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  4. 10 Best Facial Bar Soaps in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
  • 10 Best Facial Bar Soaps in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Facial Bar Soaps in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Facial Bar Soaps in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
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10 Best Facial Bar Soaps in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

We Filipinos are very conscious when it comes to personal hygiene and keeping our skin clear. We all want to have that perfect kutis porcelana. We love to experiment and try out the new beauty products that come out in the market. Bar soaps, moisturizers, facial creams, and other facial products are our first steps in our efforts to have healthy and glowing skin.

Here, we will give you our latest list of the best facial bar soaps you can buy online. Our buying guide, with comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison, will also show you how to choose the right product for your skin. Hopefully, this will help you narrow down your search for the best among the best. Are you ready? Let’s go and explore our list!
Last updated 07/14/2023
Dr. Meg Sison
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.

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mybest
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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.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Facial Bar Soaps

Benefits of Facial Bar Soaps

Bar soaps used to get a bad rap for being too harsh and stripping the skin of its natural oils. But not anymore. The newest generation of facial bar soaps now contains fewer chemicals than facial washes. Facial bar soaps do not contain surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate, a cleansing and foaming agent that can cause skin irritation.


Another benefit of using a facial bar soap is that it uses less packaging, usually cardboard, which is also more environmentally-friendly than the plastic bottles that liquid washes come in. They are also much more convenient for traveling because of their compact size.  

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Some people prefer to use bar soaps for cleansing the face because bar soaps are more convenient for them as compared to liquid cleansers. There are actually bar soaps that are formulated for facial cleansing that do not contain strong surfactants that can disrupt the skin's slightly acidic pH.

How to Choose a Facial Bar Soap – Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. For normal skin, look for products that maintain ph balance.
  2. For oily skin, choose products with oil control properties.
  3. For dry and dull skin, use products with herbal and natural ingredients.
  4. For sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic and fragrance-free soaps.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

① For Normal Skin, Look for Products That Maintain pH Balance

For Normal Skin, Look for Products That Maintain pH Balance

People with normal skin are those who have very minimal facial skin problems. They don’t always worry about pimples and acne, oily skin, and many others. We suggest choosing bar soaps that don’t contain harmful chemicals that can destroy the balance of your skin.  The keyword here is maintenance. 

The best way to do that is to choose products with ingredients that restore and maintain pH balance. Substances like aloe vera, Vitamin C, and antioxidants all help keep normal skin maintain its acid mantle - a protective barrier against bacteria that also keeps moisture in.  

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Synthetic detergents (syndets) are bar soaps that are formulated with pH as close as possible to the skin's slightly acidic pH. These types of bar soap are great for normal skin and other skin types as well.

② For Oily Skin, Choose Products With Oil Control Properties

For Oily Skin, Choose Products With Oil Control Properties
Sebum is the substance that protects our skin and keeps it hydrated. However, when there is an overproduction of sebum, this can lead to oily skin. This could be due to many factors such as a menstrual cycle, stress, weather, hormonal issues, and other factors. 

Oily skin causes a host of problems - clogged pores, acne, and a shiny face. Therefore, you should be on the lookout for products with oil control properties, such as tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and citrus extracts. In extreme cases, medicated acne care soaps may be needed. 


However, this doesn't mean that you should buy soaps with harsh formulas. Opt instead for bar soaps with a mellow and creamy moisturizing effect. These can help prevent your skin from producing too much sebum while still keeping it hydrated.  

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

For those with oily skin, look for ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid. These hydroxy acids function as mild chemical exfoliants that help unclog pores and lessen sebum production. Be careful not to over-cleanse your face because it can lead to irritation.

③ For Dry and Dull Skin, Use Products With Herbal and Natural Ingredients

For Dry and Dull Skin, Use Products With Herbal and Natural Ingredients
People with dry skin feel tightness and roughness, especially after bathing or showering. They may also experience dull skin tone, in which skin appears gray and ashy instead of glowing. Both of these can be due to factors like changes in weather, harsh soaps, skin disorders, or aging.  

People with dry and dull soap need to choose a bar soap with added moisturizers. They can also use soaps with herbal ingredients that restore skin tone. It's important to pay attention to dryness to avoid infections that can develop from cracking or peeling skin. 

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

For those with dry skin, look for humectants such as glycerin that attract water from the environment and prevent moisture loss from the outermost layer of the skin.


Moisturizing cleansers with petrolatum or triglycerides oils are also recommended for dry and dull skin because they improve skin hydration. There is also an immediate reduction in the skin's visual dryness, according to several studies. Triglyceride oils were found to be a great source of fatty acids that can be used to make ceramides that can help repair the skin barrier.

④ For Sensitive Skin, Choose Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free Soaps

For Sensitive Skin, Choose Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free Soaps
People with sensitive skin have a decreased tolerance to the products applied to their skin and have unpleasant reactions such as stinging, itching, and burning. They may develop visible skin changes such as patches, scaling, peeling, redness, hives, and more. 

If you are one of those, you should be really careful and take your time to research. Soaps that contain a lot of chemicals can trigger irritation on your skin. To avoid this, pick a bar soap that does not contain extra additives like coloring agents, surfactants, and preservatives. Be sure to check the label!

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Those with sensitive skin will benefit from bar soaps that are formulated to mimic the skin's slightly acidic pH and from lipid-free cleansers since they are non-foaming and have low surfactant capabilities. 


Look also for bar soaps that are fragrance-free because these have fewer chances of causing skin irritation for those with sensitive skin. Soaps with emollients like ceramides can help repair the skin barrier, so they can also be used for sensitive skin.

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10 Best Facial Bar Soaps to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Products
Image
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Key features
1

Cetaphil

Deep Cleansing Bar

Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar 1枚目

Most Recommended by Dermatologists

2

Human Nature

Lemon Zest/Lavender Mint/Pink Peony Scented Cleansing Bar

Human Nature Lemon Zest/Lavender Mint/Pink Peony Scented Cleansing Bar 1枚目

Herbal Goodness in a Bar

3

Dove

Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar

Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar 1枚目

A Fragrance-Free Formula With 1/4 Moisturizing Cream

4

Lanbena

24K Gold Handmade Soap

Lanbena 24K Gold Handmade Soap 1枚目

A Blend of 24K Gold and Natural Seaweed Extracts

5

Fresh Skinlab

Tomato Glass Skin Vitamic C Serum Soap

Fresh Skinlab Tomato Glass Skin Vitamic C Serum Soap 1枚目

Infused With Tomato Extract and Vitamin C For a Healthy Glow

6

Gluta-C

Kojic Plus + Face Soap

Gluta-C Kojic Plus + Face Soap 1枚目

Powerful Whitening Soap With Kojic Plus

7

Organic Skin Japan

Anti-Aging and Whitening Bar Soap

Organic Skin Japan  Anti-Aging and Whitening Bar Soap 1枚目

Anti-Aging Bar Soap With Collagen and Kojic Acid

8

Precious Herbal Solutions

Precious Lemon Soap

Precious Herbal Solutions Precious Lemon Soap 1枚目

Acne-Fighting and Astringent Soap

9

Acne Care

Anti-Acne Soap

Acne Care Anti-Acne Soap 1枚目

A Medicated Soap for Pimples and Oil Control

10

Manuka Health

Manuka Honey Soap

Manuka Health Manuka Honey Soap 1枚目

Creamy Bar With Antibacterial Properties

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No.1

CetaphilDeep Cleansing Bar

Deep Cleansing Bar Image 1
Source:beautymnl.com
Reference price
From ₱220

Most Recommended by Dermatologists

This is often the first product on top of dermatologists' recommendations. Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar gently cleans your skin while keeping it moisturized. It is the top choice for many people because the beauty of this formulation makes it suitable for people of all skin types.  

It can do the tough job of deep cleaning and removing dirt, makeup, and impurities, but it won't strip your skin of its natural oils. People with dry and sensitive skin do not need to worry about developing rashes with this product. It is hypoallergenic and non-irritating and is a safe choice.  


Because of its moisturizing effect, you might find that your skin is oily at first as you adjust to this soap. But you can rest assured that you won't have any clogged pores  - it is non-comedogenic, and so it is a good option for people with oily skin, too. 
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No.2

Human NatureLemon Zest/Lavender Mint/Pink Peony Scented Cleansing Bar

Herbal Goodness in a Bar

Human Nature is a leader in all-natural, organic soaps and personal care products. Whatever scent you choose, you will receive the benefits of natural essential oils and glycerin from Philippine coconut oil. It's great for people with normal skin and no major skin issues, as well as for those who enjoy aromatherapy.


Keep in mind, though, that if you're allergic to essential oils, this product might cause some sensitivity. Be mindful, too, of storing the soap properly after use as it has no hardening chemical ingredients included. 


By buying this product, you will be supporting a brand that promotes high-quality, Philippine-made products. Human Nature is also known for making sustainable and vegan-friendly products and uplifting impoverished communities in the process. Now that's a brand we can all get behind!

No.3

DoveSensitive Skin Beauty BarPack of 6

A Fragrance-Free Formula With 1/4 Moisturizing Cream

This product is another one that dermatologists most recommend. It contains Dove's signature ingredient - 1/4 moisturizing cream that leaves your skin feeling hydrated. Because of its hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula, pediatricians and allergy specialists also recommend this for patients suffering from allergies.

This product is best for people with dry and sensitive skin. But it is also suitable for a wide range of users, from babies to teenagers to adults, which makes it a perfectly affordable soap for use by the whole family

No.4

Lanbena24K Gold Handmade Soap

A Blend of 24K Gold and Natural Seaweed Extracts

This soap contains a unique blend of 24K gold and natural seaweed extracts to fully absorb free radicals and strengthen cell metabolism. It can also reduce wrinkles and dryness because it has neroli oil. This is a perfect choice for people who would like to combat the effects of aging. 


People of different skin types can use this product. Users claim that their scars and acne marks have lightened after using this soap, probably due to its hyaluronic acid component. The small size can be a factor to consider, though, because this soap is less than half the size of the average soap bar.  

No.5

Fresh SkinlabTomato Glass Skin Vitamic C Serum Soap

Infused With Tomato Extract and Vitamin C For a Healthy Glow

This bar soap will help you recover your skin's natural glow with its infusion of the vitamins and nutrients found in tomatoes. The antioxidant properties of lycopene make it a good choice for people who want gentle cleansing that also brightens and heals dull spots in their skin

Many users claim to be hiyang with this product and enjoy the refreshing feeling it gives afterward.  It also contains a bit of salicylic acid, which can help control the occasional breakouts people with normal skin go through. Overall, it's a good product when all you're looking for is maintenance and a healthy glow.

No.6

Gluta-CKojic Plus + Face Soap

Powerful Whitening Soap With Kojic Plus

Gluta-C has always been one of the go-to brands for people who want to whiten their skin. By inhibiting the production of melanin, glutathione works to lighten dark skin and neutralize free radicals. This makes this soap a favorite among Filipinos who want to lighten their skin. 


This product is best for oily skin because it has anti-acne properties due to the addition of Azelaoyl Diglycinate. This is a chemical that controls oil production, so if you are prone to pimples, you might find relief with this soap. 

No.7

Organic Skin Japan Anti-Aging and Whitening Bar Soap

Anti-Aging Bar Soap With Collagen and Kojic Acid

This soap combines the anti-aging power of collagen, elastin, placenta, and coconut oil to restore skin elasticity. It is specially formulated for people who want to lessen their fine lines and wrinkles and get their skin feeling soft and smooth once again. 

It also has Kojic Acid to help whiten the skin. Users claim that they can see results in as little as four weeks. Do note that it might cause some sensitivity to the skin, so make sure to apply an ample amount of sunscreen and avoid staying under the sun for long periods of time.

No.8

Precious Herbal SolutionsPrecious Lemon Soap

Precious Lemon Soap Image 1
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Reference price
From ₱45

Acne-Fighting and Astringent Soap

This 100% natural soap is wonderfully formulated to deeply clean, tone, and brighten your skin. The soap blends coconut oil with lemon juice, which is rich in Vitamin C and citric acid and is great for lightening age spots and pimple marks. 

Lemon has astringent qualities that help control oil production, and they are antibacterial too. The use of coconut oil as the carrier oil helps offset the harshness and sting that lemon can cause. These properties make this soap a great option for people with skin issues like acne, eczema, and blackheads.  

No.9

Acne CareAnti-Acne Soap

Anti-Acne Soap Image 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
From ₱149

A Medicated Soap for Pimples and Oil Control

AcneCare's Anti-Acne Soap is a product formulated to control oil production and blocked pores with Bio Sulfur. It has tea tree oil to further strengthen its antiseptic, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial effects. It's also good for people who are outdoors a lot since it prevents sun damage and fights free radicals.


However, it can be too harsh for people with normal skin and no acne issues. Even with the addition of Ace-B3, a combination of aloe vera extract and Vitamins C and E, it can still be drying, so remember to always use a moisturizer after using this bar soap

No.10

Manuka HealthManuka Honey Soap

Reference price
From ₱430

Creamy Bar With Antibacterial Properties

This product contains New Zealand’s unique MGO™250+ Manuka Honey. Because of its natural antibacterial properties and ability to repair the skin, it is great for people with dry skin but still experience the occasional breakout.

It's also good for people who want to rejuvenate their dull skin because honey contains refreshing and hydrating properties. And since it is fragrance-free, this soap is great for people with sensitive skin. 

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Meg Sison

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Meg Sison.

Are Facial Bar Soaps More Gentle?

There are face bar soaps that can be used for the face as long as they have gentle surfactants. These are formulated as synthetic detergents or syndets.

Can Facial Bar Soaps Help With Acne?

There are face bar soaps that can be used for the face as long as they have gentle surfactants. These are formulated as synthetic detergents or syndets.

How to Know if a Facial Bar Soap Has Harsh Ingredients?

If you will be using bar soap for the face, avoid those with fragrance and harsh surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl ether sulfate, chlorhexidine, and benzalkonium chloride.

More Tips From Dr. Meg Sison

Limit facial cleansing to twice a day to prevent over-stripping your skin barrier. There have been a lot of scientific advances in facial cleansers through the years and there are more options to choose from. Consult a board-certified dermatologist to guide you in choosing the right cleansers for you.

Keep Your Skin Happy, Healthy and Glowing!

Living in a country with high levels of heat, humidity and pollution can take its toll on our skin. We need to take the time from our busy lives to stop and pamper our skin in every way we can. Here are some useful articles to help you do this.

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 Facial Bar Soaps

No. 1: Cetaphil | Deep Cleansing Bar

No. 2: Human Nature | Lemon Zest/Lavender Mint/Pink Peony Scented Cleansing Bar

No. 3: Dove | Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar | Pack of 6

No. 4: Lanbena | 24K Gold Handmade Soap

No. 5: Fresh Skinlab | Tomato Glass Skin Vitamic C Serum Soap

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When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.

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