We all know about slip, slap slopping to keep our skin protected from the suns rays, especially in the warmer summer months.But have you ever wondered how the chemicals in most sunscreens effect the environment?A new line of suncare products has recently hit the shelves in Bermuda and claims to be environmentally safe 99 percent of the ingredients biodegrade in seawater within 60 to 80 days.Developed by Florida-based Tropical Seas, Inc, Beach Buff Reef Safe sunscreens address concerns about the damage done to coral reefs and marine life by the 4,000 to 6,000 metric tons of toxic sunscreens estimated to wash off swimmers into the oceans every year. By some estimates, this has led to sunscreen-induced bleaching of up to 10 percent of the world’s coral reefs, according to the company.While one of the active ingredients in Reef Safe is titanium dioxide, often used in sunscreens and does not biodegrade, the company uses between 1 to 2 percent titanium dioxide in their higher SPF products. The company says they justify the small use to provide additional UVA protection for the user.The company adds that the Reef Safe sunscreens have been subjected to a comprehensive series of independent laboratory tests to support and authenticate the biodegradability of the lotions. The research found that 99 percent of the material biodegraded in seawater within 60 to 80 days, while no evidence of toxicity to microorganisms and other sea life was detected.Testing of the product was done by an independent ecology laboratory. Water tested was taken from both ocean water and river and lake water.Eventually, the company says, all of the water from lakes, rivers, pools and even around people’s lawns will find its way into the oceans. They add that more than 40 percent of the continental United States drains into the Gulf of Mexico, this then trickles down to Mexico, the Florida Keys and other endangered habitats.Tropical Seas’ research also found that Beach Buff’s waterproof formula allows less than three percent of the product to come off in the ocean.Local supplier AC Brewer, who supplies sunscreens to many of the Island shops, said much of the reason behind bringing it to the Island was the products’ claims of being good for the environment, as well as its affordability.“All the literature we received showed that it was a great product. Everyone talks about the health of the coral reefs and the state of our coral reefs on the Island and it seemed like a good idea,” explains Lynn Brewer, the buyer at AC Brewer. “It was at a great price point, as well, and no more expensive than other product on the market.”Reef Safe suncare products can currently be found in the following locations:Carole Holding Bermuda Shops on Front Street, Clocktower Mall and Fairmont SouthamptonGrotto Bay Hotel Gift ShopPaget Gift ShopCaesar’s PharmacyMakin’ WavesHeel QuickSt David’s Variety