7 Best CeraVe Sunscreens: Safeguard Your Skin With Top-Rated Protection

Make your sunny days less worrisome by protecting your skin with these SPF soldiers.

Written by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Edited by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Last Updated on

Wearing sunscreen is vital to keep your skin youthful and healthy. It shields the skin from cancer-causing ultraviolet radiation and delays its aging process. Therefore, it is essential to have sunscreen in your skin care arsenal.

CeraVe is a leading skin care brand, offering affordable and dermatologist-recommended solutions to keep sun damage at bay.  It offers a range of sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) between 30 and 50. These sunscreens contain essential ceramides that help restore and maintain your skin barrier. The mineral-based options provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays without irritating your skin. CeraVe’s gentle formulations make sunscreen-induced stinging and hives a thing of the past. In this article, we have curated a list of the 7 best CeraVe sunscreens that you would want to stock up all year long.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best For Sensitive Skin:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 FacePrice on Amazon
Best Hydrating:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 BodyPrice on Amazon
Best Non-Greasy:CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing LotionPrice on Amazon
Best Water-Resistant:CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30 Face & BodyPrice on Amazon
Best Tinted:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer TintPrice on Amazon
Best Travel-Friendly:CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50Price on Amazon
Best Matte Finish:CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30Price on Amazon

7 Best CeraVe Sunscreens: Broad-Spectrum SPF For Healthy And Radiant Skin

1. Best For Sensitive Skin:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face

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CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face creates a protective barrier on your facial skin to prevent the penetration of UVA/UVB rays. It contains physical filters, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that help minimize sun damage. This sunscreen is packed with ceramides 1,3,6-II that restore and strengthen the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid moisturizes your skin while niacinamide calms itchiness. The oil-free formula’s consistency is similar to a hydrating serum that blends seamlessly and feels soothing.

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Pros
  • Dermatologist-developed
  • Suitable for daily use
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Oil-free
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to blend
  • Non-greasy
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free

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Cons
  • May leave a white cast.
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Apply it to one part of your face at a time and massage thoroughly to allow complete product absorption into your skin.

2. Best Hydrating:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Body

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The CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Body is a top-performing formula that provides broad-spectrum protection to your skin. This lightweight formula has a non-greasy feel. This product is packed with three essential ceramides that promote cell regeneration and strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier. It spreads easily on your body and shields your skin against UV damage. This oil-free sunscreen also contains hyaluronic acid that moisturizes and plumps the skin.  

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Pros
  • Gentle formula
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Allergy-tested
  • Chemical filter-free
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • Oil-free
  • Paraben-free

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Cons
  • May take time to absorb into your skin.
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Wear a hat and sun-protective clothing when stepping out in the sun after applying this sunscreen.

3. Best Non-Greasy:CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

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CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen Image: Cerave

The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is formulated with InVisibleZincTM technology that prevents UVA and UVB rays from penetrating your skin. The MVE technology releases moisturizing ingredients on your skin throughout its wear time. The fast-absorbing formula is infused with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that hydrates and soothes your skin. This non-comedogenic lotion is packed with three essential ceramides that boost skin elasticity. It is ideal for outdoor activities and can be teamed up with an eye cream and facial serum. This product is easily absorbed into your skin and does not leave greasy residues. It is allergy-tested, oil-free, and fragrance-free. To know more about the product, check out this honest review on YouTube.

Product Dimensions: 2.31 x 1.13 x 6 inches | Weight: 4.32 Ounces

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Pros
  • Dermatologist-developed
  • Lightweight
  • Allergy-tested
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Clear-finish
  • Oil-free
  • Fragrance-free

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Cons
  • May sting your eyes.
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Do not forget to apply sunscreen to your ears and the back of your neck for complete UV protection.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 4,413 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

4. Best Water-Resistant:CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30 Face & Body

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The CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30 Face & Body offers all-day hydration and shields your skin against UV rays. It is packed with mineral and chemical sun filters that partly absorb and deflect the damaging UVA and UVB rays. The lightweight, oil-free formula is absorbed quickly for a non-greasy finish. This non-comedogenic sunscreen is infused with ceramides and hyaluronic acid that hydrate and strengthen your skin. It is allergy-tested and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

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Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-greasy finish
  • Allergy-tested
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free

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Cons
  • Watery consistency
protip_icon Quick Tip
Squeeze one ounce of the product (approximately the size of a golf ball) and massage it evenly on your body.

5. Best Tinted:CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

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CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint leaves a soft, velvety finish. The lightweight formula with a subtle tint complements all skin tones. This product imparts a hefty dose of hydration and a healthy glow to your skin. It does not leave chalky residue and can be worn alone or under makeup as a tinted primer. This sunscreen is enriched with conditioning ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. This product is free of parabens and oxybenzone. Check this honest review on YouTube to know more about the product usage and features.

Item Weight: 0.16 Pounds | Product Dimensions: 1.13 x 2.7 x 6.14 inches | Weight: 2.57 Ounces

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Pros
  • Dermatologist-developed
  • Suitable for all skin tones
  • Allergy-tested
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Gentle formula
  • Leaves no white cast
  • Unscented
  • Oxybenzone-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free

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Cons
  • The tint may stain clothes.

6. Best Travel-Friendly:CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

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CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is formulated with InVisibleZinc technology that allows the product to spread easily on your skin and impart a clear finish. It contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that combats UVA and UVB rays. The oil-free formula provides water-resistant protection to your skin for 40 minutes. This travel-size sunscreen is loaded with three essential ceramides that strengthen your skin’s natural barrier.

Item Weight: 0.06 Pounds | Product Dimensions: 3.25 x 0.1 x 6.75 inches

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Pros
  • Dermatologist-developed
  • Fast-absorbing formula
  • Non-irritating
  • Residue-free finish
  • Mess-free application
  • Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
  • Oil-free
  • Fragrance-free

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Cons
  • Less quantity for the price.

7. Best Matte Finish:CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

The CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is an oil-free formula that mattifies your skin. The essential ceramides protect your skin’s moisture barrier while hyaluronic acid softens and plumps the skin. This sunscreen moisturizer does not clog your pores and protects your skin against harsh UVA and UVB rays. It is lightweight, dermatologist-developed, and fragrance-free.

Skin Type: Normal to Oily Skin | Item Weight: 50 Milligrams

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Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy
  • Oil-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologist-developed
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free

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Cons
  • May trigger breakouts.

The right Cerave sunscreen can save you from harsh UV rays while combating other skin woes. The wrong type of sunscreen lotion may leave your skin feeling sticky, greasy, or irritated, and not provide the level of sun protection you need. Therefore, it is vital to take the time and find the right Cerave sunscreen. Check the following section to know how to choose the right Cerave sunscreen for your skin type.

How Do I Choose The Right Cerave Sunscreen For My Skin Type And Needs?

  • Dry Skin

Those with dry skin may experience flakiness, tightness, and more noticeable fine lines. Hence, choose Cerave sunscreen with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid that can either exacerbate or combat these issues.

  • Oily/Acne-Prone Skin

People dealing with oily/ acne-prone skin often struggle with flare-ups and clogged pores. Therefore, buy oil-free, non-comedogenic Cerave sunscreen to handle these skin woes. Pick formulas with anti-inflammatory niacinamide to calm stressed skin and fight acne.

  • Sensitive Skin

Choosing a sunscreen for sensitive skin can be challenging. If lots of ingredients upset your skin, you are better off picking a Cerave sunscreen which is labeled as suitable for sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate the skin.

  • Normal Skin

Those who are blessed with normal skin can choose any Cerave sunscreen that offers a luxurious finish without leaving a white residue.

CeraVe sunscreens not only protect your skin against sun damage but also improve its overall health. If you are still not convinced about their effectiveness, check the five compelling reasons why you should make a smooth shift to CeraVe sunscreens.

Benefits Of Using CeraVe Sunscreens

  • Dermatologist-Developed: CeraVe is the no.1 dermatologist-developed skin care brand. All its products are backed by science and they are allergy-tested to ensure skin safety.
  • Broad-Spectrum UV Protection: CeraVe sunscreen offers the ultimate protection from both UVA and UVB rays. These are formulated with physical sun filters, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, that prevent UV rays from coming in contact with the skin.
  • Suitable For Sensitive Skin: Most CeraVe sunscreens are mineral-based formulations. So, they sit on the top of your skin, instead of getting absorbed into it, creating a barrier for UV rays. They are less likely to trigger irritation and redness on sensitive skin.
  • Non-Comedogenic: Whether you opt for CeraVe sunscreen sprays, lotions, or sticks, all of them are non-comedogenic. They do not clog your pores or trigger acne, making them ideal for acne-prone or oily skin.
  • Lightweight: CeraVe sunscreens feel airy light on your skin. They blend easily and do not leave any greasy film on the skin.

Many get confused about how much sunscreen to use, how to put it on, and how often to reapply it. Little mistakes can cause big problems, thus preventing you from getting the protection promised on the bottle. Hence, we have shared a quick step-by-step guide to using CeraVe sunscreens to protect your skin during the day.

How To Use A CeraVe Sunscreen

  • Start with dry skin. Remember that CeraVe sunscreens are mineral-based; hence, they do not go well on wet skin. Therefore, wait for a few minutes after applying your moisturizer to ensure it is going on dry skin.
  • The amount of sunscreen used matters a lot to achieve the SPF reflected on a bottle. Apply approximately two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin. If you are using a sunscreen stick, ensure to apply it two times on the area being treated.
  • Make sure to apply the product evenly on your face, ears, neck, shoulders, and the backs of your hands. Ask somebody or use a spray formula to apply SPF to your back.
  • Reapply the sunscreen after every two to three hours, irrespective of the SPF. It is simply because no matter how much you have applied, it wears off after a few hours, especially if you are sweating.

The Bottom Line

Using sunscreen daily is imperative to maintain your skin health and prevent dullness, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. Daily exposure to UVA and UVB rays can damage the DNA of your skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen blocks the UV rays from penetrating your skin and improves your skin’s strength. The best CeraVe sunscreens are loaded with essential ceramides that fortify the skin barrier and maintain its moisture levels. While the CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face has a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that soothes the skin and strengthens its moisture barrier, the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion provides broad-spectrum sun protection for all skin types and helps boost skin elasticity. These power-packed formulas are tried and tested by dermatologists, which is why you can rely on them. The above list comprises a vast selection of SPF products. Some are suitable for the face, while some are ideal for the body. So choose one according to your needs and provide your skin the best protection it deserves.

Why Trust Stylecraze?

The author of the article, Medha Deb, is a skin care enthusiast. She has conducted hours of research before listing the best CeraVe sunscreens that you can count on. She has taken into account various factors, including SPF level, effectiveness, price, and user reviews before adding a product to the list. She has also studied skin specialists’ opinions on all the products to ensure listing only skin-safe formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can CeraVe sunscreen be used on both the face and body?

Certain CeraVe sunscreens like the CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face are suitable for facial use, while some sunscreens like the CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Body are suitable for use on the body. However, CeraVe also offers sunscreens suitable for both body and face, like the CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30 Face & Body.

Is CeraVe Sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin and individuals with skin conditions like acne or rosacea?

Yes. CeraVe sunscreens are mineral-based formulations, free of fragrances, parabens, and other toxins. So, they are safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin with rosacea. However, it is recommended to conduct a patch test before using the product on your skin to detect allergic reactions.

How often should I apply CeraVe Sunscreen for optimal sun protection?

Apply CeraVe sunscreens every two hours for optimal sun protection if you are outdoors or are swimming or sweating. Whereas, apply it once, if you are indoors away from the windows.

Does CeraVe Sunscreen leave a white cast or greasy residue on the skin?

Yes. CeraVe mineral sunscreens are enriched with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that may leave a slight white cast on your skin. Massage the product well onto your skin to mitigate white cast.

Can CeraVe Sunscreen be applied under makeup?

Yes. CeraVe sunscreens like the CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint are lightweight and non-greasy. They dry quickly on the skin and can act as primers.

Is CeraVe Sunscreen water-resistant and suitable for outdoor activities or swimming?

Yes. CeraVe sunscreens, like CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30 Face & Body and CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 are water-resistant for up to 80 and 40 minutes respectively. Therefore, they can be used for outdoor activities or swimming.

Is CeraVe SPF 50 a mineral or chemical sunscreen?

The CeraVe SPF 50 is a 100% mineral-based sunscreen that forms a protective barrier on your skin to shield it against UVA and UVB rays.

Is CeraVe sunscreen good for oily skin?

Yes. CeraVe sunscreens are oil-free and they do not leave greasy residues, making them ideal for oily skin.

Is CeraVe sunscreen reef-safe?

Yes. CeraVe sunscreens are free of chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs. They do not contain oxybenzone or benzene, so they are reef-safe.

Is CeraVe sunscreen non-comedogenic?

Yes, CeraVe sunscreens are non-comedogenic. They do not clog your pores and trigger breakouts.

Can I use CeraVe sunscreen during pregnancy?

Yes. Mineral-based CeraVe sunscreens are safe to use during pregnancy. They are enriched with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on your skin instead of getting absorbed into it. So, these sunscreens do not affect your and your baby’s health.

Does CeraVe sunscreen have parabens?

No. CeraVe sunscreens are free of parabens.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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Aditi Naskar
Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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