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Sunscreen for Body SPF 50 is a revised, water-resistant version of CeraVe's previous attempt at a full sun care line (beyond its original SPF 30 moisturizer). With one caveat that we'll get to in a moment, this formula and its SPF 30 counterpart are a big improvement. Those with normal to dry skin, take note: This SPF product is worth a try!
Let's begin with the positives: This smooth, fragrance-free lotion glides on and provides gentle, mineral-based broad spectrum sun protection from titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Like its predecessor, it also contains a brilliant mix of skin-repairing ceramides along with the cell-communicating ingredient niacinamide, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and a smattering of research-proven anti-irritants.
The latter is why we're still rating this facial sunscreen highly despite the fact that the formula now contains a preservative (methylisothiazolinone) known to be sensitizing in leave-on products (Dermatitis, 2015; and Medycyna Pracy 2014). It's the primary preservative in this formula, so even though it appears second-to-last on the list, it's probable the amount used is a bit more than when this preservative is used as part of a blend with other effective preservatives (like phenoxyethanol).
The good news is that the overall formula and its soothing agents is exceptionally gentle, so we're confident that the methylisothiazolinone poses a much lower risk than it typically does, hence our three-star rating for this product. We should note that this formula can be used on the face or body, as it's remarkably similar (in both ingredients, texture, finish, and application) to its facial counterpart, CeraVe's Sunscreen for Face SPF 50.
Last, the mineral actives leave only a slight white cast—not quite as good as the SPF 30 version of tis product, but that stands to reason given the SPF 50's higher amount of actives. This sunscreen blends remarkably well, without a heavy, pasty feel—something we cannot say for every SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen! Overall, it's an impressive formula whose price is more than fair give the powerhouse formula that keeps skin (including around the eyes) beautifully protected.
Pros:
- Provides broad spectrum sun protection.
- Contains a very good mix of repairing ingredients and antioxidants.
- The mineral actives don't leave a strong white cast.
Cons:
- Contains a preservative known to be sensitizing when used in leave-on products.
High performance, water resistant sunscreen, suitable for all skin types. Its perfect for daily use on even the most sensitive skin.
CeraVe At-A-Glance
This expanding collection of skincare products keeps things gentle and effective with fragrance-free formulas, many of which are more state-of-the-art than any other product in its price range or pricier versions at the drugstore. In short, this line is a real find!
CeraVe uses a delivery system the company refers to as Multivesicular Emulsion Technology, which releases key ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid over a period of several hours. Although this technology is undoubtedly helpful, such time-delayed delivery systems aren't unique to CeraVe, and the fact remains that most of the ingredients they use are very helpful on their own, no matter what delivery system you use.
The important point is that ongoing, consistent use of this kind of moisturizer designed to repair the skin's barrier function will result in smoother, softer, healthier skin.
It is for these reasons that most CeraVe products are definitely worth considering, especially at this price. You'll find a options for moisturizing, cleansing, broad spectrum sun protection, and baby care.
For more information about CeraVe, purchased by L'Oreal in 2017, visit www.cerave.com.
About the Experts
The Beautypedia team consists of skin care and makeup experts personally trained by the original Cosmetics Cop and best-selling beauty author, Paula Begoun. We’re fascinated by skin care and makeup products and thrilled when they meet or exceed our expectations, but we’re also disappointed when they fail to perform as claimed, are wildly overpriced, or contain ingredients scientific research has proven can hurt skin.
Our mission has always been to help you find the best products for your skin, no matter your budget or preferences. Beautypedia’s thorough and insightful reviews cut through the hype and provide reliable recommendations for all ages, skin types, and skin tones.
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