Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen in Mexico: Sun Protection Rules and Tips
Planning your beach vacation to Playa del Carmen, and wondering what to bring to stay cool and protected from the sun?
In Playa del Carmen, we are lucky to enjoy year round sunshine mixed with a sunny warm Caribbean climate. If you are coming from Canada, the US or Europe, the sun might feel more intense here, than at home. We are located at 20° North latitude which means Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, and Tulum are all situated closer to the equator so we get strong sun rays all year long.
Some people assume overcast days are safe, but up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds. Even on the occasional grey day the UV index is still quite high. This means that without proper sun protection you can burn within 10-15 minutes of exposure, especially if you are not accustomed to the sun. That’s why even “mild” days in the Caribbean can result in a nasty sunburn, if you aren’t properly prepared.
Fast Facts:
- Only 80% of sunscreens are actually reef safe
- 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen end up in our waterways each year
- 25% of the sunscreen you put on will wash off
- Chemical sunscreens are also considered toxic for our bodies
Frequently Asked Questions
First off let's look at some common questions around sunscreen and clear up any misinformation.
“I am flying to Cancun, will customs confiscate my sunscreen?”
No, your sunscreen will not be confiscated by customs.
You might have heard from other travelers that sunscreen is prohibited, however It is not illegal to bring sunscreen into Mexico and there are no country wide bans on sunscreen. However, there are rules in place to protect natural environments from sunscreen contaminants.
For environmental and health reasons it is recommended to bring mineral sunscreen that is labeled biodegradable or reef safe, as most marine parks and nature reserves restrict chemical sunscreens.
“Am I allowed to use sunscreen at my hotel or resort?”
Yes, you are allowed to use sunscreen at your hotel or resort.
We have not heard of any hotels banning sunscreen. However, eco-conscious resorts may require biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen and will confiscate or prohibit non-biodegradable products.
Chemical sunscreens, spray sunscreens or those containing oxybenzone and octinoxate may not be permitted. We recommend checking with your hotel or host in advance to be sure you are adhering to best practices.
We have even heard of some hotels offering complimentary reef safe sunscreen in the hotel rooms or pool area for their guests!
Remember always check with your hotel first!
“Can I wear sunscreen on tours?”
Yes, you can wear it for the tour but please don’t bring it with you.
For all of our tours we ask that you put your sunscreen on before leaving your accommodations and opting for sun protecting clothing. Many of the marine parks and nature reserves do not permit you to bring in your own sunscreen. As a reminder, if you do use sunscreen, please choose biodegradable or reef safe sunscreen.
“Is sunscreen permitted for snorkeling in Cenotes?”
It depends on the cenote.
Cenotes are magical and delicate water environments. Unlike the sea they are fresh water and sunscreen can be particularly damaging for cenote ecosystems. Some cenote parks will ask guests to shower and remove layers of sunscreen before entering.
For all our tours we recommend that you choose sun protecting clothing as your first line of defense against the strong sun rays.
“Can I wear sunscreen diving?”
Yes, but please stick to biodegradable or reef safe sunscreen.
As with all water sports and activities in the Mayan Riviera it is recommended that you stick to reef safe or biodegradable sunscreen. As you will be mostly covered up during diving, wearing sunscreen under your wetsuit might be more uncomfortable than anything. We recommend choosing sun protecting clothing, bring a hat and sunglasses for the boat and a buff if you want to protect your face from sun exposure.
“Where can I buy Biodegradable Sunscreen in Mexico?”
Biodegradable and reef safe sunscreen are available everywhere!
In Playa del Carmen, and throughout the Mayan Riviera you can easily purchase sunscreen at pharmacies, convenience stores, supermarkets and hotels.
The prices might seem more expensive than at home. The average price is around $500 MXN (approximately $28 USD) per bottle. Always check the labels for the terms “biodegradable” or “reef safe”, if you are unsure check with a sales person.
At Xico Dive Shop we stock Stream2Sea Reef Safe Products. From mask defog, shampoo, conditioner, lip balm and sunscreen we have a full variety of reef safe personal care products for your vacation.
Coral Care Sunscreen, the only sunscreen specifically designed to promote coral growth.
You can purchase these products in store, or you can shop online and have them delivered anywhere in Mexico. We even do hotel deliveries, so you can keep enjoying your vacation, while we deliver your sunscreen directly to you, completely worry free!
Tips for Sun Safety
Sun protection is a multilayered approach.
Sunscreen is just one option for sun protection, but the most effective option is choosing sun protecting clothing. Sun-protective clothing is the simplest way to stay safe; unlike sunscreen, you never need to reapply! It also absorbs or blocks harmful UV radiation and remains one of the most effective forms of protection against sun damage and skin cancer.
When you are out and about you will want to cover up. Remember that the reflection from water, sand, and even white buildings can increase UV exposure. Whether you are on the beach or dive boat, you’re exposed to the sun and the reflection. This is why you might burn more easily in the water even though you don’t feel the intensity of the sun.
At Xico Dive Shop we have a huge selection of sun protecting clothing and gear to help you find the perfect look for your adventures. Our goal is to ensure that you have a safe and fun vacation.
Xico Dive Shop’s Top Picks for Sun Protection
Coral Care SPF 30 Sunscreen: $500 MXN
Protect your skin and the ocean with Coral Care SPF 30 Sunscreen, the first sunscreen that actually helps coral thrive! Packed with natural nutrients and minerals loved by coral farmers, this gentle formula shields you from UVA and UVB rays while giving coral a boost of up to 21% healthy growth. Safe for you, safe for the seas.
Tinted Daily Hydration BB Cream: $450 MXN
Keep your skin happy and protected with Stream 2 Sea's Tinted Daily Hydration BB Cream! This 3-in-1 beauty balm hydrates, shields with SPF, and adds a natural tint that suits most skin tones. It’s fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and gentle enough for sensitive skin. Plus, it’s free from SLS, parabens, preservatives, and artificial fragrances, safe for you and the environment. Perfect for adventurers who want effortless glow and protection every day!
Diving Buffs: $100 MXN
Protect your hair and face from sun exposure, with these microfiber dive buffs. Cover your face on the boat or protect your hair while diving with these lightweight, breathable microfiber buffs.
Hooded Dry Fit Sun Protecting Shirt: $700 MXN
This soft hooded shirt offers SPF 50+ protection, made from a breathable blend of 88% polyester and 12% elastane, proudly made in Mexico. Its long silhouette can be styled as a dress, featuring a kangaroo pocket and thumb hole cuffs for added comfort and functionality. Designed to provide SPF 50+ sun protection for all your sun soaked adventures.
Available in Men's and Women's Styles in multiple colors.
Eagle Ray Sea Leggings: $1600 MXN
Looking to skip the bulky wetsuit while staying warm and protected? We have got the perfect look for your next underwater adventure. Our ocean inspired Sea Leggings provide warmth and support while looking great. High-waisted with streamlined leg design and integrated pockets for your gadgets. Choose between the vibrant blue whale shark print or the classic black eagle ray design.
Bonassi Bahia Shorty Boots 3mm: $1300 MXN
Neoprene shoes provide sun protection because neoprene is resistant to UV radiation. Neoprene is a great blocker from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, offering protection for your feet and ankles, which can be especially helpful for activities like surfing, diving, or walking on a sunny beach.
The Bonassi 3mm short booties are perfect for tropical diving conditions, offering just enough insulation to keep your feet comfortable without overheating. The low-cut design makes them easy to slip on and off, especially when pairing with full-foot fins or using them for snorkeling, freediving, or boat diving.
BONUS!
Stream2Sea Soothing Sun and Sting Gel: $300 MXN
If you missed the boat on sun protection and are already suffering from overexposure to the sun, we have an all natural solution that smells great and cools and soothes irritated skin.
Soothe your skin’s sun-kissed and bug-bitten moments with Stream 2 Sea´s Sun and Sting Gel! Packed with a lively mix of Green Tea, Tulsi, Wakame, and Olive Leaf antioxidants, this greaseless gel zips right in to cool and calm. Aloe and Green Tea team up to speed healing, while cinnamon bark, lavender, and tea tree oils bring quick relief. Feel the fast-absorbing magic as it cools and refreshes your skin, making those pesky sunburns and stings a thing of the past!
Final Thoughts
Nothing ruins a vacation faster than red sore peeling skin. Staying sun smart doesn't have to ruin your vacation. Respect the rules of the sea and the cenotes, opt for sun protecting clothing and try to avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours.
Remember to visit us on Calle Flamingos in Playa del Carmen, for all your sun protection needs!