Wearing sunscreen is one precaution you can’t compromise in the 21st century. Scientific reports reveal that 80-90% of skin cancers originate from skin damage associated with unprotected and excess exposure to solar radiation. The ongoing climate change has worsened the situation due to the changes in temperatures and the depletion of the ozone layer.
Following these precautions, such as wearing sunscreen when heading out and minimizing too much exposure to direct sunlight, remain a lifesaver. Wearing sunscreen has many other benefits, such as reversing early signs of aging and protecting against sunburns. But did you know that the sunscreen you put on could be doing too much damage to your skin than good? There are many dangers associated with wearing benzene-containing sunscreens, which has erupted a lot of debate on what brand’s sunscreen contains this harmful chemical. Is the CeraVe brand one of them? Let’s find out below.
What is Benzene?
Before we dive into answering the question of whether CeraVe sunscreens have benzene or not, it’s essential that we first understand what this chemical is all about. Benzene is an organic, colorless chemical compound flammable liquid at room temperature. Benzene is used as a starter material in making different materials and chemicals. It is found in gasoline and diesel engine exhaust.
Benzene is a banned ingredient by the U.S. food and drug administration and should not be in sunscreens or other skin care products. Recent research, however, detected it in various sunscreens imported from the United States. Since then, this topic has staged much debate online, with most people asking how the dangerous chemical got into the skincare products.
The research by an independent laboratory conducted in 2021 sampled 294 batches of sunscreens from 69 different brands, and out of this, 78 sets were noted to have differing levels of benzene. More recent research in March 2022 also found benzene in other sunscreens, and we seek to find out whether CeraVe sunscreens were on this list, considering that these are one of the bestselling in the market.
Dangers of Benzene in Sunscreens
Before we answer whether CeraVe sunscreens have benzene, it’s commendable that we first understand the dangers associated with this chemical in sunscreen. Some of them include;
Can cause cancer
Research reveals that too much exposure to benzene can lead to different types of cancer, such as lymphoma and leukemia.
Developmental defects
Exposure to benzene can result in regrettable developmental defects such as abnormalities and underdeveloped organs in newborn babies. This chemical is also said to affect the reproductive system, cause fertility challenges, and, worse, miscarriage.
Susceptibility to illnesses
Benzene attacks and destroys the immune system making one susceptible to infections and illnesses.
So, Does CeraVe Sunscreen have Benzene?
Fortunately, sunscreens from the CeraVe brand were not among those found to contain benzene from the Valisure report findings. Sunscreens reported to have contained benzene from this report included those from Neutrogena brand, banana bolt, top care every day, and la Roche Posay, amongst others. CeraVe has remained a clean brand, and there is no evidence of a recalled sunscreen.
This means you can comfortably use any sunscreen from this brand without fear of it being damaging or detrimental to your health.
Best Selling Sunscreens from CeraVe
CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Spf50
CeraVe mineral sunscreen spf50 is one of the bestselling sunscreens from the CeraVe brand. This product is highly recommended due to its high SPF, non-comedogenic nature, and suitability for the most sensitive skin types. This CeraVe mineral sunscreen is free of oils and other irritating ingredients. It also contains essential components such as hyaluronic acid, which help the skin retain its natural moisture, and niacinamide, which aids in soothing the skin.
SPF 30 Tinted Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
SPF 30 tinted hydrating mineral sunscreen is another best selling product from the CeraVe brand. This sunscreen comprises three essential ceramides that help restore the skin’s protective barrier and maintain its natural moisture. CeraVe’s SPF 30 tinted hydrating mineral sunscreen blends easily with all skin tones leaving a shear natural finish. It’s packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help soothe the skin.
Am Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen
CeraVe’s AM facial moisturizer is a multitasker skincare product that moisturizes your skin and protects against harmful UV rays. Fitted with three essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer cum sunscreen works to restore the skin’s protective barrier, soothe it and offer all-day hydration.
This moisturizer contains spf30, spreads quickly on your skin, and is non-comedogenic and thus will never clog your pores. You can use this product on all skin types without fear of it overreacting on your face or body.
SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Stick
CeraVe’s SPF 50 mineral sunscreen stick is the solution for anyone looking for an on-the-go formula that is efficient in treating sunburns and protecting against UV rays. This sunscreen stick contains three essential ceramides that work together to repair and restore the skin’s natural barrier. This product is free of fragrances, oils, and other irritating substances and hence safe to use on the most sensitive skin types.
Final Thoughts on Whether CeraVe Sunscreens Contain Benzene (Recap)
It’s safe to say that CeraVe sunscreens do not contain benzene. You should, therefore, comfortably take advantage of this to die for products to treat, protect and rejuvenate your skin as you head out and spend time in the sun. CeraVe is one of the most trusted brands in the skincare world that offers quality, safe products for all skin types.
This brand engages in in-depth research before coming up with any product. It also takes all the precautions to ensure you get the safest quality product. As you continue enjoying sunscreens from this brand, be on the lookout for any unplanned changes that may occur in the future. To be safe, always check the composition of the sunscreen you order, and if anything feels amiss, don’t hesitate to contact your manufacturer and dermatologist immediately.
