Reef-safe sunscreens

Two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun reach the Earth’s surface. Both are harmful. Long wave UVA light penetrates our skin causing wrinkling and sunspots. Short wave UVB light mostly attacks our outer layer of skin leading to sunburn and tanning. Both cause skin cancer.

Public health advice worldwide recommends liberal use of a broad spectrum sunscreen, for protection from both UV types. For decades, aside from complaints over greasy textures and the staining of a few clothes, the reputation of sunscreens has remained remarkably clean. ‘It’s a lifesaver’, has been the official government message.

In the past couple of years, however, the tide of legislative opinion has started to turn. This follows growing concerns that some of the popular sunscreen ingredients may be damaging coral reefs.