Studies have recently discovered that certain chemicals in popular over-the-counter sunscreens are harming our beautiful coral reefs. Did you know that these damaging ingredients are banned in all other countries worldwide except in the good old USA?
When beachgoers apply sunscreen prior to going swimming, certain chemicals are brought into the ocean with them. Research now shows that the coral reefs in Hawaii and the Caribbean are exposed to over 14,000 tons of sunscreen every year with the greatest damage discovered in Hawaii. These sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that also enter marine ecosystems through sewage treatment plant outflows. Sadly, much of the coral has turned white and is being eliminated, and those that do remain are sparse. Data also shows that even very low concentrations of benzophenone-2, or BP-2, can quickly kill juvenile corals. BP-2 is an additive used in sunscreens and skin care products since the 1960s to protect against the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.
On May 1, 2018, Hawaii passed a bill that prohibits the sale and distribution of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. But in Connecticut and in the rest of the country, there are still no sunscreen and skin care product sale restrictions.
Why should we care about coral reefs?
Coral reefs are unlike anything else on the earth. In addition to providing valuable habitat for fish and other animals, they are an important food source for the people who live near reefs, and are vital to the world’s fisheries. Many cancer-fighting drugs are found on coral reefs. They act as natural barriers against storm events like hurricanes, typhoons, and even tsunamis.
At Defy Nature, a medical spa in New London, we sell coral-safe, chemical-free sunscreens and skin care products! We care about our oceans and our children’s oceans. The fewer chemicals we all put into the oceans today the better it will be for our tomorrow.
What can we do?
Stop using aerosol sunscreen. Much of what you spray leaves a residue on the sand which is then washed back into the ocean. Your lungs will be happier too, since aerosol sunscreens are easily inhaled.
Purchase chemical-free, all-natural sunscreens and skin care products at Defy Nature like Replenix. The Replenix line contains a wide variety of products, including anti aging cream, eye cream, and more. Visit us online at defynaturellc.com.
