HAWAII — Earlier this week, Hawaii passed a bill to ban sunscreen containing the common chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, Gizmodo reported.<br /><br />The bill follows research suggesting sunscreen with such chemicals that don't stick to human skin can hurt coral.<br /><br />Oxybenzone and octinoxate can cause genetic damage to coral and other organisms living under the ocean. <br /><br />However, mineral sunscreen that uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are still allowed as they block the UV rays while remaining environmentally friendly.<br /><br />Look for labels that say "naturally-sourced" and "fragrance free" and check the ingredients.<br /><br />In a response to the bill, Hawaii senator Mike Gabbard said he believes Hawaii is doing the right thing by banning chemical-based sunscreen, he also added the bill will make a huge difference in protecting coral reefs, marine life, and human health.
