10 Best Exfoliating Soaps in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Exfoliating soaps are just one of many ways to get soft and smooth skin. Because they slough away dead skin and impurities, they leave you with deeply-cleansed skin and a clearer complexion. Some exfoliating soaps also have a whitening action, which is perfect for Pinays who are dreaming of getting a fair and glowing complexion like that of many artistas.
They’ve definitely proven themselves to be effective, which is why there’s an abundance of them in the market. To help you find the best exfoliating soaps around, we’ve compiled our top picks in a curated list. We also prepared a buying guide to help you know how to choose the best exfoliating soap for you.
Quick List - Top Exfoliating Soaps
Dr. Sensitive
Acne‑Clearing Cleanse for Face and Body With Gentle Exfoliation
Luxe Organix
Deep‑Pore Cleansing That Balances Oily, Blemish‑Prone Skin
Some By Mi
Multi‑Acid Pore‑Refining Cleansing That Helps Prevent Breakouts
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 an Exfoliating Soap - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Check the exfoliating ingredients of your soap
- Look for added ingredients that may benefit your skin type or concern
- Go for an exfoliating soap with microbeads or gentle abrasives for extra exfoliation
- Determine if your exfoliating soap can be used for both your body and face
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Check the Exfoliating Ingredients of Your Soap
What makes an exfoliating soap effective is its ingredients. They’re what penetrate your skin to be able to give you that deep cleanse. Here are some common ones that you will encounter in your search for a good exfoliating soap.
AHAs and BHAs Remove Dead Skin Cells From Different Layers of Your Skin
Since alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble, they work on exfoliating the outermost layer of your skin. On the other hand, beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), which are oil-soluble, are able to penetrate your skin more deeply, so they can exfoliate the deeper layers of your body or face.
They clean out your pores and help clear breakouts, too, so we recommend them for those with acne-prone skin. They’re also recommended to use for those with oily skin types, especially BHAs since these can help reduce sebum production. More than making sure your skin stays smooth, these ingredients also help a lot in ensuring your skin stays shine-free.
Our skin naturally exfoliates as new skin cells are developed—typically every 28 days. Certain factors such as aging, external environment, and lifestyle can slow down this natural process. This is where chemical exfoliation with the aid of acids such as glycolic acid, mandelic acid, and salicylic acid, to name a few, come in.
Charcoal, Clay, and Natural Ingredients Draw Away Impurities From Your Skin
Natural ingredients like charcoal and clay are very effective in drawing away impurities by absorbing dirt and oil from your skin. They will also leave your skin feeling taut and firm, adding to the glass skin effect.
Some more natural ingredients you might find in exfoliating soaps are tea tree, coffee, lemon, oatmeal, and bran. They help give your skin a deep clean and dry out any blemishes, so they can be sloughed away for a smoother and more supple skin texture.
Clay is a soft, loose material with minerals. Because of its absorbent properties, it has been used in skincare products aimed at removing impurities.
Whiten and Nourish Your Skin With Kojic Acid, Glutathione, and Vitamin C
An important part of whitening your skin is exfoliating it to get rid of any dark marks, so it’s no surprise that these whitening ingredients are also excellent exfoliators. They will lift away dead skin cells, revealing a radiant complexion that will make you look like you’re glowing from within.
These ingredients are often combined not just for their maximum whitening effects but also because they have nourishing properties. This is helpful if you have dry skin since you can still exfoliate without experiencing any redness or irritation.
A multifunctional soap with antioxidants and lightening ingredients can help even-out skin tone. Ingredients such as niacinamide (brightening and hydrating effects) or vitamin C (brightening and protecting from UV-induced damage) are great options.
Look for Added Ingredients That May Benefit Your Skin Type or Concern
If you have specific skin concerns that you want to address, your exfoliating soap can help. Check out the added ingredients that come with it to see which product will be best for your skin type.
Shea Butter and Glycerin Help Keep Dry Skin Moisturized
You may be concerned about exfoliating your face, especially if you have dry skin. You don't need to worry, though, because some soaps contain moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, goat's milk, and shea butter to ensure that your skin still stays hydrated after exfoliation. This will prevent any redness and loss of moisture.
Some exfoliating soaps also contain beneficial and skin-friendly chemicals like glycerin and niacinamide to help nourish your skin. This is incredibly helpful if you think that natural moisturizing ingredients are not enough to give you the moisture that your skin needs.
For those with dry or sensitive skin, an exfoliating soap incorporated with hydrating and/or moisturizing ingredients may just be the trick. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These can give you the extra hydration you need as well as protect your skin barrier from irritation.
Lemon and Apple Cider Vinegar Control Oil Production for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
Those with oily and acne-prone skin might do better with exfoliating soaps that contain ingredients for controlling oil production. Some examples are lemon and apple cider vinegar. As they keep sebum at bay, they will most likely help stop the formation of acne, too.
Go for a Soap With Microbeads or Gentle Abrasives for Extra Exfoliation
Some soaps have microbeads or some type of gentle abrasive to help exfoliate the surface of your skin. It will give you a thorough cleanse since it can physically lift off dirt and dead skin cells from your skin.
Aside from microbeads, these gentle abrasives may also come in the form of natural granules like rice or oatmeal. It would be better to go for products that use these as abrasives compared to plastic ones for a more eco-friendly option.
Make sure to avoid these for those with sensitive and/or damaged skin.
Determine if Your Exfoliating Soap Can Be Used for Both Your Body and Face
Dead skin cells are present in both your body and face, so it’s important to exfoliate both areas. However, depending on the strength of their formulation, some soaps are intended for use specifically on either your face or body. Some soaps may be too harsh to use on your face and may cause redness or painful peeling, so be vigilant in checking this information.
You can find this info on the product description of the listing or printed on the soap’s box or packaging. To get the best bang for your buck, we recommend getting an exfoliating soap that you can use for both your body and face. But if you have sensitive skin, especially on your face, go for an exfoliating soap specially formulated for either just your body or face.
The skin on the face and the body have different characteristics, particularly, the skin on the face is more sensitive and delicate. Hence, what you use on the face, you can use on the body, but not necessarily vice versa. Read the ingredient list! Take note of the concentration of the active.
10 Best Exfoliating Soaps to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Exfoliating Ingredients | For Face or Body | Other Beneficial Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Dr. Sensitive Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid Face and Body Bar Soap | | Acne‑Clearing Cleanse for Face and Body With Gentle Exfoliation | Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid | Face and Body | Niacinamide | 120 g | |
2 | Skinever Salicylic Acid Acne Soap | | Oil‑Control That Feels Gentle on Sensitive Skin | Salicylic Acid | Face and Body | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycerin | 80 g | |
3 | Luxe Organix Bentonite Exfoliating Cloud Soap | | Deep‑Pore Cleansing That Balances Oily, Blemish‑Prone Skin | Charcoal, Clay | Face and Body | Shea Butter, Apple Cider Vinegar | 180 g | |
4 | Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Cleansing Bar | | Multi‑Acid Pore‑Refining Cleansing That Helps Prevent Breakouts | AHA, BHA, PHA | Face | Niacinamide, Tea Tree Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Olive Oil, Argan Oil, Green Tea Seed Oil | 160 g | |
5 | Luxe Organix Miracle Solutions AHA / BHA Soap | | Pore-Clearing Exfoliation for Acne Scars | AHA, BHA | Face and Body | Niacinamide, Tea Tree‑Infused Water, Glycerin | 135 g | |
6 | Kojie San Salicylic Acid Soap | | Gentle Treatment Targeting Red Spots on Shoulders and Oily Zones | Kojic Acid | Face and Body | Glycerin, Safflower Oil, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil | 100 g | |
7 | Belo Intensive Whitening Bar w/ Exfoliating Lemon Scrubs | | Evens Tone on Sun-Exposed Skin Without Dryness | Lemon | Face and Body | Tranexamic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Coconut Oil | 65 g | |
8 | Be Organic Niacinamide + AHA Glow Soap For Brightening | | Gentle Daily Glow‑Boosting Cleanser for Dull, Uneven Tone | AHA | Face and Body | Niacinamide, Papaya Extract, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Castor Oil, Essential Oil | 110 g | |
9 | Brilliant Skin Kojic Acid Micro Exfoliating Soap | | Micro‑Scrub Brightening Bar That Helps Even Out Rough, Darkened Skin | Microbeads | Face and Body | Kojic Acid, Coconut Oil, Glycerin, Sodium Lactate, Cocamide DEA | 135 g | |
10 | Human Nature Exfoliating Bar Soap | | Loofah‑Based Weekly Exfoliator That Keeps Skin Soft and Smooth | Luffa Cylindrica Powder | Body | Sodium Cocoate, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Lactate | 120 g | |
Dr. Sensitive Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid Face and Body Bar Soap
Acne‑Clearing Cleanse for Face and Body With Gentle Exfoliation
- Delivers niacinamide and salicylic acid to reduce blemishes and smooth texture
- Provides glycolic acid, lactic acid, and vitamin C for brighter, refined skin
- Supports face and body use with quick-rinse formula to minimize irritation
- Maintains skin barrier with soothing actives suitable for acne-prone areas
Reviews mention:
Many find that this bar helps reduce back and chest breakouts when used regularly, especially if they switch from plain moisturizing soaps. People note that it cleans deeply without immediately stripping the skin, though some with very dry or sensitized skin recommend using it just on the face or body areas prone to acne. Several users also mention that the bar lathers well and lasts a long time, making it a practical choice for daily acne-prone skin cleansing.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Niacinamide |
| Net Weight | 120 g |
Oil‑Control That Feels Gentle on Sensitive Skin
- Targets acne with salicylic acid to dissolve oil and bacteria
- Soothes irritation using centella asiatica for calmer skin
- Brightens and hydrates with niacinamide for even tone
- Offers rich lather for refreshing, deep clean without residue
Reviews mention:
People note its gentle oil control and reduced breakouts after daily use. Many appreciate the calming effect on irritated areas. Several mention smoother texture from the hydrating formula.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Salicylic Acid |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycerin |
| Net Weight | 80 g |
Deep‑Pore Cleansing That Balances Oily, Blemish‑Prone Skin
- Absorbs excess oil using bentonite clay and activated charcoal
- Dries blemishes while adding apple cider vinegar for balance
- Supports collagen with shea butter to maintain supple texture
- Reduces wrinkles and keeps skin elastic during exfoliation
Reviews mention:
Several find that this soap visibly reduces blackheads and dullness on the face and body when used regularly, especially when paired with a foaming net. People note that it feels intensive but not overly harsh for oily or combination skin, though some with very dry or sensitive skin prefer using it only on acne-prone zones. Many also mention the creamy foam texture and value for the price, saying it lasts a long time and feels like a spa-style clay wash in their daily routine.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Charcoal, Clay |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Shea Butter, Apple Cider Vinegar |
| Net Weight | 180 g |
Multi‑Acid Pore‑Refining Cleansing That Helps Prevent Breakouts
- Exfoliates with AHA, BHA, and PHA to clear buildup
- Controls oil while soothing with tea tree for anti-bacterial action
- Cleanses deeply without stripping moisture barrier
- Promotes clearer complexion suitable for acne-prone routines
Reviews mention:
Many appreciate the soft, non-drying clean on sensitive skin. People note effective pore cleansing without harshness. Several highlight its mild scent and lasting lather.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | AHA, BHA, PHA |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Niacinamide, Tea Tree Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Olive Oil, Argan Oil, Green Tea Seed Oil |
| Net Weight | 160 g |
Pore-Clearing Exfoliation for Acne Scars
- Clears pores using salicylic acid as exfoliating BHA
- Lightens scars with lactic and glycolic AHAs
- Calms redness via tea tree's anti-inflammatory properties
- Improves tone and pores with niacinamide for brighter skin
Reviews mention:
People find that this soap visibly reduces blackheads and small bumps over several weeks, especially when used consistently on oily, acne-prone areas. Many note that it feels deeply cleansing yet not painfully stripping, though some with very dry or sensitive skin recommend using it only every other day or on specific zones. Several also mention clearer, smoother skin and less “clogged” feeling, describing it as a budget-friendly multi-acid bar that combines exfoliation and acne-care cleansing in one step.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | AHA, BHA |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Niacinamide, Tea Tree‑Infused Water, Glycerin |
| Net Weight | 135 g |
Gentle Treatment Targeting Red Spots on Shoulders and Oily Zones
- Reduces active pimples using salicylic acid
- Lightens dark spots alongside kojic acid
- Addresses hyperpigmentation for uniform complexion
- Cleanses effectively while targeting congestion
Reviews mention:
Several report clearer, brighter skin after two weeks. People note fading scars but caution for sensitive types. Many mention peeling that resolves quickly.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Kojic Acid |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Glycerin, Safflower Oil, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil |
| Net Weight | 100 g |
Evens Tone on Sun-Exposed Skin Without Dryness
- Removes dead cells with lemon scrubs for smooth texture
- Whitens and evens dark spots via intensive formula
- Unclogs pores while smoothens with niacinamide
- Suits sensitive skin as hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
Reviews mention:
Many find that this bar noticeably lightens dark elbows, knees, and underarms after a few weeks, especially when used consistently in the shower. People note that the lemon scrubs give a peeling-like exfoliation without feeling harsh, though some with very sensitive skin recommend using it every other day or avoiding the face. Several also mention the citrus scent and smoother feel, describing it as a strong but still beginner-friendly whitening-bar option.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Lemon |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Tranexamic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Coconut Oil |
| Net Weight | 65 g |
Be Organic Niacinamide + AHA Glow Soap For Brightening
Gentle Daily Glow‑Boosting Cleanser for Dull, Uneven Tone
- Exfoliates dead cells with AHA for radiant look
- Refines pores and fades post-blemish marks
- Brightens using niacinamide with plant oils
- Cleanses mildly with coconut, palm, and castor derivatives
Reviews mention:
People note improved tone and smoother feel. Many appreciate gentle action on all types. Several highlight refined pores without dryness.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | AHA |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Niacinamide, Papaya Extract, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Castor Oil, Essential Oil |
| Net Weight | 110 g |
Micro‑Scrub Brightening Bar That Helps Even Out Rough, Darkened Skin
- Exfoliates deeply with micro-beads and kojic acid
- Cleanses pores for brighter, softer surface
- Fades dark spots without excessive drying
- Lathers well for face and body application
Reviews mention:
Several love the micro-peeling for brighter skin. People note softer texture and fading spots. Many cut bars for targeted use.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Microbeads |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Face and Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Kojic Acid, Coconut Oil, Glycerin, Sodium Lactate, Cocamide DEA |
| Net Weight | 135 g |
Loofah‑Based Weekly Exfoliator That Keeps Skin Soft and Smooth
- Exfoliates with natural loofah powder weekly
- Cleanses using cold-processed plant ingredients
- Maintains moisture without SLS or harsh chemicals
- Reveals fresh skin with mild, clean rinse
Reviews mention:
Many find it softens without stripping. People appreciate natural exfoliation for glow. Several use 1-2 times weekly for radiant results.
| Exfoliating Ingredients | Luffa Cylindrica Powder |
|---|---|
| For Face or Body | Body |
| Other Beneficial Ingredients | Sodium Cocoate, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Lactate |
| Net Weight | 120 g |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz.
How Often to Use Exfoliating Soaps?
Twice to thrice a week is generally enough. Remember, our skin naturally exfoliates on its own. These are just meant to hasten the process.
Will Exfoliating Lighten the Skin?
To a certain extent, since exfoliating soaps allow mature skin cells to be removed, revealing new skin, it can temporarily reveal brighter and more even-toned skin. Take note! Temporarily.
Can I Use Other Exfoliating Products Along With Exfoliating Soap?
Over-exfoliation is a no-no! Most of the time choosing one exfoliating ingredient is enough as we want to preserve the health of the skin barrier.
How Do You Know if You're Doing Too Much?
If you see or feel signs of irritation such as redness, peeling, burning/stinging, breakouts, and increased sensitivity, take a step back as your skin barrier might be compromised. Don't hesitate to #AskYourDerma!
More Products to Help You Achieve Your Skin Goals
Getting soft and smooth skin is a journey, and you'll need different skincare products to help maximize the effects of your exfoliating soap. Check out our other articles below for more product recommendations that you can add to your current regimen.
Author: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz
Editor: R. Umlas
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 Exfoliating Soaps
No. 1: Dr. Sensitive ｜Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid Face and Body Bar Soap
No. 2: Skinever ｜Salicylic Acid Acne Soap
No. 3: Luxe Organix ｜Bentonite Exfoliating Cloud Soap
No. 4: Some By Mi ｜AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Cleansing Bar
No. 5: Luxe Organix ｜Miracle Solutions AHA / BHA Soap
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.