Suntan lotion and the coral reefs

[Kwst8ofmind]

Please be sure to use Biodegradable Suntan lotions when on and off the boat. It has been found that suntan lotions are harming the reefs by not allowing the sun through to the coral.

 

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article3995091.ece

 

Please help keep the reefs a beautiful place for all to visit!

[BeachKitten]

I live in Canada. Any idea where I can buy biodegradable sunscreen?

[Snorkel2Much]

I'm not questioning the validity of the studies regarding the harm that sunscreens cause coral reefs, but I've yet to see the results of any study that shows how much better these supposed "Biodegradable" sunscreens are when compared to normal sunscreen. IMO, to really do something about saving the coral, rent or buy a lightweight (0.5mm) wetsuit or a rashguard, and leave the sunscreen on the beach.

[Kwst8ofmind]

http://shopping.yahoo.com/s:Sunscreens%20&%20Tanning%20Products:142643-Environmentally%20Friendly=Biodegradable:4580-Type=Sunscreens

[jimgev]

I'm not questioning the validity of the studies regarding the harm that sunscreens cause coral reefs, but I've yet to see the results of any study that shows how much better these supposed "Biodegradable" sunscreens are when compared to normal sunscreen. IMO, to really do something about saving the coral, rent or buy a lightweight (0.5mm) wetsuit or a rashguard, and leave the sunscreen on the beach.

Agreed.

The biggest risk while snorkeling is the area around the shoulders and upper back. Wearing a shirt of quick drying material that also has a sun block rating serves to meet the requirements of preventing sunburn and preserving the reefs.

[Jeanine&Jim]

I use a Rashguard for all my snorkeling due to being skin cancer survivor but last time I forgot to put sunscreen on the back of my legs and all fair skinned snorkelers know how badly that hurt especially after 3 hours snorkeling in Key Largo. I use an all natural suncreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that I can get at Whole Foods. I think this is environmentally safe for the reefs. Anyone know for sure?

[KaC-Cruiser]

We ended up getting Caribbean Solutions Sol Guard from this site, since they're running a sale. Works fine, although since it contains zinc oxide, you do look a bit funny!

 

http://www.outletnutrition.com/caribbean.html

[Gocruzin]

Can I use just plain zinc oxide? Is it safe for the corals?