# TLDR Review: The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum Sunscreen

*Published: 2026-05-23 | Updated: 2026-05-23 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/the-ordinary-spf-45-serum-sunscreen*

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## Product: The Ordinary SPF 45 Serum Sunscreen
**Brand:** The Ordinary

## Pros
- Truly sheer and lightweight, feels more like a serum than a traditional sunscreen
- Absorbs quickly and layers well under makeup for a seamless finish
- Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without white cast
- Leaves skin looking smooth, healthy, and hydrated with a slight glow
- Effective for sensitive skin; reduces redness and burning sensations
- Does not cause eye irritation or burning, suitable for sensitive eyes
- Easy to apply, blend, and only requires a small amount to cover the entire face
- Hydrating and comfortable for everyday wear, enhancing skincare routine
- Maintains a non-greasy, non-comedogenic formula that’s suitable for daily use
- Made by a reputable brand, indicating good quality and reliability

## Cons
- Leaves a slight oily film for a while, which might need blotted or powdered away
- Not sufficiently hydrating on its own; might require additional moisturizer
- Slight shine remains after application, which might not suit all preferences
- Potential for a subtle ashy appearance on darker skin tones due to formulation
- Benefits from waiting 20 minutes before applying makeup for full absorption
- May be less ideal for those seeking a traditional cream or lotion sunscreen with more moisturizing properties

## Bottom Line

This serum-like sunscreen from The Ordinary offers a lightweight, effective broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection that layers invisibly under makeup, making it ideal for daily wear. Its hydrating, non-greasy feel and suitability for sensitive skin make it a compelling choice—just be mindful of the slight oily film and the need for additional moisturizer if your skin is very dry. If you want something more hydrating or with a matte finish, you might consider exploring other formulations.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Truly sheer and lightweight, feels more like a serum than a traditional sunscreen | Leaves a slight oily film for a while, which might need blotted or powdered away |
| Absorbs quickly and layers well under makeup for a seamless finish | Not sufficiently hydrating on its own; might require additional moisturizer |
| Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without white cast | Slight shine remains after application, which might not suit all preferences |
| Leaves skin looking smooth, healthy, and hydrated with a slight glow | Potential for a subtle ashy appearance on darker skin tones due to formulation |
| Effective for sensitive skin; reduces redness and burning sensations | Benefits from waiting 20 minutes before applying makeup for full absorption |
| Does not cause eye irritation or burning, suitable for sensitive eyes | May be less ideal for those seeking a traditional cream or lotion sunscreen with more moisturizing properties |
| Easy to apply, blend, and only requires a small amount to cover the entire face |  |
| Hydrating and comfortable for everyday wear, enhancing skincare routine |  |
| Maintains a non-greasy, non-comedogenic formula that’s suitable for daily use |  |
| Made by a reputable brand, indicating good quality and reliability |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*