10 Best Facial Washes for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist
One way you can take care of oily skin is through skincare—and the first step to this is buying a great facial wash intended for oily skin! Facial washes for oily skin are formulated differently. It helps those with oily skin to have a cleanser that effectively gets the junk out of their faces.
Below, we listed our top 10 picks for the best facial wash for oily skin, plus we created a buying with comments from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison for our oily-skinned friends to use when they need to buy a face wash. Let's get started!
Quick List - Top Facial Washes for Oily Skin
Human Nature
Balancing Facial Wash for Oily and Combination Skin
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.
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How Can I Determine if My Skin Is Oily or Just Producing a Normal Amount of Oil?
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison, a good rule of thumb is to wait for 20 minutes after washing the face.
This is usually how long it takes for the sebaceous glands to generate enough sebum or oil to be seen and measured accurately on the skin's surface. If the skin is shiny all over, this usually indicates oily skin.
How to Choose a Facial Wash for Oily Skin -Buying Guide
Searching for a suitable facial wash for oily skin can be tricky and challenging. You must find a product that won't aggravate oiliness or clog your pores. With various facial washes available in the market, you must pick the one that benefits your skin the most. Learn about the factors you should consider below.
Select Facial Wash With Ingredients That Target Oily Skin Problems
An effective facial wash for oily skin contains essential active ingredients that control excess oil and sebum, unclog pores, and give you a shine-free appearance. Additionally, it's best if it comes with ingredients that can address other skin concerns commonly associated with oily skin, including acne, blemishes, and blackheads.
Control Excess Oil and Manage Acne With Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Benzoyl Peroxide
When dealing with oily skin, one of the primary objectives is to control excessive oil, which causes a greasy and shiny complexion. Ingredients like salicylic acid, a BHA ingredient, can do this. While it does not directly regulate oil production, it prevents the buildup of dead skin cells and sebum, which can contribute to excess oil production.
Niacinamide regulates sebum production, reduces shine, and helps prevent acne breakout. Meanwhile, benzoyl peroxide can effectively combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation commonly associated with acne. They work by unclogging pores and reducing sebum production, preventing the formation of acne.
Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It causes the skin cells to slough off more readily, preventing pores from clogging up because of its ability to dissolve sebum; that's why it's great for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Facial washes with salicylic acid at low concentrations (<2%) can help control excess oil production.
Niacinamide is the active form of vitamin B3. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, lightening, barrier protection, and photoprotection benefits. Concentrations of 2-5% are already effective.
Exfoliate Skin and Unclog Pores Using AHA, BHA, and PHA Ingredients
Oily skin tends to produce excessive sebum, which can combine with other impurities on the skin and result in clogged pores and an overall dull complexion. To combat this, oily skin needs exfoliation to slough away dead skin cells and avoid clogging pores.
For that, look for AHAs like glycolic and lactic acids with skin-renewing and pore-minimizing abilities. BHA, like salicylic acid and willow bark extract, controls sebum, prevents blackheads, exfoliates lightly, and refines pores. There's also gluconolactone, a PHA known for its gentle exfoliation, suitable even for sensitive skin.
Look for ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, gluconolactone, or salicylic acid. These are chemical exfoliants that can unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells gently.
Look for Moisturizing Ingredients Like Glycerin and Ceramide for a Healthy Skin Barrier
Even oily skin requires proper moisturization. Without sufficient moisture, your skin can get dehydrated and produce even more oil in an attempt to self-hydrate. To prevent this, look for face washes with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and, ceramides. Hyaluronic acid is a lightweight hydrator that effectively attracts water to the skin without clogging pores; that's why it's an excellent ingredient for those with oily and acne-prone skin.
On the other hand, glycerin and ceramides enhance the skin's moisture retention to maintain skin hydration and prevent dryness. They also contribute to the maintenance of the skin's natural barrier. You may also opt for those with amino acids, fatty acids, and sterols that can counter the drying effects of surfactants in foaming face washes.
Moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or glycerol, amino acids, fatty acids, sterols, and ceramides provide masking or occlusion for barrier repair and nutrients/ "pro-lipids" for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol are used as emollients in skincare products, and they are added to emulsify and enhance the viscosity of products. These fatty alcohols have minimal adverse effects, unlike simple alcohols.
Choose a Gel Cleanser that Cleanses Without Stripping the Skin's Natural Moisture
Gel cleansers are recommended for all skin types because they contain milder surfactants that have a lower potential to cause skin irritation than stronger surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), commonly found in facial washes that create a rich lather. They also have a lightweight consistency that deeply cleanses the skin to decongest pores and remove excess oil without leaving a heavy residue.
Cleansers with anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate tend to cause more dryness, so it is best to limit using them. Gel cleansers usually contain milder surfactants like cocamidopryl betaine and lauryl glucoside. These types of cleansers can be used for all skin types, not just for oily skin.
Foam cleansers can also be used for those with oily skin, but they tend to be more drying compared to gel cleansers because they contain more anionic surfactant.
Avoid Facial Washes With Microbeads That Can Compromise the Skin
When opting for exfoliating facial washes, it's always best to favor one that uses chemical exfoliators (AHA, BHA, and PHA) over those that use microbeads. These tiny particles can be too abrasive on your delicate facial skin. They can cause micro-tears on the skin's surface, eventually causing irritation, redness, and even aggravating conditions like acne or rosacea. They can also disrupt the skin's natural barrier, which is crucial to maintain proper skin hydration.
Facial washes with low concentrations of chemical exfoliants are definitely better because they are gentler on the skin.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Meg Sison, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
10 Best Facial Washes for Oily Skin to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AHA/BHA/PHA | Salicylic Acid | Niacinamide | Moisturizing Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser | | Soothing Care for Sensitive Skin | AHA | Glycerin, Panthenol | 118 mL | |||
2 | COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser | | Gentle Cleansing With Balanced Care | BHA | Allantoin, Betaine | 150 mL | |||
3 | Human Nature Face Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin | | Balancing Facial Wash for Oily and Combination Skin | AHA | Glyceryl Oleate | 50 mL | |||
4 | Celeteque DermoScience Hydration Facial Wash | | Gentle Hydration for Soft, Balanced Skin | AHA | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Lactate | 250 mL | |||
5 | Luxe Organix AHA BHA Miracle Solutions Facial Cleanser | | Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser for Clearer Skin | AHA、BHA、PHA | Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Calendula Extract | 150 mL | |||
6 | Oxecure pH5.5 Gentle Cleanser with 5x Ceramides | | Balanced Cleansing with Skin Barrier Support | AHA | Glycerin, Ceramides, Tocopheryl Acetate | 200 mL | |||
7 | Garnier Pure Active Foam For Acne Prone Skin Cleanser, Oil Control Facial Cleanser | | Clear and Oil-Free Skin Every Day | BHA | Gycerin | 100 mL | |||
8 | Belo Essentials Pore Minimizing Whitening Face Wash | | Shrink Pores and Slay Shine While You Cleanse | PHA | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium PCA | 50 mL | |||
9 | Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash for Oily Skin | | Soothing Foaming Cleanser for Oily Skin | Glycerin, Calendula Extract | 75 mL | ||||
10 | Innisfree Volcanic BHA Pore Cleansing Foam | | Deep Cleansing for Clearer, Refreshed Skin | BHA | Glycerin | 150 mL | |||
Soothing Care for Sensitive Skin
Features and benefits:
- Removes dirt, oil, and makeup without drying
- Contains glycerin, niacinamide, and panthenol for hydration
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, hypoallergenic
Reviews mention:
Many users appreciate its mild fragrance-free formula suitable for sensitive skin and note the preference for its non-foaming texture and the convenience of using it without water. A few users suggest pairing it with a moisturizer afterward to maximize hydration benefits.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol |
| Net Weight | 118 mL |
Gentle Cleansing With Balanced Care
- Nourishes and soothes skin with evening primrose and Japanese snowbell extracts
- Exfoliates dead skin and unclogs pores with BHA
- Tea tree oil fights bacteria to reduce blemishes
Reviews mention:
This product is favored for restoring the skin’s natural balance while addressing common concerns such as enlarged pores and blemishes without causing irritation. Users also note that it foams well despite its gentle formula, enhancing the overall cleansing experience.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | BHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Allantoin, Betaine |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |
Human NatureFace Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin
Balancing Facial Wash for Oily and Combination Skin
| AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glyceryl Oleate |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Gentle Hydration for Soft, Balanced Skin
Features and benefits:
- Mild, non-drying formula
- Helps maintain moisture balance
- Contains glycerin for hydration
- Panthenol soothes and softens skin
Reviews mention:
Users often say this cleanser feels gentle and leaves their skin fresh without tightness or residue. They appreciate that it works well for sensitive skin and does not cause breakouts and note that it has a light scent and foams just enough for a comfortable cleanse.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Lactate |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser for Clearer Skin
- Gently exfoliates dead skin cells
- Unclogs pores for smoother skin
- With tea tree oil to reduce redness
- Helps calm acne-related inflammation
Reviews mention:
Many users say that this cleanser effectively reduces acne, blackheads, and dullness without irritating the skin. They highlight its refreshing gel texture and the noticeable brightening effects with consistent use. Some mention a slight tingling sensation at first but find it tolerable and worth the results.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA、BHA、PHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Calendula Extract |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |
Balanced Cleansing with Skin Barrier Support
Features and benefits:
- Contains 5X ceramides to strengthen and repair the skin barrier
- pH-balanced formula that cleanses without stripping moisture
- Includes glycerin and squalene for deep hydration and skin softness
- Bakuchiol extract helps improve skin texture and soothe irritation
Reviews mention:
This cleanser is gentle yet effective in removing dirt without drying out their skin and how it calms sensitive skin and reduces redness over time. Some note it’s suitable for both face and body, making it versatile for daily use.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Ceramides, Tocopheryl Acetate |
| Net Weight | 200 mL |
GarnierPure Active Foam For Acne Prone Skin Cleanser, Oil Control Facial Cleanser
Clear and Oil-Free Skin Every Day
Features and benefits:
- Contains salicylic acid to fight acne and unclog pores for clearer skin
- Infused with blueberry extract to purify and brighten the complexion
- Controls excess oil and reduces shine for a matte finish
- Gentle foam formula suitable for daily use on acne-prone skin
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate how this cleanser effectively reduces pimples and controls oil without over-drying their skin. Many note its refreshing scent and easy-to-rinse foam texture. Some mention it may not remove heavy makeup completely, so a separate makeup remover is recommended.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | BHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Gycerin |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
Belo EssentialsPore Minimizing Whitening Face Wash
Shrink Pores and Slay Shine While You Cleanse
- Soap-free gel formula that cleanses without stripping natural moisture
- Contains glutathione, kojic acid, niacinamide, and Gigawhite for whitening and pore minimization
- Reduces excess oil and shine for a matte, firmer feel after just one or two uses
- Visibly lightens and clarifies skin while tightening pores
- Leaves skin clean, smooth, and refreshed without dryness
Reviews mention:
Users praise its oil-absorbing power, gentle cleansing, and rapid pore-tightening effects on oily skin. Many report brighter, clearer skin within a week and appreciate the non-drying, minty-fresh finish. Its effective pH (around 5) and soap-free formula make it suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Some users note that it can be difficult to rinse off completely, leaving a slight residue.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | PHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium PCA |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Kiehl’sCalendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash for Oily Skin
Soothing Foaming Cleanser for Oily Skin
- Soothes redness and irritation with calendula extract
- Gently removes dirt and oil without drying
- Sulfate- and paraben-free to protect skin balance
- Hydrates and softens skin with glycerin
Reviews mention:
Users report that this cleanser gently cleanses without causing tightness or dryness, making it ideal for oily and sensitive skin. They appreciate its soothing effect on redness and its light, pleasant scent. Some mention that it helps reduce breakouts when used consistently, while a few note that it may not fully remove heavy makeup.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Calendula Extract |
| Net Weight | 75 mL |
Deep Cleansing for Clearer, Refreshed Skin
Features and benefits:
- Absorbs excess sebum and cleanses pores deeply
- BHA exfoliates dead skin and reduces blackheads
- Soothes and hydrates with madecassoside and hot spring water
- Hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, suitable for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin
Reviews mention:
Loved for its deep pore cleansing and oil absorption, this foam cleanser appeals to oily skin types seeking a clearer texture. The rich, foamy lather feels refreshing and invigorating during use. Some users mention a slight tingling sensation, which may be too intense for very sensitive skin. Nonetheless, it is praised for visibly reducing the appearance of pores and controlling shine.
| AHA/BHA/PHA | BHA |
|---|---|
| Salicylic Acid | |
| Niacinamide | |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
We know that having oily skin could be really troubling! Let us help you address more of your woes, as Dr. Meg Sison answers the concerns and questions most oily-skinned individuals have.
How Often Should I Cleanse My Face if I Have Oily, Acne-Prone Skin?
Cleansing should be done in the morning, evening, and after exercise for oily, acne-prone skin to prevent disruption of your skin barrier.
What Role Does Stress Play in the Development and Management of Oily, Acne-Prone Skin?
High levels of cortisol as a result of stress increase the activity of sebaceous glands, making the skin oilier and more prone to acne breakouts. Other factors that can also influence sebum production include diet, hormones, exercise, and genetics.0
Is Using an Oil-Free Cleanser Okay if You Have Combination Skin?
Synthetic detergents (syndets) are more appropriate because these are formulated to match the skin's slightly acidic pH and they contain milder surfactants.
More Oily Skin-Friendly Products
A facial wash is only the start of great skincare. To properly take care of your oily skin, you need other products to make sure that you will always have a healthy and bright glow. Confused about where to begin? Check out the links below for your next skincare best friend!
Re-editor: Mary Adeliz Tabaloc
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 Facial Washes for Oily Skin
No. 1: Cetaphil｜Gentle Skin Cleanser
No. 2: COSRX｜Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
No. 3: Human Nature｜Face Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin
No. 4: Celeteque DermoScience｜Hydration Facial Wash
No. 5: Luxe Organix｜AHA BHA Miracle Solutions Facial Cleanser
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.