Because chemicals in some sunscreens can wash off our bodies and harm coral and other marine life, the County of Maui passed Ordinance No. 5306 that bans the sale, distribution and use of non-mineral sunscreens without a prescription. 

Starting on October 1, 2022, only mineral sunscreens will be allowed in the County.

To help protect Maui County reefs, choose only mineral sunscreens made with ‘non-nanotized’ zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—natural mineral ingredients. Since no sunscreen is completely waterproof or effective, the first line of defense in protecting your skin is avoiding peak times (between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm), seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing such as hats, long-sleeved shirts and sunglasses or rash guards and wetsuits in the water.

Hawai’i is one of the most isolated archipelagos on earth and our coral reefs are home to unique marine life found nowhere else on the planet.

Here in Maui County, reefs are not only extremely important habitats, they are fundamental to the marine economy. Coral reefs also provide us with places for recreation and longstanding Hawaiian cultural practices. Reefs buffer us against waves, storms and floods which helps prevent property damage, erosion and loss of life.

Mahalo for protecting yourself and Maui County’s reefs!