those that would otherwise not take the time to appropriately apply the lotion. Our son has always grabbed the spray because he doesn’t want to “waste time” applying the lotion. I guess you pick your battles.
It’s a personal choice but I try and stick with traditional lotions whenever possible.
A few more popular options which are highly rated on Amazon but that I have not personally used, yet.
Do you currently use reef safe sunscreen? Let me know which one is your favorite!
Looking for other easy ways you can make your beach day more planet-friendly? Check out this recent post.
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Happy Travels!
Jillian