Reef Friendly Sunscreen FAQ

What should I know about zinc oxide in sunscreen?

Zinc oxide is non-irritating and safe with sensitive skin types. Zinc oxide is used as a skin protectant and anti-irritant with a long history of being used to treat skin irritations and diaper rash. So it’s really perfect in sunscreens!

How does non nano zinc work as sun protection?

An essential mineral, zinc oxide effectively reflects and scatters UVA and UVB rays from the sun, which means it provides “broad range coverage” for sun protection. You can see the protection layer created on your skin initially before fully absorbed—a creamy white barrier keeping your skin safe.

What does “non nano” actually mean and why does it matter?

A non-nano particle is larger than 100 nanometers whereas nanoparticles are tiny clumps/crystals of some substance with size ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers. One nanometer = one thousandth of a millimeter (a.k.a. ultra-small). Research has shown evidence that some substances may cause health risks when converted to nanoparticles. Consider avoiding skin care products with nanoparticles until further research is available.

What makes a sunscreen safe for corals and our environment?

Mineral-based sunscreens are safe for corals because they don’t contain chemicals that harm sea life. When chemical sunscreens wash off your body when swimming or in the ocean, they may harm aquatic life. Some commonly used chemical sunscreen ingredients cause coral bleaching and may be damaging coral reefs around the globe.

Raw Love reef safe sunscreen does not use any of these damaging ingredients in our sunscreens so they are safe for coral reefs and you.