Protection without Compromise
As proud custodians of incredible natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Australians are increasingly aware of the impact our choices have on the environment. One area of growing concern is the effect of sunscreen chemicals on our precious marine life, particularly coral reefs.
But protecting the ocean doesn't mean compromising on sun safety for yourself and your family. At AussieZinc, we believe you can have both.
The Hidden Cost of Some Sunscreens
Traditional sunscreens often contain chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been shown to be harmful to coral reefs. These chemicals can cause coral bleaching, damage coral DNA, and interfere with their growth and reproduction (Suh et al., 2020). It is estimated that thousands of tonnes of sunscreen enter our global waters every year, with significant amounts concentrated in popular tourist areas.
Even a single beach with 1,000 visitors can accumulate more than 35kg of sunscreen daily (Suh et al., 2020).
This issue is so significant that several regions around the world, including parts of Mexico and Thailand, and island nations like Palau, and Bonaire, have implemented bans on sunscreens containing these harmful chemicals. Hawaii in the USA was the first state to ban oxybenzone and octinoxate. While Australia hasn't yet implemented a national ban, the increasing global awareness highlights the urgency of choosing reef-friendly alternatives.
Proposed Federal Action in the United States
There are suggestions and recommendations for a federal ban on oxybenzone in the United States, modeled closely after Hawaii's legislation. Proponents argue that a federal ban would be more effective than state-level legislation and would prevent inconsistencies and the transport of banned products across state lines. There is also support for a federal bill to ban oxybenzone and octinoxate specifically in National Marine Sanctuaries with coral reefs.
Efforts to Prevent Bans
In contrast to the bans, Florida passed State Bill 172 in 2021 to prevent local governments from banning chemicals like oxybenzone within cosmetics. This bill overturned a previous ban on oxybenzone and octinoxate in Key West, highlighting the influence of corporate interests in opposing such regulations.
In parallel with policy debates, consumer power is rewriting the sunscreen shelf. Ingredient‑scanner apps such as Yuka, and watchdogs like the Environmental Working Group (EWG), now deliver instant safety scores and reef‑impact alerts right on our phones.
Armed with this data, Australians are voting with their wallets—shifting toward mineral actives like non‑nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the only UV filters the FDA currently lists as GRASE (Generally Regarded as Safe and Effective).
As awareness of oxybenzone’s coral‑bleaching risk spreads, demand for “clean,” reef‑safe formulas is soaring and pushing manufacturers to reformulate. The result? A virtuous cycle where informed choices drive safer products for both sensitive skin and the fragile ecosystems we cherish.
AussieZinc is Reef-Safe and Skin-Friendly
At AussieZinc, we're committed to providing safe and effective sun protection that doesn't harm our oceans. That's why our mineral sunscreen is formulated with a high concentration of 25% non-nano zinc oxide.
Why Non‑Nano Zinc Oxide?
- Reef Safe: Non‑nano zinc oxide is widely recognised as a reef‑safe mineral UV filter.
- Broad‑Spectrum Protection: Reflects UVA and UVB rays for reliable SPF50+ defence.
- Gentle on Skin: Fragrance‑free and free from harsh chemicals, ideal for eczema‑prone or reactive skin.
- No White Cast: Advanced dispersion technology blends invisibly into every skin tone.
- Water & Sweat Resistant: 40‑minute resistance and does not sting the eyes.
Proudly Australian Made
Formulated and tested in Australia, AussieZinc carries TGA registration and U.S. FDA approval - so you can trust it for your whole family.
Make the Conscious Choice
Choosing AussieZinc means you're not only protecting your skin with a natural and effective mineral sunscreen, but you're also making a positive contribution to the health of our marine environment. Join our eco-conscious community and choose reef-safe sun protection that cares for both you and the incredible natural beauty of Australia.
Make the switch to AussieZinc today - safe sun protection, naturally.
References
Suh, S., Pham, C., Smith, J., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2020). The banned sunscreen ingredients and their impact on human health: a systematic review. International Journal of Dermatology, 59(9), 1033–1042.
Florent, Y., Nemoto, M., Rowley, A., Villegas, M. I., & Pratt, V. (2024). Dangers of Oxybenzone in Sunscreens on Coral Reefs: Proposed Policy Approaches. Journal of Science Policy and Governance, 24(1).
