10 Best Soaps for Men in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
A soap that is specifically designed for men can be a great help to improve the condition of the skin. It can help maintain the skin’s firmness to avoid early signs of aging; you'd just have to choose whether you prefer bar soap, a body wash, or a shower gel.
You can also look into soap ingredients like activated charcoal, shea butter, and jojoba oil to meet your skin type’s daily needs. Before you add one to your cart, let us help you with our buying guide with comments from Dermatologist, Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz. But before that, we will also share a list of the 10 best soaps for men that you can find online. Let's begin!
Quick List - Top Soaps for Men
Cetaphil
All-in-One Gentle Bar That Fights Germs and Keeps Skin Soft
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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How to Choose a Soap for Men - Buying Guide
You use soaps every day, so it is important to consider which one is best for you. You should base it on your lifestyle, skin type, and other factors. To know more about what features to think about, read through our buying guide below.
Choose Between Body and Facial Soap
Before going through your soap options, you need to understand the difference between a body and a facial soap. Although they both cleanse your skin, they have different compositions. Body soap is designed to remove dirt, excess oil, and dead skin cells from your body. It contains more ingredients that may not be suitable for your face.
A facial soap, on the other hand, is specially formulated for lifting off the dirt from your face while keeping the pH balance. It contains a lower pH level which helps to avoid drying out your face. It also does not strip your facial skin of the healthy oils that it needs. Meanwhile, there are also soaps in the market that can be used for both the face and body. You just have to check the label to make sure.
The skin of our face and the rest of the body definitely have minor biologic differences. Thus, it is no wonder that soaps have been marketed as face soaps purely for the face vs. body soaps purely for the body.
In general, if you read the label, the ingredients are generally very similar for both face, and body soaps with minor differences in the order the ingredients are listed, and thus, their concentrations.
Check the Ingredients List and Determine Whether You Prefer a Scented or Unscented Soap
First thing’s first, you must check the label for the soap's list of ingredients. Keep in mind that the shorter the list of the ingredients, the better the soap. Avoid harsh ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate and triclosan because they could damage your skin as well as cause allergies and irritations.
You can go for all-natural soaps that are typically made with plant oils, such as jojoba oil, soybean oil, coconut oil, palm oil, olive oil, and avocado oil, as well as butter, Kojic acid, activated charcoal, and natural glycerin.
You can also opt for an unscented soap if you prefer a mild and fragrance-free option, especially if you have sensitive skin. Meanwhile, if you want a scented soap, you can go for soaps with scents like rosewood and citrus ー it's all up to your preference!
Checking the ingredient list of any skincare product is always a good idea. When it comes to selecting a soap, it's important to make sure that it's generally mild and yet effective in fulfilling its purpose of cleansing our skin.
Look for Ingredients That Will Work With Your Skin Type and Skin Concerns
Like all skincare products, certain ingredients work best for the benefit of a specific skin type. For both the face and the body, the most common skin types among men include dry, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. So when looking for a soap, you should always consider your skin type to get the best results.
If You Have Acne-Prone Skin, Grapeseed Oil Can Help Reduce Breakouts
Men have larger pores than women, which means that they have more active sebaceous glands. This is the main reason why most men have oily and acne-prone skin. If you have this skin type, you must choose a soap with oil-fighting ingredients like grapeseed oil.
Grapeseed oil helps regulate oil production, which in turn controls the formation of acne. Furthermore, grapeseed oil contains vitamin E and fatty acids that help to reduce inflammation due to acne as well as clear clogged pores. It will also keep your skin moisturized! Another great and gentle ingredient for acne-prone skin is sulfur.
Did you know that people with acne-prone skin generally have a lower % of linoleic acid (an essential fatty acid) in their sebum compared to people with normal skin? This deficiency leads to an increase in pro-inflammatory molecules that can eventually lead to clogged pores.
This is why using plant-based oils, particularly those high in linoleic acid, helps reduce breakouts in those with acne-prone skin. Oils rich in linoleic acid include grapeseed oil, rosehip oil, and safflower oil.
Those With Oily-Skin Can Count on Activated Charcoal to Keep Oil at Bay and Remove Skin Impurities
On the other hand, activated charcoal helps to absorb excess oil on your face. It acts like a sponge that cleans out clogged pores which helps to prevent acne breakouts. For the body, it works by drawing out dirt and exfoliating dead skin cells. This is a perfect ingredient that can make your face and body smooth and radiant.
Aside from activated charcoal and grapeseed, you can also look for soaps with tea tree oil, micellar water, retinol, glutathione, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, AHAs, and benzoyl peroxide. They are also highly effective ingredients that are suitable to use for those who have oily faces and acne-prone bodies.
Did you know that for centuries charcoal has been used as an antidote for poisonings? And now, charcoal has made its way into our skincare products with claims of its effectiveness against acne, dandruff, among others. Now, the use of charcoal is generally considered to be safe but definitely still on the lookout for definitive studies on its proven benefits for the skin.
For Dry Skin, Look for Soaps With Shea Butter and Glycerin
Living in a tropical country like the Philippines means that you can be prone to dry skin. You can choose a soap that contains shea butter and natural glycerin ingredients that can make your skin hydrated and moisturized.
Shea butter has antioxidants and vitamins that act as a hydrator. This makes your dry skin smooth, soft, and supple. It also helps to protect your skin from the extreme temperatures that can cause dryness to the skin.
Meanwhile, glycerin is a clear and odorless liquid that comes from vegetable oils and animal fats. It is also known as one of the most effective humectants aside from hyaluronic acid. It improves the function of your skin barrier and provides extra protection to avoid skin allergies and irritations.
Gone are the days that soaps are too harsh that they disrupt the skin barrier! Modern-day cleansers now can contain conditioning polymers and humectants (e.g. glycerin, ceramides) to reduce irritation and even to moisturize the skin.
Ingredients Like Jojoba Oil and Oatmeal Are Sensitive Skin-Friendly
For men who have sensitive skin, you may opt for fragrance-free soap, as well as those that contain ingredients like jojoba oil, aloe vera, chamomile oil, and oatmeal. Jojoba oil is a skin-friendly oil that helps to soften and moisturize the skin, while aloe vera is known to soothe the skin and relieve itchiness.
Chamomile and oatmeal have both anti-inflammatory properties that nourish the skin and heal different skin allergies like eczema and psoriasis. You can also go for soaps with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, olive oil, and cocoa butter that can perfectly work with sensitive skin.
Jojoba oil is another very common ingredient used in soaps, moisturizers, sunscreens, you name it! The great thing about jojoba oil is aside from being a great emollient it also enhances the absorption of other ingredients within a formulation. Fun factーjojoba oil is very similar to sebum, the natural oil in our skin!
Bar Soap, Body Wash, and Shower Gel: Take Your Pick
After identifying your skin type, you may now choose the type of soap you want to use. You'll find many variants that come in the form of bar soap, body wash, and shower gel. Read on below to know the advantage of each kind of soap.
Bar Soaps Contain Fewer Ingredients, Making It a Good Option for Those With Sensitive Skin
Bar soap is the most popular and common type of soap in many households. It is a more cost-effective choice because one piece of soap goes a long way. You can directly rub it on your skin or apply it using a scrub or loofah.
This type of soap also contains fewer ingredients than body soaps and gels. They don’t usually have preservatives in order to extend their shelf life. So this is ideal for men who have sensitive skin. Just remember to dry it off after use to avoid the build-up of bacteria.
Deciding between bar soaps and liquid soaps is pretty much a 'choose what suits you kind of thing.' The great thing about bar soaps is that it tends to last longer. Not to mention, a lot come in more eco-friendly packaging.
Moisturize Dry Skin With a Body Wash
Aside from bar soaps, body washes and shower gels are also available. Both work best for men who have dry, oily, dull, and flaky skin. They are both liquid cleansers that are typically made with emollients or ingredients like plant oils, mineral oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and fatty acids that can moisturize the skin.
A body wash is best for dry skin because it has a creamy and lotion-like texture. It can nourish the skin, especially during cold weather. It can give you smooth and soft skin after every wash.
Body washes have evolved over the years. Now, body washes are incorporated with humectants such as glycerin or occlusives like petrolatum, which seal moisture into the skin while you are still in the shower. This makes them a great choice for those with normal, and particularly, dry skin.
Shower Gel for Those With Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
On the other hand, a shower gel has a thicker and gel-like consistency with a high concentration of fragrance. It is ideal to use for oily skin. However, it is not as good as a body wash when it comes to hydrating and moisturizing the skin.
Although they are both liquid cleansers, the difference between a body wash and a body gel is predominantly textural. Body gels have a firm, gel-like consistency, making them a good option for those with acne-prone or oily skin.
10 Best Soaps for Men to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Skin Type | For Face or Body | Key Ingredients | Weight | |||||
1 | Cetaphil Ultra Protect Antimicrobial Cleansing Bar | | All-in-One Gentle Bar That Fights Germs and Keeps Skin Soft | Bar | Sensitive | Body | Glycerin, Antimicrobial Cleansing Agents | 127 g | |
2 | Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Antibacterial Bar | | Targeted Antibacterial Cleansing Without the Harsh Feel | Bar | Sensitive, Acne-Prone | Face, Body | Glycerin, Antibacterial Cleansing Agents | 127 g | |
3 | Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash | | Nourishing Formula Leaves Skin Soft to the Touch | Body Wash | Sensitive, Dry | Body | Colloidal Oatmeal, Glycerin | 532 mL | |
4 | Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash | | Deep Foam Cleansing That Keeps Excess Oil in Check | Face | Oily, Acne-Prone | Face | Zinc Technology, Glycerin | 237 mL | |
5 | Human Nature Bamboo Charcoal Cleansing Bar for Men | | Charcoal-Powered Clean for a Fresh, No-Fuss Routine | Bar | Normal, Oily | Face, Body | Bamboo Charcoal, Glycerin | 120 g | |
6 | Dove Men+Care Extra Fresh Body + Face Bar Soap | | Cool, Refreshing Clean That Works Head to Toe | Bar | All | Face, Body | Glycerin, Menthol | 106 g | |
7 | Camou 7-Day Niacinamide Brightening Soap | | 7 Days to Brighter, Clearer Skin With Powerful Active Ingredients | Bar | All | Face, Body | Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Kojic Acid | 100 g | |
8 | Safeguard Bar Soap Arctic Fresh｜ Arctic Fresh | | Cleanses and Cools Down the Whole Body | Bar | All | Body | Glycerin, Antibacterial Agents | 115 g | |
9 | GlutaMAX Men Face and Body Bar Natural Fiber Exfoliant | | Revitalize Your Skin Using This Natural Fiber Exfoliator Soap | Bar | All | Face, Body | Natural Fiber, Glycerin | 135 g | |
10 | Freshman Masculine Wash Original | | Invigorating Wash With Tea Tree for a Confident Clean | Body Wash | All | Body | Tea Tree Oil, Glycerin | 150 mL | |
All-in-One Gentle Bar That Fights Germs and Keeps Skin Soft
- Effectively removes 99.9% of germs
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Non-drying and deodorizing for soft, soothed hands and body
- Microbiome- and pH-friendly to maintain healthy skin balance
Reviews mention:
This soap has been a game-changer for soothing itchy, dry skin, providing noticeable relief and long-lasting hydration. Many users, including those with sensitive or aging skin, appreciate how it helps protect against dryness, roughness, and tightness. With added antimicrobial properties, it not only cleanses gently but also supports healthy, refreshed skin every day.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive |
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Antimicrobial Cleansing Agents |
| Weight | 127 g |
Targeted Antibacterial Cleansing Without the Harsh Feel
Features and benefits:
- Helps cleanse skin while addressing acne-causing bacteria
- Gentle formula designed to minimize irritation on sensitive skin
- Maintains skin comfort during regular cleansing routines
- Solid bar format offers a simple, fuss-free daily wash option
Reviews mention:
Known for its mild yet effective cleansing action, this bar is often chosen by those managing breakouts alongside sensitivity. Reviewers appreciate that it helps keep skin feeling fresh without the dryness associated with stronger antibacterial soaps. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for frequent use without discomfort. The bar is also noted for producing a light, easy-to-rinse lather that feels clean but not stripping.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive, Acne-Prone |
| For Face or Body | Face, Body |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Antibacterial Cleansing Agents |
| Weight | 127 g |
Nourishing Formula Leaves Skin Soft to the Touch
Features and benefits:
- Gently cleanses while helping relieve dryness and itchiness
- Formulated to support the skin’s natural moisture barrier
- Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and comfortably hydrated
- Suitable for daily use on sensitive and easily irritated skin
Reviews mention:
Popular for its soothing effect on dry or irritated skin, this body wash is often admired for how gentle yet effective it feels. The oatmeal-based formula comforts skin without any greasy or heavy residue. Its light, easy-to-rinse lather creates a calming shower experience. Continuous use is frequently linked to skin feeling more balanced, soft, and comfortably hydrated.
| Type | Body Wash |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive, Dry |
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Glycerin |
| Weight | 532 mL |
Deep Foam Cleansing That Keeps Excess Oil in Check
- Effectively removes excess oil and impurities without over-drying skin
- Foaming texture provides a deep yet gentle cleanse for daily use
- Helps reduce surface shine while keeping skin feeling comfortable
- Designed to support clearer-looking skin prone to oil buildup
Reviews mention:
A go-to choice for oily and acne-prone skin types, this foam wash is often appreciated for how fresh and balanced skin feels after cleansing. The lightweight foam is described as refreshing and easy to rinse off. Reviewers note that it helps control shine without causing tightness or irritation. With regular use, skin is frequently said to feel cleaner and less congested throughout the day.
| Type | Face |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily, Acne-Prone |
| For Face or Body | Face |
| Key Ingredients | Zinc Technology, Glycerin |
| Weight | 237 mL |
Human NatureBamboo Charcoal Cleansing Bar for Men
Charcoal-Powered Clean for a Fresh, No-Fuss Routine
- Bamboo charcoal, deeply cleanses pores and removes impurities
- Cold-processed, retains natural glycerin for moisture
- No harmful chemicals, safe for daily use
- Masculine scent, tailored for men’s preferences
Reviews mention:
Men appreciate this cleansing bar for its ability to deeply clean oily skin and reduce shine. The natural bamboo charcoal is praised for absorbing impurities without over-drying. Many users like the masculine, subtle scent and the fact that it is free from harsh chemicals. Some mention it helps improve skin texture and leaves their skin feeling fresh and revitalized after use.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal, Oily |
| For Face or Body | Face, Body |
| Key Ingredients | Bamboo Charcoal, Glycerin |
| Weight | 120 g |
Cool, Refreshing Clean That Works Head to Toe
- Delivers a refreshing cleanse designed for both face and body use
- Helps wash away sweat and odor while maintaining skin comfort
- Infused with a cooling sensation that leaves skin feeling energized
- Bar format offers a practical, all-in-one solution for daily routines
Reviews mention:
Instantly refreshing, this bar delivers a cooling sensation that makes showers feel invigorating, especially in the morning or after a workout. The formula cleanses thoroughly without leaving skin dry or tight. Its ability to be used on both face and body adds a convenient all-in-one feature. The clean, masculine scent enhances the refreshing experience without being overpowering.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All |
| For Face or Body | Face, Body |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Menthol |
| Weight | 106 g |
7 Days to Brighter, Clearer Skin With Powerful Active Ingredients
Formulated with niacinamide to support brighter-looking skin and a more even tone over time
Aims to improve overall skin clarity and radiance with regular use
Gentle enough for both face and body, including areas prone to dullness or uneven tone
Designed for consistent use rather than instant results, as brightening benefits build gradually
Reviews mention:
Many users notice smoother- and brighter-looking skin with continued use, often describing a healthier glow over time. Some also report fewer breakouts on areas like the back and underarms. A few mention mild dryness at first, especially with frequent use, so pairing it with a moisturizer is commonly recommended for better comfort.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All |
| For Face or Body | Face, Body |
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Kojic Acid |
| Weight | 100 g |
Cleanses and Cools Down the Whole Body
- Provides antibacterial protection while leaving skin feeling refreshed
- Invigorating arctic fresh scent adds a cool, clean sensation
- Solid bar format ensures easy handling and lasting use
Reviews mention:
Loved for its crisp, fresh fragrance, this soap is frequently chosen by users who value both cleanliness and a cooling feel. Many note that it effectively helps reduce germs while keeping skin comfortable. The bar lathers well and rinses off easily, leaving no sticky residue. Its fresh scent is frequently described as uplifting and long-lasting throughout the day.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All |
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Antibacterial Agents |
| Weight | 115 g |
GlutaMAXMen Face and Body Bar Natural Fiber Exfoliant
Revitalize Your Skin Using This Natural Fiber Exfoliator Soap
Features and benefits:
- Natural fiber exfoliant helps remove dead skin and impurities
- Designed for both face and body use, ideal for men’s skin
- Leaves skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and revitalized
- Bar format offers a practical, no-fuss cleansing routine
Reviews mention:
Reliable for deep cleansing, this bar is often praised for its effective exfoliating action without being harsh. Users frequently highlight how it leaves skin smooth and refreshed after each use. The natural fiber texture is appreciated for helping tackle rough or dull skin. It’s suitable for regular use, keeping both face and body clean and energized.
| Type | Bar |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All |
| For Face or Body | Face, Body |
| Key Ingredients | Natural Fiber, Glycerin |
| Weight | 135 g |
Invigorating Wash With Tea Tree for a Confident Clean
- Infused with tea tree oil for a naturally refreshing cleanse
- Targets odor and impurities while being gentle on skin
- Suitable for daily use on the body to maintain freshness
- Lightweight formula rinses easily without leaving residue
Reviews mention:
This wash is consistently noted for its fresh, clean feel and subtle tea tree scent. Users highlight that it helps manage odor while keeping skin comfortable and balanced. The gentle yet effective formula is described as ideal for daily use. Many appreciate its smooth lather and the energized, refreshed sensation it leaves after every shower.
| Type | Body Wash |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All |
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Key Ingredients | Tea Tree Oil, Glycerin |
| Weight | 150 mL |
Expert's Comment About the Top 10 Products
A question I often get asked is: "Can I use my wife's skincare products?" or "Can I use my husband's?"
The answer is yes! While of course there are some biological variations, in general, the skin needs of men and women are the same. Thus, their skincare regimens don't have to differ. So men can follow the same skincare tips with women.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Katrina Luz
Besides the tips that we put above, we have more recommendations from Dr. Katrina regarding skincare for men. Read them below!
Is It Advisable to Use the Same Soap for Hair, Face, and Body?
Our hair and skin have different physicochemical properties and manufacturers of haircare and skincare products take these things into account.
For instance, shampoos need to be delicate, cleanse without degreasing, easy to rinse out, and not irritating to the eyes. While soaps are formulated with stronger detergents for the skin, as the skin often contains more oil and dirt than hair.
Aside From a Moisturizing Soap, What Else Would You Recommend for Dry Skin?
I Think the Soap I Use Gives Me Body Odor. What Is the Best Thing to Do?
Rather than the soap, it's possible that other factors may be at play here - inadequate bathing habits or an underlying cause of the body odor itself. If the body odor persists, a visit to your dermatologist may be a good idea.
Looking for More Grooming Products?
Now that you've started adding skincare products to your daily routine, why not look for more grooming products that can help you take care of yourself. Check out the articles below for the best men's grooming products that you can also buy online.
Author: Cristel Joy Aron
Editor and Re-editor: Ayeza Mangulabnan, Valerie Lagura
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 Soaps for Men
No. 1: Cetaphil ｜Ultra Protect Antimicrobial Cleansing Bar
No. 2: Cetaphil｜Gentle Cleansing Antibacterial Bar
No. 3: Aveeno｜Skin Relief Body Wash
No. 4: Cetaphil ｜DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash
No. 5: Human Nature｜Bamboo Charcoal Cleansing Bar for Men
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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