Did you know OxyBenzone (the chemical found in most sunscreens) has been scientifically proven to causing fatality among coral reefs?
In a study published in 2015 biologists found that oxybenzone played a massive part in coral bleaching, and acts in the same way as gasoline to DNA (suffocation and ultimately, death.)
Here are some ways to protect yourself naturally from the sun without having to harm coral reefs and marine life in the process.
1. Wear long sleeves. No need to wear a t-shirt and jeans on the beach. Rash guards are light and quick drying. When they start to thin or become transparent, you know it’s time to get a new one. No worries! Rash guards last quite a long time and are much more economical than a bottle of sunscreen.
2. Wear a hat or cap and sunglasses with UV protection. Don’t wear your most expensive ones since you might lose them. We know we did, many times…
3. Use a ‘natural’ sunscreen, which uses natural ingredients versus the toxic ones. Just google “reef friendly sunblock” and you’ll be surprised by what you will find!
4. After your time on the water, go look up some shade and have a coconut!
5. Make sure you stay hydrated (coconut), it helps your skin to deal with the UV. Sip water throughout the day and be careful with alcohol.
Do you have another great tip? Please let us know!
Let’s protect our beautiful seas and play in the sun, Aloha style!
