The Learning Lab

What is Reef Friendly Sunscreen?

By Kari Kenner January 11, 2023 |

"Reef-friendly sunscreen" is a term used to describe sunscreens that are formulated without certain chemicals that have been found to be harmful to coral reefs and marine life. These chemicals include oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been shown to cause bleaching and death in coral reefs. Reef friendly sunscreen typically...

What does reef safe sunscreen mean?

By Kari Kenner December 04, 2020 |

We should start by explaining the terms “reef safe” and “reef friendly" are not regulated by the FDA, and their growing use is largely due to the sunscreen industry’s desire to attract eco-conscience consumers. The trouble is common sunscreen makers are adding “reef safe” to their sunscreens when in fact,...

Reef Safe Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid

By Kari Kenner November 16, 2020 |

The term "Reef Safe Sunscreen" is unregulated and often misleading. Many sunscreen manufacturers use the term in their marketing because the product doesn’t contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, but in reality any sunscreen containing any petrochemical is NOT reef safe and should be avoided. Petrochemicals (chemicals derived from oil) do not...