# La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Ireland.

Brand: [La Roche-Posay](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/la-roche-posay)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate mattifying benefits for your oily skin due to silica and perlite, which absorb excess sebum, and mild exfoliation and sebum regulation from salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid.
- The formula is highly suitable for oily skin, with these key ingredients working to manage oiliness and refine skin texture.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and poses no risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Thermal Spring Water, Salicylic Acid, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Balneotherapy with thermal water altered specific skin microbiota at genus and species levels in healthy female volunteers compared to tap water, which produced no significant microbiome changes. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36983902/))
- Malaysian thermal spring water as an adjunct to standard acne therapy improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and stinging, enhanced overall tolerability, and improved the acne disability index in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/))
- A 2% Sphingomonas xenophaga ferment extract cream applied twice daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased facial vascular disorder scores compared to vehicle in 86 Caucasian female subjects, alongside dose-dependent inhibition of pre-kallikrein activity in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40545753/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))
- Externally applied substances such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, licorice extracts, dimethicone, petrolatum, and paraffin wax treat skin disease resulting from damage to the skin barrier. ([Clinics in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22507050/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Capryloyl salicylic acid peel reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation comparably to glycolic acid peel in 44 female volunteers, with no statistically significant differences between the two treatments. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146601/))
- Combining a salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid facial serum and mask improved closed comedones and acne severity significantly more than serum alone in adults with acne over 8 weeks, with no adverse reactions reported. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36999489/))
- Parity was demonstrated between an OTC BPO 5.5% formulation with lipohydroxy acid and tretinoin cream 0.025% versus prescription clindamycin 1%-BPO 5% gel and tretinoin cream 0.025% in participants with mild to moderate acne vulgaris at 12 weeks. ([Cutis, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22838094/))

## What reviewers say

This moisturizer is praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to instantly mattify the face and serve as an excellent primer for makeup. The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula is appreciated for minimizing the appearance of pores. Some users find it insufficiently hydrating for drier areas or experience pilling when layered with other products. This summary is based on a very large amount of data and should be definitely taken into account.

- Liked: Effective Oil Control (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent Makeup Base (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight Texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Price vs. Quantity (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on Skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pore Minimizing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pilling/Peeling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Short Duration (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Fragrance/Scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Insufficient Hydration (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat work for oily skin?

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat works reasonably well for oily skin, offering moderate shine control with silica and perlite along with gentle exfoliation from salicylic acid. While it is safe and suitable, a top-performing moisturizer for oily skin needs a combination of peptides and lightweight hydrating agents to balance moisture without heavy oils or breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for oily skin?

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat contains silica and perlite to absorb excess shine, along with salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid to gently clear pores and regulate oil. To work best for oily skin, a moisturizer of this type needs a combination of peptides and hydrating agents to keep the skin balanced and lightweight, without heavy oils that can clog pores.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/)

### What does Thermal Spring Water do for oily skin?

Thermal spring water helps calm oily skin by reducing redness and irritation while supporting skin comfort. Hot environments may increase greasiness and oiliness, and this water helps keep skin refreshed and balanced throughout the day.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32870553/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31199529/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily skin?

Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This cream goes in your morning and evening moisturizing steps as part of your daily routine. Oily skin works best with moisturizers that contain lightweight hydrators and oil-absorbing ingredients to keep shine under control.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream with retinol by applying your retinol first and following with this moisturizer to help keep your skin comfortable and reduce potential dryness. This type of routine for oily skin typically needs ingredients like ceramides and soothing agents to better support the skin barrier while using strong treatments.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing treatment twice a day as part of your daily routine. Oily skin typically needs a formula with oil-absorbing ingredients like silica and perlite, alongside salicylic acid to help regulate oil and refine texture.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and poses no risk of irritation. Salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid help clear pores, though some users may experience mild pilling that can affect how the product sits on the skin.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/)

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

This cream is not ideal for the thin skin around the eyes and is better suited for facial use. To properly care for the delicate eye area or body skin, a product needs gentle, hydrating ingredients specifically designed for those thinner areas.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (parfum) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €14.07 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.21 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €18.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €15.64 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €31.80 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B073S8M4L6?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €21.90 (https://www.notino.ie/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat-mattifying-treatment-for-oily-and-problematic-skin/p-79138/)
Prices checked 2 Nov – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Isocetyl Stearate, Alcohol Denat, Silica, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Acrylamide Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Peg-100 Stearate, Cocamide Mea, Sarcosine, Glyceryl Stearate, Triethanolamine, Isohexadecane, Perlite, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Tetrasodium Edta, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 80, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Salicylic Acid, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-mat/for/oily-skin