Are you part of the problem?
No one thinks their day at the beach is causing destruction of the world's coral reef systems, but if you use sunscreen you are part of the problem.
As more and more people are making the effort to protect their skin and prevent sun damage, our coral reefs are facing an unexpected consequence. The active ingredients in sunscreen are toxic for coral reefs, leading to irreparable damage that impacts all aquatic life.
The most concerning ingredients found in most sunscreens are oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4MBC). All of these compounds are designed to absorb UV rays, but when used in the ocean, they can cause coral bleaching and deformities, inhibit growth, and cause death.
A single drop of sunscreen containing these ingredients can be fatal for a coral reef. And it’s not just swimmers who should be concerned about the impact their sunscreen may have on coral reefs.
According to findings published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, these ingredients are widespread, and can even be found in products such as facial moisturizers and insect repellents. The good news is that there are steps we can all take to reduce the damage to our coral reefs.
For starters, we can switch to sunscreen that doesn’t contain any of the four active ingredients mentioned above. There are several reef-safe sunscreens available, so you’re sure to find one that fits your lifestyle. We can also be careful about using sunscreen in the ocean. If possible, opt for a cover-up such as a long-sleeve rash guard, or wear hats and sunglasses for extra protection. And if you do need to apply sunscreen, do it away from the ocean and rinse off thoroughly afterwards.
By taking responsibility for our actions and being aware of the effects our sunscreens may have on the environment, we can help preserve our precious coral reefs and the incredible aquatic life they support.
Environmental & Skincare Benefits of Red Raspberry Seed Oil
As the need for natural and environmentally-friendly skin care continues to rise, red raspberry seed oil is emerging as an effective alternative to traditional synthetic sunscreens.
Scientists and dermatologists alike are researching the benefits of this unique oil, harvested and pressed from the red raspberry seed. Studies conducted by Harvard Health have shown that red raspberry seed oil provides SPF protection of similar strength when compared to commercial sunscreen.
Red raspberry seed oil is packed with vitamins and nutrients beneficial for skin protection and repair, in addition to its strong SPF protection.
For instance, red raspberry seed oil is rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, both necessary for healthy skin cell reproduction. It also contains vitamin A and vitamin E, both of which are necessary for maintaining the skin’s moisture balance and preventing premature aging.
When harvesting red raspberry seed oil, the process is as environmentally friendly as it is sustainable. Available in both cold-pressed and expeller extracts, pressing the seeds results in a rich oil that can be used topically for skin protection and repair.
This oil also contains high levels of antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E, which can help brighten skin and reduce signs of aging. The SPF benefits of red raspberry seed oil are further enhanced by its anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied to the skin, it can help reduce redness and swelling while also calming symptoms of skin irritation. It can even be beneficial in reducing the inflammation of sunburns. In comparison to chemically-based sunscreen, this natural oil is much more gentle and won’t disrupt the delicate balance of the skin’s natural pH level. Red raspberry seed oil stands out from traditional sunscreens due to its natural composition and benefits to the skin.
With its naturally-occurring SPF, vitamins A and E, and healthy fatty acids, it can help protect and repair the skin with fewer ingredients than commercial sunscreen. Additionally, due to its environmental sustainability, it won’t damage coral reefs like some traditional sunscreen.
Red raspberry seed oil is the perfect natural alternative for anyone looking for a more eco-friendly solution to protecting their skin this summer.
CocoRoo has a solution to this impending environmental disaster. Check it out here
The solution to every human problem is found in nature.
