Does CeraVe AM replace a separate sunscreen?

How do you use CeraVe AM as your sunscreen?

1. 1Cleanse, then apply any morning serum or treatment and let it absorb. Apply CeraVe AM as your final skincare step.
2. 2Apply generously and evenly. As general sunscreen guidance, use at least 1 teaspoon for your face, then protect your neck, ears and other exposed skin too.
3. 3Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure. If you wear makeup, wait until the lotion has fully absorbed before applying it.
4. 4Reapply at least every two hours for sunscreen protection. Reapply immediately after swimming or sweating, using a water resistant sunscreen for those activities.

The face amount above is general sunscreen guidance, not a CeraVe pump count. CeraVe's directions say to apply liberally. If you would rather use a different sunscreen in that amount, choose a separate product with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher and water resistance.14

When should you choose a separate sunscreen?

For swimming, sweaty exercise or other activities that make you sweat, choose a sunscreen labeled water resistant. Both the US AM SPF 30 and Canadian AM SPF 50 directions tell you to use a water resistant sunscreen in these situations. Water resistant labels specify either 40 or 80 minutes of protection while swimming or sweating; follow that product's reapplication directions, including after towelling off.125

Texture is another reason to choose differently. The Canadian AM SPF 30 lotion has a richer texture that generally suits normal to dry skin; very oily skin can prefer a lighter option. The Canadian AM SPF 50 is a lightweight lotion made for normal to dry skin. Neither choice removes the need to use enough sunscreen.23

Does SPF 50 last longer than SPF 30?

No. A higher SPF provides greater sunburn protection, not permission to reapply less often. SPF 50 still needs reapplication at least every two hours. SPF means sun protection factor and primarily describes UVB protection; broad spectrum means the sunscreen also protects against UVA rays.56

Do you need it indoors or under makeup?

Use sunscreen each morning throughout the year, including cloudy days. UVA rays can pass through glass, so driving or sitting near a window still involves exposure. A moisturizer with SPF can fill that morning sunscreen step; a separate sunscreen layered over moisturizer is another option.67

Makeup with SPF should not replace CeraVe AM or a separate face sunscreen. Makeup with SPF belongs on top of your sun protection, not in charge of it. Applying makeup also does not remove the need to reapply sunscreen.16

What else keeps your sun protection working?

CeraVe AM replaces a separate sunscreen step, not shade or protective clothing. Limit exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and wear a hat, sunglasses and clothing that covers exposed skin. Keep sunscreen away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Discard expired sunscreen, or a bottle whose age you do not know.257