.jpg)
All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
A few months ago, I discovered that I have oily skin. As someone who previously did not have any complexion concerns that affected my day-to-day beauty routines, this was a surprising realization. Turns out, it’s common for your skin texture to evolve, and that dewy complexion I was sporting was here to stay—at least for now. Armed with my new knowledge, I knew I had to revamp my regimen to limit excess oils. For skin care, that meant reducing sebum production, and for makeup, that meant leaning into matte finishes. Needless to say, my toiletry bag needed a complete overhaul, though the Revlon oil-absorbing roller is what’s truly left a lasting impression.
But let’s take a step back. In my quest to control oil and reduce my complexion’s sheen, I’ve had to enlist a less-is-more approach—a philosophy very unlike me, given my penchant for skin care layering and my 22-step bedtime routine. While I initially assumed a weightless serum-and-moisturizer duo for skin prep ahead of a healthy dusting of loose powders across my visage would keep me stay shine-free all night long, I was clearly mistaken.
While I’d walk away from my vanity mattified to my liking, I’d step into the bathroom hours later only to see my face practically drenched in oil. I’d ask my friends, “Why didn’t you tell me I was so oily?” only to have them kindly explain that they assumed I loved a glowy look. It was time to take matters into my own hands. I started carrying my favorite NARS pressed powder everywhere. While a brilliant product, I found that after a few applications over the course of the day (or night), my skin would look rather cakey—a far cry from the your-skin-but-better complexion I initially left the house with.
As if by fate, prepping for Amazon Prime Day gave me the chance to revisit the world of drugstore beauty products. In my market research, I stumbled upon the Revlon Oil-Absorbing Volcanic Roller. “Why didn’t I think of that?” I muttered to myself. The tool reached cult-favorite status after going viral in 2021—since garnering numerous press hits and a bevy of positive reviews. Of the nearly 35,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, users say it’s a handy replacement for blotting papers or setting powder. I added it to cart immediately.
So, how exactly does it work? The real volcanic stone ball is the star here; it instantly soaks up oil wherever you roll it. Just take the cap off and roll over shiny areas. For me, I concentrated my efforts along the under-eye and T-zone, where I experience the most shine. Each swipe is quite smooth, gentle, and never budges or splotches my makeup. (Some could argue that it feels like a face massage.) In just a few swipes, I’m transformed from greasy to matte (without dulling my highlighter glow, that is). What’s more, the tool is incredibly lightweight and compact enough to store in my favorite handbag on the go. What I find most compelling is its reusable nature. The roller can be used repeatedly—unlike blotting papers that would need to be thrown away after each use. If that’s not enough, the volcanic stone is washable! To clean it, Revlon recommends slathering on a gentle cleanser and then air drying overnight.
Is the Revlon oil-absorbing roller worth it?
In my opinion, it is 100% worth giving this Revlon roller a shot. Priced under $15, it really does feel like a steal for someone looking for an eco-friendly approach to quelling shine. While it does not remedy my oily skin from within, I feel confident knowing that I have an easy solution on standby this summer and beyond.
