Our Ingredients
The science behind reef-safe, mineral-based sun protection
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen
Understanding why we chose mineral-based formulations for every Ocea product.
Mineral Sunscreen
- Sits on top of skin, reflects UV rays
- Immediate protection upon application
- Reef-safe and ocean-friendly
- Safe for sensitive skin and babies
- Uses natural minerals (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide)
- No hormone-disrupting chemicals
- Broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection
- Less likely to cause allergic reactions
Chemical Sunscreen
- Absorbed into skin, converts UV to heat
- Requires 20-30 minute wait after applying
- Contains oxybenzone/octinoxate (harmful to reefs)
- Can irritate sensitive skin
- Uses synthetic chemical filters
- Some ingredients linked to hormonal disruption
- Broad-spectrum protection (varies by formula)
- Higher risk of skin reactions
What Goes Into Ocea
Every ingredient is chosen for its effectiveness and environmental safety.
Zinc Oxide
A natural mineral that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It sits on the skin's surface, physically reflecting harmful rays. Non-nano zinc oxide is reef-safe and gentle on sensitive skin.
Titanium Dioxide
Another natural mineral UV filter that works alongside Zinc Oxide for enhanced protection. Especially effective against UVB rays, it provides a lightweight, non-greasy feel on the skin.
Aloe Vera
A natural moisturiser and skin soother. Aloe Vera hydrates the skin, reduces inflammation, and supports the skin's natural healing process. Essential in our after-sun formulations.
Vitamin A
A powerful antioxidant that supports skin cell renewal and repair. Vitamin A helps protect against premature ageing caused by UV exposure and promotes healthy, radiant skin.
Vitamin C
Brightens skin tone and boosts collagen production. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that neutralises free radicals caused by sun exposure, helping to prevent sun damage at a cellular level.
Vitamin E
Deep moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin E strengthens the skin's barrier function, locks in hydration, and works synergistically with Vitamins A and C for enhanced protection.
Why Reef-Safe Matters
Every year, an estimated 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen enters the world's oceans. Chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been shown to cause coral bleaching, disrupt marine reproductive systems, and damage fragile reef ecosystems.
Ocea uses only mineral UV filters: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These minerals are naturally occurring, non-toxic to marine life, and don't dissolve in water the way chemical filters do. They sit on the skin's surface and physically block UV rays rather than being absorbed into both your skin and the ocean.
By choosing Ocea, you're not just protecting your skin. You're choosing to protect the coral reefs, fish, and marine ecosystems that millions of species and communities depend on.
100%
Reef Safe Formula
Rigorously Tested
Every Ocea formulation undergoes extensive testing to international standards before reaching your hands.
ISO 24443 & 24444
International standards for in-vitro UVA protection assessment and in-vivo SPF determination. Ensuring accurate, reliable sun protection claims.
SANS 1557
South African National Standard for sunscreen products. Comprehensive testing of UV protection, stability, water resistance, and labelling compliance.
Colipa Standard
European Cosmetics Industry standard for sun protection testing. Ensuring our products meet the highest international benchmarks for efficacy and safety.