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
A Cost-Effective "Miracle" Soap Packed With Nourishing Exfoliants
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
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 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net Weight | Notable Ingredients | Perfect for | Skin Type | |||||
1 | Oxecure Sulfur Soap | ![]() | Keep Sebum and Acne at Bay With Sulfur Soap | 100g | Sulfur | Clearing Blocked Pores, Preventing Acne and Body Odor | Oily to Combination Skin | |
2 | Luxe Organix Miracle Solutions AHA/BHA Soap For Face & Body | ![]() | A Cost-Effective "Miracle" Soap Packed With Nourishing Exfoliants | 135g | Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Niacinamide, Tea Tree | Gentle Exfoliating, Easing Redness and Inflammation, Lightening Scars | Acne-Prone Skin | |
3 | DermAid Acne Body Wash | ![]() | A Gentle, All-In-One Body Wash for Acne-Prone Skin | 250g | Salicylic Acid, Natural Plant Actives, Honey Extract, Vitamin E, White Flower Complex | Unclogging Pores, Preventing Acne Formation, Soothes and Moisturizes Skin | Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin | |
4 | QUICKFX Pimple Eraser Soap | ![]() | Helps Control Oil for Less Pimples | 90g | Glycolic Acid, Salycilic Acid, Niacinamide, Sunflower Seed Oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin C | Reduces Redness, Tightens Pores, Controls Oil, Prevents Breakouts, Lightens Dark Spots | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | |
5 | Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Clear Body Cleanser | ![]() | Achieve a Natural Glowy Skin With Just One Pump | 400g | AHA, BHA, PHA, Salicylic Acid | Alleviate Breakouts, Even Out Skin Tone, Cleanse off Dead Skin Cells | Acne-Prone Skin | |
6 | Dr. S. Wong's Sulfur Soap With Moisturizer | ![]() | Heals Skin With Sulfur and Moisturizing Aloe Vera | 80g | Sulfur, Aloe Vera | Treating Acne, Excessive Oil Discharge, Scabies, Dandruff, Ringworms, Pimples, Eczema | Acne-Prone Skin | |
7 | Mario Badescu AHA Botanical Body Soap | ![]() | Break Free from Dull Skin With This Botanical Soap | 236ml | Glycerin, Fruit Extracts | Cleanse Skin, Remove Dead Skin Cells, Soothe Irritated Skin | Acne-Prone Skin | |
8 | Organic Skin Acne Care Anti-Acne Whitening Soap | ![]() | Dermatologically Tested Soap That Targets Acne and Other Skin Concerns | 100g | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, Glutathione, Alpha Arbutin | Moisturizing, Whitening, Cure Warts, Acne, Blemishes, Dark Spots, Other Skin Disorders | Acne-Prone Skin | |
9 | Dr. Sensitive Charcoal Acne Control Soap | ![]() | Fights Breakouts While Moisturizing Skin With Activated Charcoal | 120g | Activated Charcoal, Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil | Soothing Inflamed Skin, Fighting Bacteria, Clearing Acne | Acne-Prone Skin | |
10 | Grace and Glow English Pear and Freesia Anti-Acne Solution Body Wash | ![]() | Reduces Inflammation for an Acne-Free Body | 400g | AHA, BHA, PHA, Anti-Oxidants, Centella Asiatica | Exfoliates, Reduces Inflammation, Corrects Uneven Skin Tone, Revitalizes Skin Barrier | All Skin Types |
Many people worry about using sulfur soap because they think it can make their skin too dry. However, according to users, Oxecure's Sulfur Soap convinced them otherwise. Aside from 2.5% sulfur, this soap is also infused with natural ingredients like tea tree, mangosteen extracts, and soy protein to nourish and hydrate the skin.
If you struggle with oily and acne-prone skin, this soap is the perfect option for you. It not only helps decrease excess oil and combat bacterial growth, but it also aids in addressing blemishes and fading dark spots, promoting a clearer complexion.
Net Weight | 100g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Sulfur |
Perfect for | Clearing Blocked Pores, Preventing Acne and Body Odor |
Skin Type | Oily to Combination Skin |
If you're looking for a soap that's both effective and affordable, Luxe Organix is the perfect choice for you. It includes AHAs like lactic acid and glycolic acid, which help brighten acne scars and reveal fresher, more radiant skin. Plus, it removes deep-seated acne-causing bacteria on the pores thanks to its exfoliating BHA, salicylic acid.
According to reviews, you don't have to worry about large-looking pores as this product is also formulated with niacinamide, which helps make pores look smaller and your skin brighter than before. However, make sure to apply SPF because the soap's exfoliating effect can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Net Weight | 135g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Niacinamide, Tea Tree |
Perfect for | Gentle Exfoliating, Easing Redness and Inflammation, Lightening Scars |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Weight | 250g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Natural Plant Actives, Honey Extract, Vitamin E, White Flower Complex |
Perfect for | Unclogging Pores, Preventing Acne Formation, Soothes and Moisturizes Skin |
Skin Type | Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin |
This cleansing soap is a straightforward solution for managing body acne. It goes beyond basic cleansing to target common skin concerns, such as pimples, redness, enlarged pores, and excess oil.
For one thing, glycolic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and salicylic acid were included in the formulation. Together, these components reduce inflammation, close pores, dry up zits, and manage excess oil. Additionally, the soap helps fade leftover dark spots and stop new breakouts from occurring. Users like this product a lot, saying that it's really effective without leaving behind any stinging sensations.
Net Weight | 90g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Glycolic Acid, Salycilic Acid, Niacinamide, Sunflower Seed Oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin C |
Perfect for | Reduces Redness, Tightens Pores, Controls Oil, Prevents Breakouts, Lightens Dark Spots |
Skin Type | Oily to Combination Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
This liquid soap exfoliates the skin and dissolves dead skin cells with a blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA. It also clears up spots with tannin-rich eucalyptus and soothes inflamed skin with salicylic acid. Additionally, it is infused with 10,000 ppm of truecica and houttuynia cordata extract to even out your skin tone.
According to reviews, this soap helped clear up the bumps on their shoulder and back within a month, and it also reduced the appearance of pores. You'll also love that it's free from 20 harmful ingredients, making your skin look healthy and radiant with just a pump away.
Net Weight | 400g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | AHA, BHA, PHA, Salicylic Acid |
Perfect for | Alleviate Breakouts, Even Out Skin Tone, Cleanse off Dead Skin Cells |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
Dr. S. Wong's Sulfur Soap is an effective solution for treating blisters, skin rashes, acne, and dandruff caused by fungus. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and heal the skin while gently cleansing. It cleans without stripping essential moisture, leaving skin feeling refreshed.
Formulated with aloe vera, this soap also helps keep skin smooth and soft. Its deep-cleansing action removes dirt and excess oil, which aids in preventing future breakouts. Many reviewers appreciate how it hydrates and moisturizes, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
Net Weight | 80g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Sulfur, Aloe Vera |
Perfect for | Treating Acne, Excessive Oil Discharge, Scabies, Dandruff, Ringworms, Pimples, Eczema |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
Revitalize dull-looking skin with this body wash’s gentle formula! It contains papaya and grapefruit extracts to cleanse the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and invigorated. Meanwhile, ginseng extract revitalizes the skin with its energizing factors, while oat protein soothes and nourishes troubled skin.
According to users, you may take a soothing bath with this botanical soap and let your cares melt away. This makes this body wash great to use after a long day if you want to relax and pamper yourself. The combination of ingredients in this soap will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and revitalized.
Net Weight | 236ml |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Glycerin, Fruit Extracts |
Perfect for | Cleanse Skin, Remove Dead Skin Cells, Soothe Irritated Skin |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
The unique blend of ingredients in this bar soap, like tea tree oil, green tea extract, and salicylic acid, has been known to address a range of skin disorders effectively. If you have acne-prone, blemished, or troubled skin, Organic Skin's Acne Care soap could be your new skincare essential.
It also contains kojic acid, glutathione, and alpha arbutin, which lighten the skin and acne marks. Additionally, users noticed it not only reduced their pore size but also kept their skin hydrated, thanks to its dermatologically tested formula. This combination of safety and efficacy has contributed to its popularity!
Net Weight | 100g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, Glutathione, Alpha Arbutin |
Perfect for | Moisturizing, Whitening, Cure Warts, Acne, Blemishes, Dark Spots, Other Skin Disorders |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
Charcoal soap may often be associated with redness and dryness, but this bar contains other natural ingredients that can help fight breakouts and moisturize skin. It contains aloe vera to soothe inflamed skin and tea tree oil, which is known for its antibacterial properties.
Made with all-natural ingredients, it is free of harsh chemicals and fragrances as well. This makes it gentle enough for daily use on the face and body, making it perfect for those who are looking for a mild soap to improve their skin troubles.
Net Weight | 120g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Activated Charcoal, Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil |
Perfect for | Soothing Inflamed Skin, Fighting Bacteria, Clearing Acne |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Weight | 400g |
---|---|
Notable Ingredients | AHA, BHA, PHA, Anti-Oxidants, Centella Asiatica |
Perfect for | Exfoliates, Reduces Inflammation, Corrects Uneven Skin Tone, Revitalizes Skin Barrier |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
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 |Miracle Solutions AHA/BHA Soap For Face & Body
No. 3: DermAid|Acne Body Wash
No. 4: QUICKFX|Pimple Eraser Soap
No. 5: Some by Mi |AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Clear Body Cleanser
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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