15 Mattifying Skincare Tips to Control Oil (2025)

Oily skin can be a blessing and a curse. While it may delay the signs of aging thanks to that natural lubrication, it often comes with unwanted shine, clogged pores, and an ongoing battle to keep your makeup from sliding off your face. If you’re nodding along, don’t worry—you’re far from alone.According to dermatologists, excess oil production is often genetic, but it can be managed effectively with the right skincare approach. Whether you’re prepping for summer, dealing with year-round shine, or just tired of that mid-day grease glow, these 15 proven mattifying skincare tips will help you balance oil production and love your skin again. Ready to ditch the shine and embrace a more matte, radiant you? Let’s get started!

1. Use a Gel-Based Cleanser with Salicylic Acid

Starting your day with the right cleanser makes a world of difference for oily skin. Gel-based formulas are typically lighter and water-based, making them ideal for removing excess oil without stripping your skin of essential moisture. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is your secret weapon here. It penetrates deep into pores, breaks down sebum buildup, and prevents blackheads and acne before they start.Unlike creamy cleansers that can leave a residue, gel cleansers rinse clean and feel refreshing. Use it twice a day—morning and night—for best results. Pro tip? Massage it in for at least 30 seconds to allow the active ingredients to do their job.

2. Apply a Mattifying Toner After Cleansing

Toners have come a long way from the harsh, alcohol-heavy formulas of the past. Today’s mattifying toners are soothing, hydrating, and incredibly effective for oil control. Look for ones infused with witch hazel, niacinamide, or green tea extract. These ingredients minimize pores, reduce inflammation, and regulate sebum production.Swipe it on with a cotton pad or gently pat it in with your hands after cleansing. It preps your skin for serums and moisturizers, allowing those products to absorb more effectively. Think of it as the bridge between your cleanser and the rest of your routine.

3. Choose an Oil-Free, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer

Yes—you still need moisturizer, even if you have oily skin! In fact, skipping it can trigger more oil production as your skin tries to compensate for dryness. The key is choosing the right formula. Look for oil-free, water-based, or gel moisturizers that hydrate without heaviness.Non-comedogenic products are specially formulated not to clog pores, making them essential for oily or acne-prone skin. Bonus points if it contains hyaluronic acid, which provides deep hydration without adding grease. Lightweight moisture = balanced skin.

4. Add Niacinamide to Your Routine

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a true skincare multitasker. It helps control oil production, reduces the appearance of pores, evens out skin tone, and improves overall texture. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time.You’ll find niacinamide in toners, serums, and moisturizers. Use a serum with at least 5% concentration for maximum results. It’s gentle enough to use daily and plays well with most other ingredients, including retinol and hyaluronic acid.

5. Exfoliate Gently Twice a Week

Dead skin cells can trap oil and lead to blackheads, breakouts, and rough texture. That’s why exfoliation is a must in any oily skincare routine—but don’t overdo it. Too much exfoliating can strip your skin and cause more oil production.Stick with gentle chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or lactic acid instead of harsh scrubs. Two times a week is plenty. Regular exfoliation will help clear out pores, smooth your skin, and even improve how well your other skincare products work.

6. Always Use a Clay Mask Weekly

Clay masks are perfect for pulling out impurities and soaking up oil. Ingredients like kaolin clay and bentonite clay are especially effective for oily and acne-prone skin. These natural clays draw out toxins, tighten pores, and give your skin that fresh, matte finish.Apply a clay mask once or twice a week, ideally after cleansing and before moisturizing. Leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Your skin will feel smoother, clearer, and more balanced instantly.

7. Use Oil-Controlling Primer Before Makeup

If your makeup slides off your face by lunchtime, a mattifying primer is your new best friend. These primers create a smooth base, blur pores, and absorb excess oil throughout the day. Look for ingredients like silica, tea tree oil, or dimethicone.Apply a small amount to your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) before foundation. Not only will your makeup last longer, but your skin will also stay looking fresh and shine-free.

8. Don’t Skip SPF—Go for Matte Sunscreens

Sunscreen is non-negotiable, even if you have oily skin. Fortunately, there are many matte-finish sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection without the greasy residue. Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide formulas with a lightweight, gel or powder finish.Avoid heavy, cream-based sunscreens, which can clog pores and increase shine. A good SPF protects your skin from UV damage and helps prevent oil-triggered inflammation, redness, and discoloration.

9. Blotting Papers Are Your Best Friend

Sometimes the best skincare tip is also the simplest. Blotting papers are a lifesaver for absorbing oil on the go without ruining your makeup. Keep them in your bag, desk, or car for quick touch-ups whenever needed.They’re perfect for midday shine and are much gentler than over-powdering, which can cake your makeup and emphasize texture. A quick blot restores your matte look in seconds!

10. Avoid Over-Washing Your Face

Washing your face too often can backfire. When you strip your skin of its natural oils, it responds by producing even more. Stick to cleansing just twice a day—morning and night—with a gentle, oil-fighting cleanser.If you’ve worked out or sweat excessively, a splash of water or micellar water can freshen up your skin without overdoing it. Gentle consistency beats aggressive over-washing every time.

11. Look for Zinc in Skincare Products

Zinc is a fantastic natural ingredient for oily skin. It reduces inflammation, soothes irritation, and helps regulate oil production. You’ll find it in many sunscreens, spot treatments, and moisturizers.Zinc oxide is particularly popular in matte sunscreens and provides mineral protection without heaviness. It’s a skin-calming essential that delivers more than just sun protection.

12. Use Lightweight, Water-Based Serums

Serums are a great way to deliver active ingredients to your skin—but if you have oily skin, avoid anything heavy or oil-rich. Instead, opt for lightweight, water-based serums that sink in quickly and hydrate without shine.Ingredients like green tea, hyaluronic acid, and centella asiatica are great choices. These serums absorb fast, refresh your skin, and won’t clog your pores.

13. Avoid Coconut Oil and Heavy Butters

While natural oils are all the rage, coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter can be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin. These comedogenic ingredients may clog pores and worsen breakouts.Instead, opt for products labeled non-comedogenic and designed specifically for oily skin types. Stick to lighter oils like squalane or rosehip oil if you want something more nourishing without the risk of congestion.

14. Sleep on a Clean Pillowcase Every Few Days

Your pillowcase can secretly sabotage your skin. Dirt, oil, and product buildup can transfer onto your face every night, increasing breakouts and excess oil. Changing your pillowcase every 2–3 days can help keep your skin clearer.Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo, and skip fabric softeners that leave a waxy residue. Clean bedding = clean skin. It’s that simple!

15. Stay Consistent and Track What Works

Skincare is not one-size-fits-all. What works for someone else might not work for you—and that’s okay! The key is consistency. Stick to a routine for at least 4–6 weeks before judging its effectiveness.It can help to journal your skincare—track products, routines, and any reactions or improvements. Over time, you’ll understand what your skin loves and what it doesn’t. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it’s the power to stay matte, fresh, and fabulous.

Conclusion: Your Shine-Free Future Starts Now

There’s no need to feel defeated by oily skin. With a few smart tweaks to your skincare routine, you can keep oil in check without over-drying, irritating, or stressing your skin out. From gel cleansers and clay masks to niacinamide serums and matte sunscreens, the right tools and habits make all the difference.And remember—oily skin isn’t bad skin. It just needs balance, a little extra attention, and the right ingredients. So go ahead, embrace the glow (the healthy kind), and let these 15 mattifying skincare tips help you feel confident, radiant, and oil-free every day of the year!