Body acne soaps can tackle different skin woes effectively. Excessive sweating is commonly linked to the appearance of bungang araw, or worse, this can aggravate back acne, also known as bacne. Besides experiencing redness and itchiness in the area, bacne can cause those stubborn dark spots. Of course, you can't let this become a hindrance when you're wearing your summer attire.
So, it's time to get rid of your regular soap and make the switch to a pimple-fighting soap that can clear up your back from acne. Down below, we have created a guide with comments and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. We also included our top picks for you to pull off any type of outfit confidently!
Quick List - Top Body Acne Soaps
Luxe Organix
Salicylic Acid Body Wash for Acne‑Prone Skin & Body Breakouts
Grace and Glow
Anti-Acne Body Wash with English Pear & Freesia for Clearer, Smoother 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.
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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.
To effectively combat back acne, it is crucial to determine the reason why the pimples form. This enables you to stop your unhealthy habits that can aggravate flare-ups. Pimples occur when excess sebum and dead skin cells are trapped in the pores. Your sunscreen, hair care products, and body lotion can clog your pores, leading to pimples on your back.
Teenagers are more susceptible to back acne due to hormonal changes. However, this can also be hereditary, especially if your parents are struggling with bacne. Additionally, there are medicines like antidepressants that increase the chance of forming acne as a side effect.
When an individual is stressed, this can be an aggravating element as well. In addition, sweat, dirt, and oil can irritate the skin, so make sure to change your clothing and cleanse your body regularly, especially during the summer season.
Body acne or truncal acne is basically acne vulgaris involving the chest, back, or shoulders. It is actually a pretty common problem amongst people, but the majority are too shy to voluntarily share they have it or consult for it.
The thing with body acne is that it tends to be a little stubborn to treat (but not impossible!). Plus, if left untreated, it has the risk of leading to scarring and hyperpigmentation.
When considering a body acne soap, prioritize options with pimple-fighting ingredients and avoid those that could clog your pores. For more detailed guidance, refer to our buying guide below.
If you're struggling with bacne, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid soaps will help keep zits away. Just like when purchasing cosmetics, it is advised to determine which ingredient works wonders on your skin type. Whichever soap you choose, it will be helpful if you get one with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to make sure your skin doesn't dry out.
Whenever you're on the lookout for over-the-counter acne products, most of these anti-acne products are infused with benzoyl peroxide. These include cleansers, lotions, gels, creams, and toner. This mighty ingredient has antimicrobial properties, minimizing the bacteria and addressing blockages on the pores to lessen breakouts.
It also does wonders in eliminating dead skin buildup and excess oil. Benzoyl peroxide gets the job done in treating inflammatory acne such as papules, cysts, pustules, and nodules. However, benzoyl peroxide can make the skin flaky and very dry as these are the given natural effects. If severe swelling occurs, consult your dermatologist right away.
Benzoyl peroxide is 100% backed by science when it comes to treating acne. Studies have shown that it reduces the bacteria that cause acne, not to mention acts as an exfoliating agent that increases the turnover of the skin by removing sebum and skin cells from your pores. Benzoyl peroxide comes in a gel form, but for body acne, a great option is a benzoyl peroxide wash for ease of use.
Salicylic acid is the key to acne-prone skin. This ingredient is definitely at the top of the mind when someone mentions acne. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxic acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin to unclog pores trapped with dead skin and excess sebum.
While benzoyl peroxide is great for inflammatory acne, salicylic acid works its magic to blackheads and whiteheads. This ingredient penetrates thoroughly to the pore to combat dead skin cells. If your skin reacts to benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid is the ideal substitute ingredient.
Salicylic acid is a hero for those with acne-prone skin, not to mention it makes for a great option for body acne since it typically is available as a wash or solution. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that has the ability to penetrate the oily layer of the skin to reduce sebum (which leads to breakouts). It acts as a keratolytic and exfoliates the skin, plus it has anti-inflammatory properties too. Definitely, it's one of the tried and tested, backed by science options for acne!
Charcoal is the go-to ingredient when it comes to detoxifying and purifying the skin. It is a natural exfoliant that lifts and draws out dirt, oil, and residue on the skin, contributing factors to flare-ups.
Since charcoal is a trusted and proven ingredient that removes toxins in the body, charcoal products are raved about by beauty gurus as this can improve one's complexion by deeply cleansing your skin. You can also look for ingredients like bentonite clay and niacinamide to achieve similar results.
Charcoal has been used for years but for other indications (e.g., as an antidote for poisonings). However, it has been resurrected as a new skincare ingredient now incorporated in cleansers and soaps with claims of detoxifying and/or purifying the skin. Definitely, a lot of products are available that boast its beneficial effects for the skin; however, there is still insufficient evidence to substantiate these claims! So yes, definitely waiting for more clinical trials on this one.
Just like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, sulfur gets the job done in fighting acne, except that it works best for oily skin. Hence, this ingredient effectively addresses noninflammatory acne like whiteheads and blackheads whilst tackling two contributing elements such as sebum and dead skin cells.
This ingredient is not suitable for skin without a strong moisture barrier. Keep in mind that strong sulfur soap can cause irritation and can aggravate acne because of its high pH balance. Steer clear from soaps with greater than 10% sulfur.
Sulfur is an alternative that can work for those with oily and/or acne-prone skin. It acts by drying out the surface of the skin and even absorbs excess oil that may be contributory to breakouts. The problem with sulfur is it definitely has a very strong odor and is definitely drying (perhaps, too much for some people). Check-in with your dermatologist if this would be a good choice for you!
Tea tree oil is a plant-derived ingredient that is commonly used to fight bacteria and fungi. Other than that, it is also effective in reducing acne thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
This also eases redness, swelling, and inflammation. Hence, it is hailed as a hero ingredient to get rid of acne scars. With consistent use, this natural ingredient reduces back lesions in a few weeks. Some soaps utilize fruit extracts and aloe vera to calm inflammation as well.
Tea tree oil is best for inflamed skin, given its anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have even shown it possesses anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties making it a good option for acne-prone skin. However, more studies are still needed on this one (as opposed to good ol' benzoyl peroxide) for acne.
The difference between beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) and alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) is that BHA is oil-soluble while AHA is water-soluble. This means BHA soaks deeply through the layers of the skin, while AHA does the trick in dissolving dead skin on the skin surface, which rejuvenates the skin for a fresher appearance.
Two of the most popular AHAs are glycolic acid and lactic acid. Glycolic acid gets the job done faster due to its smallest molecular size that can enter your skin deeper. Meanwhile, lactic acid also exfoliates the skin, but it only works on the uppermost artificial layer of the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin. For a gentler option, you can look for PHAs or polyhydroxy acids like lactobionic acid and gluconolactone.
Alpha-hydroxy acids also are effective in treating body acne in that they are great exfoliants. Glycolic acid is made up of small molecules that easily penetrate the skin and exfoliates the top layer of the skin. Other benefits that make it amazing include its hydrating properties and its ability to reduce unwanted discoloration. Similar goes for lactic acid. However, since it is a larger molecule, it is generally more gentle as it doesn't penetrate deep into the skin.
If you have acne-prone skin, stay away from comedogenic products. These ingredients clog the pores, which exacerbate lesions and breakouts. Keep an eye out for pore-clogging ingredients like lanolin, carrageenan, sodium laureth sulfate, palm oil, coconut oil, and wheat germ. Remember, simple and clean skincare is the key to flawless-looking skin.
The term "non-comedogenic" is actually more marketing than anything else. This is because there is no standardized measure of comedogenicity. While it is true that some products are more notorious for clogging pores, such as isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, and coconut oil, to name a few, there are no hard and fast rules for this. At the end of the day, you really do have to listen to your skin!
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 | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salicylic Acid | Sulfur | Tea Tree Oil | AHAs | Skin Type | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Oxecure Sulfur Soap | ![]() | Acne-Clearing Sulfur Soap for Pimples, Oil, and Body Concerns | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | 30 g | |||||
2 | Luxe Organix Acne Rescue Serum Body Wash | ![]() | Salicylic Acid Body Wash for Acne‑Prone Skin & Body Breakouts | Oily, Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive | 500 mL | |||||
3 | Organic Skin Japan Acne Care Bacne Body Wash | ![]() | Acne-Fighting Body Wash for Back & Body Breakouts | Oily to combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | 125 mL / 250 mL | |||||
4 | Grace and Glow English Pear and Freesia Anti-Acne Solution Body Wash | ![]() | Anti-Acne Body Wash with English Pear & Freesia for Clearer, Smoother Skin | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive | 400 mL | |||||
5 | AcneCare Bar Soap | ![]() | Anti-Acne Soap for Cleansing and Preventing Breakouts | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | 135 g | |||||
6 | Dr. S. Wong's Sulfur Soap With Moisturizer Aloe Vera Soap | ![]() | Sulfur Acne Soap with Aloe Vera for Clearer, Calmer Skin | Oily, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive | 80 g | |||||
7 | Shulammite Carrot Soap (Anti-acne) | ![]() | Gentle Carrot Soap for Clearer, Brighter, Acne-Free Skin | All-Skin Types | 150 g | |||||
8 | Dermaid Acne Soap | ![]() | Antibacterial Acne Soap for Clearer, Oil-Free Skin | Oily, Acne-Prone Skin | 90 g | |||||
9 | Flawless SAS soap for Acne Prone skin | ![]() | Clarifying Acne Soap for Smoother, Clearer Skin | Acne-Prone Skin, Oily to Combination Skin | 90 g | |||||
10 | Bactazil Skincare Tea Tree Soap Fight Acne Antifungal Antibacterial Bad Odor | ![]() | Antibacterial Soap for Acne, Fungal Infections, and Body Odor Control | All Skin Types | 100 g |
Features and benefits:
Users often say this soap works well on body acne, especially on the back and chest. It’s commonly noted for helping dry out pimples quickly without leaving skin overly tight. While some mention the distinct sulfur smell, others appreciate its effectiveness for oil control and multi-use benefits like treating dandruff and scabies.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Weight | 30 g |
Features and benefits:
Users say this body wash noticeably helps with back and chest acne when used regularly. Many find the formula soothing and hydrating, especially compared to harsher acne treatments. Some mention that the texture is a bit thick or takes time to rinse off, but results in clearer, smoother skin. It's well-received for being gentle yet effective, with no strong scent, making it a great option for sensitive, breakout-prone skin types.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily, Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive |
Net Weight | 500 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users say it’s effective for body acne, especially on the back, and helps control breakouts with regular use. Some shared that they like its clean, refreshing feel and that it doesn’t dry out the skin. It's often praised for being affordable and gentle, making it a go-to for budget-conscious acne care routines.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily to combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Weight | 125 mL / 250 mL |
Users often highlight its effectiveness in reducing back and chest acne with consistent use over a few weeks. The scent is described as refreshing and long-lasting. Some with sensitive skin have experienced irritation or itchiness, but others report smoother skin and clearer breakouts after regular use.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive |
Net Weight | 400 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users say this soap is effective for drying out pimples and reducing body acne, especially on the back and chest. Many appreciate that it helps control oil and keeps skin clearer with daily use. Some users find it a bit drying, so following up with a moisturizer is often recommended.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Weight | 135 g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many appreciate its effectiveness in managing breakouts, especially on the face, back, and chest. It’s also favored for addressing itchiness and skin conditions like eczema and fungal issues. The moisturizing touch from aloe vera makes it less drying than typical sulfur soaps, though some still recommend pairing with a light moisturizer.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily, Acne-Prone Skin, Sensitive |
Net Weight | 80 g |
Features and benefits:
Regular users report noticeable improvements in acne, especially on the face and back. The soap is praised for leaving skin soft and not overly dry. Many also highlight its brightening effects and subtle natural scent. Some find it best paired with a hydrating moisturizer to balance its clarifying effects.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | All-Skin Types |
Net Weight | 150 g |
Features and benefits:
This soap is often recognized for its antibacterial effect, especially in calming active breakouts. Users frequently mention it works well on oily skin and helps reduce new pimples when used regularly. While some note a slight drying effect, it's generally seen as a dependable budget-friendly acne solution.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Oily, Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Weight | 90 g |
Features and benefits:
Customers often highlight how this soap helps reduce pimples and smoothen skin texture over time. It’s praised for being mild yet effective, especially when used consistently. Some mention it works best when paired with other Flawless acne treatments or a moisturizer to avoid dryness.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin, Oily to Combination Skin |
Net Weight | 90 g |
Features and benefits:
This soap is often noted for its strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. Many find it effective for body acne, sweat-related odor, and skin irritations. Some also appreciate its no-frills approach and medicinal scent, though a few mention it can feel drying on sensitive skin.
Salicylic Acid | |
---|---|
Sulfur | |
Tea Tree Oil | |
AHAs | |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Net Weight | 100 g |
If you still have unanswered questions on your mind, look no further! Below, Dr. Katrina answers the internet's most asked questions about body acne and body acne soaps!
Given the limited time of contact of soaps or cleansers with the skin, it would consequently have little to no time to exert an effect in terms of removing unwanted discoloration (say, hypo- and/or hyperpigmentation). All the more goes for textural irregularities or scars that may have developed as a result of body acne. Definitely, a visit to your board-certified dermatologist of choice is the way to go for this one.
Of course, it is possible! It will be a good idea to consult a dermatologist if you think you have body acne. First of all, to make sure that it is, in fact, body acne (as there are many mimickers!). And, of course, to get the properly targeted treatment for it. Dermatologists have a whole armamentarium for body acne, including the ones resistant to initial treatments.
A good way to distinguish body acne from allergies is that allergies would typically be itchy. The temporality of a possible contactant that the affected area was exposed to followed by the development of the rash is also another clue that points to a possible allergy. Your best bet would be to Ask Your Derma—that's what we're here for anyway!
Body acne is pretty common and frequently overlooked. But it is definitely an important condition that should be addressed early on as it can lead to scarring, not to mention impact a person's self-esteem and body image.
Due to the hot climate, providing extra TLC to your skin is essential to intensely cleanse your body— revealing healthy, flawless-looking skin. Here are other bath essentials for you to try if you want to up your body care routine.
Author: B. Tan
Re-editor: D. Trinidad
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: Oxecure|Sulfur Soap
No. 2: Luxe Organix|Acne Rescue Serum Body Wash
No. 3: Organic Skin Japan|Acne Care Bacne Body Wash
No. 4: Grace and Glow|English Pear and Freesia Anti-Acne Solution Body Wash
No. 5: AcneCare|Bar Soap
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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