The Big ‘Gotcha’ Moment You Could Experience on Your Next Vacation

You’ve made it to the beach, unpacked your cart, set up the tent and are ready to slather on the sunscreen.

Not so fast.

Is your sunscreen permitted on the beach? Soon it may not be, depending where you go. The reason? Many conventional sunscreens are harmful to the environment (and just as harmful to you) and are actually killing our coral reef. In an effort to preserve our planet, some destinations are banning the sale and use of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, a toxic ingredient.

Destinations Banning Toxic Sunscreen

• Hawaii
  In 2018, lawmakers signed the first bill in the U.S. to ban toxic sunscreen. The law will officially go into effect on Jan. 1, 2021.
• Key West
  In Key West, legislation banning toxic sunscreens will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2021.
• Bonaire
  Beginning in 2021, the Caribbean island of Bonaire will prohibit the sale and use of harmful sunscreens.
• Palau
  By 2020, you will no longer be able to purchase or use reef-toxic sunscreens in Palau.
• Mexico
  While conventional sunscreen isn’t banned in Mexico (yet), certain vacation destinations within the country prohibit it. These include many of the famous cenotes (swimming holes), as well as Xcaret Park.

Looking for a good natural sunscreen for your next trip? Check out the 9 Best Natural Sunscreens for Kids and Families.