10 Best Moisturizing Soaps in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Moisturizing soaps are great shower companions that help cleanse the skin without leaving it dry and flaky. Unlike regular soaps that tend to strip the skin of its natural oils, moisturizing soaps contain additional ingredients that help replenish moisture. These ingredients may be naturally-derived or chemical-based, but they are all ideal for those with dry skin or those who want to maintain the pH balance of their skin.
Moisturizing soaps are available in bars, body washes, and shower gels. With lots of options in the market, finding the best one could be overwhelming. But don't worry, as we offer you a buying guide and a list of the best moisturizing soaps you can score online. We also asked board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang for some comments and insights about this skincare product. Check below to achieve happier and healthier skin!
Quick List - Top Moisturizing Soaps
Aveeno
Infused With Colloidal Oatmeal to Gently Cleanse and Moisturize the Skin
Human Nature
Cold-Processed, Hypoallergenic Soap From a Trusted Local Brand
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, MD, DPDS is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila, and achieving healthy skin is her goal in every skin journey she has with her patients. She also aims to raise awareness on healthy skin facts and skincare habits. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and is currently offering online consults for any skin, hair, and nail concerns. You can follow her on her Instagram and Facebook page to know more details about her practice!
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
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
- How Often to Wash Face With Moisturizing Soap?
- Are Moisturizing Soaps Effective in Eliminating Dirt and Bacteria?
- Are Moisturizing Soaps Effective for Those With Oily and Acne-Prone Skin?
- More Tips From Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
- More Products for Healthier and Happier Skin
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
How to Choose a Moisturizing Soap - Buying Guide
Moisturizing soaps come in many forms. You can get a bar soap, body wash, or shower gel. Each has its own unique properties that can produce the results you want. It is also important to consider your skin type as some soaps are not for you and could irritate your skin. For more information, read through our buying guide below.
Select a Soap Based on the Area You Want to Clean
Moisturizing soap generally cleanses the skin, but where you will use it matters, as facial skin can be more delicate and sensitive than other body parts. For the face, opt for a moisturizing soap with a gentle formulation, especially if you have sensitive skin. Soaps infused with glycerin and shea butter can get the job done.
Whether chemical-based or naturally derived, a regular formula with more active ingredients may effectively work for other areas of the body, but be sure to take precautions if you have sensitive skin. There are also moisturizing soaps suitable for both the face and body, perfect if you are on a tight budget.
Soap is a cleansing agent that is made from a fatty acid with an alkali metal hydroxide. The cleansing action of soap comes from its ability to coat oil particles. This mechanism allows the gunk, sweat, and oil from the skin to be rinsed away. Soaps can have different formulations and ingredients. For the face, a gentle facial soap with moisturizing effects is recommended.
Choose the Type of Moisturizing Soap According to Your Skin Needs
Soaps, including moisturizing ones, come in three types; bar, body wash, and shower gel. While they can all clean the skin, their consistency and interaction with the skin vary.
Bar Soap Has Fewer Ingredients and Is More Suitable for Sensitive Skin
The bar is probably the most common form of soap. This type tends to have fewer ingredients than shower gel and body wash, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. On top of that, it is usually housed in eco-friendly packaging and can last longer compared to an average-sized liquid soap.
However, bar soaps tend to be less hygienic since bacteria can live on them, particularly if you share them with other people. To avoid bacteria buildup, rinse the bar after every shower, then dry it thoroughly before use.
Ordinary bar soap has a relatively high pH which can dry and strip your skin. However, there are different forms of bar soaps. Oils included in bar soaps and the process of adding oil (saponification) change the characteristics of the soap.
- Common bar soaps have high pH levels, making them irritating to the skin.
- Superfatted bar soaps contain extra fats than ordinary bar soaps. The process of superfatting improves the moisturization of the soap and makes it less irritating.
- Syndet bar soaps contain synthetic surfactants from oils and petroleum products. The synthetic surfactants make syndet bars the mildest bar soaps for the skin.
Body Wash Offers Mild Formulation, Ideal for Normal to Dry Skin
Body wash has a thin, runny consistency and is often made with emollients that help soothe the skin, making it a great choice for folks with normal to dry skin types. Since body washes are more hydrating, they are perfect for replenishing and retaining moisture in cold environments that are quite harsh on the skin.
Body wash has a thinner formula with a creamy consistency. It helps moisturize the skin and is more beneficial in colder weather to help avoid stripping moisture away from the skin. Body wash contains milder surfactants and is also pH-friendly to the skin. It normally has a rich foam, is easy to rinse, and causes minimal skin irritation.
Shower Gel Has a Thick Consistency, Suitable for Oily Skin
Like body wash, shower gel is a liquid cleanser, too, but with a thicker, gel-like consistency. Some formulas are infused with soothing and moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, Aloe vera, and more.
However, its firm viscosity makes it slightly harsher on the skin when applied since it can dry out the skin a little more compared to the other moisturizing soap types. Due to that, shower gels are more suitable for people with oily skin.
Shower gel has a firmer, gel-like consistency. It may also contain a higher concentration of fragrance. It may be more moisturizing than body wash, so it can be more preferred for people living in warmer climates or for people with oily skin.
Check the Ingredient List for Moisturizing Ingredients
If you want to keep your skin moisturized, checking the ingredient list will get you one step closer to your skin goals. One of the essential components that you should look into is glycerin, a naturally derived humectant from vegetable oil and animal fats. It draws moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it moisturized and hydrated.
You can also opt for other moisturizing ingredients such as Vitamin E, Aloe vera, shea butter, almond oil, and coconut oil. These components have emollient and humectant properties and are packed with antioxidants and skin-nourishing vitamins.
Moisturizing components include three basic types: humectants, emollients, and occlusives.
- Humectants are also known as hydrators that draw water into the skin. Glycerin is one type of humectant that adds hydration to the skin.
- Emollients fill in the gaps in our skin with water and also strengthen the skin barrier. Ceramides and fatty alcohols (such as Cetearyl alcohol) are emollients.
- Occlusives seal in water and form a physical barrier on the skin. Examples of occlusives include lanolin, dimethicone, and shea butter.
The above-mentioned ingredients, if incorporated in soaps, can help maintain the skin's moisture.
Pick the Formulation Based on Your Preference
Like any other skincare product, moisturizing soaps are also available in different formulations. You can pick between naturally-derived or chemical-based soaps depending on your preference.
Natural Formulations Are More Skin- and Environment-Friendly
If you have sensitive skin, you will surely benefit from getting a naturally derived soap formula. This type usually contains natural and plant-based ingredients like shea butter, Aloe vera, jojoba oil, vitamins, and more.
Additionally, most natural soaps in the market are housed in eco-friendly packaging, which usually catches the heart of eco advocates. However, some natural ingredients can still be harsh on the skin, so always check the ingredient list.
Natural formulations may be beneficial for people with sensitive skin. These may contain fewer additives such as fragrance. Do note, however, that all "natural" doesn't necessarily mean suitable for everyone. It is best to patch-test a product first before using it.
Chemical-Based Soap Formulas Are More Affordable and Widely Available
Chemical-based soaps are widely available in the market. They are usually mass-produced for commercial purposes, making them significantly more affordable than natural ones. While the term "chemical-based" often has negative implications for some skincare enthusiasts, it actually isn't always a bad thing.
There are chemical-based components that are beneficial for the skin, such as hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, ceramide, and AHA. Conversely, there are also chemical-based ingredients that you should stay away from, like parabens, sulfates, and triclosan, which can harm and irritate the skin. The key to avoiding these potential irritants is to read the label before purchasing.
Chemicals must not be judged as being harsh to the skin. Remember that all products are made from chemicals, and they are a normal part of a product formulation. Chemicals also serve as preservatives that keep a product stable. When it comes to "chemical-based" soaps, if you're unsure if they are harsh to your skin, it is best to read the label. Also, patch test first.
10 Best Moisturizing Soaps to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | For Face or Body | Natural or Chemical | Skin Type | Key Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Aveeno Moisturizing Bar with Nourishing Oat | | Infused With Colloidal Oatmeal to Gently Cleanse and Moisturize the Skin | Bar Soap | Face and Body | Natural | Dry and Sensitive Skin | Glycerin, Avena sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour | 100g | |
2 | Dove Beauty Bar White | | A Classic Moisturizing Soap for Your Face, Hands, and Body | Bar Soap | Face and Body | Chemical | All Skin Types | Lauric Acid, Glycerin | 135g | |
3 | Be Organic Shea Butter Soap | | Get Supple and Radiant Skin With a Shea Butter-Based Soap | Bar Soap | Face and Body | Natural | Normal, Dry, Sensitive, and Aging Skin | Shea Butter | 110g | |
4 | Human Nature Fragrance-Free Gentle Cleansing Bar | | Cold-Processed, Hypoallergenic Soap From a Trusted Local Brand | Bar Soap | Body | Natural | Normal, Dry, and Sensitive Skin | Glycerin, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil | 120g | |
5 | Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Body Wash | | Ultra Gentle Soap Enriched With Aloe Vera and Vitamin B5 | Body Wash | Body | Chemical | Normal, Dry, and Sensitive Skin | Glycerin, Aloe barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | 500ml | |
6 | Dr. Teal's Soothe And Moisturize Lavender Body Wash With Pure Epsom Salt | | Experience a Relaxing Bath Time With This Hydrating and Soothing Body Wash | Body Wash | Body | Natural | Normal and Dry Skin | Glycerin, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea Butter) | 710ml | |
7 | Luxe Organix Niacinamide + Aloe Vera & Snail + Kojic Acid Shower Cream | | Nourishes the Skin While Reducing Blemishes and Dark Spots | Body Wash | Body | Chemical | Normal Skin | Aloe vera, Snail Mucin, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid | 400ml | |
8 | Milea All Organics Goat's Milk Honey Oatmeal Moisturizing Soap | | Combines Oatmeal, Honey, and Goat’s Milk to Address Dry and Irritated Skin | Bar Soap | Face and Body | Natural | Dry, Sensitive, and Troubled Skin | Virgin Coconut Oil, Goat's Milk, Wild Honey, Oatmeal, Vitamin E, Olive Oil | 100g | |
9 | CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash | | Gentle Cleanse, Lasting Hydration | Body Wash | Body | Chemical | Normal and Dry Skin | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid | 296ml | |
10 | SkinWhite Moisture White with Hyaluronic Acid | | Hydrate Your Skin and Prevent Hyperpigmentation With Hyaluronic Acid | Bar Soap | Face and Body | Chemical | Normal and Dry Skin | Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol | 125g | |
AveenoMoisturizing Bar with Nourishing Oat
Infused With Colloidal Oatmeal to Gently Cleanse and Moisturize the Skin
- A premium-grade Kojic Acid from Japan is used to help reveal a healthier, radiant, lighter skin underneath.
- It is a favorite among those with dry and sensitive skin, rashes, and itchy skin.
- The protective and rehydrating properties of natural oats are well-preserved.
- It is also free of parabens and fragrances.
- It is gentle enough to use every day and leaves you with smooth, clean, well-nourished, and itch-free skin.
| Type | Bar Soap |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Natural |
| Skin Type | Dry and Sensitive Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Avena sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour |
| Net Weight | 100g |
A Classic Moisturizing Soap for Your Face, Hands, and Body
Nothing beats Dove's classic beauty bar since it delivers nothing but fantastic results! It's an all-in-one beauty bar because it's gentle enough to be used on the hands, face, and body. Unlike traditional soaps, it can effectively remove dirt and grime without stripping off moisture from the skin.
It boasts a formula that contains 1/4 moisturizing cream, which leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple after every use. Plus, it can brighten dull skin. No wonder a lot of loyal users recommend this product!
| Type | Bar Soap |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Chemical |
| Skin Type | All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Lauric Acid, Glycerin |
| Net Weight | 135g |
Get Supple and Radiant Skin With a Shea Butter-Based Soap
Aside from its smoothening properties, shea butter also protects against harmful UV rays, calms allergies, and has anti-aging properties. Formulated without harsh chemicals, this soap is suitable even for sensitive skin. Those with skin sensitivities swear by this product, as it doesn't irritate the skin and leaves it soft and smooth.
| Type | Bar Soap |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Natural |
| Skin Type | Normal, Dry, Sensitive, and Aging Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter |
| Net Weight | 110g |
Human NatureFragrance-Free Gentle Cleansing Bar
Cold-Processed, Hypoallergenic Soap From a Trusted Local Brand
- It contains coconut oil that mildly washes away dirt, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.
- It is also safe for all skin types, especially for sensitive skin, because it is hypoallergenic and free from fragrances, irritating colorants, and synthetic fillers.
- It retains the hydrating benefits of glycerin and is more environmentally friendly.
- Users praised the enduring quality of this eco-friendly bar, which outperforms commercially manufactured moisturizing soaps.
| Type | Bar Soap |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Natural |
| Skin Type | Normal, Dry, and Sensitive Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil |
| Net Weight | 120g |
Ultra Gentle Soap Enriched With Aloe Vera and Vitamin B5
For those seeking mild soap to address their sensitive skin issues, consider trying Cetaphil's Ultra Gentle Body Wash, a proven and dermatologist-recommended choice. This mild solution is formulated with aloe vera and Vitamin B5, offering nourishment and hydration to your skin.
Not only does it effectively cleanse away dirt and impurities, but it also harnesses the soothing properties of Aloe and wheat protein, which work together to preserve skin elasticity. As mentioned in numerous reviews, this product is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
| Type | Body Wash |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Chemical |
| Skin Type | Normal, Dry, and Sensitive Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Aloe barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein |
| Net Weight | 500ml |
Dr. Teal'sSoothe And Moisturize Lavender Body Wash With Pure Epsom Salt
Experience a Relaxing Bath Time With This Hydrating and Soothing Body Wash
It is also infused with lavender essential oils and pure Epsom salt, both of which soothe the body after a stressful day. Whether you're winding down for a good night's sleep or aiming to relieve your sore muscles, Dr. Teal's Lavender Body Wash is perfect for you—and customers seem to agree with this!
| Type | Body Wash |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Natural |
| Skin Type | Normal and Dry Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea Butter) |
| Net Weight | 710ml |
Luxe OrganixNiacinamide + Aloe Vera & Snail + Kojic Acid Shower Cream
Nourishes the Skin While Reducing Blemishes and Dark Spots
Plus, you'll be glad to know that it doesn't contain alcohols, parabens, or SLS, making it gentler on the skin. Aside from its wonderful fragrance, customers raved about its velvety texture that leaves their skin smooth.
| Type | Body Wash |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Chemical |
| Skin Type | Normal Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Aloe vera, Snail Mucin, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid |
| Net Weight | 400ml |
Milea All OrganicsGoat's Milk Honey Oatmeal Moisturizing Soap
Combines Oatmeal, Honey, and Goat’s Milk to Address Dry and Irritated Skin
For those dealing with sensitive skin concerns, Milea presents an ideal solution. Their Goat's Milk Honey Oatmeal Soap combines a blend of natural ingredients meticulously crafted to maintain your skin's moisture balance. It has oatmeal with calming properties that alleviate skin distress stemming from conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It is also infused with honey that acts as a natural humectant, locking in moisture, while goat's milk imparts a luxurious, creamy lather.
Moreover, it is enriched with VCO, olive oil, and vitamin E, which help form a protective barrier against environmental aggressors and harmful pathogens. What's even greater about this soap is it serves as a mild exfoliant that is gentle enough for both facial and body use to ensure a revitalized skin texture. Many people with eczema also swear by this product, saying it's their go-to oatmeal soap to relieve irritation.
| Type | Bar Soap |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Natural |
| Skin Type | Dry, Sensitive, and Troubled Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Virgin Coconut Oil, Goat's Milk, Wild Honey, Oatmeal, Vitamin E, Olive Oil |
| Net Weight | 100g |
CeraVeHydrating Body Wash
Gentle Cleanse, Lasting Hydration
A gentle cleanser that can remove dirt while helping your skin hold onto much-needed hydration.
Contains three essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
Includes hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture for all-day hydration.
Enriched with emollients to soften and nourish the skin without causing dryness.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association, supporting skin prone to dryness and irritation.
| Type | Body Wash |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Chemical |
| Skin Type | Normal and Dry Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Net Weight | 296ml |
Hydrate Your Skin and Prevent Hyperpigmentation With Hyaluronic Acid
It's also a good everyday soap since it has antibacterial properties that eliminate disease-causing germs. Many users applauded this soap's cleansing and whitening effects on the skin. Plus, they noted that it glides smoothly on the skin!
| Type | Bar Soap |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Natural or Chemical | Chemical |
| Skin Type | Normal and Dry Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol |
| Net Weight | 125g |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang.
How Often to Wash Face With Moisturizing Soap?
Washing the face twice a day is enough. Overwashing can dry out the skin, which can damage the skin barrier. People with dry or dehydrated skin can benefit most from using moisturizing soap.
Are Moisturizing Soaps Effective in Eliminating Dirt and Bacteria?
Like regular soap, moisturizing soap aims to clean and wash off gunk and dirt. In doing so, it can keep our bodies clean.
Are Moisturizing Soaps Effective for Those With Oily and Acne-Prone Skin?
The type of moisturizing ingredients will determine if the soap is suitable for people with oily or acne-prone skin. People with oily or acne-prone skin better look for humectants or emollients. These moisturizing ingredients are lightweight, with less risk of clogging the pores.
It's better for people with oily skin to avoid occlusive types of moisturizers because these have a higher risk of clogging the pores. Meanwhile, people who have acne-prone skin may also benefit from using medicated washes such as those containing salicylic acid.
More Tips From Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Dry skin tips:
- Avoid long, hot showers. Instead, opt for warm baths. If hot showers can't be avoided, make sure to apply moisturizers right after the bath.
- You may put a humidifier inside your room to regulate the moisture level of your surroundings. This can aid in lessening the evaporation of water from the skin.
- Avoid scrubbing and over-exfoliating. These practices may irritate the skin.
More Products for Healthier and Happier Skin
To ensure that your skin is well taken care of, you will need more than just moisturizing soaps. Check out some of our recommended skin essentials that will make your skin look softer and more vibrant!
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Author: E. Hubilla
Editor: R. Umlas
Re-editor: Anne Lamug
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 Moisturizing Soaps
No. 1: Aveeno｜Moisturizing Bar with Nourishing Oat
No. 2: Dove｜Beauty Bar White
No. 3: Be Organic｜Shea Butter Soap
No. 4: Human Nature｜Fragrance-Free Gentle Cleansing Bar
No. 5: Cetaphil｜Ultra Gentle Body Wash
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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