Five of the best natural sunscreens for protecting Ibiza’s posidonia.
Using non-toxic sunscreen is crucial for protecting Ibiza’s threatened marine environment.
In the waters off the coast of Ibiza, Posidonia oceanica, commonly known as Neptune grass, is a vital underwater plant endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. This seagrass species plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems by oxygenating the water, stabilizing sediment, and providing habitat and food for numerous marine species. Posidonia meadows in Ibiza serve as breeding grounds for fish and support biodiversity, making them essential for the island's marine ecosystem. These seagrass meadows are also integral for shoreline protection, erosion prevention, and carbon sequestration. Protecting Ibiza's Posidonia is vital for preserving the island's marine biodiversity and ecological balance. Conventional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to coral bleaching, DNA damage in marine organisms, and disruption of marine ecosystems. Natural sunscreens, on the other hand, rely on mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are non-toxic to marine life. By choosing natural sunscreens, we can reduce the pollution of marine habitats, preserve biodiversity, and safeguard Ibiza’s delicate posidonia meadows. Here’s our pick of the five sunscreens that are best for you and our island.
Sol de Ibiza: Hands down our top buy, Sol de Ibiza isn’t just another sunscreen brand, it's an Ibiza-led movement towards a more sustainable future. This certified organic mineral sunscreen protects the whole family using natural, organic, and cruelty-free ingredients. We love the cute, retro tins (plastic-free, zero-waste and perfect for storing goodies once empty), while the new Magic Sun Oil comes in a chi-chi recyclable glass jar. The smartest, sunniest cream on the planet.
Green People: Green People offers a range of organic and natural sunscreens free from harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Their sunscreens feature mineral-based UV filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, along with nourishing plant extracts. Green People's products are certified organic, cruelty-free, and suitable for sensitive skin.
Babo Botanicals: Babo Botanicals specializes in natural, plant-based skincare products, including mineral sunscreens for the whole family. Their sunscreens are formulated with non-nano zinc oxide and contain organic ingredients like shea butter and green tea extract. Babo Botanicals' sunscreens are hypoallergenic, reef-safe, and free from synthetic fragrances and dyes.
Eco Cosmetics: Eco Cosmetics offers a range of certified natural and organic sunscreens suitable for various skin types. Their sunscreens use mineral-based UV filters and contain organic ingredients such as pomegranate extract and sea buckthorn oil. Eco Cosmetics' products are biodegradable, reef-friendly, and free from synthetic preservatives and fragrances.
Alphanova Sun: Alphanova Sun provides a selection of natural and organic sunscreens designed for sensitive skin. Their sunscreens feature mineral filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, along with organic ingredients such as shea butter and aloe vera. Alphanova Sun's products are eco-friendly, vegan-friendly, and comply with strict European regulations for sunscreens.
