The molecule I chose to create a model for is oxybenzone, an exceedingly prevalent and harmful active ingredient in sunscreen and other cosmetic products. Oxybenzone is utilized in sunscreen as it absorbs UVB and UVA waves before they reach skin – it is capable of absorbing waves with wavelengths of 270 to 350 nanometers. UVB waves exist in a wavelength of 280 to 315 nanometers and are reputable for causing skin cancer. As it is the summer and many people choose to participate in fun-filled ocean events, sunscreen is important to prevent the harmful affects of UVB exposure. When choosing a sunscreen, it is advised to stay away from those that include oxybenzone. Despite its ubiquity in skincare products, oxybenzone is harmful to coral reefs. Oxybenzone is toxic to coral and can cause bleaching, disfigurement, damage to DNA, and damage to reproductive abilities. While current damage to coral reefs can also be largely accredited to climate change and overall pollution, we should do our best to keep any more harmful toxins out of the water.

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