Reef Safe Sunscreen | Protect the Great Barrier Reef

🌞 Reef Safe Sunscreen

Protect Your Skin & the Reef

🌊 Regular sunscreen can harm coral reefs
🔍 Avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate in your sunscreen
🧴 Reef safe options use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
🐠 Marine life thrives when reef-safe products are used
🛍️ Available onboard and in Cairns stores
⏱️ Apply 20 minutes before entering the water
👒 Combine with rash shirts, hats, and reef-friendly clothing

Why Reef Safe Sunscreen Matters

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most beautiful places on Earth — and also one of the most delicate. Every year, thousands of people swim, snorkel, and dive its waters. But what many don’t realise is that ordinary sunscreen can harm coral reefs. That’s why reef safe sunscreen is the best choice for your skin and the sea.

What Makes Sunscreen “Reef Safe”?

Reef safe sunscreens avoid certain chemical ingredients known to harm coral and marine life. Ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate can disrupt coral reproduction, damage coral DNA, and contribute to bleaching. Reef-safe products use physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on the skin and reflect UV rays — without washing harmful chemicals into the ocean.

How You Can Make a Difference

Choosing reef safe sunscreen is a simple but powerful step you can take. When you wear it, you’re helping to protect coral polyps, reef fish, sea turtles, and all the marine life that calls the reef home. Reef tour operators love seeing guests make reef-friendly choices — it means you’re part of the conservation solution.

Applying It Properly

Apply at least 20 minutes before you get in the water so it has time to bind to your skin. Reapply often, especially after swimming or towel drying. For the best protection, combine sunscreen with UPF clothing like rash shirts, hats, and sunglasses.

Can I Buy It in Cairns?

Absolutely. Most reef tours sell reef safe sunscreen onboard, and you’ll also find it in local chemists, supermarkets, and eco-friendly stores in Cairns. Look for terms like “reef safe,” “reef friendly,” or “non-nano zinc” on the label — and always check the ingredient list just to be sure.

❓ FAQs

Why is regular sunscreen bad for reefs?

Some chemicals in regular sunscreen — like oxybenzone — can damage coral DNA, cause deformities in marine life, and contribute to coral bleaching.

What ingredients should I look for in reef safe sunscreen?

Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, ideally labelled as “non-nano.” Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens.

Can I use reef safe sunscreen on kids?

Yes — in fact, many are especially gentle and perfect for children’s sensitive skin.

Where can I buy reef safe sunscreen in Cairns?

You’ll find it at tour desks, chemists, supermarkets, and most reef tour boats. Look for labels that say “reef safe” or check the ingredients list.

Do I still need sunscreen if I wear a rashie?

Yes — but you’ll use less! A rashie or wetsuit covers most of your body, so you’ll only need sunscreen for your face, neck, and hands.

A Small Choice That Adds Up

If every visitor to the reef makes reef-conscious choices — like wearing reef safe sunscreen — we can help preserve this natural wonder for generations to come. It’s easy, affordable, and it really does make a difference.