Sun Protection

UV rays can increase the risk of skin cancer and cause up to ninety percent of wrinkles. Not to mention that when sunscreen goes into the water, it harms the coral reefs. Common ingredients in chemical sunscreens activate dormant viruses in algae that then kill the coral beds that algae feed. Some general rules of thumb are to choose a sunscreen with a physical rather than a chemical blocker and to purchase an eco-friendly sunscreen. Physical blockers contain mineral-based non-chemical pigments such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These work by creating a physical barrier between the skin and the sun, reflecting sunlight away from the skin. Below are some of the best out there, though there are more than five that should be included in this list!