Sunscreen chemicals can be harmful to corals and other marine life. The chemicals found in some sunscreens can lead to coral bleaching, damage the DNA of corals, and increase abnormal growth and deformities.
Corals are very fragile organisms, which suffer the consequences of human activity. This is how the rise in seawater temperature leads to their bleaching.
But there is yet another danger for these small animals, this time coming from sunscreens. Indeed, when this product leaves the swimmer's skin to spread in the water, it becomes a deadly substance for corals, but also sea anemones.
Many sunscreens are so toxic to these marine organisms that countries have banned their use.
A transformed substance
Scientists have finally understood why some sunscreens are so dangerous for corals. The substance in question is oxybenzone. It serves as an ultraviolet filter, so it protects the skin from sunburn.
But when this substance comes into contact with corals, it does not behave in the same way at all. The action of the corals, added to that of the sun, somehow modifies the composition of the oxybenzone, which then discolors the corals and ends up killing them.
In short, this substance, once in contact with corals, would make sunlight more toxic for them. It would act there contrary to its usual role, which is to protect from solar radiation !
It should however be noted that the mechanisms of this transformation of oxybenzone remain largely unexplained. Moreover, the corals seem partly protected by the algae which develop in symbiosis with them.
Indeed, these algae seem capable of neutralizing the toxins produced by the association between oxybenzone and the sun and whose action ends up killing the corals.
The problem is that the warming of the waters often leads the corals to get rid of these algae which, therefore, can no longer ensure their protection.
What are some alternative ways to protect skin without harming corals ?
There are several alternative ways to protect your skin without harming corals. Here are some options :
Use reef-safe sunscreen : Look for sunscreen that contains only mineral UV-blocking ingredients like oxide and titanium dioxide. Mineral-based options are safe and effective, and both will be considered safe for reefs. Avoid sunscreens that contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Wear protective clothing : Wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and pants. This can help reduce the amount of sunscreen you need to use.
Stay in the shade : Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This can help reduce the amount of sunscreen you need to use.
Use natural oils : Some natural oils, such as coconut oil, can provide some protection against the sun's harmful rays. However, it's important to note that natural oils may not provide enough protection on their own and should be used in combination with other methods.
By using these alternative methods, you can protect your skin without harming corals and other marine life.
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