The sun in Los Cabos is strong all year, and many visitors spend their days at the beach, on boat tours or snorkeling around the Sea of Cortez. If you want a sunscreen that is gentler on marine life, here is what to look for on the label.
What does ‘reef-safe’ mean?
There is no single official definition of ‘reef-safe’. In practice, most people use it to mean a sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemical filters that Hawaii banned from sunscreens sold there starting in 2021 because of concerns about coral reefs.
Ingredients to check
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients. These are the options most often labeled reef-friendly. Read the ‘Active ingredients’ box on the back of the bottle rather than relying only on the front label.
Tips for using sunscreen in Cabo
Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside, use enough to cover all exposed skin, and reapply at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating, as the label directs. Combine it with a hat, sunglasses and shade during midday hours.
Get sunscreen delivered to your hotel
Forgot your sunscreen or ran out? Browse our sun care products and order by WhatsApp at +52 624 409 5065. We deliver over-the-counter products to hotels, villas and Airbnbs in Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos.
FAQ
Is reef-safe sunscreen the same as mineral sunscreen? Not always. Many reef-safe sunscreens are mineral-based, but always check the active ingredients list.
How often should I reapply sunscreen at the beach? Follow the label; most say at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
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