17 Best Mattifying Products for Skin That Looks on Fleek

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 13, 2024
best mattifying products
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

The best mattifying products are a boon for people with oily skin. We all know how challenging it is to maintain oily skin. It’s susceptible to breakouts, acne, and various inevitable skin conditions. The constant greasiness and shine make the skin feel irritating and uncomfortable. Excess sebum production blocks pores which lead to new breakouts while aggravating existing skin condition. Thankfully, we have the best mattifying skincare formulas available on the market that help control shine and greasiness while soothing the skin. 

These revolutionary products regulate sebum production to minimize pore clogging and reduce greasy feelings. Unlike regular skincare products that fade away easily, the best mattifying skin care products keep your skin looking perfect with the required matte finish. They absorb the extra oil and remove impurities while maintaining your natural skin barrier. 
We conducted hours of research to discover some of the most effective mattifying products that help you achieve your skincare goals. From moisturizers to cleansers and sunscreens, we have covered everything based on our first-hand experience and product testing. Keep reading to find your best product.

17 Best Mattifying Products

A lightweight mattifying foundation that seals your pores and ensures a smooth finish needs to be in your makeup kit. This Maybelline Fit Me Matte foundation blurs your skin imperfections and blesses you with a flawless look on every application. It's suitable for normal to oily skin types and offers natural-looking medium coverage. You can instantly transform dull skin into a bright and glowing face. You will love wearing this foundation every day as it feels comfortable and breathable.

Pros
  • Oil-free
  • Easy to spread
  • Blendable
  • Not cakey
  • Shades stay true to tones
Cons
  • Watery consistency for some
  • Best Non-comedogenic

    LA Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturizer

    LA Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturizer
  • The LA Roche-Posay mattified moisturizer is meant to fill your large pores and control sebum production. Made with advanced Sebulyse Technology, the formula targets excess sebum and restores natural hydration to provide mattified skin. The multipurpose formula visibly tightens pores with a light matte finish. It works as an excellent makeup base and adds a subtle dew to result in smooth and glowing skin. The added ingredients like glycerin, thermal spring water, and lipo-hydroxy acid make the formula soothing even for sensitive skin. 

    Pros
    • Renews skin cells
    • Antioxidant-rich formula
    • Allergy-tested
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Small tube size
  • Best Hypoallergenic

    Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer

    Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer
  • One of the mattifying skin care products, this oil-absorbing moisturizer by Cetaphil is a multi-tasker. The 4-in-1 formula controls oil production, reduces shine, hydrates skin, and provides protection while ensuring a matte finish. It absorbs quickly into skin layers for long-lasting hydration and reduces pore clogging. Moreover, the moisturizer features broad spectrum SPF 30 advantage to defend your skin against UVA and UVB rays. It leaves your skin with a healthy, light glow throughout the day.

    Pros
    • Non-irritating
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Weightless
    • Soothing formula
    • No added fragrance
    Cons
    • Not water resistant
  • BEST SUNSCREEN

    PETER THOMAS ROTH MAX MATTE SHINE CONTROL SUNSCREEN

    PETER THOMAS ROTH MAX MATTE SHINE CONTROL SUNSCREEN
  • Discover the perfect balance of sun protection and shine control with PETER THOMAS ROTH’s Max Matte Shine Control Sunscreen. Crafted for oily skin, this mattifying sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection. Its advanced formula not only shields your skin from harmful UV rays but also effectively reduces excess oil, leaving your complexion shine-free. Water-resistant and lightweight, it's an ideal choice for a day outdoors. Experience a matte finish that lasts, ensuring your skin stays protected and shine-free, even under the sun's brightest rays.

    Pros
    • High sun protection
    • Matte finish
    • Does not clog pores
    • Lightweight texture
    • Suitable for oily skin
    Cons
    • The packaging can be better
  • Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water

    Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water
  • Say goodbye to harsh rubbing while removing your makeup. The Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water cleanses and removes all your makeup residue without irritation. This skin mattifier eliminates all impurities, including excess oil, dirt, dust, etc., in a few steps. No rinsing is required, please. Just soak the cotton pad and swipe gently. The advanced formula is powered by micelle technology. The micelles attract dirt particles for easy and effective cleansing. It's tested by professionals, so you can be least assured about its safety.

    Pros
    • For all skin types
    • Soothing cleanser
    • Vegan
    • Leaping bunny certified
    • Sulfate-free
    Cons
    • Detergent-like smell for some
  • Best Non-drying

    NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Targeted Primer Stick

    NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Targeted Primer Stick
  • Grab this best mattifying product that never turns your makeup patchy and gritty. The primer stick instantly fills enlarged pores and hides fine lines while offering a soft focus finish. It keeps skin texture smoother and softer throughout the day. The non-drying formula keeps your makeup fresh and in place. The formula features a uniquely shaped applicator that goes smoothly on hard-to-reach surfaces for precise application. You can apply it under or on top of your makeup as it dries translucent on the skin. 

    Pros
    • Sheer finish
    • Suits all skin types
    • PETA certified
    • Cruelty-free
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Stick is delicate
  • Best Non-sticky

    Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine Free Mattifying Moisturizer

    Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine Free Mattifying Moisturizer
  • Hydrating and moisturizing, the Formula's mattifying moisturizer restores skin health. Active botanicals like salicylic acid help manage sebum production and condition skin while reducing irritation and redness (1). The added bamboo extracts absorb excess oil, and aloe vera softens skin. It adds a soft focus finish while soothing your skin. This little gem never clogs pores and does the job without feeling greasy and sticky. The Formula 10.0.6 mattifying moisturizer reviews will help you know more about the product.

    Pros
    • Non-sticky
    • Clean ingredients
    • Offers soft-focus finish
    • Easy to apply
    • Reduces shine
    Cons
    • Some may not like its gel-like consistency
  • BEST NON-STICKY FORMULA

    PAYOT MATIFYING BEAUTY GEL

    PAYOT MATIFYING BEAUTY GEL
  • Payot's Matifying Beauty Gel is a revolutionary day care treatment that redefines skincare. Crafted with a lightweight gel texture, it expertly balances efficacy and comfort. Enriched with sativa seed extract, Chilean mint extract, zinc, and bamboo powder, it's more than just a mattifying product – it's a potent blend of natural wonders. This innovative formulation not only banishes excess shine but also doubles as a spot treatment, combating blemishes effectively. Experience the power of nature and science, harmonized for your flawless skin journey.

    Pros
    • Effective mattifying action
    • Spot treatment benefits
    • Great for acne prone skin
    • Lightweight and comfortable
    • Controls excess shine
    • Promotes clearer skin
    Cons
    • Not unscented
  • The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion
  • Packed in an green elegant tube, this Body Shop Tea Tree lotion is perfect for blemished skin. Tea tree leaves grown in the lush foothills of Mount Kenya are transformed into oil and added to the mattifying lotion. It's your ready-to-go daytime moisturizer that doesn't leave your skin heavy and sticky. It penetrates deep into the skin layers and boosts hydration. You can achieve matte, shine-free results with continuous use. It visibly reduces the appearance of blemishes, and acne and reduces extra oil production (2).

    Pros
    • Gluten-free
    • Vegan
    • No paraben added
    • Calms redness
    • Adds lightweight hydration
    Cons
    • Excessive use might dry skin
  • Best Non-residue Formula

    Bioderma - Sébium - Mat Control Cream

    Bioderma - Sébium - Mat Control Cream
  • The Bioderma matte skin cream minimizes extra shine and ensures a clean look. Designed with an exclusive Fluidactiv patented complex, the Mat Control cream targets sebum quality and blurs skin flaws. It prevents pores from clogging and provides immediate, long-lasting, effective results. Whether you have combination or oily skin, the gel-like cream runs precisely and absorbs quickly while providing a stunning matte finish that lasts for hours. Also, you can use it as a makeup base to create your favorite looks.

    Pros
    • Controls shine
    • Hydrating blend
    • Non-greasy
    • Blurs imperfections
    • Doesn't leave residue
    Cons
    • Pricey
  • Best Waterproof

    Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray

    Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray
  • Keep your makeup fresh and cool with this Urban Decay setting spray. The mattifying makeup spray is made with patented temperature control technology that intact your looks for up to 16 hours. Your skin will love this soothing formula as it's breathable. The ultra-fine mist goes evenly and doesn't settle into fine lines and wrinkles. It is infused with kaolin clay that blocks shine, improves skin elasticity, and absorbs excessive oil (3). Mist this unique formula over concealer, foundation, and other makeup products for natural and vibrant looks.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Waterproof
    • No fade spray
    • Smudgeproof
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Might leave specks
  • Best Long-lasting

    Mehron Makeup Skin Prep Pro Mattifying Skin Toner

    Mehron Makeup Skin Prep Pro Mattifying Skin Toner
  • A professionally trusted skin toner like Mehron Makeup Skin Prep Pro is a total game changer. Mattify skin with a new-age formula developed by industry experts. Skin Prep Pro is ideal for all skin types and extends the longevity of makeup even in stressful conditions. It creates a moisture barrier between the makeup layers and the skin for a matte finish all day. You can confidently wear any makeup product on the coldest or hottest days- don't worry, it won't break out.

    Pros
    • Longwear
    • Shine controller
    • Fragrance-free
    • Comfortable
    • Minimizes pores
    Cons
    • Using it alone might dry skin
  • Covergirl Clean Fresh Skincare Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer

    Covergirl Clean Fresh Skincare Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer
  • Nothing beats an oil-free moisturizer that soothes skin without causing breakouts. It's amongst the best mattifying skin care products that keep the skin hydrated for up to 24 hours. The oil-free and vegan cream slathers evenly on the applied surface and melts easily like butter to penetrate the skin. Infused with electrolyte-rich cactus water, the ultimate hydrating complex balances skin's natural hydration levels while controlling surface oils. Apply this daily to achieve the desired results.

    Pros
    • Provides a soft matte finish
    • Fast-absorbing
    • No shine formula
    • Moderate consistency
    • Non-greasy
    Cons
    • All may not like its scent
  • Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer

    Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer
  • The Acure Incredibly Clear Mattifying Moisturizer promises you skin clarity with every use. This formula is enriched with ingredients like lilac extract, evening primrose, COQ10, argan oil, chlorella, and vitamin E that nourish and moisturize skin (4), (5), (6). The extraordinary fusion restores skin's elasticity for a firm and even look. Also, it improves texture and prevents moisture loss to make skin soft and supple. Our analysis of the product shows that it's ideal for day and night use.

    Pros
    • Sulfate-free
    • Paraben-free
    • Improves skin tone
    • Rejuvenates hydration
    • Mineral oil free
    Cons
    • Pungent smell for some
  • Murad Oil & Pore Reducing Facial Moisturizer

    Murad Oil & Pore Reducing Facial Moisturizer
  • Never let acne trouble you. The Murad Oil & Pore Reducing Facial Moisturizer prevents pore clogging that results in acne and breakouts. It reduces the appearance of pores by 54% and offers 10 hours of oil-free and shineless finish. It's one of the best shine control products that trap oil to mattify, smooth, and blur skin imperfections. Featuring SPF 45 advantage, the moisturizer cum sunscreen reflects radiation to prevent damage due to UV rays. You can wear it under sunlight and travel freely anywhere.

    Pros
    • Reduces oily feeling
    • Pore minimizing moisturizer
    • Featherweight
    • Doesn't leave residue
    • Non-comedogenic
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Oil-Free Mattifying Gel Moisturizer

    First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Oil-Free Mattifying Gel Moisturizer
  • Tackle all your skin concerns with this mattifying moisturizing gel. From oiliness to acne and large pores, the gel formula reduces all to provide clean and perfect skin. It's ideal for all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone. It features a natural oil-fighting blend that helps reduce greasy skin, eliminate sebum, and prevent blemishes from occurring. Other ingredients like antioxidants improve skin hydration levels, while ceramide 3 protects the skin's natural barrier to give a plump and youthful look.

    Pros
    • Eliminates blackheads
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Allergy-tested
    • Prevents breakouts
    • Offers a smooth matte finish
    Cons
    • Might be a bit heavy for some users
  • Veil Cosmetics AutoMatte Mattifying Balm

    Veil Cosmetics AutoMatte Mattifying Balm
  • Available in a compact, cute case, the Veil mattifying face balm is all set to prep you for on-the-go touchups. The powderless translucent balm brightens your skin complexion and hides all signs of aging. Be it wrinkles, fine lines, or dull skin, the Automatte Mattifying balm provides an instant light glow. It takes away excess shine and creates long-lasting makeup looks. Infused with vitamins C and E, the fusion absorbs sebum, while antioxidants even skin tone and reduce discoloration for HD finish (6).

    Pros
    • Velvety soft texture
    • Non-chalky finish
    • Prevents oil build-up
    • Improves elasticity
    • Press to open the case lid
    Cons
    • The effects might not last long

    Now that you have gone through our top recommendations for the best mattifying products, check out our user guide below to find a perfect formula for yourself.

    How to Pick the Best Mattifying Products?

    Here are a few things you can look for while choosing different mattifying products. 

    Moisturizers 

    Mattifying products like moisturizers and lotions have special ingredients that help improve skin condition by regulating oil production. Look for moisturizers and lotions made with natural and effective ingredients like plant extracts, organic acids, etc. Pick oil-free formulas with non-comedogenic ingredients that don't clog pores. 

    A certified dermatologist, Dr. Anna Chacon says, ‘Mattifying formulas with a shiny finish are usually recommended for individuals with oily skin types. These products work to reduce excess oil and shine on the skin. However, not all individuals with different skin types should avoid these formulas. It depends on their specific skin needs and concerns. For example, individuals with combination skin might benefit from mattifying products in certain areas. It's always recommended to consult with a skincare professional or dermatologist to determine the best products for your skin type.”

    Makeup products 

    While choosing makeup products, check for blends free from harsh chemicals and pore-clogging ingredients. Also avoid shiny finish formulas made with essential oils as they make skin look more oilier, especially when you have oily skin. 

    Hypoallergenic options are perfect for those with sensitive skin. These formulas are mild and do not cause irritation and redness. Those with dry skin may try moisturizing and hydrating blends formulated with ingredients like vitamins, aloe vera, etc., that add an instant boost of hydration.  

    Sunscreens 

    Sunscreens with hypoallergenic ingredients align well with sensitive skin. People with dry skin may opt for moisturizing sunscreens that do their primary job of reducing sun damage while restoring natural skin moisture. Non-comedogenic and oil-free sunscreen formulas are ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.

    Cleansers 

    When it comes to cleansing mattifying products like facial cleansers gentle and effective formulas always win the game. Oil-free cleansers that remove impurities without stripping off natural oil work great on oily skin. Hydrating cleansers made with humectants prevent dryness and flakiness and are perfect for dry skin. While those with sensitive skin may choose hypoallergenic foaming cleansers. 

    While discussing the impact of mattifying cleansers for oily and sensitive skin types, our contributor Dr. Chacon says, “Mattifying foaming cleansers can sometimes be too harsh for sensitive skin. These types of cleansers work by effectively removing excess oil on the skin's surface, which can be beneficial for oily skin types. However, for sensitive skin, they may strip away too much of the skin's natural oils. Opting for a mild cleanser is the key in such cases”

    After picking the most suitable mattifying product that aligns with your needs, here's how to use them.

    How to Apply the Best Mattifying Products?

    Consider the steps while using different mattifying products. 

    Moisturizers and lotions 

    1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and dry it. 
    2. Take some quantity of your favorite moisturizer on the fingertips, depending on your skin type.
    3. Apply it on your face using outward strokes. Start with your cheeks and then cover the rest area. 
    4. You can moisturize your skin twice a day (morning and night) for better results. 

    Sunscreens 

    1. Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen. 
    2. Take enough quantity to cover your entire body, especially the most vulnerable spots. You may have to apply more quantity on areas like the back, shoulders, hands, legs, etc., as they are exposed more to the sunlight. 
    3. Spread the formula precisely using your palm and fingers. 

    Cleansers 

    1. Pump out your ideal face wash on your palms. 
    2. Add a few water drops and create a lather. 
    3. Spread it on the face in a circular, upward, and downward motion. 

    Contributor: Dr. Anna Chacon, Dermatologist - MyPsoriasisTeam

    Conclusion

    Achieving radiant and flawless skin is every woman's dream. Oily skin is different and releases more oil than other skin types. It tends to appear more greasy and shiny. But with the best mattifying products you can cut off excess sebum that may clog pores. They act as magical concoctions to absorb overproduced sebum and leave skin a perfect matte finish. The products mentioned above are the latest additions to the product league and offer clean and smooth skin. When choosing a mattifying product, consider your skincare goals and pick natural and organic formulas depending on your skin type.

    FAQ's

    When can I use a mattifying cream?
    You can use a mattifying cream daily to create a smooth canvas for makeup looks or simply to hydrate or moisturize skin.
    How can I achieve matte skin without using makeup?
    To achieve a matte finish without using makeup, you can exfoliate or cleanse your face with a mild cleanser. Then apply a hydrating toner and moisturizer.
    Can I use a mattifying moisturizer on acne-prone skin?
    Yes, you can try mattifying moisturizers on acne-prone skin. These are gentle and do not cause pore clogging to prevent breakouts.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More