The beautiful waters of Hawaii are a sight that everyone should see in person. Snorkeling tours offer the perfect opportunity to experience marine environments in their authentic, natural forms. To help preserve the ocean while you enjoy it, you can do your part by using eco-friendly sunscreen. Here’s how this small change can make a big impact.

Why You Should Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

1. Help Prevent Pollution

Most are aware of the garbage, oil, and chemical runoff damaging the Earth’s waters, but personal care products also contribute to pollution. Sunscreen washes off of swimmers’ skin and into the water, sometimes creating a visible oily sheen in areas with high tourist traffic. Oxybenzone, a chemical found in commercial sunscreens, is toxic to fish, algae, and mammals. Increased pollution disrupts their bodily functions and can be harmful to their health. Mineral-based sunscreens replace dangerous chemicals with formulas containing non-nanotized zinc or titanium oxide, which are much less harmful to the marine ecosystem. When wearing these eco-friendly products, you can appreciate the ocean on snorkeling tours without the damaging side effects.

2. Protect Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are vast habitats in the marine ecosystem. Unfortunately, sunscreen is contributing to their steady deterioration. About 14,000 tons of sunscreen reach coral reefs every year. A multitude of chemicals in readily available products, oxybenzone in particular, have destructive properties for coral. They corrupt DNA, resulting in deformed juvenile coral, bleaching, disrupted hormones, sterility, and even death. Non-nano, mineral-based sunscreens are reef-friendly and sufficiently protect your skin, so look for these options when preparing for your next snorkeling tour.

3. It’s Better for You

Widely used commercial sunscreen is not only bad for natural waters, but also contains chemicals that can have adverse effects on your health. In some cases, they cause skin rashes and allergic reactions. The most commonly purchased sunscreen varieties contain ingredients that imitate the body’s natural hormones, potentially disrupting hormone levels and confusing your endocrine system. Also, avoid aerosol sunscreens completely because spraying increases your risk of inhalation.

If you’re looking for catamaran boat and snorkeling tours that respect the environment they traverse, book with EO Waianae Tours. Based on Oahu, this locally owned and operated tour service does their part to protect the wildlife, waters, and beaches of Hawaii. Alongside knowledgeable tour guides, you will experience the gorgeous, crystal clear waters and their incredible marine life while learning how to help maintain them. Learn more about the company’s role in preserving the Hawaiian ecosystem by calling (808) 699-5910 today, and visit the website for more information on their exciting catamaran tours.