Is 'reef-friendly' a regulated term?

No. Manufacturers can label a product 'reef-friendly' even if it contains chemicals that are harmful. Always rely on the ingredient list rather than the marketing label.

Why does my mineral sunscreen leave a white cast?

Non-nano zinc oxide is a physical barrier, not a chemical one. This is why it appears white. If the cast bothers you, look for 'tinted' mineral sunscreens that blend with your skin tone.

Can I just buy sunscreen when I get there?

Often, yes, but it is usually more expensive and sometimes labeled as 'reef-safe' when it isn't. It is safer to pack your known brand from home.

Choosing Reef-Safe Sunscreen for Tropical Travel

To protect coral reefs, avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, as these chemicals contribute to coral bleaching. Look for products that list non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the only active ingredients and are labeled 'water-resistant' to ensure they stay on your skin rather than washing into the ocean.

Check the Active Ingredients list. Ignore the marketing claims on the front of the bottle. Flip it over and read the 'Active Ingredients' section. If you see Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate, Octisalate, or Avobenzone, put it back.
Look for 'Non-Nano' minerals. Ensure the product uses Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. Crucially, verify it says 'non-nano.' If particles are nano-sized, they are small enough for coral to ingest, causing tissue damage.
Verify water resistance time. Look for a rating of 80 minutes of water resistance. This ensures the majority of the product stays on your skin while you swim, reducing the amount that enters the water column.
Avoid aerosol sprays. Even if the ingredients are safe, aerosols lead to overspray. A significant amount of the product lands on the sand, where it washes into the ocean during high tide. Stick to lotions or sticks.

Is 'reef-friendly' a regulated term?: No. Manufacturers can label a product 'reef-friendly' even if it contains chemicals that are harmful. Always rely on the ingredient list rather than the marketing label.
Why does my mineral sunscreen leave a white cast?: Non-nano zinc oxide is a physical barrier, not a chemical one. This is why it appears white. If the cast bothers you, look for 'tinted' mineral sunscreens that blend with your skin tone.
Can I just buy sunscreen when I get there?: Often, yes, but it is usually more expensive and sometimes labeled as 'reef-safe' when it isn't. It is safer to pack your known brand from home.