CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 Review – Best Sunscreen for acne-prone skin

As a skincare enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for the perfect sunscreen. So obviously, CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50, as one most raved sunscreen in skincare, I knew I had to give it a try. 

In the past, I have shared reviews of sunscreens for oily and acne-prone skin and CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 is an extension of the sunscreen reviews from me. But is CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50really worth the investment?

Before I share my personal experience and talk about the ingredients and some controversies surrounding CeraVe, let’s answer some common questions about sunscreen. By answering these questions first, we can understand why it’s important to protect our skin from the sun and how CeraVe sunscreen fits into that.

Brand History of CeraVe

CeraVe boasts a fascinating story, developed in 2005 by Coria Laboratories. A group of expert dermatologists in ingredient formulation design spearheaded its development. They aimed to create a skincare brand enriched with ceramides, driven by the observation that many skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin, shared a common denominator: a compromised skin barrier, which also inspired the ‘Cera’ part of their name.

In 2005, they added three essential ceramides (ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II), fatty acids, and lipids into their products to help repair and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

In 2006, they created the groundbreaking technology MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology (MVE) tech. It slowly releases moisture over 24 hours for soft skin. Combined with ceramides, CeraVe launched its core products: Cream, Lotion, and Cleanser.

In 2008, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International acquired Coria Laboratories, the creator of CeraVe, from its parent company, DFB Pharmaceuticals, and other shareholders for $95 million. This acquisition was part of Valeant’s strategy to expand its footprint in the dermatology and skincare market. Under Valeant’s stewardship, CeraVe emerged as one of the foremost skincare brands in the United States.

In 2017, L’Oréal acquired CeraVe after Valeant divested its skincare brands to L’Oréal for $1.3 billion following a series of drug pricing scandals that shook the moral fabric of American society. As a result, Valeant changed its identity altogether to Bausch.

After L’Oréal acquired CeraVe, the brand reached new heights and became more popular worldwide due to the synergy of both brands.

CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 Review: Is it a Worthwhile Purchase?

Is CeraVe sunscreen tinted?

CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 is not tinted and leaves a slightly chalky residue behind. However, the chalkiness doesn’t bother me much because you can apply a darker compact or a foundation on top to eliminate it. 

For those who prefer to skip spending on BB cream, there’s a tinted version available in SPF 30.

I choose the high SPF due to my sensitive, acne-prone skin, and because I tan easily. Additionally, I’ve realized that for oily skin, the white cast dissipates after a while due to the natural oils on our face.

Is CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 good for oily or acne-prone skin : Is CeraVe  sunscreen SPF 50 good for acne-prone skin 

CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 is a savior for oily and acne-prone skin. Why? Because it contains Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Ceramides (Cera for a reason), which restore skin pH balance. Niacinamide is gold for acne-prone skin as it calms our acne beast and lets it sleep in deep slumber.

Moreover, CeraVe sunscreens are crafted with gentleness in mind. They are great for sensitive skin as well because they are fragrance-free, allergy-tested, oil-free, and non-comedogenic.

So, if you’re dealing with oily or acne-prone skin, CeraVe sunscreen is your new best friend, offering protection and care without any worries.

How to use CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50

Mineral-based UV filters form a protective barrier to reflect UV rays away from the skin’s surface. Because the ingredients in a mineral sunscreen stay on the skin’s surface to protect it, a white cast can sometimes remain after application. Follow these tips to apply your mineral sunscreen:

• Dispense a teaspoon-sized amount onto one palm and rub your hands together.

• Apply to one area of the body at a time and thoroughly massage into the skin.

• Apply it 15 minutes before going out in the sun. (Just to be sure) 

CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 a physical sunscreen or chemical sunblock? 

Let’s clear the air about CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 and its type. 

It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen, meaning it’s a physical sunscreen. This is evident from the UV protectors used in its formula, the white cast it leaves, and the fact that it’s not water-resistant.

The primary UV filters used in it are physical:

• Zinc Oxide
  
  Blocks the widest spectrum of UV light and provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it ideal for protection from daily or intense sun exposure. It’s great for everyday use or when you’re out in strong sunlight.

• Titanium Dioxide

Helps reflect and scatter UVA and UVB rays in mineral-based sunscreens, which helps prevent sunburn and sun damage to your skin.

Although CeraVe recommends applying sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure, physical sunscreens typically offer immediate protection. This advice ensures thorough application for optimal adherence to the skin.

 Is CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 water-resistant?

This sunscreen is not water-resistant. CeraVe clearly states that for swimming, you should use a water-resistant sunscreen. This indicates that it’s not water-resistant. Sunscreens that are not water-resistant are usually physical sunscreens.

CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 suitable for kids?

It is not suitable for children under 6 months of age.

Aicha’s Experience – CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 review ? 

I bought this sunscreen because it’s considered one of the best for sensitive and acne-prone skin, and being a mineral sunscreen, I had to try it.

One of the things I love about it is the skincare ingredients, especially Niacinamide. You know how much I like Niacinamide. These skincare ingredients make it more than just sunscreen, which is great.

One potential issue, especially for females, is that it can leave a white cast. However, I’ve found a solution. You can apply a dark compact powder or a BB cream on top if you’re going out.

If you’re at home, you don’t need much, and personally, I don’t care much about others’ opinions. My skincare is more important to me. 

I don’t want to get any more tanned, and CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 protected my skin from tanning. I’m grateful that this sunscreen worked well with my Indian skin. Remember, it’s best to keep reapplying it if you’re in the sun, as its effectiveness wears off after a while.

Sun Protection Factor – CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 or CeraVe sunscreen SPF 30

I’ve chosen CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50, the highest SPF available, and  provides very high protection against the sun’s harmful rays, which protects around 98% of the UV rays. 

If SPF 30 is your only option, it’s still a good choice as it gives 97% of protection.  One advantage of SPF 30 is that it often comes in a tinted formula compared to SPF 50.

Remember, no sunscreen can offer 100% protection against the sun. CeraVe recommends additional sun protection measures such as staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

Packaging

The sunscreen comes in a compact, easy-to-use tube that is perfect for throwing in your beach bag or purse

Texture & Consistency

It has a medium-thick texture. When you apply this sunscreen, it feels lightweight, smooth, and doesn’t make the skin oily, but it does stick to the face because it is a mineral sunscreen.

Fragrance

It is a fragrance free – non comedogenic product 

CeraVe  sunscreen SPF 50 ingredients

Key Ingredients

One of the key ingredients that sets CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 apart is skincare ingredients like Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramides in the sunblock. 

Its ingredients contain UV filters like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, and one great thing about it is that it’s free of Oxybenzone, a known endocrine disruptor.

Hawaii Compliant: Hawaii Compliant

One common complaint about sunscreens is that their ingredients can harm coral reefs in the ocean, leading to restrictions on certain sunscreens in Hawaii. CeraVe addresses this concern by formulating its sunscreen SPF 50 with an Oxybenzone-free formula, making it compliant with Hawaii regulations and ensuring environmental responsibility.

CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 side effect

When it comes to CeraVe Sunscreen, we have to ask ourselves, “Is it safe?” 

Overall, it’s a good sunscreen, but there’s controversy surrounding one inactive ingredient, aluminum hydroxide. While commonly used in skincare products as a thickening agent or pH adjuster, concerns about its safety have arisen due to potential links to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease when used in antiperspirants. However, these concerns haven’t been definitively proven, and regulatory agencies like the FDA generally recognize its safety depends on its concentration in the product and how it’s used.

CeraVe  sunscreen SPF 50 price

It is sold for around USD 12 or between PKR 5000 – 5500. Given its high quality and innovation, I believe the price tag is justified. Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare products to invest in, as it serves as the first line of defense against the sun.

While its price may seem steep, I always consider it an investment, as this sunscreen lasts for 3-4 months even with daily use. So, it amounts to about $0.1 or PKR 45 per day, which I believe is worth it for sun-protected skin.

Aicha’s Verdict 

8/10 

Is CeraVe  sunscreen SPF 50 worth it ? – Aicha’s recommendation:

Personally, I believe CeraVe sunscreen SPF 50 is worth every penny in terms of effectiveness and value for money for the following reasons:

• It contains skincare ingredients like Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic acid.
• It doesn’t contain Oxybenzone and is recommended for use in Hawaii.
• It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen.
• It’s suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
• It’s approved by the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Use Seal of Approval.

I highly recommend it as one of the best sunscreens I’ve tried so far.

Is CeraVe an Ethical Brand

CeraVe is a part of the L’Oréal group, which has a controversial history and is currently involved in questionable practices. Its founder was linked to a Nazi sympathiser group, La Cagoule and L’Oréal ‘s headquarter was reportedly used for Nazi meetings during World War II. After the war, the founder’s granddaughter, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers married the son of a Rabbi and converted to Judaism, possibly to alleviate pressure from Israeli circles. However, L’Oréal is once again on the wrong side of history, as it has a factory in Migdal Ha’emek, Israel, and supports Israel in the GENOCIDE of the Palestinians.