CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 Review

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
2.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
0.6 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
50
SPF icon
SPF
Ingredients

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Zinc Oxide, Paraffin, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Ozokerite, Dimethicone, Beeswax, Polyethylene, Cetyl Alcohol, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, BHT, Carbomer, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Isostearic Acid, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Xanthan Gum
Review

Does CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 2.0 out of 10.
✅ Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

  

Key Benefits of CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50:
 

🔵 Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 2.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a low humectancy of 0.6 out of 10 and a moderate occlusivity of 3.3 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Paraffin (est. ≈3.0%) and Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax (est. ≈2.0%).

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

☀️☀️☀️ Very High Sun Protection for Prolonged Sun Exposure, All Skin Types, and High-risk Conditions

With an SPF of 50, CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 provides very high sun protection, suitable for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, beach vacations, or high-altitude environments.

This level of SPF blocks 98% or more of UVB rays, offering the highest level of defense against sunburn. Broad-spectrum formulations also provide strong protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and DNA damage.

📌 For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF is ideal for all skin types, particularly fair, sensitive, or post-treatment skin (e.g., after laser or chemical procedures). It is also highly recommended for individuals at greater risk of skin cancer.

For extended outdoor activities or water exposure, choose a water-resistant formula and reapply every two hours for maximum effectiveness.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ As a Standalone Moisturizer, It Has Relatively Low Moisturizing Potential

If you use CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 for moisturizing purposes, please keep in mind that it provides relatively light moisturizing on its own, and, more importantly, it’s not optimal for any skin type.

On one hand, it has low occlusivity, which suits oily and combination skin. On the other hand, it has a low estimated concentration of humectants, which are essential for effective moisturizing of all skin types, including oily skin.

Therefore, if used as a standalone moisturizer, this product should be paired with a humectant-rich moisturizer for optimal skin hydration.

Pros & Cons of CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine
✅ Provides very high sun protection, ideal for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude environments, and beach vacations, suitable for all skin types
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Minimal moisturizing efficacy, even for oily skin - something to keep in mind if this is the only moisturizer in your routine
   

Summary: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
, as a moisturizer, provides relatively light hydration on its own but can enhance the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine.
 
With an SPF of 50, CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 delivers very high sun protection, perfect for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude settings, and beach vacations, and suitable for all skin types.
 
That said, there are some things about CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 worth noting.
 
If you use CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 as your primary moisturizer, please keep in mind that it provides only light hydration, which isn’t actually ideal for any skin type. While its low occlusivity may work for oily and combination skin, it lacks sufficient humectants, which are vital for effective hydration of any skin type. Therefore, for optimal moisturizing results, it should be paired with a humectant-rich moisturizer.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
10
9.9
6
4.7
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Paraffin
Function:
Origin:
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Function:
Origin:
Ozokerite
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Beeswax
Function:
Origin:
Polyethylene
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide AP
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide EOP
Function:
Origin:
Cholesterol
Function:
Origin:
Phytosphingosine
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.6
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
2.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 0.6 10
0.6
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.6 20
3.3
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
2.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
All humectants 0.6 10
0.6
All humectants
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
2
1
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 6.6 20
3.3
All occlusives
6.6
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
BHT
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %55
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %10
Function
Origin
Butyloctyl SalicylateA synthetic emollient and solvent. It is primarily used as a carrier oil to disperse minerals in, including pigments and sunscreen minerals. It can also absorb UV light, thus boosting the SPF of sunscreen products.
Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate
Est. %9.9
Function
Origin
Neopentyl Glycol DiethylhexanoateNeopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate is a blend of neopentyl glycol, an organic chemical compound used in production of lubricants, and hexanoic fatty acid. The ingredient has similar properties to its brother - Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate. It also serves as an emollient or a formula thickness adjuster.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %4.7
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Paraffin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
ParaffinParaffin is a petroleum-based, very oily, emollient and extremely occlusive mixture of purified hydrocarbons, also known as mineral oil. Depending on the molecule's size, it can either be a liquid, a solid, or anything in between. To learn more about liquid paraffin and its effects on our skin, read here.
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) WaxA thick wax obtained from the stems of the Candelilla, or wax plant that is native to Mexico and the southern USA. Its stems are covered in wax to protect the plant from water loss. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient.
Ozokerite
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
OzokeriteA petroleum based wax that comes in a variety of forms, all with different melting points and therefore different performance and feel. Overall ozokerite is often used for solid products like lipsticks.
Dimethicone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Beeswax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BeeswaxA waxy substance made by bees while they are building their honeycombs. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient with wound healing and antimicrobial properties similar to those of honey. Its bleached, purified form is called Cera alba.
Polyethylene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyethyleneCommonly used in dense plastic packaging, its primary function in skincare is as a film-forming agent, which protects the product from being easily rinsed away by water or sweat. It also controls viscosity by increasing the thickness of oily products.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
Ceramide NP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NPAlso known as ceramide 3, it is the most common ceramide in our skin. It helps to restore the skin’s lipid barrier and alleviate the symptoms of dry and cracked skin. Research has shown that skin suffering from conditions such as AD lacks ceramides.
Ceramide AP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide APPreviously called Ceramide 6 II, Ceramide AP is one of the most common ceramides in the skin. Research has shown that dry, flaky skin has significantly less Ceramide AP. Its application helps to treat dry skin by restoring balance in the skin lipids.
Ceramide EOP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide EOP

Formerly called Ceramide 1, this ingredient is a skin-identical wax-like lipid with an ultra-long fatty acid chain. It restores and stabilizes the skin’s lipid matrix and helps to treat dry and flaky skin, especially when combined with other ceramides.

Cholesterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CholesterolAn emollient and important barrier repairing lipid, effective when combined with fatty acids and ceramides. Around 25% of the skin’s lipid layer is made up of cholesterol and it is found in the membrane of every single cell in our body.
Phytosphingosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhytosphingosineA key component of ceramides NP, AP, and EOP. It has barrier repair properties and stimulates the production of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor. Phytosphingosine has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, which can be used to treat acne.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Aluminum Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum HydroxideA white mineral powder, also known as alumina, that is derived from aluminum metal. It is frequently used as an abrasive in exfoliating products and as a thickener. Aluminum oxide is also a great opacifier.
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Isostearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isostearic AcidA saturated fatty acid used to mix oil and water and to remove dirt from the skin's surface. Isostearic acid is listed among common comedogenic ingredients by acne.org.
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Lauroyl LactylateA multifunctional ingredient that produces foamy cleansers and allows oil and water to mix.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.