What is Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Why Is It Important?

Turks and Caicos is home to a vibrant and delicate marine reef ecosystem, which makes it a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and other watersports. But did you know that many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs? That's where **reef-safe sunscreen** comes in.

What Makes a Sunscreen "Reef-Safe"?

Reef-safe sunscreens are made without harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can contribute to coral bleaching. Instead, they use natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on your skin's surface to block UV rays without harming marine life.

Why Should You Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen?

Using reef-safe sunscreen helps preserve the beautiful underwater world of Turks and Caicos, ensuring that both locals and visitors can continue to enjoy these waters for years to come. Every little bit helps when it comes to protecting the delicate balance of our oceans.

Our Recommended Products

At Flamingo Pharmacy, we carry a range of reef-safe SPF products to protect your skin and the environment. By choosing reef-safe sunscreens and proper after-care products, you can enjoy the beautiful waters of Turks and Caicos while doing your part to protect its precious marine life. Some of our top choices include the following:

Aloe Up

We recommend the Aloe Up family of sun-care and after-care sun products. We carry multiple formats including creams and sprays, with SPF ranges from 15-50. We also carry Kid’s formulas and mineral-based formulas.

Caribbean Sol

We also recommend Caribbean Sol, a line dedicated to high quality, environment-safe and natural skincare for sun-care and after-care. We also carry multiple formats and formulations, with an SPF factor that’s right for you.