As we advance in technology and progress as a human race, we seem to discover the new “do’s” and “don’ts” just about every week. Whether it’s from medical science or environmental enthusiasts, we look towards answers for self or eco improvement.
Whether you have read the articles, watched on tv, or overheard from popular discussion, the word is out that our planet is in danger. It has become a global favored topic that has raised awareness and debate throughout the population and become an increased trend amongst the young generation and those who simply care.
Don’t get me wrong, I love the increased consciousness of our planet, the acknowledgment of the threat it is under, and the sustainable substitutions created and put into action instead of our problematic human ways. But like any other issue concerning our planet and it’s inhabitants, it is without a doubt that money hungry companies will find a way to profit off of it. It is important to not just read the label, but read the ingredients.
Between the salty sea and the harsh rays of the sun, your natural beachy waved hair can quickly turn into a dry, fried, and bleached mess leaving your hair dresser very upset. Hair companies are constantly coming up with products to save the day, but aren’t always cooperative with the environmental safety factors so here is what you need to know: natural is best! The less man made ingredients, the better. Like I said before, read the labels.
So what ingredients do we want to avoid?
Ingredients you want to avoid are Sulfate, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Avobenzone, butylparaben, and Cyclomethicone. These products have been scientifically tested and have been proven to be harmful to coral reefs through bleaching, toxicity to fish, and more. It is important to also look for ones that are biodegradable and don’t wash off easily in the water. Now, whilst saying that the best thing you can do is avoid this chemicals altogether. Sometimes it is hard to have access to these products which I understand. So as ever, do your best.
What are the choices then?
After some research for what brand of hair products I would like to purchase I came up with a few options which is great to know there are different types out there to choose from.
One I particularly love is Reef Repair which actually has shampoo bars and conditioner bars so no plastic packaging. How great is that! All natural ingredients and kid safe too.
Another tested product is Gnarly head which has some selection of hair care products including shampoos, conditioners and spritzers.
A third one is Stream2Sea. Being biodegradable, affordable, and all natural, the conditioner consists of Green Tea, Tulsi, Wakame and Olive Leaf. It’s a great option to think about.
So before your next day on the water, whether you’re hitting the beach or strapping on a BCD, keep in mind that your personal decisions matter. Up to 14,000 tons of harmful sunscreen is exposed to the reef every year and contributing to the fatal destruction of coral. Your every day choices contribute to our planet’s future and these small yet incredibly important environmental efforts make the world of a difference. The common misconception is that we have to sacrifice our personal self care to save the planet when the reality is that we can have both. Read the labels, make the change, and scuba on.