Getting fair and bright skin is #goals for many Filipinos, which is why whitening face washes have always been a staple in Pinay skincare routines. Not only do they give you whiter skin, but they also help address other skin concerns like dark spots, uneven skin tone, and dull complexion.
Given their popularity, you're bound to find loads of skin whitening face washes in the market, so it can be hard to figure out which one is right for you. To help you find the best whitening face washes, we have compiled our top 10 picks that you can order online. If you need more help choosing a product, we've also prepared a buying guide, with comments and insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz, to give you some tips before checking out.
Quick List - Top Whitening Face Washes
L'oreal Paris
Refreshes and Renews Skin for a Radiant, Glowing Complexion
Neutrogena
Deeply Cleanses To Refresh and Brighten Tired 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.
When selecting a whitening face wash, it's important to look at the ingredients, find one that matches your skin type, and pick a formulation you like. Additionally, reading customer reviews can help you make an informed decision. For more details, check out our buying guide below.
Whitening face washes are formulated with active ingredients that give them their whitening and brightening abilities. Check out some popular ingredients that brands use for their whitening face washes to be effective below.
Kojic acid is a skin-lightening agent, which is why it’s often used in whitening face washes. It can lighten dark spots and acne scars, resulting in an even complexion. It also has antimicrobial properties, helpful in fighting bacteria.
This will help those with oily and acne-prone skin maintain clear skin. However, it’s quite a strong ingredient, so those with dry or sensitive skin should be careful in using whitening face washes with kojic acid.
Kojic acid is effective for reducing unwanted discoloration. It inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase—known for regulating melanin production. In simplified terms, it works by preventing the pigment releasing skin cells from overproducing, thus, giving you more even-toned skin.
Glutathione is well-known in the skin whitening industry because it reduces melanin levels, giving you fair skin. Because of its effectiveness, it’s used in whitening face washes, lotions, and even supplements. It also offers protection against free radicals, since it’s a very powerful antioxidant.
Other antioxidants that help lighten skin are bearberry leaf extract and resveratrol. Aside from their skin-strengthening properties, these ingredients improve skin elasticity, too, so those with dry skin will benefit from this ingredient.
Glutathione is another famed whitening ingredient incorporated into a lot of skincare products. It is mainly known for its role as a powerful antioxidant.
Resveratrol is an interesting ingredient, as it not only acts as an antioxidant but it also has the added benefit of increasing the production of other antioxidants within the skin!
Vitamin C and vitamin E are great for your body and overall health, so it’s no surprise that they have many benefits for your skin, too. Vitamin C reduces pigmentation and detoxifies your skin. It also helps fight acne, making it a good option for those with oily and acne-prone skin.
On the other hand, vitamin E has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, giving your skin a healthy glow. It helps fight signs of aging and reduce damage from the UV rays of the sun, giving you radiant and youthful skin. Some ingredients that contain these vitamins are papaya, lemon, and calamansi.
As previously mentioned, whitening face washes contain active ingredients that make it possible for them to whiten and brighten your skin. It’s important for you to know your skin type, so that you can make sure that the ingredients your whitening face wash has won’t cause any problems.
Aside from whitening agents, check if your face wash has ingredients that will benefit your skin type. If you have dry skin, consider going for a product with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and natural oils so that your skin can get the hydration that it needs. Vitamins like vitamin B3 and vitamin B5 will also help in moisture retention.
Moisturizers are a key step in any routine. If you have dry skin, it can leave your skin appearing dull. Thus, choosing a face wash with moisturizing ingredients and including a moisturizer will not only leave your skin appearing well-hydrated but generally brighter and healthier as well.
If you have oily and acne-prone skin, it would be best to go for whitening face washes that have gentle exfoliating and antimicrobial ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, licorice, and niacinamide. Not only will you get a fair complexion, but your skin will also clear up due to their anti-inflammatory benefits.
For those with sensitive skin, be extra mindful of the ingredients that your whitening face wash includes. Their active ingredients are already pretty strong, so it's best to make sure that they don't contain any fragrances or harmful alcohols like ethanol or benzyl alcohol. These ingredients may irritate your skin and cause redness and a stinging sensation.
Definitely, it's good to be cognizant of what you apply to your skin. It's also important that you're aware of what you are allergic to or not. When it doubt, try it out!
With different brands releasing their own versions of whitening face washes, you’ll surely encounter various formulations. For one, whitening soaps are generally formulated to exfoliate and deeply cleanse your face of impurities.
Meanwhile, whitening creams and gel facial washes are designed to be moisturizing. They’re either thick or thin, depending on how much hydration they provide. Ultimately, the best formulation for you will depend on your preferences and lifestyle.
The overall formulation is important in determining the overall response of your skin to the product. So make sure to try it out and listen to your skin!
Whitening face washes usually have many claims, so it’s best to cross-check them by reading product reviews by other customers. This is a good way to check if a certain whitening face wash is effective or not, so you can get your money’s worth.
Through reading feedback, you can also get a glimpse of the experiences of other people with similar skin types or lifestyles. You’ll be able to see and decide if a product will likely work for you or not before checking out.
Product reviews are useful as you are able to gather real-life experiences of consumers with the products. However, a word of caution, remember that not everyone has the same skin type, the same skin concern, and the same skin sensitivities.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Whitening Ingredients | Formulation | Best For | Net Content | |||||
1 | SnailWhite Whipp Soap | ![]() | Gentle Deep Clean With a Brightening Boost | Niacinamide, Arbutin, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Bearberry Leaf Extract, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | Whipped Foam Soap | Dull and Uneven Skin Tone | 100 g | |
2 | Celeteque Brightening Facial Wash | ![]() | Brightens While It Gently Cleanses | Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Vitamin E | Gel | Normal to Combination Skin Types | 75 mL | |
3 | L'oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Glowing Daily Cleanser Foam | ![]() | Refreshes and Renews Skin for a Radiant, Glowing Complexion | Glycolic Acid (AHA) | Foam | Oily/Combination Skin, Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin | 100 mL | |
4 | Neutrogena Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser | ![]() | Deeply Cleanses To Refresh and Brighten Tired Skin | Niacinamide | Foam | Oily/Combination Skin, Dull Skin, Sensitive Skin | 100 mL | |
5 | Luxe Organix Whitening Repair Gentle Foam Cleanser | ![]() | Ultra-Light Foam for a Brighter, Repaired Glow | Niacinamide, Licorice Extract | Foam | Normal to Oily Skin, Dull Skin, Uneven Skin Tone, Sensitive Skin | 150 g | |
6 | Fresh Skinlab Tomato Glass Skin Whitening Facial Cleanser | ![]() | Gives You That Soft, Glass-Skin Look | Tomato Extract, Vitamin C, Niacinamide | Foam | Dull Skin, Dry Skin | 100 mL | |
7 | Myra Fresh Glow Whitening Facial Wash | ![]() | Your Daily Wash for That Just-Got-Home Glow | Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Retinyl Palmitate | Foam | Oily Skin | 40 mL | |
8 | GlutaMAX Men Facial Wash | ![]() | Designed for Men To Fight Oil and Reveal Smoother Skin Effortlessly | Glutathione, Arbutin, Vitamin C | Gel | Acne-Prone Skin, Oily Skin | 100 g | |
9 | Gluta-C Kojic Plus+ Acne Control Facial Wash | ![]() | Say Goodbye to Pimples, Hello to Glow | Glutathione, Kojic Acid, Vitamin C, Arbutin, Azelaoyl Diglycinate, Niacinamide | Gel | Acne-Prone Skin, Dull Skin, Oily Skin | 100 mL | |
10 | Pond's Instabright Tone Up Milk Foam | ![]() | Cleanses Gently While Giving Your Skin a Luminous Boost | Milk Essence, Vitamin C, Vitamin B3 | Foam | Sensitive Skin, Normal Skin | 100 g |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Users often mention that the wash feels refreshing and gentle on their skin, making it comfortable for daily use. Many appreciate the smooth texture that rinses off easily without leaving any residue. Overall, it helps maintain a clean and balanced complexion without causing dryness.
Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide, Arbutin, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Bearberry Leaf Extract, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) |
---|---|
Formulation | Whipped Foam Soap |
Best For | Dull and Uneven Skin Tone |
Net Content | 100 g |
Users often mention the gentle feel of the wash, which doesn’t irritate their skin even with regular use. Many find it refreshing and easy to apply, leaving their face feeling clean without tightness. Overall, it supports a noticeable improvement in skin brightness over time.
Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Vitamin E |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Best For | Normal to Combination Skin Types |
Net Content | 75 mL |
Many users find the cleanser to be gentle yet effective, appreciating how it leaves their skin feeling clean without tightness or dryness. The lightweight foam is often described as easy to apply and rinse off, enhancing the overall experience. Over time, users notice a subtle improvement in skin brightness and smoothness.
Whitening Ingredients | Glycolic Acid (AHA) |
---|---|
Formulation | Foam |
Best For | Oily/Combination Skin, Dull Skin, Acne-Prone Skin |
Net Content | 100 mL |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Users appreciate how the cleanser leaves their skin feeling deeply clean yet hydrated, avoiding the tight or dry sensation common with some foaming washes. Many highlight the rich, creamy lather that spreads easily and rinses off without residue. The product is also praised for delivering a noticeable brightening effect and a fresh, glowing complexion with regular use.
Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide |
---|---|
Formulation | Foam |
Best For | Oily/Combination Skin, Dull Skin, Sensitive Skin |
Net Content | 100 mL |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Users appreciate the instant, smooth, and plump feeling after just one wash. Many also note its gentle formula helps brighten the skin and evens out the tone, leaving a fresh, natural glow.
Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide, Licorice Extract |
---|---|
Formulation | Foam |
Best For | Normal to Oily Skin, Dull Skin, Uneven Skin Tone, Sensitive Skin |
Net Content | 150 g |
Users with dry skin say it's mild and gentle, noting that it doesn't sting or leave the skin feeling tight, yet still delivers a brighter glow with regular use. Many also mention their skin feels more plump and noticeably radiant just a few weeks into using it, making it a gentle yet effective choice for drier complexions.
Whitening Ingredients | Tomato Extract, Vitamin C, Niacinamide |
---|---|
Formulation | Foam |
Best For | Dull Skin, Dry Skin |
Net Content | 100 mL |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Many describe the formula as gentle and non-drying, keeping skin moisturized without that tight feeling. There's also noticeable brightening and fading of dark spots, with the bonus of controlling oil for a fresh, balanced look throughout the day.
Whitening Ingredients | Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Retinyl Palmitate |
---|---|
Formulation | Foam |
Best For | Oily Skin |
Net Content | 40 mL |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Delivers a deep clean similar to other men’s cleansers but with a milder cooling effect. While blemish reduction may take time, many notice smaller-looking pores and a cleaner skin feel after regular use.
Whitening Ingredients | Glutathione, Arbutin, Vitamin C |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Best For | Acne-Prone Skin, Oily Skin |
Net Content | 100 g |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Many say it effectively calms active breakouts while leaving the skin feeling smooth, not tight. It’s often praised for its gentle yet clarifying formula, especially by those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Several also note a subtle brightening effect with consistent use, even without strong peeling or dryness.
Whitening Ingredients | Glutathione, Kojic Acid, Vitamin C, Arbutin, Azelaoyl Diglycinate, Niacinamide |
---|---|
Formulation | Gel |
Best For | Acne-Prone Skin, Dull Skin, Oily Skin |
Net Content | 100 mL |
Features and Benefits:
Reviews Mention:
Users find the texture really smooth and creamy, making it easy to use and rinse off without any irritation. They like how gentle it feels on the skin, leaving it fresh and softly nourished. Many also mention seeing their skin look brighter and more even after using it regularly.
Whitening Ingredients | Milk Essence, Vitamin C, Vitamin B3 |
---|---|
Formulation | Foam |
Best For | Sensitive Skin, Normal Skin |
Net Content | 100 g |
This part of the article features Dr. Katrina Luz's answers to some of the internet's most asked questions regarding whitening face washes!
The cornerstone of maintaining a whiter, not to mention a healthier complexion, is sun protection! Remember, any product used for whitening is never complete without adequate and consistent use of sunscreen.
Never rub or scrub your face! Remember, being gentle is always key. Also, never overdo it! Check the frequency with which you can use that face wash.
There are no hard and fast rules for this one. Essentially, it depends on your skin type (normal vs. dry vs. oily vs. combination skin type) as well as the active ingredient contained in the product.
To get fair and bright skin, you'll need more than a whitening face wash. After all, building a solid skincare routine is important to achieve your skincare goals. Check out our other articles below for more curated lists of the best products that will give you the skin of your dreams.
Author: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz
Editor & Re-editor: R. Umlas, Danielle 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: SnailWhite |Whipp Soap
No. 2: Celeteque|Brightening Facial Wash
No. 3: L'oreal Paris|Glycolic Bright Glowing Daily Cleanser Foam
No. 4: Neutrogena|Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser
No. 5: Luxe Organix|Whitening Repair Gentle Foam Cleanser
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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