11 Best Mattifying Moisturizers For Oily Skin In 2023

Get a natural matte finish with the non-oily and hydrating moisturizers that absorb excess oil.

Reviewed by Vanessa HuertaVanessa Huerta, Licensed Esthetician
By Kirtana DivakarKirtana Divakar  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

Oily skin demands hydration, but we often do not find good moisturizers that work well on oily skin. Vanessa Huerta, a licensed Esthetician and pigmentation correction specialist say, “A moisturizer specifically formulated for oily skin is necessary because it will help regulate oil production and protect the skin barrier. Not moisturizing can cause your skin to produce more oil to hydrate itself, which imbalances the skin and leads to congestion or irritation.” That is where mattifying moisturizers may help. The best mattifying moisturizer for oily skin solves the excess oil issue faced otherwise. They do not leave the skin greasy but help maintain proper hydration for hours has come to an end.

Mattifying moisturizers are lightweight and extremely mild. They get easily absorbed into the skin and help balance sebum production without clogging the pores and making the skin shiny. As a result, your skin looks refreshed and oil-free throughout the day. It is better to use a sulfate-free moisturizer loaded with botanical extracts that are safe to use on skin to keep it healthy and happy. But, we understand! It is not easy to choose a product among the innumerable ones available on the market. So, let us help you with this list of the best 11 mattifying moisturizers for oily skin that can give you a matte finish for hours. Scroll down.

Top Picks
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Cetaphil Pro DermaCONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion
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Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer For Oily Skin
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The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion
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Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine-Free Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer
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Bioderma Sebium Mat Control Moisturizer
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Murad Oil And Pore Control Mattifier
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Embryolisse Emulsion Hydra-Mat Moisturizer
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PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer
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Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizer
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Top 11 Best Mattifying Moisturizers

1. Cetaphil Pro DermaCONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion

4.4
CETAPHIL DERMA CONTROL Oil Absorbing Moisturizer Image: Cetaphil

Excessive oiliness can be a hurdle in maintaining plump and radiant skin. Correct this problem with this mattifying moisturizer from Cetaphil. Keeping your skin hydrated all day with its Micropearl technology, this lightweight formula gets absorbed quickly, controls sebum production, and delivers a grease-free look. Also, the Oleosome Technology uses lower levels of sunscreen filters to minimize skin irritation and maximize hydration. The formula of this oil-free moisturizer contains glycerine, which hydrates your skin and silica promotes the production of collagen, leaving it firm and youthful. This video gives you more information about the product.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Oil-free formula
  • Fragrance-free
  • Unclogs the pores
  • Controls sebum production
  • Treats acne, roughness, and dryness
  • Formula with SPF 30 for UVA/UVB protection

Cons

  • Might cause a slight tingling effect
Why It’s Worth Buying: It has received over 20,429 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Price at the time of publication: $16.97

2. Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer

Give your skin the hydration it deserves with this Acure mattifying moisturizer. Like other skin types, oily skin also requires moisturization to stay smooth and supple. This product contains shea butter, argan oil, and safflower oil to maintain a non-greasy texture and soothe and rejuvenate skin. It improves skin elasticity and minimizes clogged pores. Infused with argan oil, lilac extract, and chlorella, the moisturizer controls oil production, repairs damaged skin cells, and treats acne and blemishes. This 100% vegan moisturizer also includes vitamin E, which reduces the harmful effects caused by the sun.

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • 100% vegan
  • Grease-free look
  • Improves elasticity
  • No added mineral oils
  • Free of parabens and sulfates
  • Soothes and rejuvenates the skin

Cons

  • Some may find the scent overpowering

protip_icon Pro Tip
Apply a small amount of this moisturizer on damp skin. The moisturizer will feel less sticky and penetrate better into the skin.

Why It’s Worth Buying: This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 1,021 great reviews on Amazon.
Price at the time of publication: $13.81

3. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer For Oily Skin

4.4

Does your skin feel greasy after applying a moisturizing cream? Here is an award-winning solution to combat this problem. With Sebulyse Technology and dual-action targeting, it minimizes shine, oiliness, enlarged pores, and keeps your skin well-hydrated. The lipo-hydroxy acid, a derivative of salicylic acid, facilitates chemical exfoliation to prevent acne and breakouts. Abundant in vitamins C and E, it repairs the damage caused by harmful UV rays, leaving your skin radiant and plump. It is the best mattifying moisturizer for oily skin.

Pros

  • Matte finish
  • Paraben-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Rich in antioxidants (vitamin C and E)

Cons

  • Contains salicylic acid and may not be suitable for sensitive skin
Why It’s Worth Buying: The product has more than 9,321 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
Price at the time of publication: $32.99

4. The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion

4.3
The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion Image: The Body Shop

Are you looking for an oil control mattifying moisturizer? If yes, you should consider this tea tree mattifying lotion by The Body Shop. This formula contains pure tea tree oil and willow bark extracts, which hydrates your skin, provides moisture, and keeps acne at bay. This nourishing lotion will amaze you by lending you a shine and grease-free look with an adequate glow that you always wanted for your skin! This lotion also contains lemon tree and Tamanu oils, which brighten and rejuvenate dull skin and fight against damage caused by free radicals.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • 100% vegan
  • Doesn’t clog the pores
  • Treats acne and blemishes
  • Free of parabens and gluten

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for dry, flaky skin
  • The strong smell of tea tree extracts may be overwhelming for some

protip_icon Did You Know?
Tea tree is an excellent ingredient for oily skin. It is anti-inflammatory which reduces redness and swelling caused by acne.

Price at the time of publication: $20

5. Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine-Free Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer

4.2
Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine-Free Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer Image: Formula 10.0.6

This one stands tall as one of the best mattifying moisturizers for oily skin on our list. It is enriched with aloe vera and bamboo extracts to help you achieve soft, silky, and nourished skin. The formula includes salicylic acid, which acts as a mild chemical exfoliator to reduce dead skin cells, prevent acne, and blackheads while unclogging the pores. Include this oil-control mattifying moisturizer into your skin care regime and see the difference for yourself. Have a look at this video to learn more about the product.

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Prevents dryness
  • Absorbs excess oil
  • Contains botanical ingredients
  • Locks in moisture

Cons

  • Might not reduce the sheen on skin
Why It’s Worth Buying: With 2,728 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Price at the time of publication: $5.29

6. Bioderma Sebium Mat Control Moisturizer

This Bioderma anti-shine moisturizer is what you need to pamper, hydrate, treat, and nourish your oily skin. With its long-lasting effect of 8-hour matte protection and 12-hour hydration, it keeps skin oil-free, plump, and glowing. The blend of salicylic acid, mushroom extracts, and castor oil lends you clear and smooth skin while warding off acne and excess oil. The FluidActiv complex repairs your skin and retains moisture by preventing the blocking of pores.

Pros

  • Regulates shine
  • Tightens the pores
  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Leaves no grease or oiliness behind
  • Refines the texture of the skin

Cons

  • The consistency may be slightly watery
Why It’s Worth Buying: This product has garnered over 1,894 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Price at the time of publication: $19.99

7. Murad Oil And Pore Control Mattifier

Are you looking for an excellent oil-free moisturizer with SPF? Well, say hello to this Murad mattifying moisturizer. It is formulated with avocado oil and African yellow wood bark extracts that help you achieve even-toned, firm, and hydrated skin in no time. The natural extracts negate shine and oiliness for up to 10 hours and minimize the appearance of pores up to 54%. This moisturizer also includes oil-trapping microspheres to absorb excess sebum, to deliver soft and supple skin. Watch this instructional video for more details

Pros

  • Gluten-free
  • 100% cruelty-free
  • Free of mineral oils
  • No parabens and sulfates
  • Lends you a grease-free look
  • Formulated with SPF 45 to protect skin from sun damage

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for sensitive skin
Price at the time of publication: $42.0

8. Embryolisse Emulsion Hydra-Mat Moisturizer

4.5

Oily skin with a greasy sheen will be a thing of the past with this moisturizer. Its hydrating formula consists of a sugar derivative that acts like a micro-sponge and absorbs excess sebum production. The critical ingredient is apricot oil, which not only tones the skin but provides hydration as well. This moisturizer’s cool gelled texture acts both as a mild exfoliator and a hydrating cream to help you achieve soft, glowing skin. Look n further than this refreshing moisturizer facilitates a long-lasting matte look, locks in moisture, and repairs your skin.

Pros

  • Dermatologically-certified
  • Regulates sebum production
  • Prevents shine and greasiness
  • Works great on all skin types
  • Sugar acts as a micro-sponge to clear dead skin cells away

Cons

  • The scent may be overwhelming for some

protip_icon Quick Tip
For a natural makeup look, add a few drops of foundation to your moisturizer. It also helps you avoid layering products when applying makeup.

Price at the time of publication: $30.0

9. PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer

4.2
PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer Image: Panoxyl

The PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer reduces shine and absorbs excess oil. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to clear pores and help prevent breakouts, its non-oily formula also provides effective sun protection with SPF 30. The formula leaves your skin looking matte, fresh, and clean. It also has a moisturizing effect and gently nourishes your skin while protecting it from environmental aggressors. This product is perfect for those with normal, oily, or combination skin types who want to keep their skin soft and supple without the greasy feeling of a lotion.

Pros

  • Lightweight formula
  • Removes blemishes
  • Offers matte finish
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Suitable for acne-prone skin

Cons

  • Leaves white cast
Price at the time of publication: $9.99

10. Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizer

4.4
Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizer Image: Caudalie

The Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid from Caudalie makes your skin clear, glowing, and flush-free. It reduces sebum, removes buildup, and illuminates the face – thanks to its combination of squalane and polyphenols. The rich, creamy formula also contains java tea extract and essential oils that mattify the skin and reduce blackheads.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Mineral Oil-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Vegan
  • No synthetic fragrance

Cons

None

protip_icon Quick Tip
Mix some lipstick and moisturizer to customize your own blush.

Price at the time of publication: $38

11. Plum Moisturizer Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer

4.1
Plum Moisturizer Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer Image: Plum Goodness

The Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer is lightweight and leaves your skin looking youthful. It contains glycolic acid that gently removes dead skin cells and clears greasy, acne-prone skin. Kakadu plum and squalene hydrate the skin, and hyaluronic acid makes it plump. Green tea and niacinamide impart glow and fight signs of aging. This moisturizer treats pigmentation and nourishes the skin.

Pros

  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • SLS-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Long-lasting

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $13.99

And that was it for our list of 11 best mattifying moisturizers for oily skin. Before you go on to pick your favorite one, here are a few important points to consider.

How To Choose The Right Mattifying Moisturizer

1. Ingredients

Ingredients play a major role in skincare. Dry and combination skin requires hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to lock in ample moisture to the skin. For oily skin, products with salicylic acid, retinol, and niacinamide work the best as they control excess sebum production. To nourish your sensitive skin, go for products that include beeswax, aloe vera, honey, or green tea ingredients.

2. Non-comedogenic

When it comes to choosing a mattifying moisturizer for oily skin, we suggest you opt for a non-comedogenic formula. They don’t clog the pores and thus, prevents acne formation. They also ensure that no product build-up or residue is left behind. You may give the Eve Hansen Daily Defense Intense Moisturizing Cream a try, if you’re looking for a non-comedogenic one.

3. Reduces shine

Unfortunately, many mattifying moisturizers leave behind a white residue that may not complement your skin tone. Hence, it is crucial to use mattifying moisturizers with sebum-controlling ingredients such as niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. We recommend the Embryolisse Emulsion Hydra-Mat Moisturizer, as it contains sponge-like ingredients and absorbs excess oil.

4. SPF formulation

Who doesn’t love an added benefit! Sunscreen is an absolutely important skincare step as it protects our skin from harmful sun damage. We recommend that you pick a mattifying moisturizer that has at least 30 SPF, to help protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun and provide UVA/UVB protection.

How To Use A Mattifying Moisturizer

  1. Wash your face with a mild and gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, dust, and grime from your skin.
  1. Then, apply a toner to restore the pH balance. Toners also tighten your pores and act as an extra layer of protection.
  1. Now, take 2-3 drops of the mattifying moisturizer and spread it evenly on your toned face and neck.

Infographic: What To Look For In A Moisturizer For Oily Skin

Using a moisturizer helps keep oily skin hydrated, balanced, and healthy-looking. If you do not use a moisturizer, your oily skin will get dehydrated and produce more oil as a reaction. This can lead to breakouts and a greasier appearance. Therefore, choosing a good moisturizer is a must. Check out the below infographic to know what to look for in a moisturizer for oily skin.

What To Look For In A Moisturizer For Oily Skin (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic in PDF version Download Infographic
Download Infographic in PDF version

Mattifying moisturizers for oily skin are gentle, mild, and lightweight. These moisturizers don’t let excess oil settle inside the skin’s pores and maintain proper hydration without making your face feel greasy. Mattifying moisturizers also help in balancing sebum production. You can also purchase oil-free moisturizers with glycerine as it helps produce collagen. These matte products also treat acne, roughness, and dryness while protecting you from harmful UV rays of the Sun. Avoid those mattifying moisturizers which cause irritation or a tingling effect when used. You should also steer clear of products that have an overpowering scent.

Why Trust Stylecraze

Kirtana Divakar is a skin care enthusiast who loves using mattifying moisturizers for her oily skin. She prefers using these moisturizers because they leave your skin hydrated without turning it greasy. She has carefully picked the best moisturizers for her readers after browsing through various online user reviews and product specifications. According to her, the best part about these moisturizers is that they are lightweight and get easily absorbed into the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mattifying moisturizer good for oily skin?

Oily skin tends to generate excess sebum and thus, applying a normal moisturizer might leave your skin extremely oily and greasy. Hence, mattifying moisturizers are essential for oily skin types to help provide a matte finish and control the sebum production of the skin.

Why does my face feel oily after moisturizing?

Since most of the moisturizers contain nourishing oils for hydration, it tends to leave your skin oily after application. In such cases, opt for an oil-free mattifying moisturizer.

Is it okay to apply powder after moisturizer?

Yes, after applying a moisturizer, you can apply a mattifying powder to help set it. Make sure that you apply powder once your skin absorbs the moisturizer entirely. Applying powder on wet skin might leave white patches.

Is matte moisturizer good for acne-prone skin?

Yes. Matte moisturizer is suitable for acne-prone skin because it is mild, lightweight, and non-comedogenic.

Can I use mattifying moisturizer at night?

Yes, you can use mattifying moisturizer at night before bed.

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