Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Essential for Your Water Adventures

As you prepare for your next water adventure, whether you’re surfing in Bali, snorkeling in the Maldives, or just soaking up the sun on a beach in Mexico, one essential travel item should always be a part of your travel bag: reef-safe sunscreen. Reef-safe sunscreen protects your flesh from harmful UV rays, but also minimizes damage to the fragile marine ecosystems you are visiting. Reef-safe sunscreens are specially formulated and do not use harmful chemicals that can cause harm to coral reefs and marine life, and are the number one option for eco-minded travelers wanting to enjoy outdoor adventures while being an environmentally-responsible ocean steward.

What Is Reef-Safe Sunscreen?

Reef safe sunscreen is a term used to describe sunscreens that do not include ingredients that are known to damage coral reefs and marine life. When we go swimming, snorkeling, or surfing, the sunscreen that we have applied will wash off and enter the ocean, which can disrupt fragile under water ecosystems.

Traditional sunscreens can have ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate that can lead to coral bleaching, cause marine DNA damage, and kill aquatic wildlife in minute amounts. Reef safe sunscreens do not have harmful ingredients, and instead have mineral-based active ingredients like non-nano, biodegradable zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. 

Choosing a reef safe sunscreen, you are not only protecting yourself from harmful UV rays, but also doing your part to protect coral reefs and marine life, so that we can continue to enjoy the incredible oceans and the magical world that lies beneath the surface.

Why SPF Matters When You Travel for Water Adventures?

When you are traveling for water activities—whether it’s surfing, swimming, snorkeling, or just hanging out on the beach—SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is one of your most important travel companions. Here’s why SPF matters: 

1: Consistent UV Exposure

When you are in water or near water, the sun’s UV rays are stronger. Water can reflect the sunlight back up to you, meaning you are exposed to UV rays both from directly above and from the surface below. Even if you are not lying in direct sun, the water can bounce UV rays back onto your skin increasing your chances of burning and skin damage.

2: More Time in The Sun

Water activities usually mean you are in the sun for a much longer time. After a few hours of surfing or snorkeling you can end up being out in the sun most of the day. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate the clouds and do damage as well. SPF is essential to make it through those longer excursions without paying the toll on burned skin or early aging.

3. Water Resistant is Important

When doing any water-based activities, normal sunscreen isn’t enough. You will need a water-resistant SPF that can withstand sweating, swimming, or more commonly, splashing against ocean waves. Without water-resistant sunscreen, your sunscreen will wash off and you’ll be exposed to harmful UV rays. Water-resistant formulas, like Surfer’s Choice, offer directly continuous protection without having to apply the SPF on a regular basis.

4. Protection against Skin Damage and Skin Cancer

UV rays can cause sunburns, skin aging, and long-term damage that can lead to skin cancer- which is particularly concerning during your water adventures because of situational proximity (think sunny places) created with unfavorable sun & UV indexes. The prevention from potential burns is a serious consideration in applying SPF because your sporting water outdoor activities on water enhancements the risk of long-term damage.

5. Protection of Sensitive Areas (Tattoos & More)

For those of you with tattoos, or sensitive skin for that matter, using SPF is even more critical. Tattoos and skin are designed to be exposed to the sun (naturally faded in the light or damage) as there are fewer chances of being exposed (when done outdoors). You can also make a tattoo fade depending on the duration, by applying SPF on your tattoos, and can be safer in long, all day exposures with sunscreen, or tattoo-friendly like Surfer’s Choice SPF, providing a protective barrier for you and also your art.

Final Thoughts: Protect Skin, Ink & Oceans

Sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding sunburn—it’s about protecting your health, preserving your tattoos, and doing your part for the planet. When you pack for your next adventure, make sure a reef-safe sunscreen is at the top of your essentials list.

Because whether you’re diving into coral reefs or exploring coastal trails, your skin—and the sea—deserve the best sunscreen.