The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum Review 2026: Worth the Hype?

Are you tired of sunscreens that leave your face greasy, chalky, or worse, break you out? The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum has taken the skincare world by storm since its launch.

This lightweight, serum style sunscreen promises broad spectrum protection at an unbelievable price point. But does it actually deliver?

This post gives you everything you need to know before you hit “add to cart.” Whether you have oily skin, dry skin, or sensitive skin, this review will help you decide if The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum belongs in your daily routine.

Key Takeaways

• The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum retails for just $19 for 60mL (2 fl oz), making it one of the most affordable facial sunscreens on the market. You get generous product at a fraction of what premium brands charge for similar formulas.
• The formula uses chemical UV filters including Avobenzone (3.0%), Homosalate (7.0%), Octisalate (4.5%), and Octocrylene (10.0%). These filters provide broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection with a PA++++ rating.
• The serum texture absorbs fast and leaves zero white cast. This was a huge improvement over The Ordinary’s discontinued mineral sunscreen, which many users found too thick and chalky.
• Most users report a dewy, hydrating finish that works well under makeup without pilling. It also contains a ceramide blend for extra skin barrier support.
• The product is vegan, cruelty free, fragrance free, and non comedogenic. It suits most skin types, though some users with very oily or acne prone skin have flagged certain ingredients as potentially pore clogging.
• It comes in a sleek pump bottle that makes dispensing easy and mess free. The compact size is travel friendly and fits easily in any bag for midday reapplication.

What Is The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum?

The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum is a chemical sunscreen with a serum like texture. It launched in May 2025 as The Ordinary’s long awaited return to sun care. The brand had discontinued its previous mineral SPF in October 2023 after widespread complaints about white cast and heavy texture.

This new formula takes a completely different approach. It uses four chemical UV filters to provide broad spectrum SPF 45 protection. The serum also carries a PA++++ rating, which indicates the highest level of UVA protection available.

The product comes in a 60mL (2 fl oz) bottle with a pump dispenser. It is sold through The Ordinary’s website, Sephora, Ulta, Amazon, and other major retailers. At just $19, it undercuts most comparable sunscreen serums by a significant margin. Many similar products from premium brands cost $30 to $50 for less product.

How Does It Feel on the Skin?

This is where The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum truly shines. The texture is milky, lightweight, and fluid. It feels more like a hydrating serum than a traditional sunscreen. You pump a small amount onto your fingertips and it spreads across the face with minimal effort.

The formula absorbs into the skin within seconds. There is no sticky residue, no heavy film, and no greasy feeling. Many users describe the finish as “dewy” and “glowy” without crossing into oily territory.

If you have dry skin, you will love the hydrating feel. The ceramide blend in the formula helps support the skin barrier. If you have combination or oily skin, the finish may feel slightly more luminous than you prefer. A light dusting of setting powder can fix that easily.

One reviewer on Ulta summed it up well: “This product is light, odorless, and perfect on my sensitive skin.” That matches my experience exactly.

Ingredients Breakdown: What Is Inside the Formula?

The active ingredients in The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum include Avobenzone (3.0%), Homosalate (7.0%), Octisalate (4.5%), and Octocrylene (10.0%). These are all FDA approved chemical UV filters that absorb UV radiation before it can damage your skin.

Beyond the actives, the formula contains Isododecane as a base solvent, which gives it that smooth, quick absorbing texture. It also includes a ceramide blend to support skin hydration and barrier function.

The product is fragrance free, vegan, and cruelty free. It is also listed as non comedogenic, meaning it should not clog pores for most people.

However, some skincare analysts have flagged that certain inactive ingredients may be comedogenic for acne prone skin. If you break out easily, patch test before committing to daily use. The formula contains 25 total ingredients, and it is also fungal acne (malassezia) safe according to SkinSort.

Does It Leave a White Cast?

No. This is one of the biggest selling points of The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum. The previous mineral sunscreen from The Ordinary left a noticeable white cast on many skin tones. That product was ultimately discontinued because of this issue.

The new chemical formula blends seamlessly into all skin tones. Multiple reviews from people with deep, medium, and fair skin tones confirm zero visible residue. The Ordinary specifically formulated this serum to be “white cast free,” and they delivered on that promise.

This makes it an excellent choice for people of color who have historically struggled to find affordable sunscreens that do not leave an ashy or purple tint. The clear, lightweight formula disappears into the skin completely.

If white cast has ever been a dealbreaker for you, this sunscreen removes that concern entirely.

Top 3 Alternatives for The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum

If you want to explore other options or compare products, here are three excellent alternatives available on Amazon.

1. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 — A fan favorite invisible sunscreen with a velvety, primer like finish. It works beautifully under makeup and suits all skin types.

2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Serum SPF 60 — A drugstore option with higher SPF protection, enriched with Vitamin E. It is oil free, fragrance free, and water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Sunscreen Serum SPF 50 — A dermatologist recommended serum sunscreen with Niacinamide. It absorbs fast and provides excellent broad spectrum protection.

How Does It Perform Under Makeup?

The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum works exceptionally well as a makeup base. The serum texture creates a smooth, hydrated canvas for foundation, concealer, and powder. Multiple reviewers confirm zero pilling, even when layered over other skincare products.

The dewy finish acts almost like a lightweight primer. It gives skin a subtle glow that translates beautifully under sheer or medium coverage foundations. If you prefer a matte look, simply let the sunscreen set for a minute and follow with a mattifying primer or setting powder.

One Ulta reviewer wrote: “It works great under makeup with no pilling, no weirdness.” This is consistent with the majority of user feedback. The formula was specifically designed to be compatible with other skincare and makeup products.

For best results, apply two to three pumps of the serum as the last step in your skincare routine before makeup. Wait 60 seconds for it to absorb, then proceed with your makeup application.

Is It Good for Oily Skin?

This is where opinions split slightly. The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum has a dewy, hydrating finish. Most people with normal to dry skin love this. But if you have very oily skin, you may find it too luminous on its own.

Several YouTube reviewers tested this sunscreen on oily skin. The consensus is that it does not feel heavy or greasy, but the dewy finish can make oily areas look shinier by midday. The solution? Use a mattifying setting powder or oil absorbing primer over the sunscreen.

The good news is that it does not clog pores for most users. It is labeled non comedogenic and contains no heavy oils. However, if you are very acne prone, check the full ingredient list against comedogenic databases.

For oily skin types, the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen or Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Serum may offer a more matte finish. But The Ordinary SPF 45 remains a solid option, especially at its price point.

Is It Good for Sensitive Skin?

Yes, for most people with sensitive skin, this sunscreen performs well. It is fragrance free, which eliminates one of the most common triggers for skin irritation. The Deciem Chatroom review noted “zero irritation, even around the sensitive eye area.”

The ceramide blend in the formula also helps. Ceramides strengthen the skin barrier, which can reduce sensitivity over time. This makes the sunscreen feel more like a skincare product than a pure SPF.

However, chemical sunscreens can sometimes cause reactions in people with very reactive skin. If your skin is extremely sensitive, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide may be safer. Always patch test a new product on a small area of your jaw or behind your ear for 24 hours before applying it to your full face.

Overall, the vast majority of sensitive skin users report positive experiences with this product. It is gentle, lightweight, and free from common irritants.

How Does It Compare to the Old Ordinary Sunscreen?

The Ordinary’s first sunscreen was a mineral formula that launched several years ago. It used zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as UV filters. While mineral sunscreens are generally considered gentle, that formula had serious texture problems.

Users complained that it was too thick, too white, and difficult to blend. The white cast issue was especially frustrating for people with darker skin tones. The Ordinary eventually pulled the product from shelves in October 2023.

The new UV Filters SPF 45 Serum is a complete reformulation. It switched from mineral to chemical filters, adopted a serum texture, and eliminated the white cast issue entirely. This is essentially a brand new product that shares nothing with its predecessor except the brand name.

The result is a sunscreen that is lighter, smoother, more cosmetically elegant, and far more universally flattering. The Ordinary clearly listened to customer feedback and went back to the drawing board.

Packaging and Value for Money

The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum comes in a sleek, minimalist white bottle with a pump dispenser. The design is clean, functional, and on brand with The Ordinary’s signature aesthetic. The pump dispenses a controlled amount of product, which reduces waste.

At $19 for 60mL (2 fl oz), this is outstanding value. For comparison, the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen costs around $38 for 1.7 fl oz. La Roche-Posay Anthelios options often run $30 to $40 for similar sizes. You are getting more product for roughly half the price.

The bottle is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in a handbag, gym bag, or travel kit. The opaque packaging protects the formula from light degradation, which is important for sunscreen stability.

If you use sunscreen daily (as dermatologists recommend), cost adds up fast. The Ordinary makes daily SPF use financially sustainable without compromising on protection or texture.

Who Should Buy This Sunscreen?

The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum is ideal for people who want effective sun protection in a lightweight, affordable formula. It suits most skin types and works well as a daily face sunscreen.

This product is a great fit for you if you want a sunscreen that feels like skincare, not like a thick cream sitting on your face. It is also perfect for people who layer sunscreen under makeup every day and need something that plays well with other products.

Budget conscious skincare fans will appreciate the price point. Students, young professionals, or anyone building a solid routine on a tight budget will find this serum hard to beat.

It is also a strong choice for people of color who have struggled with white cast from other affordable sunscreens. The formula is truly invisible on all skin tones.

However, if you need water resistant protection for sports or swimming, this may not be your best bet. The product does not claim strong water resistance, so look for sport specific formulas for those activities.

How to Apply It Correctly for Best Results

Apply The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum as the last step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. Use two to three full pumps to cover your entire face and neck. This gives you the right amount of product for adequate protection.

Spread the serum evenly across your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and neck. Do not forget your ears and the back of your neck if they are exposed to the sun. The serum texture makes it easy to spread without tugging the skin.

Wait about 60 seconds for the formula to absorb before applying makeup or heading outdoors. Chemical sunscreens need a moment to bind with the skin and activate full protection.

Reapply every two hours if you are outdoors for extended periods. If you are mostly indoors near windows, reapplication at midday is usually sufficient. Carry the compact bottle in your bag for easy touch ups throughout the day.

Pros and Cons Summary

The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum has many strengths. The lightweight serum texture is a standout feature. It absorbs fast, leaves no white cast, and feels hydrating without greasiness. The price is exceptional at just $19 for 2 fl oz. It works well under makeup and suits a wide range of skin types.

The ceramide blend adds skincare benefits beyond just sun protection. The fragrance free formula is gentle on sensitive skin. The pump dispenser is practical and hygienic.

On the downside, some users with very oily skin find the dewy finish too shiny. A few acne prone users have flagged potentially comedogenic inactive ingredients. The sunscreen does not claim strong water resistance. It also uses chemical filters, which some people prefer to avoid for personal or environmental reasons.

Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons for most users. This is one of the best value sunscreens available in 2026.

Final Verdict: Is The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum Worth It?

Absolutely yes. The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum delivers on nearly every promise. It provides solid broad spectrum SPF 45 protection in a formula that feels luxurious, looks invisible, and costs less than most competitors.

The Ordinary learned from the mistakes of their first sunscreen and created something genuinely impressive. The switch from mineral to chemical filters solved the white cast problem. The serum texture solved the heaviness problem. And the $19 price tag makes daily sunscreen use accessible to everyone.

If you are looking for an affordable, lightweight, everyday facial sunscreen in 2026, this should be at the top of your list. It is not perfect for every skin type, but it works beautifully for the vast majority of users. Give it a try and see why thousands of skincare fans have made it their daily go to SPF.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum reef safe?

The formula contains chemical UV filters like Octocrylene and Homosalate. These are not classified as reef safe by most environmental standards. If reef safety is a priority for you, consider a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead.

Can I use The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum on my body?

Yes, you can use it on your body. However, the 60mL bottle is relatively small for full body application. It is designed primarily as a facial sunscreen. For body use, you would go through the product very quickly.

Does The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum contain Niacinamide?

No. This sunscreen does not contain Niacinamide. It focuses on UV filters and a ceramide blend. If you want Niacinamide in your sunscreen, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Serum SPF 50 includes it in the formula.

Is this sunscreen safe during pregnancy?

Some chemical UV filters like Homosalate and Octocrylene have raised questions in recent years. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your dermatologist or healthcare provider before using any new skincare product. A mineral sunscreen may be a safer alternative during pregnancy.

How many pumps do I need for full face coverage?

Two to three full pumps should cover your entire face and neck adequately. Dermatologists recommend using about a nickel sized amount of sunscreen for the face. Do not skimp on application, as using too little reduces the effective SPF level significantly.

Can I use this sunscreen with The Ordinary’s other products?

Yes. The Ordinary designed this sunscreen to be compatible with its full skincare range. Apply your serums and treatments first, let them absorb, and then apply the SPF 45 Serum as the final step before makeup.