Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

Sunscreens are over-the-counter products that help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, premature signs of aging, and skin cancer (when used in combination with other sun protection measures).¹

Tinted sunscreens are pigmented sunscreen formulas that can help enhance your skin’s appearance and give it a natural glow. They combine mineral sun filters (such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) with a tinted base (typically a blend of yellow, red, and black iron oxides). This creates a tinted formula that can be blended to match all skin tones. Tinted sunscreens are an effective and convenient way to help protect your skin while providing a more even-toned complexion.

There are two types of sun filters that can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays: chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreens (sometimes known as physical sunscreens). CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint includes two types of mineral sunscreen ingredients: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These ingredients work by forming a protective barrier that remains on the skin’s surface to help reflect UV rays before they can damage your skin. Mineral sunscreens are generally considered to be suitable for many types of skin, including sensitive skin.

Tinted sunscreens offer several benefits. For starters, a tinted sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. When used as directed with other sun protection measures, broad-spectrum SPF 15 tinted sunscreens can help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun (such as dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines).

These products also offer cosmetic benefits that can help improve your skin’s appearance. They can help blur imperfections on the skin’s surface and give your skin a more even-toned appearance. And for those who don’t wear makeup or prefer a more natural makeup look, tinted sunscreen can give your complexion a subtle boost without the need for foundation. Lastly, these pigmented sunscreen products can help minimize the white residue left behind by some mineral sunscreens (known as “white cast”).

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin. Consumers with any skin tone can use this product to help give their skin a natural-looking glow. The formula has a lightweight, non-greasy texture and is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores. Emerging science also suggests that tinted sunscreens containing iron oxide may be beneficial for anyone prone to skin discolorations (“dark spots”) caused by visible light.²

Our tinted facial sunscreen uses mineral-based sun filters and is fragrance-free and allergy-tested, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin. Mineral sun filters, like those included in our tinted sunscreen formula, are typically seen as the ideal choice for sensitive skin. If you experience any skin irritation after use (such as stinging, burning, or itching), stop use and consult a board-certified dermatologist. And remember: Everyone’s sensitive skin is unique, so it’s always important to do a patch test before adding new products to your sensitive skin routine.

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint offers cosmetic benefits that can improve your skin’s radiance. But, with that said, it’s a sunscreen product first and foremost. Its primary purpose is to help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Our tinted sunscreen is also formulated with hydrating ingredients to help maintain your skin’s protective barrier.

When it comes to tinted sunscreen vs. untinted sunscreen, neither is necessarily “better” than the other. As long as you choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher and apply it correctly, both tinted and untinted sunscreens can help protect your skin from UV rays. Choosing the “best” sunscreen product is largely a matter of personal preference. What matters most is that you find the right option for your skin’s unique needs and apply it every day, rain or shine.

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint is a broad-spectrum tinted sunscreen with SPF 30. It should be applied on clean skin every morning as the last step in your daytime skincare routine. For proper sun protection, it’s important to apply this tinted sunscreen per the instructions on the product packaging—at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors. It should also be reapplied at least every two hours during the day. If you wear makeup products, apply them afterwards, once your sunscreen is fully absorbed.

1. “How To Decode Sunscreen Labels.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 19 Jul. 2023.

2. Nathan, Neera, MD, MSHS and Manstein, Dieter, MD, PhD. “Tinted sunscreens: Benefits beyond an attractive glow.” Harvard Health Publishing, 13 Jul. 2020.