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 Huerta, Licensed Esthetician
Written by Kirtana Divakar
Edited by Shiboli Chakraborti, Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Monomita Chakraborty, Certified Skin Care Coach  • 
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 says, “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 leave no greasy residue on the skin 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
CHECK PRICE
Cetaphil Pro DermaCONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer For Oily Skin
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine-Free Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Bioderma Sebium Mat Control Moisturizer
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Murad Oil And Pore Control Mattifier
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Embryolisse Emulsion Hydra-Mat Moisturizer
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
PanOxyl Oil Control Moisturizer
Price on Amazon
Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizer
Price on Amazon

Top 11 Best Mattifying Moisturizers

1. Cetaphil Pro DermaCONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion

4.4
Cetaphil Pro DERMACONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion 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 clinically-proven 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 of the reviewer’s experience gives you more information about the product.

Product Dimensions: 1.77 x 2.52 x 6.53 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces.

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
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • Might cause a slight tingling effect
Why It’s Worth Buying: A whopping 20,429 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Price at the time of publication: $15.45

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 mattifying moisturizer also includes vitamin E, which reduces the harmful effects caused by the sun.

Product Dimensions: 6.63 x 4.45 x 4.63 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces

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: More than 1,021 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
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 combats shine, sebum, enlarged pores, and keeps your skin well-hydrated and prevents oiliness. 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 dermatologist-tested mattifying moisturizer for oily skin and has received several positive reviews online.

| Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 1.13 x 5 inches | Weight: 2.08 Ounces

Pros

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

Cons

  • Contains salicylic acid and may not be suitable for sensitive skin
Why It’s Worth Buying: It has received 9,321 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Price at the time of publication: $32.99
Name Cetaphil Pro DermaCONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer For Oily Skin
Dimensions 1.77 x 2.52 x 6.53 inches 6.63 x 4.45 x 4.63 inches 2.25 x 1.13 x 5 inches
Weight 4 Ounces. 1.76 Ounces 2.08 Ounces
--
Rating*4.44.14.4
Reviews20,4291,0219,321
Price$15.45$13.81$32.99
Buy NowBuy NowBuy Now

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. Try out this calming and soothing lotion today!

Product Dimensions: 3 x 1 x 1 inches | Weight: 1.69 Ounces

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. Its shine-absorbing 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 tester’s experience of using the product.

Product Dimensions: 1.38 x 2.19 x 5.82 inches | Weight: 2.54 Ounces

Pros

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

Cons

  • Might not reduce the sheen on skin
Why It’s Worth Buying: There are more than 2,728 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
Price at the time of publication: $5.29

6. Bioderma Sebium Mat Control Moisturizer

This Bioderma anti-shine moisturizer is what you need to hydrate, treat, nourish, and pamper your oily skin. With a proven efficacy of 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.

| Product Dimensions: 1.93 x 0.98 x 4.88 inches | Weight: 0.96 Ounces

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: The product has received 1,894 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
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 oil-fighters tone down shine and greasiness for up to 10 hours and reduce the appearance of pores up to 54%. The brand also claims that consumers noted visible results after 2 weeks of use. This moisturizer also includes oil-trapping microspheres to absorb excess sebum, to deliver soft and supple skin. Watch this instructional video of a tester’s experience for more details.

Product Dimensions: 1.87 x 1.06 x 5.31 inches | Weight: 0.01 Ounces.

Pros

  • Gluten-free
  • 100% cruelty-free
  • Free of mineral oils and phthalates
  • No parabens and sulfates
  • Lends you a grease-free look
  • Gives you a skin-blurring effect
  • 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 no further than this refreshing, mattifying gel moisturizer that facilitates a long-lasting matte look, locks in moisture, and repairs your skin.

Product Dimensions: 5.1 x 2.3 x 1.3 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologically-certified
  • Regulates sebum production
  • Prevents shine and greasiness
  • Suitable for 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 pore-minimizing 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 antioxidant-rich 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.

Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.2 x 2.24 x 1.26 inches | Weight :1.7 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight formula
  • Removes blemishes
  • Offers matte finish
  • Gentle for everyday use
  • Free of harmful chemicals
  • 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. All in all, it is the perfect matte makeup base!

404

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

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.

Unit Count : 1.76 FL Oz

Pros

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

Cons

  • Moisture-balancing formula
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 hydrate your sensitive skin, go for expert-recommended products that include nourishing ingredients, like beeswax, aloe vera, honey extract, or green tea.

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-regulating 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 added skin benefits! 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

The Bottom Line

Mattifying moisturizers for oily skin are gentle, mild, and lightweight. These moisturizers don’t let excess oil settle inside the skin’s pores, maintain proper hydration without making your face feel greasy, and enhance overall skin health. Mattifying moisturizers also help in balancing sebum production. If you are looking for a lightweight formula that unclogs your pores easily, try the Cetaphil Pro DermaCONTROL Oil Control Moisturizing Lotion. The antioxidant-rich La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer minimizes pores and prevents breakouts, while the Bioderma Sebium Mat Control Moisturizer improves your skin texture and is perfect for sensitive skin. You can also purchase oil-free moisturizers with glycerine as it helps produce collagen and strengthens the skin barrier. 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. Opt for products with positive customer reviews and conduct a patch test before application to check for allergies.

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 or natural emollient.

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.

Recommended Articles


Was this article helpful?
thumbsupthumbsdown
The following two tabs change content below.

Latest Articles