It’s 2024, and the Hawaii sunscreen ban has been in effect for several years now. However, if you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time or need a refresher on sunscreens, here’s the most up-to-date information you could want (or more!) about Hawaii and our Hawaii sunscreen ban.
Click here if you want to jump to our Hawaii-approved sunscreens section.
What is the Hawaii sunscreen ban?
In a nutshell, the Hawaii sunscreen ban is a law that prohibits the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
The law was initially created in 2018 and became effective on January 1, 2021. It states as follows:
Beginning January 1, 2021, it shall be unlawful to sell, offer for sale, or distribute for sale in the State any sunscreen that contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, or both, without a prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider.
So, that’s pretty much the law. Now, if you’re wondering…
Will my (banned) sunscreen get confiscated? Will I get a ticket or fine for possession of banned sunscreens?
For both questions, the short answer is “No.”
The ban targets retailers who sell sunscreen in Hawaii. Quite frankly, I don’t think Hawaii has the infrastructure or resources to check and eliminate every contraband item from entering the islands anyway.
The longer answer is, “No, but why be ornery about it since there’s a slew of non-banned sunscreens that can both protect Hawaii’s beautiful oceans and keep our skin safe, too?!”
At the time, studies influencing the creation of the Hawaii sunscreen ban were based on how these chemicals affect coral and marine life. These chemicals cause DNA abnormalities in coral and marine life while also negatively impacting their development, growth, and reproductive systems. They also weaken coral and contribute to coral bleaching, which snowballs into further distress on Hawaii’s marine life and entire coral reef ecosystems.
So, now that you know the whys, let’s hash out how this law affects you (and your vacation plans)…
KEY POINTS FOR HAWAII’S SUNSCREEN LAW:
- In Hawaii, you can’t buy sunscreens with oxybenzone and/or octinoxate unless you have a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
- You cannot get in legal trouble for using sunscreen with oxybenzone and/or octinoxate from home. (But I am not saying you should.)
- The law is to help protect Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine life.
But, now that leads to…
What kind of sunscreens can we use in Hawaii?
Okay, not get all long-winded, but let’s break it down into two parts – following the law verbatim and following the intent of the law.
The bare bones: What sunscreen can I use in Hawaii?
Technically speaking, if you bring sunscreen from home, it doesn’t matter because the ban is for retailers selling sunscreens in Hawaii. However, if you want to follow the requirements of the Hawaii ban, the rule is simple: when you shop for sunscreen, look at the Active Ingredients list on the back, and it should NOT have oxybenzone and/or octinoxate. **Nowadays, many popular sunscreen brands have options without oxybenzone and/or octinoxate.
If you buy sunscreens in Hawaii, this should be relatively easy. All sunscreens for sale in the Hawaiian Islands are now required, via the Hawaii sunscreen ban, to not contain oxybenzone and/or octinoxate.
Example of sunscreen labels that are allowed for sale in Hawaii*
Here are two examples of approved sunscreens in Hawaii. The label on the left (L) is for a chemical sunscreen and the label on the right (R) is for a mineral-based sunscreen.
Following the intent of the law: What sunscreen should I use in Hawaii?
*This leads to the guidelines that take the ban one step further. If you want to follow the law’s intent — to help protect Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine ecosystems from further — then mineral-based sunscreens are the recommended way to go. Also, two of the ingredients in the first picture – avobenzone and octocrylene – are currently listed as part of a second bill (Bill SB 132) to add those ingredients to the current ban. This bill has NOT been fully approved yet, but if it does go through, it will ban most chemical sunscreens from being sold in Hawaii.
So, with that in mind, here are some additional tips for wearing reef-safe/reef-friendly sunscreens in Hawaii:
- Look for zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These sunscreens block UV rays (physical sunscreens) rather than absorb them (chemical sunscreens).
- Use lotion or cream. Ah, this suggestion guts me personally because I was a die-hard sunscreen spray fan before this; it was so easy! My kids would happily spray on their sunscreen but grouch and grumble non-stop about applying lotion or cream sunscreen. That being said, it has been repeatedly stated that spray-type sunscreens are not targeted enough! (You know what I mean. I would often make my kids go 30 feet away from any human being before spraying on their sunscreen since it blows into your mouth or in your eyes!) Unfortunately, that can be a BIG problem because bystanders can inhale the residual spray, or the sunscreen ends up on the sand, only to get washed into the oceans. So, if you want to help protect the environment? Stick to lotions and cream sunscreens.
- Read the label. If you want to truly be conscientious about your sunscreen ingredients, read the labels. This is important because catchphrases like “Reef-friendly” and “Reef-safe” are not regulated by the FDA, meaning that anyone can slap them on their label. Also, within each brand, ingredients vary so if you want to stick to zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide sunscreens, make sure to read the label.
- Look for paraben-free. Butylparaben (paraben) has already been shown to cause coral bleaching, so many sunscreens – even prior to the Hawaii ban – no longer have parabens in their sunscreen ingredients. It’s still good to double-check.
- Wear your sunscreen. Consider wearing UV-blocking clothing, hats, and sunglasses and using UV-filtering umbrellas. Then, you only have to apply sunscreen lotion on your face, legs, feet, and exposed areas of skin. This is an excellent option for babies!
- Look for uncoated or non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. As I searched for sunscreens, I sometimes came across labeling that listed “uncoated” or “non-nano” titanium dioxide as the Active Ingredient. Basically, uncoated or non-nano particle versions of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are too large to enter our bodies and too large to hurt coral and other marine life.
- Look for “broad spectrum” sunscreens. I don’t know if this is an issue since every product I saw has claimed this on their labeling, but broad-spectrum sunscreens will protect against UVA and UVB exposure.
FAQs on sunscreen, Hawaii, and our coral reefs:
So, why exactly are oxybenzone and octinoxate banned?!
Oxybenzone and octinoxate are chemicals used in many sunscreens to absorb UV rays to keep them from damaging your skin. Over the last decade, however, studies have shown that these chemicals have a harmful effect on our marine life, coral, and coral reefs. Also, it doesn’t take a lot of chemical exposure to cause harm. According to studies by the National Park Service, between 4000 and 6000 tons of sunscreen wash off into oceans and may contaminate coral reefs yearly. In fact, prior to COVID-19, Hanauma Bay alone had over 400 lbs. of sunscreen in its waters per day! Gross!
Do these banned chemicals affect my body?
With all these studies about how oxybenzone and octinoxate affect marine life, the next question is: do these chemicals affect us? Currently, most research indicates that these chemicals are being absorbed into our bloodstream, sometimes in higher quantities than FDA recommendations, but there isn’t enough information to show if or how this affects us positively or negatively. Since it’s an unknown, do what you think is best for you and your family.
All this sunscreen information is overwhelming. Why bother wearing sunscreen at all?!
Oh, my goodness. I’ve actually had this conversation more than once, and it always surprises me, but I guess having lived in Minnesota and talking to my Mom from her ’70s Hawaiian tanning oil days), I shouldn’t be surprised. Bottom line: Please wear sunscreen and/or UPF protective wear, regardless of your skin type or coloring. More melanin in your skin does NOT make you immune to sunburns and skin cancer!
Hawaii usually has pretty nice weather, but even when it’s not “hot,” the sun is still strong. What I mean is the UV index in Hawaii is always on the higher side due to our proximity to the equator, so even in the winter months or when it’s overcast and looks like rain, you can still get sunburned. Many sites recommend at least SPF 30, but I STRONGLY recommend sunscreens with SPF 50 or higher in Hawaii. And, yes, if you’re outdoors on your vacation in Hawaii, you can still get a nice tan while wearing SPF 50+ (while hopefully avoiding painful sunburn, blisters, and peeling skin). Also, when you’re at the beach, remember that the sun reflects off the water and back on you, okay? Make sure you reapply sunscreen every 60-80 minutes as recommended.
Is banning sunscreen ingredients kinda weird?
Hmm, I’m not sure, but since Hawaii has banned oxybenzone and octinoxate in sunscreens, the Florida Keys and multiple other international locations have followed suit. Of course, more factors contribute to destroying coral reefs and marine life, but that slick of sunscreen floating across our beaches doesn’t help. Also, wearing reef-safe sunscreens is something we can control and actively do to help out our ocean ecosystems. All locations with bans on specific sunscreen ingredients noticed the rapid decline of their marine ecosystems prior to enforcing a sunscreen ban. In addition, many of these locations rely heavily on tourism and are vested in keeping their waters beautiful and healthy.
What is coral bleaching, and how does it affect coral reefs?
Coral reefs support about 25% of ocean life, even though they only occupy about 1% of the ocean floor. Hawaiian coral reefs support more than 7000 species of fish and other sea creatures, sea turtles, marine mammals, and ocean birds. Coral bleaching doesn’t kill the coral, but it affects its health, makes it more susceptible to diseases, and hinders repair after damage, protection from rising sea temperatures, pollution, etc. Other factors that affect coral reefs are plastic pollution, global warming, and destructive fishing practices.
For more info about the relationship between sunscreens and coral reefs, check out this video (I first found this on the website for Hanauma Bay): https://youtu.be/aGP9loQ0dqs
How do sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide protect my skin?
Sunscreens with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide protect your skin from UV sun damage by creating physical barriers to block UV rays from damaging your skin. These sunscreens are usually labeled as mineral sunscreens. While chemical sunscreens might feel greasy or oily, mineral sunscreens may feel thick or sticky when applied (think diaper cream) and may be harder to remove when you shower. Some brands may also leave a white cast on your skin. Many sunscreen brands now offer sunscreens with a blend of chemical and mineral ingredients – for many who dislike the texture or feel of a completely mineral-based sunscreen. Check reviews if you are ordering online (I also use YouTube a lot) when selecting a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. And if it helps, know that you are helping to preserve Hawaii’s coral reefs so you can enjoy them the next time you visit Hawaii.😉👍🏻🏝️
What is the best way to apply sunscreen?
The best thing to do is read the label. It’ll tell you when you should apply the sunscreen and how often. For example, physical/mineral sunscreens work as soon as you apply them, but chemical sunscreens usually take time to absorb into your skin, so you must apply them 20 minutes before you go out. Make sure to reapply your sunscreen as well, typically every 90-120 minutes. Forgetting to reapply was probably the cause of 90% of our family’s sunburns. Sunscreens lose their effectiveness over time, get rubbed off when you towel dry, or wash off when you are swimming or sweating – remember to reapply sunscreen!
Also, remember to apply sunscreen on these often-forgotten spots:
- Ears
- Back of the neck
- Lips
- Tops of feet
- Bottom of feet (especially if you’re snorkeling or sunbathing) <<< A friend told me about this one from her experience!
- Backside (especially if you’re snorkeling or sunbathing)
- Close to your hairline
- Areas on your head exposed by balding or thinning hair
Should I avoid any other sunscreen ingredients?
In addition to the banned ingredients – oxybenzone and/or octinoxate (octyl methoxycinnamate) – consider avoiding these ingredients as well: avobenzone, octocrylene, octisalate, homosalate, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, 3-benzylidene camphor, and isopentyl-4-methooxcycinnamate. These ingredients are not part of the “banned” list but are currently being studied for long-term health effects. So far, there are several studies showing the negative impacts of these chemicals on marine life and small animals.
What is SPF? How do I know what SPF to use?
S-P-F stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates the level of protection against sunburns. Basically, the higher the SPF, the higher the sunburn protection. Many Hawaii articles recommend 30, but I always tell my sun-unexposed mainland friends to aim high and go for 50+ SPF when vacationing in Hawaii. Even living in Hawaii, our family always uses 50 SPF or higher. After years of soccer games and swimming lessons, I have to say that SPF 30 – even the “sport” or “water-resistant” types – did nothing to protect my kids from sunburn…and I’m not talking about a mild flush; I mean angry, lobster-red sunburns that sometimes blister and definitely lead to skin-peeling as they heal. To give you an idea of our family weekends, we used SPF 50+ to go to the beach, while on hiking trails, at a poolside BBQ, for swimming lessons, or running around on a soccer field. I even use SPF 50 when we drive because the sun doesn’t care that you’re inside a vehicle, and I’ve sunburnt my arm while stuck in traffic.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t use sunscreen?
Sunscreens are not recommended for infants under 6 months. According to the FDA, infants have a higher chance of getting rashes and experiencing other effects of sunscreens. The FDA and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend keeping infants out of direct sunlight, especially during the hours of 10 AM to 2 PM, and using protective clothing if they are in the sun.
If you are sensitive to sunscreens, there are many options that are fragrance-free and with few chemicals, but I would also consider wearing UV-blocking clothing as much as possible.
Okay, I used SPF 15 and got sunburned. Do you have any tips for after-sun care?
Our daughter with one of her post-sunburn animal sheet masks.
When I was a kid, I would have a bottle of aloe gel in the fridge and put that on my sunburns to soothe them, however, as a parent, I “upgraded” to simple, lightly moisturizing sheet masks (usually the k-beauty kind). They feel awesome on my face, and I can use the excess liquid on my neck, shoulders, and other sunburned spots. Often, by the next day, we would hardly have any sunburn or redness. It was great! I usually keep some in the fridge so that they’ll be nice and cool anytime one of us needs one.
Once, after a long beach weekend with friends, my son showed up at school on Monday minus a sunburn. His friends couldn’t believe that he was no longer as red as they were, while most of them still had red, tight, and sunburned skin. He mentioned our family face mask remedy and brought half a dozen sheet masks to school the next day. I still laugh, imagining all these preteen boys sporting their refrigerated face masks! Hey, whatever works! Anyway, while this isn’t an official, verified way to alleviate sunburns, it’s become a home remedy of sorts for our family, ten years and counting. Plus, they love it!
Okay, I’m overwhelmed. Just gimme some links! Don’t worry; we got you!😉😁
I know this is a lot of information to take in, so below is a list of sunscreens that fit within the reef-safe criteria for Hawaii.🍶
Hawaii-Approved Chemical Sunscreens – No Oxybenzone or Octinoxate
*Note: This list is in no particular order. Some of these options contain other ingredients that are part of an additional proposed ban, but they are still being studied. Please note: not all sunscreens within a brand are Hawaii-approved.
- Alba Botanica Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, Island Vibe
- Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Hawaiian Tropic Everyday Active Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Blue Lizard Active Mineral-Based Sunscreen SPF 50+ (This particular Blue Lizard Sunscreen is a chemical-physical blend)
- Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen (available in lotion and spray)
- Coppertone Sport Sunscreen SPF 50
Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hawaii-MADE Mineral-Based Sunscreens
*This list is not in any particular order. Not all sunscreens are SPF 50+
- Mama KULEANA SPF 30 Reef-Safe Sunscreen https://www.mamakuleana.com/
- Little Hands Tinted Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 35
- Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian SPF 50 Natural Zinc Sunscreen
- Raw Love SPF 35 All Natural Mineral Sunscreen
Last update on 2024-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hawaii-Approved Mineral-Based Sunscreens
*This list is not in any particular order
- Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ **Read labels carefully; this brand also carries chemical sunscreens.
- Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
- All Good Mineral Sport Sunscreen Butterstick SPF 50
- Badger Adventure Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Olita Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Baby Bum Mineral SPF 50
- Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Facestick SPF 50
- COSRX Daily SPF 50 Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen
- Aveeno Baby/Kids Continuous Protection SPF 50
- Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face SPF 50
- Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 70
- RoundLab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50
- Mustela Baby SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
- Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 *tinted
- Alba Botanica Sports Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Banana Boat Kids Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Thrive Regenerative Skincare Bodyshield SPF 50
I tried Organizing the information in the table below, including pricing.
Last update on 2024-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2024-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2024-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last Words
Sunscreen is essential, but don’t stress about it too much! Chemical or mineral – make sure to wear sunscreen and use UPF clothing as much as possible so you can enjoy your whole vacation without sunburns and redness! Most of all, we hope you have an amazing Hawaii vacation❤️☀️. As you can probably tell, the cost varies a lot for all the varieties of sunscreen, so pick something that makes sense for you and your family! Hopefully, with this list, you can grab a couple of bottles, slather up, and focus on the activities you’ll be doing, like hitting the beach, going on food/historic/sightseeing tours, boat rides, or hiking Hawaii’s beautiful scenic trails!
We hope you can find the best sunscreen that works for you and have a great Hawaii vacation! ☀️⛱️
