All Day Every Day Oil-Free Moisturiser
All Day Every Day Oil-Free Moisturiser
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free gel moisturiser with niacinamide and natural silica that mattifies oily skin, evens out skin tone, and delivers soothing hydration without greasiness. Designed for daily AM/PM use on oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin.
Niacinamide Power
Vitamin B3 evens skin tone, reduces irritation, and helps lock in moisture while controlling sebum production.
Texture & feel
SENSORYNiacinamide Power
Vitamin B3 evens skin tone, reduces irritation, and helps lock in moisture while controlling sebum production.
Natural Silica Mattifier
Mineral-derived silica absorbs excess oil throughout the day, smoothing the skin and minimising shine.
Clean Formula
Only 11 ingredients. Free from fragrance, parabens, SLS, synthetic dyes, essential oils, and animal-derived ingredients.
Primer-Ready
Works beautifully under makeup as a mattifying primer, creating a smooth, oil-free base that extends wear time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Isononyl Isononanoate, a synthetic ester that can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne.
Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula. Very low risk of clogging pores, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free and free of common allergens. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin types. No harsh alcohols or sulfates.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply actives first, then layer this moisturiser on top.
Contains no animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals. Packaging is recyclable through Mecca's TerraCycle program.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~3-5%Proven
A multi-functional skincare powerhouse listed 4th in the INCI, suggesting a significant concentration. Targets uneven tone, inflammation, enlarged pores, and excess oil production.
- Sebum control: Clinical studies show 2-5% niacinamide significantly reduces sebum production after 4 weeks of use.
- Barrier support: Increases ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier and improving moisture retention.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation, making it beneficial for acne, rosacea, and sensitive skin conditions.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer, helping to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots over time.
Silica Listed 3rdProven
A naturally occurring mineral that acts as an oil-absorbing agent and skin-smoothing texture enhancer. Positioned high in the ingredient list for effective mattification.
- Oil absorption: Microspheres physically absorb excess sebum from the skin surface, reducing shine for hours.
- Skin smoothing: Creates a soft-focus effect, blurring the appearance of pores and fine lines.
- Non-comedogenic: Does not penetrate pores or cause breakouts. Rated 0 on the comedogenic scale.
Isononyl Isononanoate Listed 2ndFunctional
A synthetic emollient that gives the moisturiser its silky, lightweight texture. Helps the product spread easily and creates a smooth, non-greasy finish on the skin.
- Emollient: Creates a thin moisture barrier on the skin to prevent water loss without feeling heavy or oily.
- Texture enhancer: Provides a velvety, powder-like feel that improves spreadability and wearability under makeup.
Pentylene Glycol Listed 5thFunctional
A multifunctional humectant and mild preservative booster that hydrates while helping to keep the formula stable and free from traditional preservatives like parabens.
- Humectant: Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration levels throughout the day.
- Antimicrobial: Provides natural preservation properties, reducing the need for harsher preservatives in the formula.
11 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Isononyl Isononanoate, Silica, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Carbomer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM. Pairs well with MECCA MAX Foam-O Cleanser, Clean Sweep Toner, and Watercooler Serum. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Start with a clean face. Use a gentle gel or foam cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.
Apply a Thin Layer
Dispense a small amount (pea-sized) and massage a thin layer across your entire face and neck using upward, outward strokes.
Let It Absorb
Allow 20-30 seconds for the moisturiser to fully absorb before applying the next step in your routine.
Follow with SPF (AM)
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This moisturiser also works as a smooth base under makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You want a mattifying moisturiser that works under makeup
- You prefer a minimal, clean ingredient list with no fragrance
- You need a budget-friendly daily moisturiser with niacinamide
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturiser
- You are a skincare beginner looking for a simple, effective product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs rich, heavy moisture
- You suffer from fungal acne (malassezia) — contains an ester that may trigger flares
- You want anti-ageing benefits like peptides, retinol, or ceramides
- You prefer a dewy or glowy finish rather than matte
- You need a moisturiser with built-in SPF protection
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is the ideal skin type for this product. The silica absorbs excess sebum, niacinamide controls oil production, and the lightweight gel formula never adds greasiness.
Balances the oily T-zone without drying out cheeks. Lightweight enough for oily areas while still providing basic hydration where needed.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free formula with anti-inflammatory niacinamide. Great for breakout-prone skin, but not suitable for fungal acne specifically.
Fragrance-free, minimal ingredient list, and no common irritants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin. Niacinamide can soothe inflammation.
May not provide enough moisture for dry skin on its own. Could work as a lightweight layer in summer or humid climates, but will likely need a richer cream on top in winter.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSInstant Mattification
Skin feels smooth, hydrated, and shine-free. The silica creates an immediate soft-focus, matte effect that works beautifully under makeup.
90% noticed instant mattificationReduced Oiliness & Smoother Texture
Niacinamide begins regulating sebum production. Skin starts to feel less greasy throughout the day and texture appears more refined.
70% noticed less oil during the dayImproved Skin Tone & Clarity
Niacinamide's brightening effects become visible. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation fades, redness decreases, and pores appear more refined.
60% noticed more even skin toneStrengthened Skin Barrier
Continued niacinamide use boosts ceramide production, strengthening the moisture barrier. Skin is less reactive, better hydrated, and breakouts may decrease.
50% noticed fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
402+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight and fast-absorbing — never feels greasy
- Effective mattifying effect that lasts for hours
- Excellent under makeup as a primer substitute
- Minimal, clean ingredient list with only 11 ingredients
- Affordable at $22 AUD for 50ml
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Niacinamide helps even skin tone and calm redness
- Recyclable packaging through Mecca's TerraCycle program
Criticized
- Not hydrating enough for dry or dehydrated skin types
- Not fungal acne safe due to Isononyl Isononanoate
- Only available at Mecca stores (AU/NZ) — limited accessibility
- 50ml size may run out quickly with twice-daily use
- No advanced anti-ageing ingredients like peptides or ceramides
- Some users find it too mattifying, leaving a slightly dry feel
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lightweight gel moisturiser with a minimal ingredient philosophy. Uses amino acids and fatty acids instead of niacinamide. Less mattifying but more hydrating. Oil-free and fragrance-free.
Hyaluronic acid-based gel moisturiser. More hydrating and slightly dewier finish. Does not contain niacinamide or silica, so less mattifying. Contains dimethicone (silicone).
Includes niacinamide, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid for a more comprehensive formula. Slightly richer texture. Also contains Isononyl Isononanoate, so also not fungal acne safe.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEMECCA MAX All Day Every Day
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. Recyclable through Mecca's in-store TerraCycle program.
Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This moisturiser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients flagged as concerning during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its simple 11-ingredient formula is considered safe for use during pregnancy and while nursing. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This product contains Isononyl Isononanoate, a synthetic ester that can potentially feed malassezia yeast, the organism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you have active fungal acne, look for a moisturiser that avoids esters, fatty acids, and polysorbates. Consider alternatives like the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Fluide or Avene Tolerance Extreme Emulsion.
Yes. This moisturiser is compatible with all common actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Apply your actives first (serums, treatments), allow them to absorb, then layer this moisturiser on top. The niacinamide in this product can actually complement retinol and vitamin C by reducing irritation and supporting skin barrier function.
This moisturiser is best suited for oily and combination skin types. The silica absorbs excess oil for a matte finish, while niacinamide helps regulate sebum production over time. It also works well for acne-prone skin (non-fungal) and normal skin in warmer climates. It may not be hydrating enough as a standalone moisturiser for dry skin types.
You will notice instant mattification and smoothness from the first use. Oil control improvements typically become noticeable within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For niacinamide's full benefits — including improved skin tone, reduced redness, and smaller-looking pores — allow 4-8 weeks of twice-daily application. Skin barrier improvements continue to develop over 8-12 weeks.
Apply after cleansing, toning, and any serums or treatments, but before sunscreen (AM) or sleeping mask (PM). The routine order is: Cleanser, Toner, Serum/Treatment, this Moisturiser, then Sunscreen in the morning. Mecca recommends pairing it with the MECCA MAX Foam-O Cleanser, Clean Sweep Toner, and Watercooler Calming Hydration Serum.
This moisturiser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. It is oil-free, and the key ingredients (niacinamide, silica, pentylene glycol) are all non-comedogenic. Silica actually helps to absorb excess oil, which can further reduce the chance of clogged pores. It is widely recommended for acne-prone skin.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results. The 50ml tube should last approximately 2-3 months with twice-daily use (AM and PM), so one tube will comfortably be used before the PAO expires. If the texture, colour, or smell changes, discard the product.
Verdict: The MECCA MAX All Day Every Day Oil-Free Moisturiser is a solid, no-fuss daily moisturiser for oily and combination skin. Its standout strengths are an ultra-minimal 11-ingredient formula, effective mattification from silica, and proven niacinamide benefits — all at a very accessible $22 AUD price point. It excels as a lightweight, shine-free base under makeup and is safe for pregnancy. However, it falls short for those with dry skin or fungal acne concerns, and it lacks the ceramides and hyaluronic acid found in competitors like CeraVe. If you have oily skin and value a clean, simple, budget-friendly formula, this is an excellent everyday choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isononyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antistatic Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|