The real effect of sunscreens on the ocean

If you've made it this far, it's because you're concerned about the health of the oceans. You love going to the beach, paddling, surfing, spending hours snorkeling, or sunbathing, but have you ever stopped to think about the consequences of using sunscreen for the ocean?

Protecting ourselves from the sun is essential, we know! But what if we told you that the layer of protection you apply could be negatively impacting the health of the sea?

The dark side of your sunscreen

When you submerge yourself in the water, the ingredients in your sunscreen dissolve and go directly into the marine ecosystem.

Scientists have identified several chemical components, especially Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) and Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate), as toxic to the health of coral reefs and marine life.

• According to a 2018 study published in Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology , an estimated 6,000 to 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in coral reefs every year . That's outrageous!
• Oxybenzone not only bleaches coral (a process that kills it by expelling the algae that live on it), but it also damages it at the DNA level, deforming coral larvae and hindering their reproduction. A 2016 study led by Dr. Craig Downs in Hawaii showed that concentrations as low as 62 parts per billion are toxic. A tiny amount, but lethal!
• Fish, algae, and even plankton, which form the base of the marine food chain, are also affected. A report from the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) highlighted how these chemicals disrupt the life cycles of many marine species.

What can we do?

At ANTARA OCEAN, we rescue plastics from the sea and transform them into the clothes you love. We believe in practical solutions and the power of making better choices. And we can apply this same philosophy to our sun care routine.

1. Say "Goodbye" to toxic chemicals. Look for sunscreens labeled "Reef Safe" or "Coral Friendly." Check the labels and make sure they do NOT contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, or 4-methylbenzylidene camphor.
2. Opt for organic sunscreens with physical filters (such as zinc oxide and non-nano titanium dioxide). These form a physical barrier on the skin, protecting us from solar radiation while being much less harmful to the marine ecosystem.
3. Clothing is the best barrier! Wear hats, sunglasses, and yes, your ANTARA OCEAN swimsuit has UPF 50+ sun protection , shielding you from the sun while you enjoy yourself. Covering up with clothing helps reduce the areas of your skin exposed to the sun and is always the most eco-friendly, effective, and safe option for you and the ocean.

Remember that it's the small decisions and actions that make the biggest difference. So, the next time you're getting ready for a day at the beach, remember: your choice can give the ocean a break.

And you, what step are you going to take today to protect the blue?

If you want to know more about how we make our swimsuits with recycled materials that help clean the sea, check out our " What makes us different " section!