As awareness of environmental issues grows, it’s crucial to make mindful choices, especially regarding products that impact delicate ecosystems like coral reefs. Reef-safe sunscreen refers to products formulated with less harmful ingredients to coral reefs and marine life.
These environmentally friendly sunscreens are designed to biodegrade more readily in water and are free from harmful chemicals known to harm coral reefs.
By choosing reef-safe sunscreen, you can enjoy sun protection without compromising the health of our oceans and marine life. Dive into our top 8 recommendations, ensuring you can protect your skin responsibly while safeguarding our oceans.
What Is the Difference Between Normal Sunscreen and Reef Safe Sunscreen?
Below is a comparison table highlighting the main distinctions between these two types of sunscreen formulations.
| Feature | Normal Sunscreen | Reef-Safe Sunscreen |
| Ingredients | Chemical UV filters (e.g., oxybenzone, octinoxate) | Mineral-based (e.g., zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) |
| Impact on Coral Reefs | Chemicals can contribute to coral bleaching and damage | Mineral-based ingredients are less harmful to coral reefs |
| Sun Protection Efficacy | Effective at providing broad-spectrum UV protection | Equally effective at preventing sunburn and skin damage |
| Skin Sensitivity | Some individuals may experience skin irritation | Generally gentler on the skin and suitable for sensitive skin |
What Is the Key Ingredient We Should Look for in Reef Safe Sunscreen?
Understanding the components that make these sunscreens environmentally friendly and effective is essential.
- Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a mineral-based UV blocker commonly used in reef-safe sunscreens. It creates a physical barrier on the skin’s surface that reflects and scatters UVA and UVB rays. This provides broad-spectrum protection against sunburn and skin damage. Zinc oxide is gentle on sensitive skin and does not absorb into the skin, making it less likely to harm coral reefs and marine life when washed off.
- Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide is another mineral-based UV blocker found in reef-safe sunscreens. Like zinc oxide, it forms a physical barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters UVA and UVB rays. This provides broad-spectrum protection against sunburn and skin damage. Titanium dioxide is also gentle on sensitive skin and environmentally friendly, making it suitable for reef-safe sunscreens.
Read more articles below to complete your skincare beauty routine:
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8 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens in Malaysia
1. Drunk Elephant Umbra™ Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
Drunk Elephant Umbra™ Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30 offers guilt-free sun protection and nourishment. This reef-safe sunscreen shields your skin and the environment, enriched with antioxidants like Astaxanthin and Grape Juice Extract. Moisturizing Raspberry Seed and Marula Oils hydrate while reducing fine lines. Lightweight and breathable, it soothes with Aloe Barbadenesis Leaf Extract, offering SPF 30 PA+++ defence. Perfect for sensitive or ageing skin, this splurge-worthy product ensures worry-free skincare.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Steareth-2, Propanediol, Steareth-21, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Silica, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Sprout Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil/Tocopheryl Succinate Aminopropanediol Esters, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Sea Water, Acetyl Glucosamine, Cetearyl Glucoside, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Glycine, Sucrose, Lecithin, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Mica, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
- Volume: 90ml
- Country of origin: United States
Pros:
✅Packed with Antioxidants
✅Soothing
✅Hydrating
✅Anti-ageing
✅Great for sensitive skin
Price: RM165.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. INNISFREE UV Active Poreless Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
Discover the INNISFREE UV Active Poreless Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++, your go-to solution for superior sun protection. This high-performance sunscreen shields your skin with SPF 50+ and PA++++ ratings and also works to refine pores for a smoother complexion. Formulated by INNISFREE, renowned for its natural ingredients, this sunscreen is lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for daily wear. Say goodbye to pore-clogging sunscreens and hello to a fresh, protected, and poreless look with INNISFREE UV Active Poreless Sunscreen
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water / Aqua / Eau, Zinc Oxide (Nano), Cyclohexasiloxane, Caprylyl Methicone, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Propylheptyl Caprylate, Butylene Glycol, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Methyl Trimethicone, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Sodium Potassium Aluminum Silicate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Lauryl Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Dimethiconol, Trisiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Silica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Tocopherol, Hydroxystearic Acid, Glycerin, Aronia Arbutifolia Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Stellaria Media (Chickweed) Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract
- Volume: 50ml
- Country of origin: Korea
Pros:
✅Light Beige Shade Formula
✅Long-Lasting Tone-up Effect
Price: RM90.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Coco & Eve Daily Water Gel SPF50+ Sunscreen
Coco & Eve Daily Water Gel SPF50+ Sunscreen is your ultimate solution for daily sun protection and hydration. This innovative water gel sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection while moisturising your skin throughout the day. Formulated with a lightweight and non-greasy texture, it absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and nourished. It is perfect for everyday use and ensures your skin stays protected and hydrated under the sun. Say hello to a radiant complexion with this must-have sunscreen from Coco & Eve.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Purified Water / Aqua, Homosalate, Octyl Salicylate / Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Dibutyl Adipate, Glycerol / Glycerin, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Bemotrizinol / Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Dimeticone 200 / Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Pvp/Hexadecene Copolymer / Vp/Hexadecene Copolymer, Aloe Vera / Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Cocos Nucifera/Cocos Nucifera Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, D-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate / Tocopheryl Acetate, 2-Amino-2-Methyl-1-Propanol / Aminomethyl Propanol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edetate / Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol.
- Volume: 60ml
- Country of origin: Australia
Pros:
✅Ultra Hydrating
✅Lightweight Spf 50+ Sunscreen
Price: RM126.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. Nudescreen Daily Mineral Veil SPF30
Nudescreen Daily Mineral Veil SPF30 is your perfect companion for effortless sun protection and skin enhancement. This innovative mineral sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF30 protection while providing a sheer, natural tint to blur imperfections and even out skin tone. Formulated with clean, non-toxic ingredients, Nudescreen Daily Mineral Veil is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, leaving a luminous, matte finish behind.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 15% Inactive Ingredients/ Ingrédients Inactifs: Aqua/Water/Eau, Coconut Alkanes, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Spirulina Platensis Extract, C13-15 Alkane, Sodium Chloride, Distarch Phosphate, Isostearic Acid, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Quaternium-90 Bentonite, 1,2-Hexanediol, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Zinc Stearate, Ethyl Ferulate, Triethyl Citrate, Butylene Glycol, Lactobacillus Ferment, Passiflora Edulis Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
- Volume: 50ml
- Country of origin: United States
Pros:
✅Sheer Protection
✅Skin-Enhancing Tint
Price: RM172.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. Shiseido Global Suncare UV Stick Clear Protector
Shiseido Global Suncare UV Stick Clear Protector is your ultimate on-the-go sun protection solution. This innovative UV stick offers powerful broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while remaining transparent and non-sticky. Its compact design makes it perfect for targeted application to sensitive areas such as the face, ears, and lips. Formulated with Shiseido’s advanced skincare technology, this sunscreen stick is water-resistant and provides a smooth, invisible finish.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Homosalate, Octocrylene, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Hydroxystearic Acid, Triethylhexanoin, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Peg/Ppg-9/2 Dimethyl Ether, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol, Methoxyphenyl Triazine, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide, Polyamide-8, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Ppg-17, Fragrance (Parfum), Bht, Tocopherol, Peg/Ppg-14/7, Dimethyl Ether, Tocopheryl Acetate, Peg-6, Lecithin, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Silica, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract.
- Volume: 20g
- Country of origin: Japan
Pros:
✅Water-Resistant Formula
✅Portable Convenience
Price: RM130.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. TARGET PRO UV Protection Skin Repairing Facial Milk SPF50
TARGET PRO UV Protection Skin Repairing Facial Milk SPF50 is your ultimate defence against sun damage and premature ageing. This lightweight facial milk offers broad-spectrum SPF50 protection while providing reparative benefits to your skin. Formulated with cutting-edge UV filters, it shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sunburn, dark spots, and premature ageing. Enriched with nourishing ingredients, this facial milk hydrates and soothes the skin, promoting a healthy, radiant complexion. Incorporate TARGET PRO UV Protection Skin Repairing Facial Milk SPF50 into your daily skincare routine for comprehensive sun protection and skin repair.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua, Dipropytene Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Glycol, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazone, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/ Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Squalane, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyglycerin, Polysorbate 60, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acqate Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Sorbitan Isostearate, Sodium Hydroxide, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Alpha-Glucan, Ubiquinone, Glycyrrhiza, Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Glucosyl Ceramide, Sodium Benzoate
- Volume: 60g
- Country of origin: Japan
Pros:
✅SPF50 Protection
✅Skin Repairing Formula
Price: RM67.92
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. MELIXIR Vegan Airfit™ Sunscreen SPF 50+
MELIXIR Vegan Airfit™ Sunscreen SPF 50+ delivers advanced sun protection with a lightweight and breathable formula. This vegan sunscreen provides high SPF 50+ protection while offering an ultra-lightweight and comfortable feel on the skin. Utilising Airfit™ technology ensures a smooth and non-greasy application, leaving your skin feeling fresh and protected throughout the day. Formulated without animal-derived ingredients, it’s suitable for vegans and sensitive skin. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with MELIXIR Vegan Airfit™ Sunscreen SPF 50+ for a carefree and radiant complexion.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol, Bacillus Ferment, Phragmites Communis Extract, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Hexyl Laurate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Caprylyl Methicone, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, 1,2-Hexanediol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf/Nut/Stem Oil, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Oil, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate, Polysilicone-15, Pentylene Glycol, Glucose, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Fructooligosaccharides, Fructose, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Limonene
- Volume: 20ml/ 50ml
- Country of origin: Korea
Pros:
✅Vegan-Friendly
✅Non-Greasy Application
Price: RM90.00 – RM160.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. CAUDALIE Vinosun High Protection SPF 50 Cream
Experience sun protection with CAUDALIE Vinosun High Protection SPF 50 Cream. This luxurious sunscreen offers advanced defence against harmful UV rays, providing broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from sun damage. Formulated with cutting-edge technology and enriched with antioxidant-rich grape extract, this lightweight cream protects, nourishes, and hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and radiant.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Dibutyl Adipate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Propanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Methylpropanediol, Isethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Arginine, C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, C20-22 Alcohols, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl P-Cresol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Palmitoyl Grape Seed Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract, Glycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Silica, Xanthan Gum, Phytosterols, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Phenylpropanol, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Picea Abies Wood Extract, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Geraniol, Tocopherol, Parfum (Fragrance), citronellol.(320/044)
- Volume: 50ml
- Country of origin: France
Pros:
✅Lightweight Texture
✅Moisturizing Formula
Price: RM125.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
