Why Ocean Friendly Sunscreen is a Must-Have for Your Skincare Routine

Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine. But what protects your skin can also end up in the sea, washed off at the beach or rinsed down the drain.

Here's what makes a sunscreen ocean-friendly, why it matters and how to protect both your skin and the ocean.

What is ocean-friendly sunscreen?

Ocean-friendly (or reef-friendly) sunscreen is made without the UV filters most strongly linked to harming coral reefs and marine life, mainly oxybenzone and octinoxate.

There's no official definition of "ocean-friendly," so it helps to know what to look for. Most ocean-friendly sunscreens use either mineral filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, or newer UV filters chosen for their gentler environmental profile.

Why ocean-friendly sunscreen matters

Protecting coral reefs

Coral reefs shelter and feed a huge variety of marine life, and South Africa has its own at Sodwana Bay, the southernmost coral reefs in Africa. Lab studies have linked oxybenzone and octinoxate to coral bleaching and damage, and places like Hawaii and Palau have banned sunscreens that contain them.

Protecting marine life

Some UV filters have been found building up in fish, shellfish and other sea creatures. Choosing ocean-friendly formulas helps reduce the load on the waters you swim in.

Every little bit helps

Even ocean-friendly sunscreens wash off in the water, so no sunscreen is completely impact-free. The kindest approach is to pair a reef-conscious sunscreen with sun-protective clothing, like a rash vest and hat, so you need less sunscreen when you swim.

Mineral vs modern UV filters

Mineral filters

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sit on the skin's surface to block UVA and UVB rays. They rarely irritate, which makes them a good choice for sensitive skin. Some can leave a slight white cast, which tinted formulas help disguise.

Modern UV filters

Newer filters, such as Uvinul® A Plus, offer strong protection in lighter textures with no white cast. Developed in Germany, Uvinul® A Plus is a highly effective filter against UVA, the rays behind premature ageing and dark spots. It's photostable, meaning it doesn't break down in sunlight, and it's approved for use in sunscreens in Europe.

Both types can give excellent broad-spectrum protection. The best sunscreen is the one you'll happily wear every day.

Tips for using sunscreen

• Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher: this protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply enough: most people use too little. Use about two finger-lengths for your face and neck, and cover all exposed skin.
• Reapply often: reapply every two hours, and straight after swimming, sweating or towelling off.
• Cover up at the beach: a rash vest, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses protect your skin and mean less sunscreen in the water.
• Pick a texture you love: lightweight, non-greasy formulas are easier to wear every day and less likely to clog pores.

For more help choosing the right formula, read our guide to selecting the best sunscreen.

Frequently asked questions

Is ocean-friendly sunscreen as effective as regular sunscreen?

Yes. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher protects your skin well whatever its filters, as long as you apply enough and reapply regularly.

Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better?

Both work well. Mineral sunscreens are often the gentlest choice for sensitive skin, while modern filters tend to feel lighter and leave no white cast. Choose the one you'll wear every day.

Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?

Yes. Most UV rays pass through cloud, so you can still burn and your skin can still age on an overcast day.

Can I wear sunscreen under makeup?

Yes. Apply it as the last step of your skincare and give it a minute to settle before your makeup base or foundation.

HD ocean-friendly sunscreens

Both HD sunscreens are ocean-friendly and free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.

HD Ultra-Light Hydrating Sunscreen Essence SPF50+ is a lightweight, water-based sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from modern filters, including Uvinul® A Plus. Edelweiss extract and hyaluronic acid hydrate the skin, while vitamin C, vitamin E and French organic algae help protect against premature ageing and dark spots. It sits beautifully under makeup.

• Broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection
• Lightweight, water-based and hydrating
• Helps prevent the appearance of dark spots
• Hypoallergenic
• Free from parabens, MI/MCI, alcohol, colourants and fragrance

Shop HD Ultra-Light Hydrating Sunscreen Essence SPF50+

HD Mineral Daily Defence Cream SPF50 PA+++ is a lightly tinted daily cream with 100% mineral filters for broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It smooths the skin, blurs the look of imperfections and includes the Pollushield™ anti-pollution complex. It's a great choice for sensitive skin.

• 100% mineral, broad-spectrum protection
• Blurs the look of imperfections
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Free from parabens, MI/MCI, alcohol and fragrance

Shop HD Mineral Daily Defence Cream SPF50