As you prepare for your upcoming vacation to Cancun and the Riviera Maya, you’re likely considering what to pack. Swimsuits, sunglasses, and sandals are a given, but one item that might not immediately come to mind is sunscreen. Another one is likely a travel power strip – but that’s for another post. Every year, thousands flock to the pristine beaches of Cancun and Riviera Maya, drawn by images of crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. However, the sunscreen we bring with us to protect our skin can have unintended consequences on these very things we love about the Riviera Maya. Recent studies have shown that certain chemicals in traditional sunscreens can harm marine ecosystems. So when visiting the stunning reefs and cenotes of this region, it’s crucial to use a specific type of sunscreen: one that is 100% reef-safe.
The Grupo Xcaret parks, including Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xenotes and Xplor, are committed to preserving the area’s unique marine ecosystem. As part of this commitment, they only allow sunblock and sunscreen containing titanium oxide and zinc oxide as active ingredients. These ingredients are safe for the environment and won’t harm the beautiful coral reefs that make snorkeling in the area so unique. Using any other type of sunscreen is prohibited at all Grupo Xcaret parks, and you’ll be required to buy some on-site if you arrive with the wrong sunscreen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients To Avoid
Unfortunately, finding a sunscreen that meets these requirements can be challenging. Many sunscreens contain harmful ingredients like Octocrylene, Benzophenone, Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, Hexyldecanol, cetyl dimethicone, methylparaben, polyethylene, Propylparaben, and Butylcarbamate. These are not biodegradable and can damage the delicate marine ecosystem.
What’s worse, a lot of products actively advertise themselves as being reef-safe, while including these non-biodegradable and harmful ingredients! This misleading advertising can make it difficult for consumers to make informed choices about which products are truly safe for the environment, and which one’s won’t be banned at the entrances to Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xavage, or Xenotes.
So, how can you ensure that the sunscreen you choose is genuinely reef-safe? The key is to carefully read the list of ingredients. Look for sunscreens that contain titanium oxide and zinc oxide as active ingredients, and avoid those with the harmful ingredients listed above.
Approved Reef-Safe Sunscreen Lotions
To help you prepare for your Cancun & Riviera Maya vacation, we’ve compiled a list of the top reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreens currently currently listed for sale on Amazon. These products are not only safe for the environment but also provide excellent protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Please note that formulas & ingredients are liable to change at any moment, so please make sure to double check the ingredients labels on the items you are shopping for!
Remember, every time we enter the ocean, we have an impact on the marine life that calls it home. By choosing a truly reef-safe sunscreen, we can protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays while also protecting the health of the ocean and its inhabitants.
Carry-On Size Reef Safe Sunscreen
Prices & items last updated on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Baggage Size Reef Safe Sunscreen
Prices & items last updated on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Packing Tips for Your Sunscreen
TSA Regulations on Carry-On Liquids
Remember, when flying, all liquids in your carry-on must adhere to TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid rule. This means each container should be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all fitting in a single, clear, quart-sized bag. Pack your sunscreen accordingly, or consider solid or stick versions of reef-safe sunscreen as convenient alternatives.
Tips for Packing Sunscreen in Your Carry-On
-
- Opt for travel-sized tubes or refillable containers that meet TSA requirements.
-
- Solid sunscreens can be a great way to avoid the liquid limit altogether.
-
- Always double-bag your sunscreens to prevent leaks that could ruin your clothes or electronics.
- ✈️【Designed for Travel accessories】Our 18pack reusable travel bottles set with 1 waterproof bag, 2 pcs silicone bottles (3oz/90ml), 2 pcs silicone bottles(2oz/60ml), 2 pcs spray bottles(1.05oz/30ml), 4 pcs cream jars(0.35oz/10ml), 1pcs funnels, labels, brush and 2 pcs spatula!Different accessories for your different needs
- - 🥇【Tsa Approved Leak Proof Travel Bottles】The silicone bottles are designed with 3-layer leak-proof with a sturdy flip-top lid and a drip-free valve to protect your bottle from spills, leaks or drips during transport.Prevent your expensive cosmetics from leaking during travel, with our unique leak-proof design.
- TSA approved leakproof travel bottles, portable toiletry accessories fit 3oz capacity limit for carry on luggage
- BPA free silicone material, squeezable and collapsible design makes travel bottles easy to use and clean
- 20Pack Useful Travel Accessories - 4 travel bottles (90ml/3oz), 4 cream jars (10ml/0.3oz), 2 spray bottle (30ml/1oz), 1 pump bottles (30ml/1oz),4 spoons, 1 funnel, 1 cleaning brush, 2 sticker label and 1 Tsa Approved Toiletry Bag. Suitable for travel,camping or other outdoor activities.
- Safety food grade silicone - Sauce, salad dressing,and even food can be safely stored in the silicone bottles.
Prices & items last updated on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
In conclusion, choosing the right sunscreen for your trip to Cancun and the Riviera Maya is about more than just protecting your skin. It’s about protecting the environment and preserving the beauty of the region for future generations to enjoy. By choosing a truly reef-safe sunscreen, you can do your part to keep the ocean healthy while also keeping your skin safe from sunburn. And buying it in-advance rather than at the parks is going to also save you a few bucks! So pack your bags, don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cancun and the Riviera Maya!