Hydrating & Mattifying Oil-Free Gel Cream
Hydrating & Mattifying Oil-Free Gel Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free gel cream that hydrates for up to 24 hours while mattifying shine for up to 8 hours. Formulated with 93% naturally-derived ingredients, it targets excess sebum, blackheads, and uneven skin texture with a clean, minimalist 15-ingredient formula.
8-Hour Mattifying Power
Scientifically tested to control shine and reduce the appearance of excess sebum for up to 8 hours after a single application.
Texture & feel
SENSORY8-Hour Mattifying Power
Scientifically tested to control shine and reduce the appearance of excess sebum for up to 8 hours after a single application.
24-Hour Hydration
Despite its oil-free formula, it delivers long-lasting hydration through polyglutamic acid and propanediol, keeping skin comfortable all day.
Minimalist 15-Ingredient Formula
A clean, streamlined ingredient list with no unnecessary fillers. Every ingredient serves a purpose, reducing the risk of irritation.
Doubles as Makeup Primer
Creates a smooth, shine-free canvas that helps makeup last longer. Users report no need for additional mattifying powders throughout the day.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All 15 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Completely oil-free with no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. A rare find for those managing fungal acne.
Zero comedogenic ingredients. No oils, no silicones, no pore-clogging emollients. Exceptionally unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores.
Free from parabens, fragrances (less than 1% synthetic), sulfates, mineral oil, formaldehyde, phthalates, and other common irritants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Can be used alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. The simple, non-reactive formula layers well without interference.
Succinic acid works at an acidic pH. While generally well-tolerated, those with extremely compromised barriers may wish to introduce gradually.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSuccinic Acid ~2-3%Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid with antibacterial and sebum-regulating properties. It targets the bacteria linked to acne (C. acnes) while absorbing excess oil to mattify the complexion.
- Research: Studies show succinic acid inhibits Cutibacterium acnes growth and reduces inflammation, similar to benzoyl peroxide but with less irritation.
- Function: Listed 4th in INCI, indicating a meaningful concentration. Acts as both a mattifying agent and mild anti-blemish active.
Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) <1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight amino acid polymer that acts as a superior humectant. PGA can hold up to 5,000 times its weight in water, outperforming hyaluronic acid in moisture retention.
- Research: Clinical studies demonstrate PGA increases skin hydration by up to 130% and also inhibits hyaluronidase, the enzyme that degrades natural hyaluronic acid in the skin.
- Function: Creates a moisture-locking film on the skin surface, delivering sustained hydration without heaviness.
Propanediol ~5-10%Proven
A corn sugar-derived glycol that serves as a lightweight humectant and solvent. It improves the sensory feel of the formula while boosting skin moisturization without any greasy residue.
- Source: Derived from renewable corn sugar via fermentation. A sustainable, plant-based alternative to petroleum-derived propylene glycol.
- Function: Listed 2nd in INCI, making it the primary functional ingredient after water. Enhances ingredient absorption and preservative efficacy.
Microcrystalline Cellulose ~1-2%Proven
An ultra-fine natural powder derived from wood pulp or cotton. Provides a silky, powder-like finish that physically absorbs oil and delivers the matte effect without clogging pores.
- Function: Acts as a natural mattifying agent and texture enhancer. Replaces synthetic silicones for oil control, giving the product its characteristic smooth, non-greasy finish.
Glycerin <1%Proven
One of the most well-studied and effective humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin and helps maintain the skin barrier.
- Research: A 2016 study in the British Journal of Dermatology found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Function: Present in a supporting role to enhance hydration without contributing to greasiness.
15 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Succinic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Triethyl Citrate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Glycerin, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Benzoate, Polyglutamic Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night as your moisturizer step. For oily skin, this can be your final step before sunscreen. Dry skin types may layer a heavier moisturizer on top in colder months.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Apply Serums (Optional)
If you use any water-based serums (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C), apply them first and let them absorb.
Apply Gel Cream
Take a pea-sized amount and gently massage into your face and neck using upward, circular motions. It absorbs in under 30 seconds.
Follow with SPF (Morning)
In the morning, always apply sunscreen as the final step. This gel cream also works beautifully as a makeup primer—no extra product needed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny by midday
- You want hydration without the heaviness of traditional creams
- You struggle with fungal acne and need a safe moisturizer
- You prefer a minimalist, clean ingredient list
- You need a mattifying makeup primer that doubles as skincare
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe option
- You live in a hot, humid climate
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs rich, emollient moisturizers
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides in your moisturizer
- You prefer a dewy or glowy finish rather than matte
- You need heavy barrier repair (this lacks ceramides or fatty acids)
- You live in a very cold, dry climate and need intense nourishment
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is the ideal skin type for this product. Oil-free formula with succinic acid actively controls sebum for up to 8 hours. Lightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding any shine.
Balances well across different face zones. Mattifies the T-zone while keeping drier cheeks comfortably hydrated with PGA and glycerin.
Provides sufficient hydration for normal skin, especially in warmer months. Great lightweight option for those who dislike heavy creams.
May not be hydrating enough on its own, especially in colder months. Best used as a daytime moisturizer layered under a richer cream or as part of a multi-step routine.
Minimal 15-ingredient formula is generally well-tolerated. Free from common irritants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin due to succinic acid's low pH.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), oil-free, fungal acne safe, and contains succinic acid which has proven antibacterial activity against acne-causing bacteria. Outstanding choice.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Mattification & Hydration
Skin feels immediately hydrated and shine-free. The gel-cream absorbs in under 30 seconds, leaving a smooth, velvety matte finish that is ready for makeup application.
95% noticed instant mattificationReduced Daytime Shine
Users report noticeably less oil breakthrough throughout the day. The T-zone stays matte for significantly longer and the need for blotting papers decreases.
85% noticed reduced shineImproved Skin Texture & Fewer Blemishes
After 28 days, clinical tests show reduced blackheads and improved skin texture. Pores appear more refined and skin looks clearer overall.
88% reported smoother skin textureBalanced, Healthier-Looking Complexion
With continued use, skin's oil-water balance improves. Fewer breakouts and a more even complexion become the norm. Many users report needing less makeup coverage.
82% satisfied with overall resultsRatings by platform
344+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional mattifying power that lasts up to 8 hours without touchups
- Ultra-minimalist 15-ingredient formula reduces risk of irritation
- Oil-free, fungal acne safe, pregnancy safe — rare triple safety combination
- Doubles as a fantastic makeup primer, eliminating the need for a separate product
- Affordable at $20 for a well-formulated gel cream from a reputable brand
- 93% naturally-derived ingredients with vegan, cruelty-free credentials
- Fast absorption with zero stickiness or residue
Criticized
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin, especially in cold or dry climates
- 50ml jar may feel small for daily AM/PM use at the price point
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than a pump or tube
- Minimal active ingredients — no anti-aging benefits like retinol or peptides
- Matte finish may feel overly drying for those who prefer a dewy look
- Succinic acid concentration is not disclosed by the brand
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer with amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Similar lightweight feel, but lacks the succinic acid mattifying power and is not as specifically formulated for oil control. Contains fatty acids so not fungal acne safe.
Hyaluronic acid-based gel cream with excellent hydration. Very similar price and format, but lacks succinic acid for mattifying and contains dimethicone (silicone). Not fungal acne safe due to isopropyl palmitate in some formulations.
Features niacinamide and ceramides for barrier repair plus hydration. Better for dry skin but heavier and not oil-free. Contains fatty alcohols and cholesterol so not ideal for fungal acne. No mattifying properties.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required. Keep the lid tightly closed after each use.
Recyclable jar with screw-top lid. Made from sugarcane-derived recyclable plastic. Cardboard box from sustainably managed forests with vegetable-origin inks.
Yes — 50 ml is under the 100 ml / 3.4 oz carry-on liquid limit for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This gel cream contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 15 ingredients are considered safe for use by expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. This is one of the most fungal acne-safe moisturizers available. It contains zero oils, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The entire 15-ingredient formula has been checked and is safe for those managing pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne).
Yes. The simple, non-reactive formula layers well with virtually all active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C serum, AHA, or BHA first, let them absorb, and then follow with the gel cream. It will not interfere with or deactivate your actives. The succinic acid in the formula is mild and compatible with other acids at typical concentrations.
This product is specifically designed for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It performs best for those who struggle with excess shine, enlarged pores, and blemishes. Normal skin will also enjoy it, especially in summer. Those with dry skin may find it insufficient as a sole moisturizer, particularly in cold climates — consider layering a richer cream on top.
Mattification is immediate — you will notice a shine-free finish within seconds of application. Reduced oiliness throughout the day typically improves within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. In clinical studies, 88% of participants reported smoother skin texture after 28 days. Full benefits including reduced blackheads and improved complexion balance are typically seen within 4-8 weeks.
Apply it as your moisturizer step: after cleansing, toning, and applying any serums, but before sunscreen (morning) or as the last step (evening). For oily skin, it can be the final step before SPF with no need for additional moisturizer. It also works as a makeup primer, so you can apply foundation directly after it has absorbed.
No. This gel cream has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it is extremely unlikely to clog pores. It contains no oils, silicones, fatty acids, or any known pore-clogging ingredients. It is one of the cleanest non-comedogenic moisturizer formulas available and is suitable for even the most breakout-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness. Store in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed. Signs of expiration include changes in color, texture, or scent. The 50 ml size typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: The Sephora Collection Hydrating & Mattifying Oil-Free Gel Cream is a standout value in the mattifying moisturizer category. Its ultra-minimalist 15-ingredient formula is a rarity — offering simultaneous pregnancy safety, fungal acne safety, and a comedogenic score of zero. At $20, it outperforms competitors like Kiehl's ($35) and La Roche-Posay ($34) on both clean formulation and price. It is not a do-it-all moisturizer — dry skin types and those seeking anti-aging benefits should look elsewhere — but for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin seeking a reliable, clean, mattifying daily moisturizer, this is one of the best options on the market.
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Succinic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|