Avoid sunburn in Hawaii
If you're planning a trip to Maui, you may be aware that the state of Hawaii has banned certain sunscreens that contain harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs. This ban is an effort to protect the island's delicate marine ecosystems, including its beautiful coral reefs. However, if you're concerned about protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays, there are still plenty of reef-safe sunscreen options available, including a range of coral reef sunscreen approved for Maui.
What is Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen?
Coral reef safe sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that is free from harmful chemicals that can damage or kill coral reefs. These chemicals include oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are commonly found in many sunscreens and have been shown to cause coral bleaching and damage to marine ecosystems. Coral reef safe sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide effective sun protection without harming the environment.
Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen Approved for Maui
Maui County has approved a list of sunscreen products that are safe for use in its waters. These products have been tested and verified to be free from harmful chemicals and are considered to be reef-safe. Some popular brands that have been approved include:
- Blue Lizard
- Badger
- All Good
- Raw Elements
- Stream2Sea
It's important to note that not all products from these brands are approved, so be sure to check the label for the specific product before purchasing.
Why Use Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen?
Using coral reef safe sunscreen is not only important for protecting the environment but also for protecting your own health. Many of the chemicals found in traditional sunscreens are absorbed through the skin and can have negative effects on the body, including disrupting hormones and causing skin irritation. By using reef-safe sunscreen, you can protect both yourself and the environment.
In addition to using reef-safe sunscreen, there are other steps you can take to protect Maui's coral reefs, including:
- Avoid touching or stepping on coral while swimming or snorkeling
- Use only designated trails and areas when hiking near the coast
- Dispose of trash and litter properly
- Use biodegradable or reusable products instead of single-use plastics
Conclusion
Protecting Maui's coral reefs is an important part of preserving the island's natural beauty and biodiversity. By using coral reef safe sunscreen and taking other steps to reduce your impact on the environment, you can help ensure that Maui's coral reefs remain healthy for generations to come. So, the next time you're packing for a trip to Maui, be sure to include reef-safe sunscreen on your list of must-have items.
