10 Best Liquid Hand Soaps in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
While alcohol and hand sanitizers are convenient to use, there is no better way to clean our hands than with liquid hand soaps. The best part is that they're hygienic and easy to dispense since they have a pump mechanism. However, it could be tricky to choose from the many variations of liquid hand soaps.
But don't worry, we've provided a buying guide with points you should check before purchasing a liquid hand soap—we even asked dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison for some comments and tips. We've also ranked our top 10 recommendations among the products available online.
Quick List - Top Liquid Hand Soaps
Safeguard
A Trusted Brand That Provides the Ultimate Defense Against Germs
Human Nature
A Zesty, Environmentally Friendly Soap With No Harmful Chemicals
Dove
Moisturizes and Nourishes Your Hands in Every Wash
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
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
- Benefits of Liquid Hand Soaps
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Meg Sison
- Are All Liquid Hand Soaps Antibacterial?
- Should You Apply Hand Cream Immediately After Washing Your Hands to Prevent Dryness?
- Would Using More Hand Soap Make the Cleaning More Effective?
- More Products for Your Hands
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Benefits of Liquid Hand Soaps
Among the different kinds of soap, you must be wondering what sets liquid hand soap apart. Why should you choose it over bar soap? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that they're both equally effective in cleaning the bacteria from your hands.
Though bar soaps are packed in more sustainable materials such as cartons or paper, liquid hand soaps have the upper hand when it comes to convenience. Their pump mechanism is not only easy to use but also lessens the chance of contamination. In addition, they have a lower pH level, making them more gentle for your hands.
Compared to bar soaps, liquid hand soaps are less prone to contamination since they are packaged in pump bottles and are easy to dispense. They were developed to provide cleansing and barrier restoration because bar soaps tend to cause skin dryness because of their high pH. Since hand soaps are in liquid form, it is possible to cleanse and moisturize simultaneously while allowing for rinsing away of the surfactants.
How to Choose a Liquid Hand Soap – Buying Guide
Want to know how to select the best liquid hand soap for your needs? Check out the pointers below!
Check the Ingredients to Address Your Skin Concerns
Nowadays, hand soaps aren't just for cleaning hands; they could also provide extra benefits. For instance, some liquid hand soaps can be moisturizing or antibacterial. Also, checking the ingredients allows you to see if there are any potentially harmful or harsh chemicals.
Look for Surfactants for Thorough Cleaning but They May Drying, Especially for Sensitive Skin
The main ingredient in soap is surfactants. They're a type of compound that breaks down the barriers between water, oil, and dirt, which then removes dirt from the skin. Surfactants create the thick foamy lather that helps clean our hands. Some surfactants that are commonly found in soap are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).
Both are added to create foam and extra lather, but the two ingredients can be very different. SLS is a great cleaning product that can trap oil-based dirt so that it can be washed away with water. But it could be an irritant if left on the skin for a long time. On the other hand, SLES is a gentle cleanser that leaves the skin smooth and soft because it doesn't dry out the epidermis.
Both SLS and SLES are very effective ingredients and contribute foaming and lathering properties to cleansing products and bubble baths. SLS and SLES can cause skin irritation in some people, which is one reason why it is important to follow the label instructions when using a cosmetic product like soaps.
Antibacterial Soaps Contain Extra Germ-Fighting Chemicals
When soaps are labeled as antibacterial, it means that they have extra ingredients that help fight germs and bacteria. Chemicals like triclosan and benzalkonium chloride are created to kill bacteria on contact. However, experts do caution the public on using antibacterial soaps with triclosan and triclocarban.
These chemicals are shown to disrupt hormones, affect growth development, and cause harm to children. Instead, look for soaps with benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and chloroxylenol, which are safer ingredients with antibacterial properties.
In 2017, the FDA issued a final rule determining that triclosan and 23 other active ingredients are not generally recognized as safe and effective for use in certain over-the-counter (OTC) healthcare antiseptic products.
However, data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) demonstrate that triclocarban is of low acute and chronic toxicity and has an acceptable human safety profile for use in personal cleansing products.
Look for Moisturizing Ingredients to Protect Your Hands From Dryness
In our quest to find a liquid hand soap that can effectively clean dirt, we shouldn't forget to take care of our hands, too. Liquid hand soaps can contain various moisturizing ingredients to keep your hands soft. These ingredients protect the skin's moisture barrier and reduce dry and flaky skin.
Glycerin, a non-toxic liquid, is an ingredient that can attract moisture to the skin. Natural moisturizers like Aloe vera and propolis extract are also good for the skin and have extra antibacterial properties. Aside from these, vegetable-based oils like shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, olive oil, and vitamin E are moisturizers that contain nutrients to soothe your skin while keeping it soft.
Glycerin is used safely in numerous cosmetics and personal care products to provide smoothness and lubrication. It is also a well-known humectant that prevents the loss of moisture from products.
Meanwhile, shea butter is used as an ingredient in moisturizers and cosmetics and as a hair protectant and softener. Moreover, in cosmetics and personal care products, tocopherol and tocopherol-derived ingredients function primarily as antioxidants.
Note That Parabens Have Been Deemed Safe
Something you're probably familiar with is parabens. This is an ingredient that you might've been cautioned about. Parabens are preservatives that allow our products to be used for a long time by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold.
High concentrations and large amounts of this ingredient can be absorbed by our skin and cause harm to our reproductive system. However, parabens in the concentration used in personal care products today are safe for use. In fact, the FDA states that the use of parabens in cosmetics and personal care products has been cleared.
Parabens are highly effective in preventing the growth of fungi, bacteria, and yeast that could cause products to spoil, thus enhancing the shelf life and safety of products. The parabens used in cosmetics are identical to those found in nature and are quickly eliminated by the body.
Some have speculated whether there is a connection between parabens and cancer, however, scientific studies have shown this interaction to be very weak, observed only with extremely high doses.
Approach Fragrances With Caution if You Have Sensitive Skin
Some of the classic scents are citrus and refreshing fruit fragrances. Other people would prefer more calming variations of essential oils like lavender, green tea, and peppermint. However, synthetic fragrances, and even some natural fragrances, could cause irritation to those with sensitive skin, so be careful when picking up soaps that contain them.
If you have sensitive skin, it's best to proceed with caution. A good way to do that is to patch-test the product first before using it to prevent unwanted allergic reactions. You could also look for unscented or fragrance-free options if you have a sensitive or easily irritated nose.
Fragrances are used in a wide variety of products to impart a pleasant scent and/or mask the inherent smell of some other ingredients. A very small percentage of individuals may be allergic or sensitive to certain ingredients in cosmetics, food, or other products, even if those ingredients are safe for most people. If you have specific fragrance allergies, you may want to choose products that are marketed as "fragrance-free" and check the ingredient list carefully.
10 Best Liquid Hand Soaps to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net Weight | Fragrance | Key Ingredients | Best For | |||||
1 | Safeguard Pure White Liquid Hand Soap | | A Trusted Brand That Provides the Ultimate Defense Against Germs | 450 ml | Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Citric Acid | All Skin Types | ||
2 | Human Nature Energizing Citrus Hand Soap | | A Zesty, Environmentally Friendly Soap With No Harmful Chemicals | 490 ml | Coco Glucoside, Glycerin, Vitamin E, Citric Acid | All Skin Types | ||
3 | Dove Nourishing Hand Wash｜Cucumber and Green Tea | | Moisturizes and Nourishes Your Hands in Every Wash | 250 ml | Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Glycerin | Dry Skin | ||
4 | UniLove Handsoap | | Has a Unique Blend of Amino Acids That Neutralize Toxins | 300 ml | Amino Acid | Sensitive Skin | ||
5 | Green Cross Floral Care Antibacterial Hand Soap | | With Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E to Cleanse and Soften Your Hands | 500 ml | Tea Tree Oil, Vitamin E | All Skin Types | ||
6 | Mighty Shield Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap｜Shangrila Scent | | For Germ-Free Hands at a Budget-Friendly Price | 3785 ml (1 Gallon) | unknown | All Skin Types | ||
7 | Nature to Nurture Hand Soap With Aloe Vera | | An Ultra-Gentle Hand Soap That’s Safe Even for Babies | 300 ml | Aloe vera, Distilled Lemon Essential Oil, Coconut-Based Cleansers | Sensitive Skin | ||
8 | Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash | | Contains Exfoliating Ingredients for Smoother Hands | 500 ml | Pumice, Petitgrain, Bergamot Rind, Vetiver Root | All Skin Types | ||
9 | Yves Rocher Vanilla Bourbon Liquid Hand Soap | | Infused With Organic Aloe, Best for Sensitive Skin | 190 ml | Aloe vera, Glycerin, Citric Acid | All Skin Types | ||
10 | Bench Better Goods Hand and Body Soap｜Ring Around a Rosey | | Pamper Your Skin and Your Senses With This Rose-Scented Soap | 490 ml | Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Citric Acid | All Skin Types | ||
A Trusted Brand That Provides the Ultimate Defense Against Germs
This is a product that requires no grand introduction! Safeguard's claim to fame is that their soaps can remove 99.9% of germs. The best part is that their formulation provides up to 24 hours of germ protection, even after washing, thanks to its Infinishield technology.
Dermatologically tested and clinically proven, this liquid hand soap ensures unbeatable skin germ protection. It is also the only soap recommended by the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists. Users say its rich and soft lather leaves their hands feeling refreshed and clean. This is perfect for those who want to prioritize their family's hygiene while caring for their skin.
| Net Weight | 450 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Citric Acid |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
A Zesty, Environmentally Friendly Soap With No Harmful Chemicals
Human Nature's hand soap in Energizing Citrus takes the crown for being the most environmentally friendly liquid hand soap. It's a plant-based soap that uses a coconut-derived cleanser to remove dirt from your skin. Plus, it contains vitamin E, glycerin, and citric acid to keep your hands moisturized.
You can be assured that this product contains no harmful chemicals like triclosan and SLS, so it's safe for sensitive skin. Customers noted that it's tough on germs without being harsh on the skin. The scent is also a very happy burst of citrus, which reviewers are fond of.
| Net Weight | 490 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Coco Glucoside, Glycerin, Vitamin E, Citric Acid |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
DoveNourishing Hand Wash ｜ Cucumber and Green Tea
Moisturizes and Nourishes Your Hands in Every Wash
Moreover, this hand wash is dermatologically approved and boasts a skin-friendly pH. On top of that, it is infused with the invigorating scent of cucumber and green tea. It has garnered great reviews for its moisturizing properties and non-sticky formula, which leaves their hands soft and clean. They also love the scent it gives off after every use.
| Net Weight | 250 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Glycerin |
| Best For | Dry Skin |
Has a Unique Blend of Amino Acids That Neutralize Toxins
UniLove's Hand Soap stands out among others with its unique blend of amino acids. With its antioxidant properties, disease-causing germs and harmful substances are neutralized. Additionally, it keeps the skin hydrated and leaves your hands feeling clean and refreshed.
With its convenient flower pump, this product makes hand washing enjoyable for kids. This also ensures easy dispensing; simply press down on the pump, and it will stamp a flower soap onto your palm. And since it's free of alcohol and harmful chemicals, the whole family can enjoy a mild and gentle soap.
| Net Weight | 300 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Amino Acid |
| Best For | Sensitive Skin |
With Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E to Cleanse and Soften Your Hands
Another plus of this hand soap is its floral scent. Buyers noted how fresh and fragrant their hands were after using it. With its effective 99.99% germ-fighting capabilities and gentle formulation, this soap is ideal for keeping your family's skin healthy and protected.
| Net Weight | 500 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Tea Tree Oil, Vitamin E |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Mighty ShieldAntibacterial Liquid Hand Soap ｜ Shangrila Scent
For Germ-Free Hands at a Budget-Friendly Price
This product has garnered positive reviews for its sudsy texture that effortlessly removes dirt and oil, leaving the hands refreshed. Users are also fond of its baby powder-like fragrance. With its volume, this hand soap won't break the bank and is ideal for the whole family!
| Net Weight | 3785 ml (1 Gallon) |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | unknown |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
An Ultra-Gentle Hand Soap That’s Safe Even for Babies
Nature to Nurture is a local brand that adopts a minimalist approach to its products by using only plant-based ingredients that are safe and effective. Their hand soap is devoid of unnecessary chemicals like SLS, SLES, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and more. Additionally, it has undergone residue testing and is deemed safe for babies and toddlers.
Its formula features aloe vera and coconut-based cleansers, leaving hands soft and well-hydrated. Offered in three different types, this hand soap caters to diverse needs. It has a fragrance-free option, suitable for sensitive skin. There are also lavender and lemon variants enriched with essential oils, providing a delightful aroma.
| Net Weight | 300 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Aloe vera, Distilled Lemon Essential Oil, Coconut-Based Cleansers |
| Best For | Sensitive Skin |
Contains Exfoliating Ingredients for Smoother Hands
We say that this product from Aesop is splurge-worthy because it does a spectacular job of pampering your hands. Each time you use this hand wash, you will instantly feel like you're treating yourself to a mini spa session! Its key ingredients include pumice, vetiver root, petitgrain, and bergamot rind.
It is an exfoliating hand wash that not only gets rid of dead skin but also cleanses, purifies, and softens your skin. Many reviewers rave about its elegant scent and love how it gently cleanses and refreshes their hands.
| Net Weight | 500 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Pumice, Petitgrain, Bergamot Rind, Vetiver Root |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Infused With Organic Aloe, Best for Sensitive Skin
When it comes to high-quality skincare products, you can never go wrong with Yves Rocher. Their Vanilla Bourbon liquid hand soap is infused with organic Aloe vera gel and contains more than 97% natural ingredients. Thus, it gently cleanses your hands and leaves them moisturized. It also has a vanilla bourbon scent that is sweet and luscious.
This mild liquid hand soap is excellent for people with sensitive skin. That's because it is free of ethoxy and irritants and is not drying. According to reviews, it also lathers well, which efficiently cleans the dirt from your skin. On top of that, the packaging is made of recycled plastic and is recyclable, too!
| Net Weight | 190 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Aloe vera, Glycerin, Citric Acid |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
BenchBetter Goods Hand and Body Soap ｜ Ring Around a Rosey
Pamper Your Skin and Your Senses With This Rose-Scented Soap
With its rose scent, you'll enjoy a luxurious cleansing experience that envelops your skin in a delightful aroma. On top of that, buyers noted that it leaves the skin feeling refreshed and clean. Some even say that it's their go-to product when they want to pamper their skin in the comforts of their home.
| Net Weight | 490 ml |
|---|---|
| Fragrance | |
| Key Ingredients | Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Citric Acid |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Meg Sison
There are many things to think about when it comes to caring for our hands. Let Dr. Meg Sison enlighten you with her answers to some of the most asked questions on the web about liquid hand soaps.
Are All Liquid Hand Soaps Antibacterial?
Not all liquid hand soaps are antibacterial since not all of them have triclosan or triclocarban. Liquid hand soaps (even if they are not labeled as antibacterial) are still effective in killing microorganisms as long as you wash your hands properly.
Should You Apply Hand Cream Immediately After Washing Your Hands to Prevent Dryness?
Soaps contain surfactants that strip off the skin's natural lipids and make it dry, thus applying hand cream or moisturizer right after hand washing is a must.
Would Using More Hand Soap Make the Cleaning More Effective?
Using more hand soap will just make your hands drier. It is best to follow the correct hand hygiene to ensure that your hands are clean.
More Products for Your Hands
Hand care isn't just all about washing your hands. It's also about taking care of them after washing. This can include putting on lotions and creams to keep your hands soft and smooth. Not sure where to start? The links below will lead you to the best products for moisturized and pampered hands. Check them out!
Re-editor: J Ausa
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 Liquid Hand Soaps
No. 1: Safeguard ｜Pure White Liquid Hand Soap
No. 2: Human Nature｜Energizing Citrus Hand Soap
No. 3: Dove｜Nourishing Hand Wash｜Cucumber and Green Tea
No. 4: UniLove｜Handsoap
No. 5: Green Cross｜Floral Care Antibacterial Hand Soap
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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