10 Best Soaps for Body Odor in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Tea tree oil is one of the best natural ingredients to combat body odor. Its antibacterial property makes sure that your BO won’t seep through even if you sweat the whole day. It’s also safe to use on the face. In fact, it’s been shown to be a powerful weapon against acne due to its anti-inflammatory quality.

The downside is that it can be harsh on the skin during first use. This is especially evident in people with eczema, where users have noticed an increase in skin scaling. It can also leave a burning sensation that lasts for a few minutes. If you suffer from any of these issues, we recommend looking for a milder active ingredient.

The most common odor-causing bacteria are Corynebacterium spp. and Staphylococcus spp. Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide target these microorganisms specifically and are three times more effective than traditional chemicals in deodorizing products. They also have a soothing effect, making them a great option for those with sensitive skin.

Allergic reaction from these ingredients is rare. However, if you experience rashes, itching, or swelling, we recommend temporarily stopping use. Furthermore, these should not be mixed into sprays. While they are classified as safe to ingest, they can still cause symptoms similar to fever when their particles are breathed in.

While some variants of charcoal and clay can kill bacteria, they are more known for their absorptive properties. This isn’t limited to just odor, either. They are great at sucking out the impurities and toxins that are burrowed deep into your skin, leaving a soothing sensation after use.

Unlike chemical-based products, these ingredients don’t clog your pores. However, they’re not as strong as other ingredients and will often be overpowered during a sunny day. So if you’re a heavy sweater and want to maintain a fresh smell for longer, it’s best to look at other ingredients.

Aside from targeting acne, benzoyl peroxide is a great ingredient for body odor because it has antimicrobial properties. For an effective soap for body odor that contains benzoyl peroxide, choose one with a 10% concentration. 

It’s not so concentrated that it peels the skin, but it’s powerful enough to kill off odor-causing bacteria in your face and body. However, you may want to pass off on this or look for lower-concentration formulas if you develop any irritation. Plus, it bleaches clothes, so be sure not to wear any dark fabrics when using soap with this ingredient.

Bar soaps usually contain fewer preservatives, making them a much safer option for people with sensitive skin or allergies.

However, bar soaps tend to dehydrate your skin. This comes from a combination of their high pH level and harsh surfactants that strips your body of its natural oils. So if you already suffer from dry skin, try to get a product with skin-safe ingredients like vitamin E—or see our take on body washes below.

 Body washes generally have moisturizing properties. This is thanks in part to its ingredients like plant oils, cocoa butter, and fatty acids. Though for more powerful moisturization, some formulas provide emollients that fill in the cracks on our skin. After use, you’ll notice a smoother and fuller appearance.

It’s a plus that deodorizing agents tend to work well with these ingredients. A combination of both leaves you with a refreshed, fragrant feeling. However, we recommend thoroughly checking the ingredient label. Body washes tend to have more preservatives to ward off bacteria, so be sure that you can use one with no adverse effects.