Written by: Dennis O'Donnell

From Sunburns to Saving the Seas: The Evolution of Sunscreen and the Rise of Reef-Friendly Protection

Summer is upon us, and as we gear up for beach trips and outdoor adventures, there's one essential item we should all have in our bags: sunscreen. When I grew up way back in the good ‘ol days, the terminology was “Suntan Lotion”, and not sunscreen. The quest for the deepest, darkest tan lead to us using Baby Oil, which dermatologists would be horrified to hear! Then eventually the dangers of sun caused skin damage and cancer became better known, with the earlier stages of sunscreen finally being introduced.

Fortunately, we've come a long way since the days of slathering on greasy, pore-clogging creams. Today, we have a new superhero in the world of sun protection—reef-friendly sunscreen. Join me as we dive into the history of sunscreen and explore the importance of choosing environmentally conscious options.

A Brief History Lesson

Believe it or not, the concept of sun protection dates back to ancient times. Egyptians and Greeks used plant extracts and oils to shield their skin from the scorching sun. Fast forward to the 1930s, and the modern sunscreen era began with the introduction of benzyl salicylate. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that the first commercial sunscreen hit the shelves, giving rise to a billion-dollar industry.

The Dark Side of Sunscreens

As our understanding of the sun's harmful rays grew, so did the desire for higher SPF and longer-lasting formulas. This led to the development of chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, which effectively absorbed and dissipated UV rays. Unfortunately, these chemicals also posed a threat to the environment, particularly our fragile coral reefs. Studies showed that these sunscreen ingredients contribute to coral bleaching, DNA damage, and even disrupt the endocrine systems of marine life.

The Birth of Reef-Friendly Sunscreens

Thankfully, the realization of the damaging effects of certain sunscreen chemicals sparked a revolution. Scientists and innovators turned their attention to creating reef-friendly alternatives. These sunscreens utilize mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which act as physical barriers to block UV rays without harming the marine ecosystem.

The Rise of Reef-Friendly Sunscreens

Today, reef-friendly sunscreens have become more than just a niche product. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the impact their choices have on the environment, and companies are listening. Many brands now offer reef-friendly options, giving us the opportunity to protect our skin without causing harm to our oceans. These sunscreens are not only safer for coral reefs but also for our own health, as they are less likely to cause skin irritation or disrupt hormonal balance.

In 2018 our Governor David Ige signed Senate Bill 2571 into law, making Hawaii the first place in the world to ban “the sale, offer of sale, and distribution of sunscreens that contain the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate” !

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

When selecting a sunscreen, there are a few key factors to consider. Look for products labeled "reef-friendly," "oxybenzone-free," or "octinoxate-free." These designations ensure that you're making a conscious choice to protect both yourself and the environment. Additionally, opt for sunscreens with broad-spectrum protection to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. Don't forget to check the SPF level suitable for your skin type and activity level, as proper application and reapplication are crucial for optimal protection.

When on Maui, here are a couple of local Hawaiian sunscreen brands to buy and try, which will help protect you and your family, as well as support small, local businesses - a true Win-Win !

https://littlehandshawaii.com/

https://mauivera.com/

As we soak up the summer sun, let's be mindful of the products we choose to safeguard our skin and the marine life that shares our oceans. Reef-friendly sunscreens represent a significant step forward in protecting both our skin and the environment. By opting for these sunscreens, we can enjoy sunny days without compromising the health and beauty of our oceans. So, grab your reef-friendly sunscreen and get ready to bask responsibly in the sunshine, knowing you're doing your part to preserve the underwater wonders for future generations.

Mahalo and a hui hou !

Dennis O’Donnell

Romvari Realty

dennis@romvari.net

808-419-7640