The post will review The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 serum.
The Ordinary has had several new releases non-stop in the last eighteen months or more.
It got to the point where I had to zone out of these releases because they were mostly underwhelming, and I was trying to minimise my routine by focusing on my core products.
This also meant that I only bought products I needed when I needed them.
But I had to try it without hesitation when I saw they were finally releasing a long-awaited sunscreen.
Also, I’m currently in search of fluid Spring and summer sunscreens that can replace my creamy Autumn and winter sunscreen, Bondi Sands SPF 50, so this release came in at the perfect time.
I’ve been seeking a mineral, preferably tinted sunscreen that works for my skin tone.
So far, most brands have perfected their chemical sunscreen formulas, so there’s nothing to look forward to.
It is now the case of finding and sticking to which one your skin can tolerate.
However, the main challenge is formulating a reasonably priced mineral sunscreen without a white cast.
As that is quite impossible due to the Zinc Oxide, I hope brands like The Ordinary, which has an excellent shade range with their serum foundation, can also formulate great tinted sunscreens that work across the board.
With that out of the way, let’s get into the details.

First Impressions of The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum
According to The Ordinary;
UV Filters SPF 45 Serum is a serum-textured sunscreen to provide broad-spectrum SPF 45 sun protection against UVA and UVB rays. This daily use sunscreen protects against sun damage and reduces premature skin aging caused by the sun. This daily suncare formulation is lightweight and white cast-free.
Compatible with makeup and skin products for easy layering, UV Filters SPF 45 Serum offers instant and all-day hydration support. This formulation is non-comedogenic, suitable for all skin types, and leaves skin with a natural-looking luminous finish.
Sunscreen Filters & Fragrance
Regarding sunscreens, I’m not very particular about the ingredients or even the sunscreen filters.
I don’t have reactive skin, so most chemical filters work for my skin.
But I’m also aware that some people can’t use chemical sunscreens because the filters tend to sting their eyes.
Again, I don’t experience this, so I can’t say for sure, but I would say to check the sunscreen filters that your skin reacts to and take note of them.
This way, you can avoid them when purchasing sunscreens in the future.
For this product, the filters include;
- Avobenzone, which provides UVA protection.
- Homosalate, Octisalate and Octocrylene, which all provide UVB protection.
Together, these filters provide a broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays of SPF 45.
I wish it were more SPF 50+, but I’m not particularly bothered because I trust The Ordinary‘s formulations.
According to them, there’s very minimal difference between SPF 45 and SPF 50.
As always, it’s alcohol, essential oil, and fragrance-free, although you can smell a slight niff of sunscreen, which is normal.


Packaging, Texture & Consistency
This sunscreen is packaged in a 60ml airless pump bottle, a standard size for sunscreens, so I have no issues with it.
Sunscreen is a drug that expires, so you shouldn’t use it for extended periods anyway.
Perhaps one of the most significant selling points is the serum-like consistency.
It’s pretty fluid, similar to the La Roche Posay Anthelios SPF 50.
If you enjoyed that, this one will definitely be up your alley.
The only problem I have with fluid sunscreens is using the recommended amount.
I prefer the two-finger rule method, but I noticed fluid sunscreens slid on my fingers, so I probably need a spare 1/4 tsp to measure.
Price & Availability
This sunscreen retails for £15.80/$19, just about the average price of well-formulated sunscreens.
Luckily, I got 25% off mine on Boots.
You can get the sunscreen directly from The Ordinary or your local beauty retailer.


Review of The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum
These days, I have a straightforward morning routine that consists of toner/face mist, Vitamin C, and sunscreen.
Also, it’s getting warm, so I’m not layering as much as during the colder months.
So, I always appreciate a good fluid sunscreen, which is a bonus point if it is hydrating and/or moisturising.
The central claims The Ordinary had for this sunscreen include;
- Serum-texture
- Lightweight
- White cast free
- Compatible with skincare and makeup for layering
- Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types
- Natural-looking, luminous finish.
After trying the sunscreen, I can say it checks all the boxes.
The only problem will be the finish.
Some people prefer a natural, dewy finish, whilst others prefer the matte finish.
While it has a natural finish, it is not as greasy or dewy as the Bondi Sands SPF 50.
So if you have oily skin, you might want to skip any dewy products like toners and moisturisers beforehand.
This way, you can have this sunscreen as your primary dewy product without your skin becoming too greasy.
To summarise, this is an excellent sunscreen.
It’s nothing groundbreaking, but good enough to work across the board.
It’s hydrating, doesn’t sting the eyes and is non-sticky.
What more can I say?
In Conclusion;
The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum is a significant reformulation of the original that no one could use.
I’m definitely looking forward to their tinted mineral sunscreens.




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