Reef-Safe and Biodegradable Sunscreen: 15 Options To Choose From

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that won’t harm the environment, look no further than these 16 reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreens. Made with natural ingredients, they’ll protect your skin while also being gentle on the planet. So don’t worry about harming the coral reefs – these sunscreens are good for both you and the ocean!

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Why Using Biodegradable Sunscreen Matters

We’ve been told our whole lives to wear sunscreen… by our parents, friends, doctors and dermatologists. And protecting your skin from the sun is great advice! But you may have never given a second thought to sunscreen potentially having negative effects.

Scientists have found that an estimated 28 million pounds of sunscreen is deposited into our oceans and reefs every year.

savethereef.org

If it’s not biodegradable, that means it’s just hanging around in the environment much like plastic and styrofoam. Luckily, biodegradable sunscreen is made with ingredients that are safe for humans and won’t harm marine life or coral reefs. You can feel good about using it, knowing it will break down naturally in water and soil within six months. No more worrying about harmful chemicals washing off your skin into rivers, lakes, oceans, and other waterways!

Environmental Impact of Sunscreen

Coral reefs are an important habitat for many aquatic creatures. For example, coral reefs provide food and shelter to sea turtles. Sadly, researchers are finding out that sunscreen can be harmful to coral reefs. The UV rays in sunlight reflect off the surface of the water, creating a burning effect on corals’ tissue. And there are lots of other ways sunscreen is detrimental to marine life and our oceans – check out the image below from NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:

But you don’t have to feel any guilt on your next tropical vacation because biodegradable sunscreen is also reef-safe! So you don’t have to worry about any damage when you go swimming, snorkeling or diving. 

Destinations With Sunscreen Bans

Speaking of vacation, did you know that several destinations even have sunscreen bans in effect?  Each spot has their own rules and regulations so be sure to check out your destination to learn more about what exactly is prohibited and be prepared for your beach trip:

• Hawaii
• Key West
• Palau
• Mexico
• Bonaire
• Aruba
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• Thailand

How To Pick An Eco-Friendly, Biodegradable Sunscreen

Standing in the store, trying to choose from 10 shelves of sunscreen can feel pretty overwhelming. Even shopping online can feel daunting with all the options out there. Healthy? Clean? Nontoxic? Do I need a lotion, a spray, or an oil? And how can I tell which sunscreens are biodegradable? I totally get it, and I’m here to help you decode all the jargon. Here are a few quick tips to help you find a biodegradable sunscreen with ease:

1. Start With: Reading the Label

The first thing you want to do is inspect the packaging. Keep in mind that the term “reef friendly” is not FDA-regulated, meaning there isn’t specific criteria the product needs in order for the brand to make that claim on the bottle. So you’ll need to look at the full list of ingredients and do your research to know for sure (more on what to look for down below!)

I know this might feel like a lot of work but I promise you I’m going to make it really easy! It’s worth your time, especially considering this past year in the news many sunscreens were recalled because they contained harmful cancer-causing ingredients. 

2. Next Step: Know What To Avoid

Each brand may have their own list of ingredients that they choose to avoid. But generally speaking, this is a list of ingredients that are known to cause harm to coral reefs:

• Oxybenzone (also called Benzophenone-3, BP-3)
• Benzophenone-1
• Benzophenone-8
• Octinoxate
• Octocrylene
• Octisalate
• Homosalate
• 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor
• 3-Benzylidene Camphor
• PABA
• Parabens
• Triclosan
• Any nanoparticles of zinc or titanium (what you want to see on the label is “non-nano”)
• Any form of microplastic, such as “exfoliating beads”
• Sprays and powder formulas that disperse easier

3. Finally: Look For The “Oxides”

Natural ingredients like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are minerals that are extremely effective! Ingredient lists can get lengthy, so if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed remember to look for “the oxides”.  If you see zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, that’s the one to pick up off the shelf. This is hands-down the best option if you want a sunscreen that’s biodegradable and reef friendly.

You can also look for the word “mineral” and that’s a clue that you’re going in the right direction. As an added bonus, mineral sunscreens often include natural ingredients like coconut oil instead of harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate (which can be absorbed through the skin). Sensitive skin types, I’m looking at you!  

One final tip for you when you’re choosing your sunscreen: sometimes brands will include a mixture of ingredients to block the sun. Just be aware that this is pretty common and something to be aware of – what you would see on the label would be zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and other ingredients. Those other ingredients are likely not reef-safe or biodegradable.

Best Reef-Safe and Biodegradable Sunscreens

Let’s get into the list of biodegradable sunscreens! I’ve done the work for you and hunted down 16 great options that check all the boxes! Keep in mind that these brands offer multiple formulas – so if you like what you’re seeing but are looking for a higher SPF, for example, check out their full product lineup to find your perfect formula.

1. Stream2Sea Tinted Sport Sunscreen

Finally, a sunscreen that does good AND feels great. The biodegradable Tinted Sport Sunscreen delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection PLUS skin-perfecting coverage in a lightweight, comfortable formula. Goes on light and has a natural finish – perfect for everyday use. Plus, the antioxidant-rich tint helps neutralize free radicals and ward off environmental aggressors.

2. Supergoop! Play 100% Mineral Sun Stick

Don’t let the name of this brand fool you! Supergoop is anything but goopy, This biodegradable sunscreen has a wonderful formula with SPF 50 that is really easy to use and doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin. It’s also travel friendly! Because it’s a mineral formula, you also know it’s totally biodegradable and reef safe too.

3. Badger Clear Zinc SPF 35

Badger sunscreens have the Protect Land and Sea certification seal, which means the product has been tested to not contain harmful ingredients. This formula in particular is made with just four ingredients and all things that you would recognize on the label! It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection turns clear once you rub it in! 

4. Countersun Daily Sheer Defense

Countersun’s Daily Sheer Defense is a lightweight, fast absorbing SPF 25 sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection from the sun’s harmful rays. It also offers blue light protection and works for all skin tones without giving off a white cast. THe formula is full of natural ingredients, including antioxidants and squalane, which is a fantastic hydrator.

5. All Good Sport Sunscreen

The All Good Sport sunscreen SPF 30 is sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. If you love being in the water, this one might be for you! It has a pretty impressive ingredient list including green tea, rosehip oil, shea butter, coconut oil and aloe. This formulation, In addition to being a great biodegradable sunscreen, can actually help repair damaged skin from sunburn and windburn. 

6. Raw Love Reef Safe Sunscreen

When it comes to biodegradable sunscreen, Raw Love Sunscreen is one of the more unique ones on this list because of its packaging. It comes in a small metal tin (great if you’re avoiding plastic!) and is an all-natural, mineral sunscreen produced in Maui Hawaii. It’s also plant-based, cruelty free and baby safe. 

7. Suntegrity Skincare Natural Moisturizing Sunscreen & Primer 

I love anytime a sunscreen is a two-in-one formula! This one from Suntegrity not only protects you from the sun, it also doubles as a foundation primer.  This mineral based formula uses organic ingredients, is vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free and produced in the USA. This particular formula has won the Allure Best of Beauty Award and is infused with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe, jojoba, cucumber and green tea. 

8. Kokua Sun Care Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50

Kokua Sun Care is another Hawaii-based sunscreen brand and they’re known for using no toxic chemicals and having no eye sting! (we’ve all been there and it’s no fun). This formula rubs in clear and contains 23 antioxidants – 7 of which are native to Hawaii. Cool right?  If you’re familiar with the EWG Skin Deep database, this formula has been rated a number 1 which is the safest rating you can get in terms of being clean and non-toxic. 

9. Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Lotion Sport

If you like biodegradable sunscreens with a little bit of a scent, this formula from Bare Republic has a natural coconut vanilla smell. It’s known for being a really lightweight lotion and good for any skin type.  If you were looking at the label, you would notice that does go on sheer, provides 80 minutes of water resistance, and contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. A solid option for a biodegradable sunscreen, and a brand that’s a bit easier to find in your local Publix or Target store. 

10. Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50 

Thinksport sunscreens are formulated for athletes or anyone who loves to be active! They use non-nano zinc oxide and their different products offer three levels of water resistance. This formula in particular has SPF 50 and water resistance of 80 minutes. it’s also easy to apply and absorbs well into the skin. Fun fact: this formula also has an EWG Skin Deep rating of 1 AND was the first sunscreen to pass the Whole Foods premium care requirements. 

11. Raw Elements Face Stick SPF 30

If you feel like most sunscreens that you’ve used are really messy, then you might enjoy a face stick. This one from Raw Elements is 95% organic, water-resistant for 80 minutes and non-GMO. It’s also safe for all ages, so if you have children this is definitely one to consider. Stick sunscreen is nice because it’s typically smaller in size, easy to travel with, fits in your pocket and is typically less messy. This one also has the Leaping Bunny certification for being cruelty-free.

12. Sea & Summit Organic Sunscreen SPF 50 Bundle

It’s so convenient when you can buy something that is already pre-packaged in a bundle and that’s what you get with the Sea &Summit Organic sunscreen bundle. You’re covered with everything from lotion to a stick sunscreen even and SPF  lip balm. A few things to know about this brand: they are 100% chemical-free, use organic ingredients, aremade in the USA and also meticulously formulated for an enjoyable texture on the skin. They also promote formulas that are safe for kids and all of their packaging is either 100% plastic free or made with recycled ingredients!

13. Manda Organic Mineral Sunscreen 

Manda is another great brand that makes reef safe and biodegradable sunscreen. They infuse their formulas with natural cocoa that adds a subtle tint and helps the formula blend in better – genius! If you’re trying to avoid that white chalky look that you sometimes get from sunscreen then put this one at the top of your list. They’re also kid-friendly, organic, cruelty free and the packaging is 100% recyclable and made from sugar cane.

14. Babo Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 

Babo Botanicals is another great biodegradable sunscreen brand. What makes them stand out is their fragrance-free formulas that are ideal for sensitive skin. These sunscreens include nourishing ingredients like sunflower seed oil, avocado, and even organic Watercress that reduces eczema. In fact, all of their products have the “Nutri Soothe Complex” which makes it ideal for anyone with skin sensitivity. They’re also a certified B Corporation! 

15. Mama Kuleana Reef Safe Sunscreen

Did you know that kuleana in Hawaiian means accepting responsibility with diligence and intent? Their perspective is that sunscreen should be safe for oceans, lakes and rivers and also smell great and feel great. Amen! I love that the formula itself comes in a compostable jar that is travel-size (it can go in your carry-on luggage!) They also provide broad-spectrum protection, sweat and water resistance for 40 minutes and mineral-based formulas.

Alternatives To Sunscreen

Haven’t found the perfect sunscreen yet? In case you’re looking for a way to get protection from the sun and skip sunscreen altogether, here are some alternatives that might come in handy. Consider wearing protective clothing – you can find shirts, pant, swimsuits, rash guards and hats all with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating. SPF measures sunscreen and UPF measures clothing. Hats, sunglasses and beach umbrellas are other good options as well.

Interesting Reads To Learn More

As you’re planning your beach vacation and thinking about all of the things you want to bring with you, check out a few of my other related posts that I think you’ll love:

• 10 Beach Vacation Beauty Essentials (and how to use them!)
• How To Get A Tan: Everything You Need To Know For Your Beach Vacay
• Easy Ways To Save Our Beaches and Keep The Ocean Clean
• Shop These 10 Companies That Help Save The Ocean

Helpful Biodegradable Sunscreen Resources

• http://safesunscreencouncil.org/
• https://haereticus-lab.org/
• https://www.ewg.org/
• https://Savethereef.org/

I hope this post helped you understand the importance of using biodegradable sunscreen, as well as how to find one that meets your needs. You now know about some great brands and what ingredients are most important so it should be easy for you to choose a good quality product. Which eco-friendly and reef-safe sunscreen will you be taking with you on your next tropical vacation? Comment below and let me know!