Aside from being amongst the world’s most impressive natural wonders, healthy coral reefs are one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth.  

“Coral reefs are critically important to ocean biodiversity – and for the well-being of people. They are the most biodiverse habitats in the ocean, supporting a full quarter of all marine life and serving as irreplaceable nurseries for fish and other marine life, including sea stars, octopi and tiger sharks,” Aulani Wilhelm, SVP of Oceans at Conservation International explains. “They directly benefit human well-being by providing coastal protection (from wave and storm erosion), food security and livelihoods for millions; they are an engine for economies worldwide. Reef tourism accounts for more than 15% of GDP in at least 23 countries and territories. They hold cultural importance for many communities and even provide a wide range of essential medicines including those for the treatment of cancer, HIV and heart disease.” In the U.S alone, Coral reefs generate more than $3.4 billion in economic value. They do this by creating millions of jobs through tourism and fishing, feeding us and providing us with the means to live. 

On top of that, healthy coral reef ecosystems provide us with vital environmental services. As the name “great barrier reef” implies, reef systems protect human lives and valuable coastal infrastructure, like hotels and roads, by shielding us from harsh weather and waves.

So, how does all this sunscreen end up in the ocean? Every time we apply SPF and take a shower or go for a swim,  the sunscreen on our skin washes off and into our waterways. Chemicals found commonly in our sun creams like Oxybenzone and Benzophenone-1 have proven particularly harmful to marine life.  Each year an estimated 14,000 tons of sunscreen ends up on the world’s reefs, causing irreparable damage. This threat to coral health comes at a time when the great barrier reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is already suffering the consequences of climate change.  These toxins accumulate in tissues and cause coral bleaching, damage to DNA, coral polyps, deformities in young corals, and even death. These chemicals can have adverse effects on a wide range of species, from dolphins to Sea Urchins to green algae.

Currently, there is no regulation for sun care brands that claim to be “reef-safe”, but generally, this means we won’t find reef harmful chemicals in their bottles. Although they do contain chemicals, physical sunscreens contain fewer synthetic preservatives and tend to be much less damaging to coral reefs. Making physical sunscreen our best option when we are looking to protect our oceans and our skin. The adage that we have to suffer for beauty should not extend to other living things around us. Brands like Ren and Caudalie are doing their part by offering us ocean-friendly options without sacrificing performance. Here are a few of our favourite “reef-safe” products :