A new study has been conducted that confirms a certain ingredient found in many sunscreens can lead to alterations in DNA of humans and other organisms.

The research was conducted by scientists at the University of Hawai’i and published in the journal Chemosphere.

What is the Ingredient?

The ingredient in question is oxybenzone, which is commonly found in chemical sunscreens. Oxybenzone is an organic compound that helps protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays by absorbing them.

It is estimated that oxybenzone is present in approximately 70% of all sunscreens on the market.

How Was the Study Conducted?

The researchers collected fish and coral samples from areas around the Hawaiian Islands that are popular with tourists. These samples were then exposed to oxybenzone to simulate how sunscreen is washed off swimmers in the ocean.

The results showed that oxybenzone had a harmful effect on the DNA of both the fish and coral.

What Are the Effects of Oxybenzone?

The study found that oxybenzone can cause several types of harm. Firstly, it can lead to coral bleaching, which is a phenomenon where the coral expels the algae that live within it.

Without the algae, the coral becomes white and has a much higher mortality rate as a result.

In addition, oxybenzone can also lead to DNA damage in fish. It has been shown to cause hormonal imbalances and disrupt the development of fish embryos.

This can have a negative impact on the entire aquatic ecosystem, as fish are an essential part of the food chain.

Are There Any Alternatives to Oxybenzone?

Yes, there are alternatives to chemical sunscreens that contain oxybenzone.

Mineral-based sunscreens are becoming increasingly popular as they are made from natural ingredients and have been shown to be effective at protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Some examples of mineral-based sunscreens include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of considering the impact of our actions on the environment.

While sunscreen is an essential product that helps protect us from the sun’s harmful rays, it is important to choose a product that doesn’t contain harmful ingredients such as oxybenzone. By making informed choices, we can all help to protect our planet.