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Cerium Oxide

What Cerium Oxide is & what it does

Cerium Oxide is an inorganic compound of the rare-earth element cerium, appearing as a fine powder. In cosmetics it can be used as an opacifying or abrasive agent, and it has UV-absorbing properties that have been studied for sun care applications. In most formulas it appears in small amounts for a specific technical purpose rather than as a primary active.

What does Cerium Oxide do in skincare?

Cerium Oxide is an inorganic rare-earth compound that can serve as an opacifying or mild abrasive agent in cosmetics. It also has UV-absorbing properties that have been studied for sun care uses. In most products it appears in small amounts for a specific technical purpose.

Is Cerium Oxide natural or synthetic?

Cerium Oxide is an inorganic mineral compound of the rare-earth element cerium, typically produced and purified for industrial and cosmetic use. While cerium occurs in nature, the cosmetic-grade material is processed. Being mineral-based and not animal-derived, it is generally suitable for vegan formulas.

Is Cerium Oxide safe?

Cerium Oxide is used in small amounts in some cosmetic and sun care formulas. As a mineral powder, it is mainly intended to stay on the skin surface for its technical role. If you have specific concerns about rare-earth compounds, consulting a healthcare professional is reasonable.

Sunscreens with Cerium Oxide

We rate 24 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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