The in situ immobilization technique is a typical method of geoengineering in lakes for eutrophication control. The method reduces internal phosphorus loading from sediments by dosing chemicals, which means that selecting appropriate chemicals are essential. Therefore, the authors present a comprehensive review of the current available knowledge of chemicals used for the in situ technique. Chemicals are classified into nine categories, and the control effectiveness and stability of the chemicals as well as the physicochemical and ecological responses to the control are reviewed. The authors also address challenges of chemicals in practical application and offers recommendations for future research.