But let’s go back for a moment to the effect sun creams have on coral. There is still a lot we don’t know. Because there are still reservations to be had about the studies that have ensured the ban on the above sun filters. To be more specific, these studies were carried out in the laboratory using coral samples. If you look at the conclusions it appears that sun filters, even in extremely small doses, can cause damage. However, if you look more closely you’ll see that you still need to use a good deal of sun cream to reach those ‘small concentrations’ under normal circumstances. That is why there is much discussion between scientists as to whether you can transfer these results so easily into practical circumstances.
It is a fact that coral reefs are being threatened worldwide. And we know that climate change and pollution play a large part in this. But what part ingredients in sun creams have is difficult to say.
I am often asked about so-called green products which are on the market. Don’t be taken in by terms such as ‘coral friendly’, environmentally friendly’ or ‘sustainable’ on sun creams. None of these claims are protected, so anyone can put this on their packaging. I have even found a ‘reef safe’ and ‘non-toxic to sea life’ sun cream on Amazon which ironically contains Oxybenzone!
Remember, as well, that biologically responsible sun creams don’t exist. That also applies to filters such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide that are labelled all over the internet as safe. Amazingly though, you don’t see that, for example, zinc oxide and titanium oxide could also perhaps be damaging to the coral…?
I will just say that all of this is not so clear cut… And I don’t think that there is really any one option which is without drawbacks.
What there is no doubt about is the risk of UV rays on the skin. I hope, therefore, that people will keep protecting themselves in the sun. The greenest option on the beach is to wear UV retardant clothing; then you can also apply less sun cream.
Kind regards,
Jetske.
Research Physician Cosmetic Dermatolgy