Holland & Barrett becomes the first major retailer in the UK to ban chemical sunscreen
Holland & Barrett has announced that it becomes the first major retailer in the UK to ban chemical sunscreen, making its suncare range reef safe.
Over 14,000 tonnes of sun cream washes into the ocean each year causing pollution that harms wildlife and habitats. Chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, both often found in suncream, have been linked to this damage.
All products containing ocean-damaging ingredients (including Oxybenzone & Octinoxate) will now be banned from all stores nationwide, and online, and the retailer will be offering only 100% mineral formulas.
Developed by experts, the light, liquid formula is easy to apply, leaves a little trace and offers hydrating properties. The range comes in SPFs 15, 30 and 50 in packaging made from recycled plastic.
Jo Cooke, Beauty Trading Director at Holland & Barrett, said: “As a business that cares about the wellness of people and our planet, we’re constantly looking at ways to help make beauty shopping more sustainable. When countries started banning chemical suncare ingredients we felt we had to act too. This move gives our beauty customers a range where they do not have to make a choice between being environment safe or skin safe in the sun.”
Nicola Bridge, Head of Ocean Advocacy & Engagement at the Ocean Conservation Trust, said: “We are really excited to hear that Holland & Barrett is taking this huge step to support a thriving Ocean. Everyone can make simple changes in their daily lives to help protect our Ocean and we recommend using sustainable sunscreen as a great way to keep yourself and the Ocean safe. Hopefully other retailers will be inspired to do the same for the health of our Ocean.”
