Think Twice About What You’re Wearing Into the Ocean
Sunscreen has been a very popular sunscreen and body lotion product for many years. With the increasing demand, more environmental impacts of sunscreen were identified. If you are still using it without any changes, you should think twice. Here are some of them:
A sunscreen that is harmful to marine life. There is a high demand for sunscreen in many parts of the world. Some countries are importing millions of dollars worth of sunscreen a year to keep their beaches free from harmful UV rays. These imported products are mainly made of petroleum jelly or mineral oil, which can be severely toxic to marine life.
These harmful chemicals can also affect human health. When used on a regular basis, sunscreen can cause severe sunburns and other skin problems. Although manufacturers claim that these side effects are only temporary, the damage is irreversible. In addition, prolonged use can also lead to hormone changes and cancer.
Your sunscreen will also be an irritant for sensitive skin. Chemicals in sunscreen may not be suitable for people with extremely sensitive skin. Some also make people feel itchy and irritated, even when there is no sunscreen present in the ocean. It is also dangerous, as prolonged use can cause skin cancer.
Lastly, environmental impacts of sunscreen might harm future ocean wildlife. Sunscreen can block the formation of healthy plankton. Without plankton, the marine food chain will eventually become poor. Fish death will increase, which can endanger already delicate ecosystems. Also, the lack of fish can lead to less oxygen in the water, which can also threaten aquatic wildlife and cause coral reef diseases.
So, whether or not to wear sunscreen when at the beach has really only two considerations. One, you don’t want to harm the environment. Two, you want to look good on the beach.
Now, to do this, you need to consider what is best for you. For example, a big hat and sunglasses will block more UV rays than a long-sleeved shirt and shorts do, but they won’t look good with the sun on either one. Think about how your top will match the rest of your ensemble. Is it important that it match? If so, then you should definitely consider a hat with the same pattern or colour as your top.
Now, if you’re really concerned about environmental impacts, you should definitely avoid swimming sunscreen. It’s made primarily of petroleum, fossil fuel, and it emits over nine pounds of carbon dioxide per year, making it bad news for the environment. It has also been linked to the development of cancer in laboratory animals, and studies have also shown links to hormonal changes in humans. Also, it causes dry skin, premature wrinkles, and irritation, and is banned in many states for sporting activities.