10 Best Bar Soaps in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Finding the perfect bar soap in the Philippines can be daunting with so many options. Whether you need bar soap for sensitive skin, one with salicylic acid for exfoliating, or the best bar soap brands, our guide has you covered. We've collaborated with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelie Chua to create a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed choice.
Additionally, we've curated a list of top products available on Lazada and Shopee. Our recommendations highlight the best bar soaps for various needs, ensuring you find the perfect match for your skincare routine. Explore our picks to enhance your skin's health and glow.
Quick List - Top Bar Soaps
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
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
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Is It Hygienic to Share Bar Soaps?
- Should Surfactants Be Avoided?
- How to Choose a Bar Soap – Buying Guide
- Gentle Cleansing for All Skin Types: Look for Moisturizing Ingredients1
- Sensitive Skin Care: Steer Clear of Potential Irritants Like Fragrances and Dyes2
- Combat Oil and Acne: Look for Acne-Fighting Ingredients Like BHAs and Avoid Comedogenic Ingredients3
- Premium Bar Soap: Handmade With Natural Fragrances and High-Quality Oils4
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by a Board-Certified Dermatologist
- Can You Use Only One Soap for the Face and the Body?
- How Do You Know If a Bar Soap Is Contaminated?
- Is Checking the pH Level of a Bar Soap Important?
- More Products to Make Your Shower Time Enjoyable
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Why You Can Trust Us
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.
Is It Hygienic to Share Bar Soaps?
While bar soaps can potentially harbor bacteria when shared, the risk of transmitting illness is low if basic hygiene practices are followed.
Studies show that around 62% of bar soaps can get contaminated with microbes, compared to only 3% of liquid soaps. This is because the moist surface of a bar soap provides an environment for bacteria to thrive when shared between multiple users. However, the amount of bacteria transmitted is unlikely to cause significant health issues for most people with normal immune function.
For optimal hygiene, it is recommended to use personal bar soap to avoid spreading microbes. Those with compromised immune systems or specific hygiene concerns may want to exercise extra caution. Proper soap storage, such as allowing it to dry fully between uses, can also help minimize bacterial growth.
Should Surfactants Be Avoided?
Not all surfactants are necessarily harsh or need to be avoided completely. The key is to find fatty acids, which help offset any potential harm from surfactants.
Surfactants are detergent-like ingredients that help create lather and have cleansing and antibacterial properties. The most common surfactant used is sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).
Remember, everyone's skin is unique. Typically, those with sensitive skin should avoid drying and irritating sulfates like SLES. Not all surfactants are harsh; the key is checking ingredient lists for high concentrations of sulfates or other irritants. Mild surfactants can cleanse when paired with moisturizing oils and butters.
A common misconception is that well-lathering soap that leaves the skin feeling tight is more effective. This isn't true. A soap's cleaning power isn't just about how much it lathers. Some soaps contain gentle ingredients and extra moisturizers, which leave the skin feeling soft and supple.
How to Choose a Bar Soap – Buying Guide
Different skin types require various soap bars. Discover the essential tips for selecting the perfect bar soap in our comprehensive guide below!
Gentle Cleansing for All Skin Types: Look for Moisturizing Ingredients
Moisturizing ingredients are essential to provide hydration and nourishment, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple.
When selecting a bar soap, prioritizing moisturizing ingredients is key to promoting healthy skin. Opt for formulations rich in coconut oil, shea butter, and olive oil, as these natural oils effectively replenish moisture levels and support the skin's natural barrier function.
Glycerin and hyaluronic acid draw moisture from the environment, helping hydrate your skin. Additionally, bar soaps with oatmeal, aloe vera, or other soothing additives offer gentle cleansing while providing comfort, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.
Since the soap is washed off and is not in contact with the skin for a prolonged period, a separate moisturizer is still needed. Using a moisturizing soap is beneficial, but it is not enough.
Sensitive Skin Care: Steer Clear of Potential Irritants Like Fragrances and Dyes
Those with sensitive skin need to be cautious about ingredients that can trigger reactions like redness, itching, and irritation.
Individuals with sensitive skin should be extra cautious about potential irritants in bar soap. Avoid artificial dyes, colorants, sulfates, lanolin, parabens, and, most importantly, fragrances and essential oils. These can all trigger reactions like redness, itching, and irritation.
The shorter the ingredients list, the better! Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic bar soaps made with minimal ingredients to maintain the delicate balance of sensitive skin. Although not as common in the Philippines, you may look for products with the National Eczema Association label, indicating that the soap is suitable and tested for sensitive skin types.
If you really want to use a fragrant soap, patch test to see if your skin will react to the fragrance. Compared to synthetic fragrances, naturally fragrant essential oils are usually less likely to trigger contact dermatitis.
Combat Oil and Acne: Look for Acne-Fighting Ingredients Like BHAs and Avoid Comedogenic Ingredients
For oily, acne-prone skin, specific active ingredients such as salicylic acid can help unclog pores and kill acne-causing bacteria, while avoiding pore-clogging oils.
To address body acne or oily skin, look for bar soaps infused with salicylic acid, azelaic acid, sulfur, AHAs, or benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and AHAs gently exfoliate to unclog pores, while benzoyl peroxide and sulfur combat acne-causing bacteria.
Conversely, stear clear comedogenic oils such as cocoa, coconut, olive, and avocado oil, as well as lanolin, which can contribute to pore congestion and exacerbate breakouts. You'll also want to steer clear of harsh detergents like sodium laureth sulfate, parabens, alcohols, and triclosans which can strip too much oil and irritate acne.
If a new bar soap contains anti-acne ingredients like AHAs and BHAs, you may initially experience purging, especially if you don't usually use topical anti-acne skin care products.
Premium Bar Soap: Handmade With Natural Fragrances and High-Quality Oils
Premium soaps often contain natural ingredients compared to the synthetic ingredients seen in commercial soaps.
If you want a bar soap to elevate your showering routine or as a thoughtful gift, explore artisanal or other premium options. These are typically crafted in small batches using high-quality, natural ingredients like plant-based oils and butters such as shea, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and more. Look for those with natural fragrances from essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances.
Certified organic soaps indicate they are made without artificial additives, dyes, or preservatives. While more expensive, these luxurious soaps provide a pampering, sensorial experience with a nourishing lather. However, those with fragrance sensitivities should do a patch test, as even natural essential oils can potentially irritate.
A more expensive bar soap may have more natural and high-end ingredients, but this is not always the case! It's still best to check the ingredients list to know what the product actually contains.
10 Best Bar Soaps to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best for | Key Ingredients | Fragrance-free | Dye-free | Non-Comedogenic | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Be Organic Oatmeal Soap | | Soothing Wash for Dry and Sensitive Skin | Dry Skin、Oily / Acne-prone Skin | Saponified Oils of Palm, Coconut, Olive, and Castor, Essential Oil, Ground Oatmeal | 110g | ||||
2 | Dove Sensitive Beauty Bar | | Gentle Hydration and Comfort in Every Wash | Moisturization | Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, and Sodium Isethionate | 90g | ||||
3 | Dr. Alvin Kojic Acid Soap | | Premium Kojic Acid Soap for a Healthier, More Radiant, and Lighter Skin | Oily / Acne-prone Skin | Kojic acid | 90g | ||||
4 | Aveeno Moisturizing Bar With Nourishing Oat | | Gentle Oatmeal Bar That Leaves Skin Soft and Healthy | Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin | Avena sativa (Oat) | 100g | ||||
5 | Oxecure Sulfur Soap | | Your Solution to Clogged Pores and Back Acne | Oily / Acne-prone Skin | 2.5% Sulfur | unknown | 30g | |||
6 | Kojiesan Skin Lightening Soap Classic | | Kojic Acid Soap for a Glowing and Radiant Skin | Dark spots and uneven skin tone | Kojic Acid and Coconut Oil | 65g | ||||
7 | Dr. Sensitive Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid Face and Body Bar Soap | | Gently Clear, Brighten, and Refresh Your Skin | Oily / Acne-prone Skin | Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid | 120g | ||||
8 | Belo Intensive Whitening Bar | | Intensive Whitening Soap for Brighter, Even Skin | Oily / Acne-prone Skin, Pigmentation | Kojic Acid, Papaya Extract, Vitamin E, Niacinamide | 65g | ||||
9 | Human Nature Fragrance-Free Cleansing Bar | | Pure and Gentle Cleansing With No Fragrance | Moisturization、Sensitive Skin | Coconut oil | 120g | ||||
10 | Silka Silka Whitening Soap Shea Butter | | Whiten, Moisturize & Nourish with Every Wash! | Moisturization、Dry Skin | Shea butter, Niacinamide, Sodium Lactate, Salicylic Acid | 135g | ||||
Soothing Wash for Dry and Sensitive Skin
Features and benefits:
- Contains oatmeal and shea butter to soothe skin
- Dermatologist tested, safe for sensitive skin
- Gentle cleansing without over-drying
- Leaves skin soft and moisturized
Reviews mention:
Many users love the creamy lather and rich, soothing scent. They also like how it helps with dry patches and itchiness. Some suggest that a pump bottle version would be more convenient for use in the shower.
| Best for | Dry Skin、Oily / Acne-prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Saponified Oils of Palm, Coconut, Olive, and Castor, Essential Oil, Ground Oatmeal |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 110g |
DoveSensitive Beauty Bar
Gentle Hydration and Comfort in Every Wash
- Creates a rich, creamy lather that rinses clean without residue
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula
- Contains ¼ moisturizing cream to nourish skin
- Non-comedogenic and safe for daily use on delicate skin
Reviews mention:
Users consistently praise its ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formula that cleanses effectively without drying out the skin, making it ideal for sensitive, eczema-prone, or reactive skin types. Many highlight the moisturizing effect, thanks to its ¼ cream content and its versatility for face, body, and intimate areas, with reviewers often calling it a trusted, dermatologist-recommended staple. A minority report concerns about occasional batch-related odors, waxy residue, or mild irritation, especially following a formula update, but overwhelmingly, feedback remains positive.
| Best for | Moisturization |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, and Sodium Isethionate |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 90g |
Dr. AlvinKojic Acid Soap
Premium Kojic Acid Soap for a Healthier, More Radiant, and Lighter Skin
- A premium grade Kojic Acid from Japan is used to help bear a healthier, radiant, lighter skin underneath.
- Helpful for people who have dark spots on their skin due to sun damage, aging, or scars.
- An excellent solution for people with acne-prone skin.
- Helps to reduce excess oil production and unclog pores, which can lead to breakouts.
- Dermatologically tested to ensure safe use.
| Best for | Oily / Acne-prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Kojic acid |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 90g |
AveenoMoisturizing Bar With Nourishing Oat
Gentle Oatmeal Bar That Leaves Skin Soft and Healthy
Features and benefits:
- Soothes and moisturizes dry, sensitive skin with colloidal oatmeal
- Fragrance-free formula ideal for calming irritated, itchy skin
- Creamy bar gently cleanses without stripping moisture
- Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy all day
Reviews mention:
Gentle enough for daily use, it’s become a favorite for the whole family. Users appreciate how it cleanses without leaving any residue, leaving skin feeling fresh and light. The pleasant scent and natural oat ingredients also add a soothing touch that doesn’t dry out the skin.
| Best for | Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Avena sativa (Oat) |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 100g |
OxecureSulfur Soap
Your Solution to Clogged Pores and Back Acne
- Oxecure offers effective skincare products for both men and women with several types of skin problems.
- This soap contains 2.5% sulfur, which is specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. It is also very helpful for those with back acne.
- It deeply cleanses the skin, removes bacteria and dirt, reduces and controls oil production, and clears clogged pores so you can have clearer, brighter, and healthier skin.
- This soap also contains special ingredients, such as mangosteen extract, tea leaf extract, and soy protein, that work to remove dark spots and acne marks.
| Best for | Oily / Acne-prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | 2.5% Sulfur |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
| Net Weight | 30g |
KojiesanSkin Lightening Soap Classic
Kojic Acid Soap for a Glowing and Radiant Skin
- A premium-grade Kojic Acid from Japan helps reveal healthier skin underneath.
- It helps achieve a radiant complexion with lightening properties.
- This gentle yet effective formula harnesses the power of high-grade Kojic Acid to fade hyperpigmentation and unevenness.
- Stubborn dark spots, freckles, and acne scars - Kojie San tackles them all, unveiling a brighter, more even skin tone with each wash.
| Best for | Dark spots and uneven skin tone |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Kojic Acid and Coconut Oil |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 65g |
Dr. SensitiveNiacinamide + Salicylic Acid Face and Body Bar Soap
Gently Clear, Brighten, and Refresh Your Skin
Features and benefits:
- Gently cleanses the skin while targeting pimples
- Decongests the skin, reducing clogged pores
- Helps even out skin tone and improve skin barrier function
- Exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing smoother refined skin texture.
- Originates from the Philippines, a shelf life of about 720 days
Reviews mention:
Favored for its acne-clearing and skin-brightening benefits, but users should be mindful of its exfoliating properties for skin sensitivity. Proper use and sun protection are essential to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
| Best for | Oily / Acne-prone Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 120g |
Intensive Whitening Soap for Brighter, Even Skin
Features and benefits:
- Dermwhite Plus and kojic acid, helps lighten dark spots and uneven skin tone
- Glycerin-rich formula, keeps skin soft and hydrated
- Dermatologist-tested, gentle for daily use
- Value pack of 3 bars, ideal for long-term use
Reviews mention:
Users report noticeable lightening of dark spots and smoother skin after regular use. Some experience mild tingling initially, which subsides. Many recommend pairing with Belo creams for extra hydration. Overall, praised for effective whitening and gentle exfoliation.
| Best for | Oily / Acne-prone Skin, Pigmentation |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Kojic Acid, Papaya Extract, Vitamin E, Niacinamide |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 65g |
Pure and Gentle Cleansing With No Fragrance
- Fragrance-free, suitable for ultra-sensitive skin
- Made with natural ingredients and no harmful chemicals
- Mild formula safe for babies and adults
- Leaves skin clean without dryness
Reviews mention:
Many appreciate this bar for being fragrance-free and non-irritating, especially for those sensitive to perfumes or additives. Some users like that it’s eco-friendly and free of harmful chemicals. A few say it is a bit softer in texture compared to commercial bars, so keeping it dry between uses helps it last longer.
| Best for | Moisturization、Sensitive Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 120g |
SilkaSilka Whitening Soap Shea Butter
Whiten, Moisturize & Nourish with Every Wash!
- Silka Shea Butter Whitening Soap offers the ultimate skincare solution for those seeking brighter, smoother, and deeply nourished skin.
- Specially designed to provide a dual benefit of gentle skin whitening and intense moisturization, this soap works wonders to transform your skin, giving it a healthy, radiant glow
- Enriched with shea butter's powerful moisturizing properties and vitamin E's skin-nourishing benefits, this soap is your go-to beauty companion for hydrated, luminous, and even-toned skin.
| Best for | Moisturization、Dry Skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Shea butter, Niacinamide, Sodium Lactate, Salicylic Acid |
| Fragrance-free | |
| Dye-free | |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Net Weight | 135g |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by a Board-Certified Dermatologist
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Angelie Chua.
Can You Use Only One Soap for the Face and the Body?
It is recommended to use separate soaps for cleansing the body and the face. Body bar soaps usually have a higher pH and stronger cleansing agents to remove dirt effectively, which might be too harsh for facial skin, leading to irritation and acne.
For the face, opt for gentler bar soaps tailored to remove oil and dirt without causing irritation. Choose a milder bar soap with a lower pH for delicate facial skin. As with any skincare product, the best choice depends on your skin type.
How Do You Know If a Bar Soap Is Contaminated?
Look for changes in its appearance, lathering ability, and if it dissolves more easily than usual. If you notice these signs, or if you experience skin irritation, unusual odors, or any other adverse reactions, consult a board-certified dermatologist for further advice and evaluation.
Is Checking the pH Level of a Bar Soap Important?
Unfortunately, most soap products in the Philippines do not indicate the pH level since it's not regulated. Normal skin is slightly acidic, around pH 4.5-5.5. Due to their ingredients, most bar soaps are alkaline. Even though they're alkaline, they effectively clean the skin. Bar soaps with a pH of 7-9 are generally safe, even for sensitive skin.
More Products to Make Your Shower Time Enjoyable
Looking for more shower and bath essentials? Check out some of our articles to upgrade your shower routine! Listed are the best natural shampoos, hair conditioners, body lotions, and bath towels for you to choose from!
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 Bar Soaps
No. 1: Be Organic｜Oatmeal Soap
No. 2: Dove｜Sensitive Beauty Bar
No. 3: Dr. Alvin｜Kojic Acid Soap
No. 4: Aveeno｜Moisturizing Bar With Nourishing Oat
No. 5: Oxecure｜Sulfur Soap
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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