What is the best sunscreen for Hawaii?

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The Best Sunscreen for Hawaii

What do I do when I get asked the same question over and over? I write a blog post about it! That’s what happened with the question “what is the best sunscreen for Hawaii?” It’s a common question, and with the new laws about sunscreen is understandable.

Important note: This post is not sponsored in any way. This is simply my favorite sunscreen for Hawaii and I wanted to share it because it’s something that I am often asked as a Hawaii Travel Agent. 

Hawaii Sunscreen Ban

Hawaii is the first US state (and hopefully not to last) to ban the sale of sunscreen containing harmful ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxate. The new law doesn’t go into effect until January 2021, but stores are already selling reef-friendly alternatives. With the new knowledge of the harmful effects of chemical sunscreens, many visitors and residents are switching to safer sun protection.

But what is safer sun protection? Unfortunately, many traditional sunscreen companies are simply taking out these two ingredients but still contain ingredients that may not be reef-safe, and are definitely not people-safe. I already have a blog post about reef safe sunscreen, what it is and why it’s important but I wanted to create this post for those are who specifically looking for the best sunscreen for Hawaii.

My Favorite Natural Reef-Safe Sunscreen

So, what is the best sunscreen for Hawaii? My favorite, hands down, is the All Good brand on sunscreen. Why? All Good sunscreen is organic, cruelty-free, certified reef-friendly, and so much more. The All Good brand participates in 1% for the planet, runs off of solar power, uses recycled packaging, and participates in beach cleanups among other environmental efforts.

Another important factor, it works very well! Zinc-based sunscreens can leave a white film on your skin which can be annoying, but I have found that this one leaves less of a film than most other reef-safe sunscreens. Just make sure to blend it in well and you should be just fine.

What about the cost? Reef-safe sunscreen may be a bit more expensive because it does have more expensive ingredients. There is no way to get around that, but it’s worth the cost to use something that is safe for the reef and your body. I’ve found the best prices on Amazon, and you can also buy this brand at many stores in Hawaii.

Alternatives to Sunscreen

Remember that in most cases, sunscreen should be used as a last resort. The best thing that you can do is to avoid sun exposure mid-day. You can also cover up (a rash guard or regular clothes), and find shade or bring it with you.

This handy chart from the EWG shows you great alternatives to wearing sunscreen. If you’re wondering how safe your current sunscreen is, make sure to check it out on EWG’s Skin Deep database. While you’re there, check out the All Good brand too, they rate extremely well.

Please remember that Hawaii is close to the equator and you will probably need to use sunscreen even if you don’t tend to burn. That’s where All Good sunscreen comes in. I’ve used both the regular (blue) version and the kid’s version (pink) and I love both. Another benefit to zinc-based sunscreen is that it does not break down over time like chemical-based sunscreen. That means it will last longer!

If you’re visiting Hawaii, make sure to pack a bottle or two in your checked luggage or in your liquids bag. Want more packing tips? Check out what to pack for Hawaii.

If you’re planning a Hawaii vacation and feeling overwhelmed, I am here to help! Figuring out things like which island to visit, where to stay, what to do, etc, can be tricky. As a Hawaii Travel Agent, I’d love to help you plan the vacation that is perfect for you! Feel free to reach out through the contact form or go ahead and fill out my custom travel request and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

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