Protect Your Skin and the Planet: Why Sustainable Sunscreen Matters
The same questions always arise in March. Do I still have enough sunscreen for spring and summer or do I have to buy everything new now? Which sun creams are the “right” ones? What is good for the skin and doesn't harm the environment at the same time? And what about all the different packaging alternatives that are available?
Sun cream is extremely important for your skin. Dermatologists recommend carefully protecting your skin from the sun at the beach, in the mountains, but also every day when you are simply out and about. This raises the question of how to reduce plastic waste when buying sun cream, because the used plastic packaging that we also find on the beach or in the sea or that ends up in the garbage cans at the end of a long day at the beach really doesn't make any sense in the long term. Are there alternatives that protect you, are good for your skin and at the same time respect our nature?
The Advantages of Sustainable Sunscreens
Sustainable sunscreen has become a critical choice for both human health and environmental preservation, especially as awareness around environmental impact grows. Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, known for their harmful effects on marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. When we swim in oceans or lakes wearing chemical-based sunscreens, these substances wash off, accumulating in marine environments. This pollution significantly contributes to coral bleaching, disrupts marine life, and compromises the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.
In contrast, sustainable sunscreens offer a responsible alternative. They're typically formulated with safer active ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide, which provides effective sun protection without harming marine life. Zinc oxide creates a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting harmful UV rays without the need for harsh chemical absorbers. By choosing mineral-based sunscreens, consumers directly reduce their negative impact on delicate marine ecosystems, ensuring that vibrant coral reefs and marine biodiversity can thrive for generations to come.
Finding The Right Packaging
The packaging of sunscreen products also plays a significant role in sustainability. Many conventional sunscreens come in single-use plastic tubes or containers, contributing to the growing global plastic waste crisis. Sustainable sunscreen brands consciously choose packaging solutions such as biodegradable cardboard tubes, recyclable metal tins, or reusable glass jars. These choices dramatically cut down plastic waste, reducing environmental pollution and aligning with broader eco-conscious living practices.
Sustainable sunscreens are typically formulated with organic, natural, and ethically sourced ingredients. These ingredients not only reduce environmental impact but also nourish the skin without introducing synthetic chemicals, parabens, or harmful preservatives. For individuals with sensitive skin or allergies, sustainable sunscreens offer a safer and gentler alternative, ensuring effective protection without irritation. Many sustainable brands prioritize transparency, clearly listing all ingredients and often achieving certifications like cruelty-free, organic, reef-safe, and vegan.
A Shift To a Sustainable Sunny Lifestyle
Choosing sustainable sunscreen is also part of a larger, conscious lifestyle shift. When consumers select eco-friendly sunscreen products, they encourage industry-wide change, pushing more companies to adopt environmentally responsible practices. Consumer demand is increasingly guiding businesses to innovate and prioritize sustainability, fostering positive impacts on global ecosystems, human health, and industry standards.
Fortunately, numerous brands now offer effective, environmentally friendly sunscreen options readily available in Canada and the US. Attitude provides mineral sunscreen sticks packaged in biodegradable cardboard tubes, blending performance with ecological responsibility.
Badger creates sunscreen in recyclable metal tins, formulated with minimal organic ingredients ideal for sensitive skin and outdoor activities.
Avasol delivers robust protection with innovative packaging like compostable push-up tubes and refillable containers, ideal for active users who need long-lasting coverage.
Surfdurt offers highly durable, zero-waste sunscreens packaged sustainably in bamboo or metal containers, appealing especially to outdoor enthusiasts seeking strong environmental credentials.
Sustainable sunscreens represent a powerful and essential step toward protecting our planet’s ecosystems, promoting healthier lifestyles, and driving industry innovation. By consciously selecting products from environmentally responsible brands consumers play a vital role in fostering a sustainable future. Making the switch to sustainable sunscreen not only safeguards your skin health but also ensures a healthier, thriving natural environment for generations to come.