How Sunscreen Contributes To Ocean Pollution

Sunscreen is a common product used to protect against the sun's ultraviolet rays, which can cause sunburns, skin ageing, and skin cancer. However, the use of sunscreen has come under scrutiny in recent years due to its potential impact on the environment, especially marine ecosystems. It is estimated that thousands of tons of sunscreen enter oceans, rivers, and lakes annually, raising concerns about its effects on marine life and ecosystems, such as coral reefs. The focus has been on understanding the impact of sunscreen chemicals on coral reefs and exploring alternative sun protection methods that are environmentally friendly. The topic has sparked discussions about the responsibility of consumers, manufacturers, and policymakers in ensuring the protection of both human health and the environment.

Oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, and other chemicals in sunscreen are harmful to marine life

Oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone are synthetic compounds that absorb UV rays from the sun before they reach the skin. These chemicals are common ingredients in sunscreen products. However, they are harmful to marine life and coral reefs.

Oxybenzone is a colourless and odourless chemical that provides broad-spectrum protection. It was first synthesized by chemists B. König and Stanisław Kostanecki. Oxybenzone has been detected in high concentrations in coral reef sites. It is a direct cause of coral bleaching and has been banned in several places, including Hawaii and Key West, due to its toxic effects on marine ecosystems. Studies have also shown that oxybenzone is an endocrine disruptor, impacting fertility and hormone levels.

Octinoxate is a non-mineral UV filter that is readily absorbed through the skin. It has been found in blood samples at levels exceeding the proposed safety threshold. Octinoxate is also an endocrine disruptor and has been linked to interfering with the normal androgen and progesterone signalling, leading to reduced levels of testosterone and progesterone in rats. Like oxybenzone, octinoxate has been banned in Hawaii and Key West due to its detrimental effects on marine life.

Avobenzone is often used to replace oxybenzone in 'Hawaii Compliant' sunscreens. It penetrates the skin and is a severe eye irritant and allergen.

Other chemicals in sunscreen, such as octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate, have also been detected in the blood and urine and are considered endocrine disruptors.

The impact of these chemicals on marine life is significant. It is estimated that 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen wash off into the oceans worldwide each year, affecting corals, fish, mammals, and the entire ecosystem. These chemicals can cause coral bleaching and deformation, impair the growth of green algae, and have negative impacts on species like the Hawaiian green sea turtle.

Sunscreen pollution can cause coral bleaching and deformities, impairing the growth of green algae

Sunscreen is essential for protecting ourselves from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, when swimmers jump into the ocean, some of the sunscreen they have applied to their skin washes off into the water. It is estimated that approximately 14,000 tons of sunscreen enter waterways globally each year, with significant amounts accumulating in shallow areas popular with swimmers. This has unintended consequences for marine life, including coral reefs.

Coral reefs are already under severe threat from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Scientists have discovered that some sunscreen chemicals are detrimental to coral health, with oxybenzone and octinoxate being particularly harmful. These chemicals can induce coral bleaching, damage coral DNA, and impair the growth and photosynthesis of green algae, an essential part of the marine food web.

A 2016 study found that oxybenzone caused deformities in coral larvae and baby corals and abnormal skeletal growth. A later 2022 study on anemones, a close relative of corals, revealed that when exposed to oxybenzone in sunlight, they produced a lethal toxin that built up in their tissue and symbiotic algae, resulting in bleaching. This finding provides insight into the mechanism by which oxybenzone harms corals.

While the majority of studies on sunscreen's impact on corals have been conducted in laboratories, evidence of sunscreen pollution in popular swimming and diving areas near coral reefs continues to mount. A 2022 review by the National Academies found sunscreen chemicals present in these environments, raising concerns about their potential toxic effects on corals and other marine life.

To mitigate the impact of sunscreen pollution on coral reefs, individuals can adopt environmentally mindful sun protection practices. This includes choosing reef-friendly sunscreens that do not contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone. Additionally, protective clothing, such as UV-rated swimwear, can be worn to reduce the reliance on sunscreen while still providing protection from the sun's rays. By making conscious choices, we can protect ourselves from the sun while also safeguarding the delicate coral reef ecosystems that are so vital to marine life.

Mineral-based sunscreens physically block UV rays and are considered safer for the ocean than chemical sunscreens

Sunscreen is an essential step in skincare to protect against the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, the chemicals in sunscreen can have unintended consequences for the environment, especially fragile coral reef ecosystems. It is estimated that approximately 4,000 to 14,000 tons of sunscreen wash off people and into our oceans annually.

Mineral-based sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, contain minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reflecting and blocking UV rays from penetrating the skin. They are considered safer for the ocean because they do not contain synthetic chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, which have been found to be harmful to coral reefs. These chemicals can cause coral bleaching, deformation, and impair the growth of green algae, affecting the entire ecosystem, including species like the Hawaiian green sea turtle.

Zinc oxide, a key ingredient in mineral sunscreens, has been used for sun protection for centuries. It was first documented in ancient Egypt, where it was applied to lessen the tanning effects of the sun. Today, zinc oxide-based sunscreens are popular among surfers and are known for their protective qualities. While mineral sunscreens may leave a white cast on the skin, they are generally safe and effective, offering immediate and broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use synthetic compounds that absorb and convert UV rays into non-damaging heat through a chemical reaction. While both mineral and chemical sunscreens are considered safe and effective in reducing sun damage and skin cancer, the difference lies in their protection mechanism. Mineral sunscreens physically block UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb them.

To protect the ocean and its ecosystems, it is recommended to choose reef-friendly sun protection products that do not contain harmful chemicals. Additionally, adopting environmentally mindful practices, such as wearing UV-rated clothing, using umbrellas, and avoiding peak sunlight hours, can help reduce the amount of sunscreen entering our oceans.

The impact of sunscreen on the ocean is a growing area of research, with some studies conducted in labs

Sunscreen is a significant source of pollution in the ocean, with an estimated 4,000 to 14,000 tons of sunscreen entering waterways each year. The impact of sunscreen on the ocean is a growing area of research, with some studies conducted in labs. Scientists have discovered that some of the chemicals found in sunscreen threaten the health of coral reefs and other marine life.

Coral reefs are particularly vulnerable to the effects of sunscreen due to their sensitivity to the ingredients in commercial sunscreens. The first study indicating that sunscreen causes bleaching in corals was published in 2008. Since then, research has continued to explore the impact of sunscreen on coral reefs and other marine ecosystems.

One of the main chemicals of concern is oxybenzone, which has been found to have detrimental effects on corals even at very low concentrations. Other chemicals of concern include octinoxate, avobenzone, and nano-zinc oxide. These chemicals have been found to accumulate in the tissues of coral, mussels, dolphins, and fish, leading to impaired growth, deformation, and decreased fertility.

While the impact of sunscreen on coral reefs has attracted the most attention, other marine life may also be affected, including phytoplankton, small crustaceans, molluscs, and sea urchins. The full extent of the impact of sunscreen on these organisms is still being studied.

To protect coral reefs and other marine ecosystems, some countries have banned the use of certain harmful ingredients in sunscreen, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Consumers can also choose reef-friendly sunscreens that use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which physically block UV rays without harming marine life.

Environmental and health concerns have led to the removal of certain chemicals from sunscreens, such as PABA

Sunscreen is essential for protecting our skin against the sun's harmful rays. However, it has been discovered that certain chemicals in sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, are harmful to the ocean's delicate ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. It is estimated that approximately 4,000 to 14,000 tons of sunscreen wash off people and into our oceans annually, impacting corals, fish, and mammals.

One of the chemicals that have been removed from sunscreens due to environmental and health concerns is para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). PABA is a natural substance that was once commonly used in sunscreens as a UVB filter. It was introduced in the 1970s, and its use has declined over the years due to several factors.

Firstly, PABA has been associated with allergic reactions and photosensitivity. Some individuals may experience allergic dermatitis when using PABA-containing products, leading to skin rashes and irritation. This issue prompted public outcry, and many brands voluntarily removed PABA from their sunscreens. Additionally, PABA has a tendency to stain clothing, which made it less desirable for consumers.

Moreover, there are concerns about PABA's potential health effects. Research suggests that PABA may alter thyroid activity and disrupt endocrine function. Studies have also indicated that PABA can increase the skin's sensitivity to radiation, potentially raising the risk of skin cancer. While human studies are still needed to confirm these findings, the potential health risks associated with PABA have led to its decreased use in sunscreens.

In 2019, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially banned the use of PABA in sunscreens. This decision was made to protect public health and ensure the safety of sunscreen products. Today, PABA derivatives, such as Padimate O, are more commonly used as UVB filters. However, even these derivatives may have potential health concerns, including endocrine disruption and anti-estrogenic effects.

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