☀️ The Hidden Damage of Traditional Sunscreens
When planning a tropical vacation or a diving trip, sunscreen is always on the packing list. But did you know that many common sunscreens contain chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs and marine life?
Oxybenzone, octinoxate, and a few other ingredients found in traditional sunscreens have been shown to cause coral bleaching, disrupt marine reproduction, and damage the DNA of marine organisms — even in small quantities. It's estimated that over 14,000 tons of sunscreen wash into the ocean each year.
🪸 Why This Matters in the Dominican Republic
Here in Punta Cana, our reefs are vital ecosystems — home to fish, rays, crustaceans, and coral species that are already under stress from rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and overuse.
Adding chemical pollution from sunscreen only increases the threat. That's why it's important for everyone — especially snorkelers and divers — to be aware of the products they use before entering the water.
✅ What Makes a Sunscreen "Reef-Safe"?
Reef-safe sunscreens avoid harmful ingredients like:
Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3)
Octinoxate
Homosalate
Octocrylene
Parabens
Instead, they use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These minerals sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays rather than being absorbed, making them safer for both humans and marine life.
🌿 Our Policy at Grand Bay of the Sea
At Grand Bay of the Sea, we actively encourage all guests to use reef-safe sunscreen. We also recommend applying it at least 30 minutes before your tour begins, so it has time to absorb and won’t wash off in the ocean.
Some of our guides even carry reef-safe options to share with guests who may not be aware of the difference.
💡 How You Can Make a Difference
If you're visiting Punta Cana or planning to dive with us, here’s how to help protect our reefs:
Purchase and pack reef-safe sunscreen before your trip
Wear UPF-protective clothing like rash guards to reduce your need for sunscreen
Avoid applying sunscreen immediately before swimming
Share what you’ve learned with others — awareness creates change!
🌊 Every Drop Counts
Protecting the ocean doesn’t always require a grand gesture — it often starts with a single decision, like switching to reef-safe sunscreen. It’s a small act that helps preserve the underwater beauty you came to enjoy in the first place.
When you dive or snorkel with us, you’re not just exploring — you’re joining a community that cares deeply about the ocean. Let's all do our part, one drop at a time.
