Some water sports prohibit the use of sunscreen as it can contribute to water pollution and damage marine ecosystems, especially coral reefs.
Most conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that are very harmful to marine life. Among them, oxybenzone and octinoxate are particularly toxic to coral reefs: they disrupt their ability to grow and reproduce, and can even cause bleaching. When these substances enter the water, they also directly affect plankton, those tiny organisms at the heart of the marine food chain. And if plankton is not doing well, then fish and all surrounding wildlife suffer too. Ultimately, even small amounts can have significant impacts, especially in areas with high tourist and sports activity.
Classic sunscreens can release chemicals into the water when swimming or engaging in water sports. These substances — particularly oxybenzone and octinoxate — easily disperse in water and remain present for a long time, thereby contributing to lasting chemical pollution. Even in small quantities, they can gradually deteriorate the overall water quality and directly affect various sensitive aquatic organisms, such as fish or coral. This is referred to as true chemical pollution, sometimes invisible but far from harmless.
Using sunscreen can make water sports equipment particularly slippery, which affects the grip needed by athletes. Sunscreens often leave a greasy film on hands and equipment such as paddles, surfboards, or water ski bars. As a result, athletes lose precision and control and must increase their physical efforts to compensate for this lack of adherence. Some formulas of creams can also cause a feeling of discomfort on the skin when they interact with saltwater or chlorinated water, leading to irritations or unpleasant discomfort during performance.
Wearing UV-protective clothing remains an effective, practical, and non-polluting alternative to sunscreen. There are T-shirts, leggings, and special suits designed to block the sun without chemicals, comfortable even when wet. Taking advantage of a regular shaded break is also a good habit to adopt if the sport allows it. Caps or hats with wide brims are simple, practical, and provide good protection for the face and neck. Choosing times when the sun is less intense, typically early in the morning or late in the afternoon, limits exposure without sacrificing enjoyment or athletic performance.
Some sports federations, particularly in scuba diving or surfing, clearly prohibit certain types of sunscreens, especially those containing chemicals deemed harmful to the marine environment. Competitions explicitly outline these restrictions, and failure to comply can cost athletes penalties or even outright disqualification from the event. Many organizations even require athletes to use only so-called eco-friendly products to avoid damaging the already fragile coral reefs. In short, the rules are there to protect the seabed, and sports federations don't take this lightly.
There are now textiles specially designed with integrated UV protection. These garments offer athletes an excellent alternative to the use of sunscreen while preserving the marine environment.
Did you know that some common ingredients in sunscreens can also damage sports equipment, such as wetsuits, diving masks, and surfboards?
According to a study, around 14,000 tons of sunscreen are released into the seas each year, with potentially serious consequences for marine ecosystems.
Did you know that mineral sunscreens, made from zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are often recommended as eco-friendly alternatives because they pose less risk to aquatic environments?
Sanctions vary depending on local regulations or the sports organization involved; they can range from a simple warning to significant fines or disqualification from a competition. In protected areas, such as certain marine parks, fines can be particularly high.
Yes, there are so-called 'eco-friendly' sunscreens formulated without harmful chemicals for aquatic ecosystems. They typically include mineral filters such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which are considered less harmful, but their use may still be regulated or discouraged in certain sporting contexts.
The alternatives include the use of UV-protective clothing such as suits, rashguards, or caps with neck protection. Additionally, avoiding activities during peak sunlight hours can also help limit risks associated with sun exposure.
Water sports practiced in sensitive natural environments, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, or certain open water swimming competitions, may prohibit or severely restrict the use of sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
The substances commonly found in sunscreens that are harmful to the marine environment include oxybenzone, octinoxate, and certain parabens. These chemical ingredients can damage coral reefs and harm aquatic biodiversity.
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