Biodegradable Sunscreen

If you're going somewhere sunny—or going anywhere at all, really—you'll want to pack sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. But not all sunscreens are created equal. You might want to look into getting biodegradable sunscreen, a special type of sunscreen that is now required at some tourist destinations.

Read on to find out more about this product and where to get it.

What Is It?

It is a common misconception that biodegradable sunscreen is regular sunscreen that's sold in a biodegradable bottle. Biodegradable sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that is free from most of the chemical ingredients that are often found in regular sunscreen. It is considered to be eco-friendly in that it will not damage plant and animal life as it washes off during water-based activities, such as swimming, surfing, and scuba diving.

Ingredients in biodegradable sunscreens vary based on the manufacturer, but they are free of the following chemical ingredients that are known to harm the ecosystem when they degrade:

• PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid)
• Octinoxate
• Oxybenzone
• 4-methyl benzylidene
• Camphor
• Butylparaben

Ingredients that are safer for the environment include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Effectiveness

When they're used correctly, biodegradable sunscreens are just as effective as regular sunscreens. Most biodegradable sunscreen brands offer several varieties of SPF (sun protection factor, like 15, 30, or 50), just like regular sunscreen brands.

The consistency and drying time of the sunscreen may be different from what you are used to, though, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions for application and reapplication. Some people find that biodegradable sunscreen is thicker or dries faster than regular sunscreen, but this depends on the brand.

Should People With Sunscreen Allergies Consider It?

A dermatologist may recommend biodegradable sunscreen for a person whose skin is allergic or sensitive to regular sunscreen, but this certainly isn't the only option for people who have allergies.

Many people have a specific allergy to PABA, an ingredient that's found in most sunscreens. So, choosing a PABA-free sunscreen may be sufficient for everyday use even if it's not biodegradable. Some people may find it helpful to have a skin patch test done by a dermatologist (medical doctor specializing in conditions of the skin, hair, and nails) to determine what specific ingredient they are allergic to.

Where to Buy

Unfortunately, most stores don't carry biodegradable sunscreen as readily as regular sunscreen. The Internet and health food/organic specialty stores are generally your best bet when looking for biodegradable sunscreen. It may be sold at your travel destination, but remember that it may cost considerably more there than if you purchased it online or in a store near your home.

Look for labels that include the word "biodegradable." PABA-free sunscreen is not always the same as biodegradable sunscreen because it may contain other chemicals that are not environmentally friendly. Popular brands of biodegradable sunscreen include:

• Mexi-Tan
• Caribbean Solutions
• Nature's Gate
• Kiss My Face
• Hawaiian Tropical biodegradable lotions

Of course, these are not the only biodegradable sunscreen brands, but the ones listed above are widely marketed and may be easier to find.

Summary

While regular sunscreen might protect you from harmful UV rays, chemicals in the sunscreen can harm the environment. When these chemicals wash off in the ocean and break down, they can be harmful to marine life and coral, destroying the environment.

Biodegradable sunscreen, on the other hand, does not contain these harmful chemicals and so it's safe for marine life. Look at labels for the word "biodegradable" Use sunscreens that only contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide.