Want to achieve even-toned and glowing skin? Check out whitening soaps! Whether you want to start using a whitening soap or switch to a different brand, how do you know which ones are effective, safe, and will give you the best value for your money?
You've come to the right place as we have curated a list of the best whitening soaps from online stores like Lazada, Shopee, and Watsons. We also included a buying guide where you will learn about the qualities to look for in whitening soap. For insights and tips from a board-certified dermatologist and the mybest team, scroll down to know more!
Quick List - Top Whitening Soaps
Organic Skin Japan
Quad-Power Whitening for Smooth, Even-Toned Skin
Dermorepubliq
Prevents Dullness While Brightening and Gently Exfoliating Your Skin
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
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
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.
Whitening ingredients make for nice add-ons to skin-brightening products. However, according to Dr. Katrina Luz, one would need to manage their expectations when it comes to whitening soaps. With whitening soaps, the contact time of the active ingredient is significantly less compared to if you applied a cream or a serum instead.
Ready to start your journey to whiter skin? Before clicking the Add to Cart button, check out these pointers.
To ensure the whitening soap is genuine, purchase one from reputable brands and sellers. Prioritize products from the manufacturer’s official online store. If you’re buying from a reseller, check out the feedback from previous buyers to get an idea about the soap's quality and how the seller deals with customers.
Although there could be numerous good reviews on EC sites, it's also helpful to search the whitening soap in the FDA database to verify authenticity. When in doubt, check FDA advisories as well—these will help you know if the product contains potential hazards like mercury, which can be harmful to the skin.
Dr. Katrina Luz recommends several safe and effective ingredients for whitening soaps, with niacinamide being a standout choice for sensitive skin. She also highlights the benefits of vitamin C and arbutin for lightening the skin tone. Learn more about the effectiveness of these ingredients, along with other choices, below!
One way to achieve a lighter complexion is through exfoliation, and these ingredients can help you with that! Glycolic acid, a form of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), has gentle exfoliating properties that brighten the skin tone. With its small molecular size, it deeply penetrates the skin's surface, dissolving dead skin cells and unclogging pores.
If you have uneven skin tone due to acne, Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid can address that. Since it’s oil-soluble, salicylic acid can tackle discoloration at its source, getting deep into the pores to remove excess oil and debris. This contributes to a more uniform complexion and less oiliness!
They act similarly to AHAs and BHAs but are particularly useful for those with sensitive skin. It has a larger molecular size, thus, penetrating the skin at a slower rate, which means less irritation.
When it comes to achieving a luminous and even skin tone, you can turn to antioxidants! These compounds serve as a shield against free radicals, which can damage and darken the skin. Examples of these are vitamin C, glutathione, and kojic acid.
These ingredients inhibit the production of melanin, reducing the appearance of dark spots for even-toned skin. With consistent and proper use, they reveal a uniform, radiant complexion. However, they are quite potent, so do seek the guidance of a dermatologist when using them.
Vitamin C is the most abundant antioxidant on the skin and is a known depigmenting agent. However, it can cause irritation if used incorrectly. Here are some tips:
Kojic acid is another great option for hyperpigmentation. It works by preventing the pigment-releasing skin cells from overproducing, which leads to even-toned skin.
If you have sensitive skin but would like to try out whitening soaps, look for ones with tranexamic acid and niacinamide to even out your skin tone. Regarded as a gentler alternative to hydroquinone, tranexamic acid reduces melanin production, improving the appearance of discoloration and brightening the complexion.
Niacinamide, a versatile ingredient, doubles as an antioxidant and humectant. By minimizing the effects of sun damage, it can lighten dark spots, thereby evening out the skin tone. It’s also beneficial for dry, aging, and oily skin since it promotes moisture retention, increases collagen synthesis, and regulates oil production.
Tranexamic is another emerging option against hyperpigmentation. Recent studies have shown its role in inhibiting one of the key components responsible for hyperpigmentation. The great thing about tranexamic acid is it works well with other ingredients, such as retinol and Vitamin C!
Niacinamide is also a great option, particularly for sensitive skin. Even better, it's safe during pregnancy, too! But of course, do make sure you get the go-signal from your board-certified dermatologist or Ob-gyne first!
Select a whitening soap that goes beyond lightening and addresses additional skin concerns.
If you have dry, aging, or acne-prone skin, look for a product with additional beneficial ingredients. Explore your options below!
Dry skin needs to be moisturized, so try products that contain glycerin. This ingredient stimulates the production of ceramide, a lipid that prevents water loss by helping build the barrier that keeps moisture in. Hyaluronic acid is another ingredient that you should look for. It binds to water in the skin to help it stay hydrated.
One ingredient that has been on the rise, especially in Korean skincare, is snail mucin (aka snail slime or snail secretion filtrate), which has a high hyaluronic acid content. Shea butter has antioxidants and vitamins that make your skin smooth and supple. It acts as a hydrator and helps protect the skin from being dry due to environmental stressors such as UV rays and pollution.
What is dry skin anyway? Dry skin is a skin type that essentially produces less sebum. Signs to look out for to know you have dry skin: uncomfortable feeling, flaking, and itching.
So if you have dry skin, you definitely need to look for hydrating ingredients. One important tip is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! It is best done within 10 minutes of bathing!
Get younger-looking skin with whitening soaps infused with vitamin E. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that fights free radicals, strengthening the skin barrier to prevent damage. In particular, it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful complexion. It also has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties for plumper and healthier skin.
Just like vitamin E, collagen can combat signs of aging, too! It can effectively address sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles by increasing moisture and improving skin elasticity. The result is softer, smoother, and more supple skin. Moreover, it can repair damage caused by UV rays, pollution, and other environmental stressors.
Acne occurs when the pores are filled with dead skin, excess oil, and bacteria. But you can solve this problem with acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree oil and azelaic acid. These have antibacterial properties that can help clear your skin.
Aside from killing acne-causing bacteria, they can calm inflammation and even out the skin tone as well. You can also look for whitening soaps that are non-comedogenic and free from parabens to prevent breakouts and irritation.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skin Type | FDA-Approved | Whitening Ingredients | Other Key Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Organic Skin Japan Fresh & Glow 4x Intensive Whitening Soap | ![]() | Quad-Power Whitening for Smooth, Even-Toned Skin | Dry Skin | Kojic Acid、Alpha Arbutin、Glutathione、Niacinamide、Vitamin C | Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Vitamin E | 50g | ||
2 | Kojie San Skin Lightening Soap With Hydromoist | ![]() | A Popular Choice With High-Grade Kojic Acid | Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Kojic Acid | Coconut Oil, Tea Tree Oil | 135g | ||
3 | Dermorepubliq Glutathione + Kojic + Alpha Arbutin Power White Body Bar | ![]() | Prevents Dullness While Brightening and Gently Exfoliating Your Skin | Dry Skin、Uneven Skin Tone、Acne-Prone Skin | Kojic Acid、Alpha Arbutin、Glutathione、Licorice Extract、Papaya Extract | Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Castor Seed Oil | 135g | ||
4 | Cetaphil Brightness Reveal Bar | ![]() | Rejuvenates Skin With Vitamin B3 and Sea Daffodil Extract | Sensitive Skin | Niacinamide | Sea Daffodil Extract | 100g | ||
5 | LUXE ORGANIX Niacinamide Brightening Cloud Soap | ![]() | Targets Hyperpigmentation Without Harsh Ingredients | Dry Skin、Dull Skin | Alpha Arbutin、Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Licorice Extract、Galactomyces | Shea Butter | 180g | ||
6 | Seoul White Korea Double White Whitening with Kojic + Bearberry|3 Pieces | ![]() | With Bearberry Arbutin and Kojic Acid to Gently Whiten Sensitive Skin | Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Kojic Acid、Bearberry Arbutin、White Strawberry | Coconut Oil | 180g (60g per Bar) | ||
7 | Belo Intensive Whitening Extra Moisture Bar|2 Pieces | ![]() | Tranexamic Acid, Kojic Acid, and Glycerin for Plumper, Lighter, and More Even Skin | Dry Skin | Kojic Acid、Tranexamic Acid、Niacinamide | Lactic Acid | 130g (65g per Bar) | ||
8 | Be Organic Kojic GOLD Premium Whitening Soap | ![]() | Naturally Lightens the Complexion, Best for Sensitive Skin | Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Kojic Acid、Papaya Extract、Lemon Extract、Calamansi Extract、Glycolic Acid | Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Olive Oil, Castor Oil | 110g | ||
9 | Hello Glow 5-in-1 Whitening Soap | ![]() | Whitening With Hydration and Protection to Achieve Glass Skin | Acne-Prone Skin、Dull Skin、Dry Skin | Kojic Acid、Glutathione、Vitamin C、Papaya Extract、Arbutin、Peony Root Extract | Strawberry Begonia Extract, Soapnut Extract, Apple Fruit Extract, Skullcap Extract | 90g | ||
10 | GlutaMax Lightening Soap With Glutathione | ![]() | Dermatologist-Formulated Glutathione Soap for Acne-Prone Skin | Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin | Glutathione、Niacinamide、Arbutin、Vitamin E | Bee Venom | 135g |
This soap targets skin whitening from four angles, ensuring effective results, infused with glutathione, kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and vitamin C. Niacinamide helps minimize visibly enlarged pores, while aloe barbadensis locks in essential hydration, leaving your skin soft and smooth.
According to users, this soap noticeably reduces pore size and leaves skin smoother without causing dryness. It also lathers well and works effectively on both the face and body, making it a perfect addition to your skincare routine. However, remember to patch test first to see how your skin will react to this soap.
Skin Type | Dry Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid、Alpha Arbutin、Glutathione、Niacinamide、Vitamin C |
Other Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Vitamin E |
Net Weight | 50g |
Kojie San has been at the forefront in terms of whitening products. As such, most people rave about the effectiveness of their products, including this whitening soap. It boasts a high-grade kojic acid content that suppresses the production of melanin, which is best for those who want to have lighter, clearer, and more even-toned skin.
This whitening soap also contains moisturizing ingredients such as coconut oil, glycerin, and carrageenan extract to nourish the skin. Plus, it has Lactobacillus ferment and tea tree oil to calm irritation. As mentioned in the reviews, it can show visible results in as early as seven days!
Skin Type | Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid |
Other Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Tea Tree Oil |
Net Weight | 135g |
Skin Type | Dry Skin、Uneven Skin Tone、Acne-Prone Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid、Alpha Arbutin、Glutathione、Licorice Extract、Papaya Extract |
Other Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Castor Seed Oil |
Net Weight | 135g |
Skin Type | Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide |
Other Key Ingredients | Sea Daffodil Extract |
Net Weight | 100g |
Skin Type | Dry Skin、Dull Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Alpha Arbutin、Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Licorice Extract、Galactomyces |
Other Key Ingredients | Shea Butter |
Net Weight | 180g |
Skin Type | Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid、Bearberry Arbutin、White Strawberry |
Other Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil |
Net Weight | 180g (60g per Bar) |
Most whitening soaps can leave the skin feeling dry, but not Belo's Intensive Whitening Extra Moisture Bar! It contains lightening and moisturizing ingredients like tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and glycerin. What's special about tranexamic acid is that it specifically targets stubborn dark spots that other whitening agents cannot remove.
As for glycerin, it prevents the skin from becoming rough and dry by locking in moisture. It also keeps the skin firm, resulting in a brighter, even-toned, and youthful complexion. Reviewers confirmed its effectiveness in whitening the skin, though a few users have reported dryness after use, so it's best to use a moisturizing lotion afterward.
Skin Type | Dry Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid、Tranexamic Acid、Niacinamide |
Other Key Ingredients | Lactic Acid |
Net Weight | 130g (65g per Bar) |
Skin Type | Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid、Papaya Extract、Lemon Extract、Calamansi Extract、Glycolic Acid |
Other Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Olive Oil, Castor Oil |
Net Weight | 110g |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin、Dull Skin、Dry Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Kojic Acid、Glutathione、Vitamin C、Papaya Extract、Arbutin、Peony Root Extract |
Other Key Ingredients | Strawberry Begonia Extract, Soapnut Extract, Apple Fruit Extract, Skullcap Extract |
Net Weight | 90g |
If you are looking for a soap that is gentle on the skin yet produces great results, look no further than this Glutamax Lightening Soap. It is formulated with glutathione, and it can be used for both the face and the body. It also claims to fight oxidative stress, making your skin brighter and more even!
Reviews mention that they notice that their skin became more luminous and radiant after a few weeks of continuous use. But the benefits don't stop there! The brand also claims that this soap can stimulate hyaluronic acid and collagen production, which in turn prevents wrinkles and signs of aging.
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin |
---|---|
FDA-Approved | |
Whitening Ingredients | Glutathione、Niacinamide、Arbutin、Vitamin E |
Other Key Ingredients | Bee Venom |
Net Weight | 135g |
Whitening soaps may contain potent ingredients that can irritate the skin. To prevent adverse reactions and get the best results, it is advised to consult your dermatologist for proper assessment and guidance. For instance, hydroquinone can cause rebound hyperpigmentation if used incorrectly. Also, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and essential oils can cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Below, Dr. Katrina Luz answers some of the web's most asked questions. So before you hit that checkout button, have a read to make sure you make informed decisions!
While there are ingredients that are safe for pregnant women and lactating moms, it's always a good idea to consult your board-certified dermatologist and/or OB-GYN before applying anything to your skin. Remember to put your and your baby's safety before anything else!
Generally, we do not expect whitening soaps or other topicals to fade or affect tattoos. Remember, pigments in tattoos are embedded deep into the skin, particularly in the dermis. It would take more than a bar of soap to lighten that!
Whitening soaps and bleaching soaps are different. Whitening refers to efforts directed at combating hyperpigmentation versus bleaching which refers to altering the color of one's natural skin. In general, bleaching soaps are not recommended as they can be too harsh for one's skin.
Want to achieve even-toned skin from head to toe? Browse through these articles to expand your skincare knowledge. They feature skincare products that'll help you on your quest for healthy, glowing skin.
10 Best Whitening Face Washes in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Vitamin C Serums in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Whitening Lotions in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Local Sunscreens in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
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.
No. 1: Organic Skin Japan|Fresh & Glow 4x Intensive Whitening Soap
No. 2: Kojie San|Skin Lightening Soap With Hydromoist
No. 3: Dermorepubliq|Glutathione + Kojic + Alpha Arbutin Power White Body Bar
No. 4: Cetaphil|Brightness Reveal Bar
No. 5: LUXE ORGANIX|Niacinamide Brightening Cloud Soap
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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