Free Protection from the Sun cream dispensers available Canada for your protection Preventing skin cancer
Sunscreen is an essential product for modern humans to protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can cause skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
However, recent studies have shown that some of the chemicals found in sunscreen can be harmful to the environment and the planet.
One of the most concerning chemical found in sunscreen is oxybenzone. Oxybenzone is a common ingredient in many sunscreens and has been found to have damaging effects on coral reefs. When we swim in the ocean or take a shower after applying sunscreen, oxybenzone can wash off and enter the water, where it can harm marine life and damage coral reefs. In fact, oxybenzone has been linked to coral bleaching, which can ultimately lead to the death of coral reefs.
Another chemical found in some sunscreens is octinoxate. Like oxybenzone, octinoxate has also been linked to coral bleaching and can harm marine life. Additionally, both oxybenzone and octinoxate have been found in the bloodstream of humans, which raises concerns about the potential health effects of these chemicals.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to traditional sunscreens that are safer for the environment and our bodies. Mineral-based sunscreens, which use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients, are a safer option. These minerals work by creating a physical barrier that reflects the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them like chemical sunscreens. They are also less likely to cause skin irritation and are safer for people with sensitive skin.
The chemicals used in some sunscreens have been found to be harmful to both humans and the environment. As a result, many countries and places have decided to ban some of these harmful chemicals in sunscreen. For example, Hawaii has banned the use of oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to cause damage to coral reefs.
The European Union has also banned some of these chemicals and has implemented regulations to ensure the safety of sunscreen products. By banning harmful chemicals in sunscreen, these countries and places are taking important steps to protect both people and the environment.
In conclusion, while sunscreen is important for protecting our skin, we must also be mindful of the impact it can have on the environment and the planet. By choosing mineral-based sunscreens and being conscious of our use, we can protect ourselves and the planet at the same time.
Below are a few locations where the use of sunscreen containing harmful chemicals is prohibited.
The U.S. Virgin Islands
The first American entity to enforce a sunscreen ban, as the legislation that went into effect in Jan. 2020 prohibits the sale of harmful sunscreen chemicals and prohibits locals and visitors from possessing or using them.
Aruba
Aruba also bans sunscreen, Its Parliament passed a law that bans oxybenzone in 2019, which went into full effect in 2020.
Bonaire
In the Caribbean, the island of Bonaire voted to ban the sale of sunscreen that kills or know to kill Coral Reefs by 2021.
Palau
The first country that banned sunscreen nationwide. As of Jan. 2020, the Palau sunscreen ban states that commercial sunscreen products containing toxic chemicals are not allowed to be worn or purchased on its islands.
Australia Despite the devastation that occurred to Great Barrier Reefs, the country is reluctant to a nationwide ban.
Hawaii ban sunscreen after it passed a law in 2018 that prohibits the sale of SPF chemicals believed to endanger coral reefs, including oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo (includes popular tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum
Key West, Florida also banned With harmful chemicals