15 Best Mattifying Products Of 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide
Try these oil-absorbing formulas if you are tired of the shine, grease, and acne.
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with three years of experience. As an editor, she ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
If you have been looking for the best mattifying products to counter your oily skin, you are at the right place. Oily skin has never failed to frustrate us with its greasiness and shine, the worst part, no makeup stays for long! The excess sebum secretion clogs pores and results in breakouts. Mattifying products work on checking the oil secretion of your skin and soak up the impurities before they can seep in the layers and cause further problems. Here are 15 professional recommended products that will help you flaunt flawless skin without the fear of melting makeup on your face!
In This Article
15 Best Mattifying Products Of 2023
1. Best Overall: Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
Image: Maybelline New York If your face tends to get oily, this foundation by Maybelline New York is your holy grail! It is formulated with clay to instantly absorb excess sebum and give your face a matte finish. The texture of the Fit Me Foundation is very creamy and offers buildable coverage for a natural look. It refines the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles to give you a seamless finish. The foundation also contains SPF 18 and is perfect for everyday wear.
How To Use: Take the required amount of foundation on the back of your hand and dab it all along over your face using your fingers. Blend it with a beauty blender or foundation brush.
Best For: Normal to Oily and Mature skin types
Pros
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Long-lasting•
- Buildable coverage
- Lightweight
- Moisturizing formula
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
Pro Tip2. Best Lightweight: Cetaphil Pro DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer
The oil-absorbing moisturizer by Cetaphil is enriched with Micro Pearl Technology that absorbs the surface oil, leaving your skin with a matte finish. The Oleosome Technology feature delivers broad-spectrum protection of SPF 30 to keep your skin protected from the harsh UVB and UV rays of the sun and reduce shine. This moisturizer contains natural oil droplets extracted from plant seeds for long-lasting protection without any irritation. The formula is super lightweight and absorbs quickly into your skin without clogging your pores. The hydrating moisturizer is gentle and perfect for sensitive skin. Have a look at this video to learn more about the product.
How To Use: Apply the required amount 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours.
Best For: Oily, Sensitive, and Dry skin types
Pros
- Lightweight
- Absorbs instantly
- Reduces shine
- Hydrating
- Hypoallergenic
- Broad Spectrum protection
- Non-irritating formula
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist recommended
Cons
None
Remember3. Best Non-Drying: NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Targeted Stick
Enlarged pores can make your makeup look gritty and patchy. This pore filler by NYX instantly reduces the appearance of fine lines, pores, and wrinkles by giving you a soft-focus finish. It features a unique slanted applicator to provide the ultimate precision. Once your look is done, your skin will look softer and smoother all day. This stick is lightweight and leaves your makeup looking fresh. Here is an informative video that tells you more about the product.
How To Use: Swipe the filler across the targeted areas like your under-eye creases, smile lines, and nose pores. Apply your regular makeup over it.
Best For: Matured and Oily skin types
Pros
- Non-drying
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Non-irritating
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
4. Best Non-Greasy: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
The Micellar Cleansing Water by Garnier is a must-have skin care product. It effortlessly removes makeup from your eyes, face, and lips, leaving your skin perfectly clean. The formula purifies the pores and regulates sebum production. It eliminates excess oil, dirt, sebum, makeup, and grime with ease. The cleansing water does not dry out your skin and does not need harsh rubbing. It leaves a matte and clean finish without any greasy or sticky residue. For more information about the product, click this video.
How To Use: Take a few drops of the micellar water on a cotton pad and wipe off any dirt or makeup using circular motions.
Best For: Sensitive and Oily skin types
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
5. Best Oil-Free Moisturizer: LA Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer
This daily face moisturizer by LA Roche-Posay has a non-comedogenic formula featuring Sebulyse Technology, which targets excess sebum, neutralizing shine and refining your pores. It also gives you a daily dose of intense hydration and acts as an excellent base for makeup. The moisturizer is oil-free and settles into a light matte finish.
How To Use: Apply daily all over your face after cleansing your skin.
Best For: Oily, Sensitive, and Acne-prone skin types
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle
- Allergy tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lightweight
- Hydrating formula
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
6. Best Natural Formula: Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer
Be it day or night, this clear moisturizer by Acure combats oiliness and leaves your skin refreshed. It is lightweight and gets absorbed instantly. The rejuvenating formula contains chlorella, lilac extract, evening primrose, argan oil, and COQ10 that hydrate and nourish the skin and improve its tone and texture.
How To Use: Apply liberally to clean skin after toning and gently massage it in until fully absorbed.
Best For: Oily, Combination, and Acne-prone skin types
Pros
- Absorbed easily
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulphate-free
- Petroleum-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
7. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion
This daytime moisturizer by The Body Shop is enriched with tea tree extracts, which makes it suitable for acne-prone skin. It is lightweight and easily absorbed into your skin without clogging your pores or feeling greasy. This shine control, daytime moisturizer visibly reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and blemishes for a clearer-looking complexion.
How To Use: Apply the moisturizer every morning after washing your face.
Best For: Oily, Mature, and Blemish-prone skin types
Pros
- Does not clog your pores
- Non-greasy
- Gentle
- 100% vegan
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Might leave a white residue
8. Best For Daily Use: Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine Free Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer
This daily moisturizer by Formula 10.0.6 is enriched with the goodness of active botanicals that give you clearer and radiant-looking skin with regular use. It contains aloe vera extracts that soften the skin and bamboo extracts that absorb excess oil. The oil-free formula controls oil and shine all day.
How To Use: Apply liberally onto clean skin and gently massage it till fully absorbed.
Best For: Oily, Combination, and Acne-prone skin
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Natural ingredients
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
9. Best Mattifying Moisturizer: Bioderma Sebium Mat Control
The Bioderma Sebium Mat Control is enriched with perfecting powders and moisturizing ingredients and soften and mattify your skin for up to 8 hours. The keratolytic active ingredients in the formula tighten your pores and eliminate the appearance of uneven skin tone or any other irregularities. The Fluidactiv patented complex controls greasy shine and oil and prevents the clogging of pores. The zinc and vitamin B6 in the formula reduce the secretion of excess sebum on your face. This moisturizer is absorbed quickly into your skin and super comfortable to wear.
How To Use: Apply to your skin every morning and evening after cleansing.
Best For: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, and Acne-prone skin types
Pros
- Absorbed quickly
- Lightweight
- Dermatologist-tested
- Long-lasting
Cons
None
10. Best Oil-Control Setting Spray: Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray
This ultra-matte makeup setting spray by Urban Decay works wonders on oily skin. The formula absorbs excess oil from the surface of your skin and minimizes shine, giving you a super matte look. It is enriched with microfine kaolin clay for superior oil control. Unlike regular heavy sprays, this formula is super lightweight and lets your skin breathe. It gives you a fresh smudge-free, fade-proof, and crease-proof look that lasts for up to 16 hours.
How To Use: After applying makeup, shake the spray well to activate the formula, and spray it in an X and T formation, holding it about 8-10 inches away from your face.
Best For: Oily and Combination skin types
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Transfer-resistant
- Smudge-proof
- Crease-proof
- Fade-proof
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Might leave residue
11. Best Non-Irritating Formula: Veil Cosmetics AutoMatte Mattifying Balm
The Veil Cosmetics AutoMatte Mattifying Balm is the ultimate product to combat excess shine and oil from the skin. It is an all-rounder product that helps you take care of excess oil, fine lines, and wrinkles to provide an even skin tone. It is enriched with vitamins C and E that nourish the skin and promote a brighter, lively look. The multipurpose product can be used as a primer and eyelid base. This dermatologist-tested product can be used on all skin types including sensitive skin.
How To Use: Gently scoop a little amount of the product with your fingers and apply on areas you feel are oily and wish to give a matte finish.
Best For: Dry, Normal, Sensitive, and Combination skin types
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-drying formula
- Lightweight
- Travel-friendly
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
None
12. Best For Blemishes: Cover FX Mattifying Primer
The skin perfecting primer by Cover FX has a gel-based, mattifying formula with 1% salicylic acid to prevent and heal blemishes and acne. The natural fruit AHA complex gently exfoliates your skin, leaving it smoother and fresher. The ancient African tree bark in the formula helps control shine and smooth your skin’s texture.
How To Use: Apply on well moisturized skin with your fingertips, beginning at the center of your face and blending it outwards.
Best For: Mature, Acne-prone, and Combination skin types
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Petroleum-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Phthalate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Talc-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
13. Best For Sensitive Skin: Murad Oil And Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45
This moisturizer by Murad is lightweight and absorbs instantly into your skin while delivering 10 hours of oil control. It features an oil trapping microsphere that smooths and blurs any imperfections. This moisturizer also has SPF 45 PA ++++ to protect your skin from the harsh UVA and UVB rays of the sun.
How To Use: Apply a small amount of product to your face and neck before applying makeup.
Best For: Sensitive, Oily, Normal, and Combination skin types
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Petroleum-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
None
14. Best Non-Comedogenic: First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Oil-Free Mattifying Gel
This gel moisturizer by First Aid Beauty has a unique watery texture and delivers lightweight hydration along with a refreshing feeling. It is formulated with natural ingredients like Salicomia Herbacea, which is rich in antioxidant properties and deeply nourishing. The moisturizer features FMLT Sebocure complex, which helps diminish oil and sebum secretion and reduce greasiness and blemishes. The ceramides protect your skin‘s natural barrier and give you a youthful and plump appearance. With regular use, your skin looks refined and clearer.
How To Use: Apply twice daily, morning and night, after cleansing your skin.
Best For: Oily, Sensitive, and Acne-prone skin types
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Alcohol-free
- No artificial colors
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Petroleum-free
- Sulfate-free
- Talc-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Vegan
- Oil-free
- Nut-free
- Allergy-tested
Cons
None
15. Best For Sun Protection: Skinceuticals Physical Matte UV Defense
Protect your skin with this broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen by Skinceuticals. It has a weightless mousse-like texture that dries into a matte powder-like finish. It also helps smoothen your skin texture and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores. Stay refreshed and non-oily even in hot and humid conditions, as this formula maintains its protective oil-absorbing base.
How To Use: Apply a small amount of product onto your face and neck before applying makeup.
Best For: Oily and Combination skin types
Pros
- Lightweight
- Absorbed quickly
- Does not cause breakouts
- Blends well under makeup
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
Before you choose any, read the section below to find out about the factors to consider before investing in such skin care products.
How To Choose The Best Mattifying Products – Buying Guide
- Sunscreen
People with sensitive skin should opt for mild sunscreens and avoid alcohol, preservatives, fragrances, and harsh chemicals. For dry skin, opt for a sunscreen that doubles as a moisturizer. For oily and acne-prone skin types, opt for gel-based or water-based sunscreen instead of an oil-based formula.
- Lotions And Moisturizers
When choosing a moisturizer or lotion that is mattifying, stay away from oil-based or butter-based formulas. Although these might work for few skin types, these ingredients make the skin oily and prone to increased sebum secretion.
- Makeup
If you have oily skin, look for a matte formula as it controls excess oil in your face. Also, avoid formulas that have shiny or shimmery finishes or contain essential oils, as they may make your face appear oilier. It is also best to go for waterproof and sweatproof formulas.
For sensitive skin, choose formulas that are mineral-based. These formulas do not have waxes, emollient oils, fragrances, or preservatives that are found in regular powders. Look for ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera in your skin care products. Also, ensure they are non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic. If you have dry skin, avoid mattifying makeup products and choose the ones containing nourishing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, essential oils, and hyaluronic acid.
- Cleansers/Face Washes/Scrubs
For oily and acne-prone skin, choose an oil-free cleanser with salicylic acid, which purifies and eliminates excess sebum in your pores. If you have extremely dry skin, flaking, or itchiness, choose a hydrating cleanser enriched with humectants and hyaluronic acid. For sensitive skin, go for a dense foaming cleanser. Opt for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile or willow bark that can soothe your skin.
Stay away from gritty scrubs or face washes. Some face washes and scrubs have solid scrubbing particles that can be corrosive to the skin, trigger excess sebum secretion, and lead to further irritation and breakouts. This makes your face look oilier instead of mattifying it.
Infographic: Mattifying Products: Facts & What To Look For
Oily skin comes with its share of troubles – like greasiness and melting makeup. Excess sebum production clogs pores, causing outbreaks. Mattifying products control your skin’s oil secretion and absorb pollutants before they can sink into the layers and cause more difficulties.
The following infographic will walk you through the facts and what to look for when purchasing mattifying products. Check it out! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
Download Infographic 
Radiant and bright skin is what every girl dreams of. But with oily skin, the problem is that your skin looks greasy and shiny. And mattifying products help to contour the oiliness and make you appear glowing. They instantly absorb the excessive sebum and provide your skin with a matte finish. The mattifying products act magically in offering the look you want. Invest in lightweight and non-comedogenic products for a distinct look, and restrain products that leave residues.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She understands the struggles of oily skin and has come up with the above list of the best mattifying products that help regulate sebum production and prevent pore clogging. Besides her hours of research, she also considered hundreds of reviews to narrow down on these products. They are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and gentle on the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use a mattifying cream?
Use a mattifying cream if you have oily skin to create a smooth surface and reduce oiliness. Use the cream along with your skin care regime daily.
Can I use mattifying moisturizer at night?
Yes, you can use a mattifying moisturizer at night.
What does mattifying the skin do?
A mattifying cream reduces the appearance of excess sebum. Mattifying creams also offer a skin-tightening effect along with a smooth texture.
How can I make my skin matte without makeup?
Make your skin matte without makeup by washing your face with a mild cleanser, hydrating your skin with an alcohol-free toner, and applying an oil-free moisturizing gel.
Is mattifying moisturizer good for acne?
Yes, a mattifying moisturizer is good for acne. The lightweight formulas do not cause breakouts and keep your skin clear of grease and dirt.
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