Did you know that coral reefs are home to a quarter of marine biodiversity? This means that if coral disappears, about 25% of marine species could go extinct.

Unfortunately, one of the big threats to the marine ecosystem are some sunscreens that kill young corals and seriously damage the adult ones. Do you know why sunscreens are so polluting? Let's find out in this article.

The composition of sunscreens

Some sunscreens are really toxic, because they are made with a UV filtering chemical called oxybenzone (also known as BP-3 or benzophenone-3), which is found in 3,500 sunscreen brands worldwide. This chemical affects corals, as it can disrupt their growth, cause severe deformities and alter their DNA making them more susceptible to bleaching.

And it doesn't end there. In addition to the environment, this chemical substance is also very harmful to human health because, once absorbed by the skin, it enters the bloodstream. This was demonstrated by a study conducted by the American FDA (Food and Drug Administration – Food and Medicines Agency).

Obviously, in order not to be considered toxic, the other components of the cosmetic must also be biodegradable, not just the filters. Any cream that contains the following chemicals is a contaminant: Octocrylene, benzophenone, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, hexyl decanol, dimethyl apramide, cetyl dimethicone, methyl paraben, polyethylene, propyl paraben or butyl carbamate. Therefore, it is always a good habit to pay attention to the composition of the sunscreen before buying it and to check that it is not made with any of these components.

The benefits of the cream that respects the environment

The most effective alternative to safeguard our health, especially that of the little ones, and at the same time not pollute the water, is certainly that of opt for a sunscreen formulated with natural ingredients and free from nano particles. The physical filters (also called mineral filters), which include molecules such as the titanium dioxide and it zinc oxide, are able to shield all rays, creating a reflective barrier on the epidermis. Given their nature, therefore, they are absolutely safe for the skin as the particles are not absorbed by the skin and therefore do not present sensitization problems.

Let's see below the main lines of sunscreens, exclusively green and certified, for summer 2022.

MARIS SEAWEED

Alga Maris by Laboratoires de Biarritz is an innovative line of certified Bio sunscreens (physical filters only) that are effective and safe but also pleasant to use with a comfortable texture typical of a traditional perfumery sunscreen. They are produced in France, on the Bay of Biscay, with high quality raw materials and have been formulated for a very technical use… surfproof. Forget pasty and too dense sunscreens, with Alga Maris the tan is pleasant, safe and ecological: you do no harm to the environment or to your skin.

DOMUS OLEA TUSCANY

Another brand to keep an eye on, if you are looking for new bio solar 2022, is Domus Olea Toscana. The brand's sun care line includes various references, for the face and body, based on natural ingredients such as olive, helichrysum and sunflower oil and formulated only with physical filters. We especially recommend Domus Olea Toscana Face-Body Solar Fluid SPF 50+, one of the most versatile references. Practical to apply on the body, it can also be used on the face even on oily skin, as it does not favor lucidity and has a rather dry texture.

TEA NATURE

TEA Natura has chosen to create a catalog of natural cosmetics for the protection of the skin from the sun's rays. Their sunscreens, in fact, protect thanks to non-ionized mineral filters, mixed with organic oils. Their (non-nano) formula is suitable for all skin types, especially the most sensitive or allergic. Thanks to the presence of the physical filter, the creams reflect UVA/UVB rays creating a protective screen on the surface, which avoids irritation and does not penetrate the epidermis. The consistency of the creams is rapidly absorbed: zero white streaks which makes them ideal for protecting and hydrating the skin of the face and body, promoting an even and golden tan

THE SOAP

The new 'Osolebio line is made with many natural active ingredients and latest generation mineral filters to ensure effective protection, ease of use and comfort on the skin. They are tested on sensitive skin and protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays and oxidative stress, making it the perfect line for the whole family. Moreover, the Brand has tried, where possible, to use re-bottle recycled plastic bottles and also aluminum tubes for packaging that is as light and sustainable as possible.

Now is the time for us to actually do something to take care of our planet and our health by focusing on the use of sunscreens with the greenest label possible.