10 Best Whitening Lotions in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Whitening products are a common sight in every drugstore and skincare shop since one of the desires of many Filipinos is to achieve fair skin. Due to increased sun exposure, stress, pollution, or an unhealthy diet, discoloration or damage to the skin may arise. A practical solution to even out and brighten the skin is to use whitening lotions.
In this article, with the guidance of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Krizia Ty, we'll discuss the things you need to look for when choosing a whitening lotion that's safe and effective. Also, check out mybest's picks for the best whitening lotions you can buy on Lazada and Shopee now!
Quick List - Top Whitening Lotions
Abonne
A Nourishing Blend of Milk and Collagen for Soft, Youthful Skin
Garnier
Lemon Essence and UV Filters for Smooth, Hydrated, and Brighter Skin
Dr. Krizia Ty is a board-certified dermatologist from Manila, Philippines, who is passionate about skincare and would love to help everyone achieve healthy skin, one patient at a time. She is a Fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society and is currently practicing in several commercial clinics in Manila catering to both medical and cosmetic dermatologic concerns. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook or send her a message for more details on her practice.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Overview of Our Top Picks
- How to Choose a Whitening Lotion – Buying Guide
- Look for Ingredients That Are Proven Safe and Effective for Whitening, Like Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, and Retinoids1
- Opt for Lotions With Moisturizing Ingredients Like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and More2
- Only Buy From Trustworthy Brands and Beware of Sketchy Products3
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Krizia Ty
- How Long Until You Can See Results From Whitening Lotions?
- Is Whitening the Same as Bleaching?
- Can You Use Whitening Lotions While Pregnant?
- Is a Whitening Lotion With SPF a Better Choice?
- More Tips From Dr. Krizia Ty
- Protect Yourself From the Sun and Heat
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Overview of Our Top Picks
A Nourishing Blend of Milk and Collagen for Soft, Youthful Skin
Lemon Essence and UV Filters for Smooth, Hydrated, and Brighter Skin
Loaded With Whitening Ingredients and Protects the Skin From Harsh UV Rays
Lightweight Serum-Lotion for Dark Spot Correction and Hydration
Expertly Formulated to Intensely Whiten and Get Rid of Dark Spots
How to Choose a Whitening Lotion – Buying Guide
Look for Ingredients That Are Proven Safe and Effective for Whitening, Like Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, and Retinoids
When it comes to choosing a whitening lotion, it's essential to focus on ingredients that are both safe and effective. According to Dr. Krizia, there are several proven whitening ingredients to look out for:
Tyrosinase blockers: These ingredients target and block tyrosinase, which is the enzyme responsible for melanin production in the deeper layers of the skin.
- Hydroquinone, licorice extract, bearberry, kojic acid, vitamin C, azelaic acid, retinoids, cysteamine, tranexamic acid, glutathione, and N-acetyl glucosamine
Melanin transfer prevention: Some ingredients help prevent the transfer of melanin from the deeper layers to the upper layers of the skin
- Niacinamide, soybean extract, and retinoids
Exfoliants: These ingredients help remove dark spots and pigmentation by exfoliating the upper layers of the skin.
Retinoids, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA), and Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHA)
If you have sensitive skin, it is best to practice caution when applying whitening lotions, especially if they have concentrated ingredients. This may cause irritation that could further lead to more pigmentation.
Hydroquinone is the gold standard when it comes to lightening pigmentation the fastest and most effectively. However, it may possibly lead to a lot of unwanted side effects like exogenous ochronosis if not used under the supervision of a dermatologist, especially for concentrations 4% and above.
Avoid using whitening lotions that contain ingredients that may cause photosensitivity during the daytime, such as retinoids, hydroquinone, AHA, and BHA. Use them at bedtime instead.
Opt for Lotions With Moisturizing Ingredients Like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and More
Skin that is properly moisturized equates to healthy and well-nourished skin. To achieve that, look for whitening lotions with moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, dimethicone, and shea butter. Dermatologists emphasize that these ingredients are vital in maintaining skin hydration, strengthening the skin barrier, and preventing dryness or irritation.
Moisturizers can be categorized into 3 kinds: emollients, humectants & occlusives. A lotion with good moisturizing properties usually contains a combination of the 3 kinds to ensure adequate hydration for the skin. Emollients penetrate the spaces in between skin cells to repair and restore the skin barrier (examples: ceramides, dimethicone).
Humectants attract water both from the atmosphere and from the dermis (deeper skin layer) to provide moisture to the epidermis (upper skin layer) (examples: hyaluronic acid/sodium hyaluronate, urea, glycerin). Occlusives create a water-resistant cover on the topmost layer of the skin to prevent transepidermal water loss (examples: petrolatum, lanolin, shea butter, oils).
Only Buy From Trustworthy Brands and Beware of Sketchy Products
To make sure you get genuine products, getting your whitening lotion from a trusted and well-known brand or shop is your best bet. Be careful when making purchases abroad. For one, your knowledge of the language may not be enough to sufficiently judge the trustworthiness of the product, and you might misunderstand the usage instructions.
Also, be wary of overly exaggerated claims and avoid products that contain questionable or potentially harmful ingredients. If the product sells for a very low price, it might be too good to be true. Again, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
Authentic skincare products may sometimes be a bit pricey, but it's usually because they underwent extensive research & development to include the appropriate active ingredients in concentrations that are tolerated well by the skin and have clinical studies showing their efficacy & safety, which makes them worth the investment.
10 Best Whitening Lotions to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Moisturizing Ingredients | Whitening Ingredients | Other Features | Free From | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Abonne Milk Power Lightening With Collagen Lotion | | A Nourishing Blend of Milk and Collagen for Soft, Youthful Skin | Milk Protein, Yogurt Protein, Collagen, Glycerin | Lacticare, Titanium Dioxide | Contains Collagen | Parabens, Sulfates | 500mL | |
2 | Vaseline Healthy Bright UV Extra Brightening Lotion | | Glow-Boosting Hydration With Triple Sunscreens | Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, Glycerin | Niacinamide | UV Protection, Brightening Effect | Parabens, Alcohol | 500mL | |
3 | Garnier Bright Complete Body Lotion | | Lemon Essence and UV Filters for Smooth, Hydrated, and Brighter Skin | Glycerin, Mineral Oil | Lemon Essence | Targets Dark Spot | Parabens | 400mL | |
4 | FRESH Milk White Glutathione Body Lotion | | Affordable Korean-Inspired Skincare for Even, Radiant Skin | Milk, Glycerin | Glutathione | Hydrates Skin, Promotes Glowing Complexion | Parabens, Alcohol | 480mL | |
5 | SnailWhite Body Booster | | Perfectly Combined Skin Nourishment and Sun Defense | Snail Mucin Extract, Ceramide | Niacinamide | SPF 30 | Parabens, Alcohol | 350mL | |
6 | Kojiesan Skin Lightening Body Lotion with SPF25 | | Loaded With Whitening Ingredients and Protects the Skin From Harsh UV Rays | HydroMoist | Kojic Acid | SPF 25 | Parabens, Sulfates | 250mL | |
7 | Luxe Organix Niacinamide + Tranexamic Acid Youthful Glow Whitening Serum Lotion | | Lightweight Serum-Lotion for Dark Spot Correction and Hydration | Panthenol, Vitamin E, Ectoin | Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid | Brightens Skin, Reduces Dark Spot | Parabens, Sulfates, Alcohol | 200mL | |
8 | Cetaphil Brightening Body Lotion | | Hydrates and Brightens Skin While Preserving the Skin Barrier | Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid | Niacinamide, Sea Daffodil | Non-Greasy, Gentle on Skin | Parabens, Fragrance | 245mL | |
9 | Belo Intensive Whitening Body Lotion | | Expertly Formulated to Intensely Whiten and Get Rid of Dark Spots | unknown | Kojic Acid, Tranexamic Acid | With SPF, Intense Whitening | Parabens, Phthalates | 100mL | |
10 | NIVEA Body Lotion Extra Bright Vitamin Lotion C&E | | Boosts Your Skin’s Brightness and Sun Protection With Vitamin C & E | Vitamin E | Acerola Cherry, Camu Camu | Brightens Skin | Parabens, Artificial Colorants | 180mL | |
A Nourishing Blend of Milk and Collagen for Soft, Youthful Skin
According to users, this lotion leaves skin feeling soft, rejuvenated, and visibly brighter. With over 70,000 sales on Lazada and Shopee, it stands out as a popular choice for deep hydration. The blend of yogurt and milk proteins with collagen helps enhance the skin’s texture and elasticity.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Milk Protein, Yogurt Protein, Collagen, Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Lacticare, Titanium Dioxide |
| Other Features | Contains Collagen |
| Free From | Parabens, Sulfates |
| Net Weight | 500mL |
VaselineHealthy Bright UV Extra Brightening Lotion
Glow-Boosting Hydration With Triple Sunscreens
Reviewers praise its silky, lightweight texture, noting that it leaves the skin feeling soft and refreshed without any greasy residue. With consistent use, many have noticed visible improvements in brightness, making this lotion a standout choice for maintaining smooth and nourished skin.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide |
| Other Features | UV Protection, Brightening Effect |
| Free From | Parabens, Alcohol |
| Net Weight | 500mL |
Lemon Essence and UV Filters for Smooth, Hydrated, and Brighter Skin
Infused with lemon essence, this lotion hydrates deeply, brightens your skin, and repairs damage. It works to strengthen your skin’s protective barrier while fading dark spots and evening out your tone, leaving you with a visibly smoother and more luminous complexion. What’s more, its lightweight, non-sticky formula absorbs quickly, delivering intense moisture without any greasy feel.
With added UVA/UVB filters, it also shields your skin from sun damage, offering complete care in one bottle. Dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, it’s a perfect everyday essential. According to reviews, it hydrates, brightens, and keeps skin glowing all day—making every application count.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Mineral Oil |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Lemon Essence |
| Other Features | Targets Dark Spot |
| Free From | Parabens |
| Net Weight | 400mL |
Affordable Korean-Inspired Skincare for Even, Radiant Skin
This Filipino brand offers affordable, Korean-inspired skin care. Users find this lotion effective in lightening skin without leaving a white cast. The creamy texture applies smoothly, absorbs well, and has a mild, pleasant milk scent. It’s widely appreciated for providing a gentle, noticeable improvement in skin tone.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Milk, Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Glutathione |
| Other Features | Hydrates Skin, Promotes Glowing Complexion |
| Free From | Parabens, Alcohol |
| Net Weight | 480mL |
Perfectly Combined Skin Nourishment and Sun Defense
Looking for a lightweight lotion that nourishes your skin while protecting it from the sun? Enriched with snail mucin, niacinamide, and ceramide, SnailWhite Body Booster SPF30/PA+++ brightens, locks in moisture, and promotes a healthy-looking glow. With SPF30/PA+++, it shields your skin from harmful UVA, UVB, and blue light exposure, making it suitable for everyday use.
According to reviews, users appreciate its non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly, leaving no white cast. Many highlight the instant glowy finish, though those with very dry skin note it may work better when layered with a heavier moisturizer.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Snail Mucin Extract, Ceramide |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide |
| Other Features | SPF 30 |
| Free From | Parabens, Alcohol |
| Net Weight | 350mL |
Loaded With Whitening Ingredients and Protects the Skin From Harsh UV Rays
Moreover, it is enriched with UVA/UVB filters, shielding your skin from harsh sun rays that can cause skin damage. It also has a light, non-greasy formula that is easily absorbed by the skin, so you don't have to worry about any malagkit feeling. Many users love that it's paraben-free and hypoallergenic, too!
| Moisturizing Ingredients | HydroMoist |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid |
| Other Features | SPF 25 |
| Free From | Parabens, Sulfates |
| Net Weight | 250mL |
Luxe OrganixNiacinamide + Tranexamic Acid Youthful Glow Whitening Serum Lotion
Lightweight Serum-Lotion for Dark Spot Correction and Hydration
Reviewers appreciate how the product leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized with no visible residue. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly and provides long-lasting hydration. The powdery, mild scent is a pleasant touch, making it a favorite for those seeking a radiant, smooth complexion with added sun protection.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Panthenol, Vitamin E, Ectoin |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid |
| Other Features | Brightens Skin, Reduces Dark Spot |
| Free From | Parabens, Sulfates, Alcohol |
| Net Weight | 200mL |
Hydrates and Brightens Skin While Preserving the Skin Barrier
With consistent use, many users observe visible improvements in both brightness and tone, particularly in fading dark spots caused by bacne or hyperpigmentation. Moreover, its Gentlebright technology, which combines sea daffodil extract and niacinamide, boosts the skin’s luminosity. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, this dermatologist-developed formula is gentle on sensitive skin, ensuring a soothing, non-irritating experience for everyday use.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide, Sea Daffodil |
| Other Features | Non-Greasy, Gentle on Skin |
| Free From | Parabens, Fragrance |
| Net Weight | 245mL |
Expertly Formulated to Intensely Whiten and Get Rid of Dark Spots
This brightening lotion combines kojic acid to prevent melanin production and tranexamic acid to reduce inflammation and fade dark spots. This cream-like lotion not only addresses pigmentation but also provides hydration, making it ideal for dry skin. With SPF 30, it offers added protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing further skin damage.
According to reviewers, the lotion delivers noticeable results within a week, leaving skin visibly brighter and more even. The pleasant scent and smooth texture are also highlighted, with no white cast left behind after application. Many consider it a game-changer, offering both effectiveness and affordability.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | unknown |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid, Tranexamic Acid |
| Other Features | With SPF, Intense Whitening |
| Free From | Parabens, Phthalates |
| Net Weight | 100mL |
Boosts Your Skin’s Brightness and Sun Protection With Vitamin C & E
Customers love how quickly the lotion absorbs into the skin without feeling greasy. The pleasant scent adds to its appeal, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce dark spots and achieve a radiant complexion in just 7 days.
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Vitamin E |
|---|---|
| Whitening Ingredients | Acerola Cherry, Camu Camu |
| Other Features | Brightens Skin |
| Free From | Parabens, Artificial Colorants |
| Net Weight | 180mL |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Krizia Ty
Here are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by dermatologist Dr. Krizia Ty.
How Long Until You Can See Results From Whitening Lotions?
With continued use, results can be more visible within 2-4 months, the usual time it takes for skincare products to take effect on one's skin. However, it will depend on several factors:
- The type of whitening/lightening agent it contains
- Their amount or concentration in the lotion
- The consistency of the application
- The age of the person applying it since exfoliation or skin turnover rate is faster when you are younger compared to older individuals
- The sun protective measures being taken
The whitening lotion can work as fast as within 4 weeks if you are using a whitening lotion that contains agents that are scientifically proven to reduce pigmentation in the proper concentration, you are relatively younger with a normal skin turnover rate of around 28 days, you are consistent with daily application of the lotion, and you are diligent with sun protection. Otherwise, it will take more than 4 weeks.
Is Whitening the Same as Bleaching?
Bleaching is not the same as whitening, lightening, or brightening. Bleaching involves the use of harsh chemicals or products to change the natural color of your skin. Examples of bleaching agents include mercury and monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone, so avoid using products with these ingredients as much as possible.
Whitening, lightening, or brightening involves the use of products to reduce pigmentation on more pigmented areas and is not meant to change the color of your skin. Whitening lotions that contain the ingredients mentioned previously are used only for improving the appearance of dark spots and evening out the color of your natural skin.
Can You Use Whitening Lotions While Pregnant?
If the whitening lotion contains tretinoin/retinol or its derivatives and hydroquinone or its derivatives such as arbutin & tranexamic acid, they are not safe to use because these agents are contraindicated during pregnancy.
Whitening agents that are safe to use during pregnancy include vitamin C, niacinamide, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and kojic acid, so whitening lotions containing these may be used while pregnant.
Is a Whitening Lotion With SPF a Better Choice?
No matter what your concern or your skin type is, SPF is a must. A whitening lotion with sunscreen incorporated is ideal, but it should have at least SPF 30, and keep in mind that it should be reapplied every 2-3 hours when sweating or swimming. If it has less than SPF 30, it's better to use a separate sunscreen to be applied on top of the whitening lotion.
More Tips From Dr. Krizia Ty
Avoid experimenting with food-grade body scrubs, citrus extracts, or oils to lighten your skin, as these may do more harm than good. A natural or herbal product is not necessarily safer for the skin. Sometimes they can cause irritations/allergic reactions, which may result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation negating all your efforts to lighten it.
It's best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist who can guide you on which ingredients and formulations are backed up by scientific evidence and have the least risk of causing unwanted side effects. Dermatologists only want what works best for your skin!
Protect Yourself From the Sun and Heat
As we said throughout the article, we can't stress enough how protecting our skin from the sun is of utmost importance if anti-aging and preventing skin damage is your concern. Check out the links below for items you can use to shield yourself from the sun and beat the summer heat.
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Whitening Lotions
No. 1: Abonne｜Milk Power Lightening With Collagen Lotion
No. 2: Vaseline｜Healthy Bright UV Extra Brightening Lotion
No. 3: Garnier ｜Bright Complete Body Lotion
No. 4: FRESH｜Milk White Glutathione Body Lotion
No. 5: SnailWhite｜Body Booster
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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