Coral reefs are turning white…

The same way we turn pale when we’re sick.

According to TheWorldCounts, up to half of all coral reefs are either lost or severely damaged, with destruction occurring at double the rate of rainforests.

In the Philippines, often called the “Center of Marine Biodiversity”, coral reefs are vanishing. Recent assessments show that a third of these corals have disappeared in just two decades.

If this trend continues, corals could be gone within 30 years.

Why Coral Reefs Matter

More than just gorgeous underwater decorations, corals are living organisms that provide life, livelihood, and protection:

  • Life. They serve as homes to fish that deliver nutrients such as iron, zinc, and calcium to approximately 3.2 billion people.
  • Livelihood. They drive local economies through fishing, recreation, and tourism.
  • Protection. They act as a barrier between land and the ocean, safeguarding our shorelines from erosion, waves, storms, floods, and even tsunamis.

Without corals, ecosystems and economies could collapse.

Are Sunscreens Harming Coral Reefs?

Aside from common culprits, global warming, plastic pollution, and destructive fishing practices, recent studies have found that ****some of the most popular chemical sunscreens contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, substances known to be harmful to corals.

These ingredients, once in the water, break down corals’ defenses, damage DNA, and disrupt growth and reproduction, accelerating coral bleaching.

Studies also show that oxybenzone and octinoxate can pose health risks to humans, potentially affecting reproductive health and increasing risks of hormone-related cancers. This is why certain countries have started banning sunscreens containing these chemicals.

In response, the FDA has approved only two sunscreen ingredients as safe: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are the main ingredients in natural sunscreens.

What Is a Natural Reef Safe Sunscreen?

Protect the seas as you protect your skin

While choosing a sunscreen may seem like a small decision, it can make a meaningful difference in the fight to save coral reefs. That’s why we created Human Nature SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen PA++++ —the #1 natural reef safe sunscreen in the Philippines and a part of the Euromonitor International Report* listing the world’s best eco-friendly sunscreens.

S.O.S. (Save Our Seas), it’s a #SEAmergency!

**Human Nature SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen PA++++ is the first locally made, natural reef safe sunscreen designed to protect both skin and seas and it:

  • Shields skin against aging & skin-damaging UVA rays that may cause skin cancer with the highest rated PA++++ protection
  • Obstructs 97% of skin-burning UVB rays with broad-spectrum SPF30
  • Safeguards our corals with all-natural, reef-friendly ingredients

Thinking of your tiny tots? Keep them safe from the sun as they have fun with SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen for Babies & Kids PA+++ (P349.75). Made for children 6 months and older, this kid-friendly, zinc-based sunscreen is specially formulated to protect young skin from 97% of skin-burning UVB rays and guard the skin against harmful UVA rays. Like the SafeProtect Sunscreen for Adults, it’s a natural reef safe sunscreen. It cares for marine life with its 100% natural formulation. Plus, it comes in a mild sunshiny vanilla-orange scent that kids will love.

Remember: A healthy ocean means a healthy planet. Save the seas, one sunscreen at a time with Human Nature SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen PA++++ and SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen for Babies & Kids PA+++, our travel-sized natural reef safe sunscreen, available in all Human Nature stores.

*Based on the April 2024 Euromonitor International Report: Sun Care in the Philippines

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