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For those with oily skin, finding the right soap can be a task. Thus, we bring you a list of the best soaps for oily skin. These soaps are mildly formulated products that are perfect for sensitive skin. It is essential to select products that keep oiliness at bay and remove dirt and impurities from your skin. So, plunge into this post for the top soaps for oily skin. We have also mentioned the pros and cons of each product to make your selection process easier.
Top Picks
16 Best Soaps For Oily Skin
The following bar soaps are claimed to be suitable for oily skin. But as each person’s skin is different, read the label for the ingredients and do a patch test before using any soap on the face or body to avoid skin irritations and allergies.
1. Best Non-Comedogenic: Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar
Image: Cetaphil Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar is a newly formulated version of the Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Antibacterial Bar. This commercial soap claims to deeply cleanse your face and body by removing oil, dirt, and other impurities. It is suitable for all skin types and contains five nourishing ingredients that do not strip your skin or essential nutrients or dry your skin. This expert-recommended glycerin soap has been tested to provide visible results. It is available in packs of three and six soap bars.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (doesn’t cause blocked pores) soap
- Forms a rich lather and gently cleanses the skin
- Leaves your skin soft, moisturized, and refreshing
Cons
- May have a strong smell
- May not be suitable for ultra-sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 16,145 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Review: A reviewer says, “The Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar helps keep my skin clean, refreshed, and sweat-free even when the weather is hot. Although it does have a strong scent, the soap does help control my body odor to a considerable extent.”
2. Best Natural Ingredients: Truremedy Naturals Remedy Tea Tree Oil Balm & Body Wash
Image: Cariti Brands / Truremedy Remedy Tea Tree Oil Balm & Body Wash by Truremedy Naturals can help reduce skin infections such as eczema and acne and fight athlete’s foot, candida, ringworm, foot odor, and much more. This product has been tested to ensure its effectiveness in addressing various skin concerns. The formulation blends various active ingredients, such as botanical tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and peppermint oil, to produce a pleasant smell that many adore. Use this body wash to deodorize, moisturize, and refresh your skin.
Pros
- Preservative-free
- Paraben-free
- Comes with a tea tree oil balm
- Suitable for everyday use
- Enriched with the goodness of aloe and mint
Cons
- Bottle’s pump may be tricky to use
Review: According to a user, “I found the Truremedy Naturals Remedy Body Wash to be a soothing remedy for my summer rashes and heat-irritated skin. It surprisingly does not have a strong fragrance and has even helped my dry skin. However, it may not be a one-stop solution for all skin issues.”
3. Best Detoxifying: Marie Originals Eczema Bar Soap
Image: Marie Originals Marie Originals Eczema Bar Soap is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is known to show visible results after extended use. People with psoriasis, itchy skin, dry patches, and eczema can try this product for a relaxing experience. It soothes the rash and cleanses the skin to restore its natural goodness. Regular use of this soap can reduce flare-ups and control skin problems.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for daily wash
- Contains noni fruit, vegetable glycerin, bentonite clay, and organic oats
- Free of parabens
- Detoxifying formula
Cons
- Bar soap could have been a tad bigger
- Oatmeal pieces may come out of the soap
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 237 satisfied customers on Amazon have said good things about the product.
Review: A tester states, “The Marie Originals Eczema Bar Soap is a good choice for anyone looking to exfoliate flaky skin. It has helped soothe my skin, but it sometimes leaves my face a bit dry, depending on the humidity levels and weather. Also, the soap bar did not dissolve into my soapdish, which I love.”
Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar Best Non-Comedogenic | Keika charcoal bar Best Vegan | Trueremdy Naturals Charcoal Soap Best For All Skin Types | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive | Acne Prone,All Skin Types |
| Dimensions | 2.57 x 4.14 x 5.1 inches | 1 x 2.5 x 3.5 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.02 Pounds | 5 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 16,145 | 4,208 | 449 |
| Price | $10.99 | $8.99 | $14.99 |
4. Best Vegan: Keika charcoal bar
Image: Keika Keika Charcoal Bar is a 100% natural bar soap that is infused with the goodness of activated charcoal. Its other active ingredients include bentonite clay, Himalayan pink salt, shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil. The expert-recommended soap bar is suitable for teens, men, and women who have oily skin. It can be used both on the face and body. Use it daily for visible results.
Pros
- Handmade and 100% vegan-free of chemicals
- Suitable for treating rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, acne, and other sensitive skin problems
- Long-lasting and has a light fragrance from essential oils
Cons
- Could be rough on the skin
Review: As per a reviewer, “The Keika charcoal bar is one of its kind as it not only helps reduce acne breakouts on my back but also serves as an effective and gentle cleanser for cleaning my makeup brushes! What really makes it stand out for me is its subtle moisturizing effects.”
5. Best For All Skin Types: Trueremedy Naturals Charcoal Soap
Image: Truremedy Naturals Store Trueremedy Naturals Charcoal Soap is known for its proven efficacy against skin issues like psoriasis, athlete foot, blackheads, acne, and eczema. It doesn’t have any synthetic fragrances; instead, they are naturally scented with tea-tree and peppermint. The effect of this foot, body, and deodorizing 3-in-1 soap lasts 3x times longer than a regular soap.
Pros
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and preservative-free
- Suitable for men, women, and teens
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- May melt quickly in water
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 449 reviews on Amazon.
Review: According to a tester, “What makes Trueremedy Naturals Charcoal Soap a winner is that despite giving the skin a deep cleanse, it also leaves the skin soft and moisturized, helping me tackle my patchy and dry skin. Also, it has a pleasant yet mild scent to it. I found it a little pricey, but still worth it.”
6. Best For Hydration And Glow: Greenfreshlab Sicilian Blood Orange Soap Bar
Image: Greenfreshlab Sicilian Blood Orange Soap Bar by Greenfreshlab is a powerful blend of citrus essential oil and other organic oils that ensure hydration and glowing skin. This expert-recommended soap bar contains high levels of antioxidants that help prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, its rich lather gives a soft, clean feel.
Pros
- Can be used for head-to-toe washing
- Non-toxic and made with 85% certified organic ingredients
- Sulfate- and paraben-free
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial
- Long-lasting effects
- No synthetic fragrance
Cons
- Scent might not last long
- Scent might be strong for some
Review: A user observes, “Discovering this natural soap has been a pleasant surprise. The Sicilian Blood Orange Soap Bar has a delightful scent and rich lather and leaves a clean feeling on the skin. Unlike liquid soaps, no irritation here.”
Did you know?7. Best For Treating Eczema: Beauty by Earth Facial Bar Soap
Image: Beauty By Earth Store Beauty by Earth Facial Bar Soapis organically made for oily skin. This soap for pimples and oily skin is infused with the goodness of charcoal, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, rosemary extract, witch hazel, rose petal water, coconut oil, and shea butter to remove blemishes, treat acne, and give you a glowing skin. The handmade bar is suitable for treating psoriasis, eczema, and other problematic skin conditions.
Pros
- Sulfate-, paraben-, and cruelty-free bar
- Detoxes, cleanses, and hydrates your skin
- Has a pleasant and light scent from organic essential oils
Cons
- May not be suitable for all types of skin
Review: A reviewer says, “Transitioning to this soap has been a hit for my daughter and me. We battled acne with different skin types yet found success with the Beauty by Earth Facial Bar Soap. However, I recommend doing a patch test before the first use if you have highly sensitive skin.”
8. Best For Acne: New Leaf Bamboo Charcoal Soap
Bamboo Charcoal Soap by New Leaf Products is formulated with bamboo charcoal to remove grime and impurities and detoxify your skin. It is made with pure natural ingredients and can be used on the face and body. The soap bar is suitable for oily skin and helps in treating acne and reducing blemishes.
Pros
- Free of sulfate, colorants, preservatives, and phthalates
- Effective against psoriasis, itching, and body odor
- Long-lasting and lathers well
- Formulated with natural and organic ingredients
- Has a pleasant fragrance
Cons
- May not be suitable for all types of skin
Review: According to a tester, “Recommended by my dermatologist, the Bamboo Charcoal Soap has helped me tackle my adult acne, and I haven’t had a major breakout for months now. It does take some effort to completely rinse it off, and its mild fragrance may not appeal to all. Nonetheless, it does have a good effect on the skin and complexion.”
9. Best For Face And Body: Natrulo Acne Bar Soap
Image: Natrulo Store Natrulo Acne Bar Soap is a 100% natural bar soap infused with key ingredients such as activated clay, olive oil, coconut oil, tea tree oil, shea butter, and castor that is rich in fatty acids. It claims to effectively treat acne by removing the dirt and impurities from the skin. The handmade soap for oily face also contains bentonite clay, which aids in skin detox by removing blackheads and helps you achieve clearer and brighter skin.
Pros
- Free of parabens, harsh chemicals, artificial dyes, phthalates, and petroleum
- Can be used on the face and body
- Can be used on all types of skin
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
Review: As per a reviewer, “The Natrulo Acne Bar Soap has been a happy discovery. Although it didn’t work wonders on my acne-prone skin, it left a soft shine, reduced redness, and even calmed razor burn. The mild scent and lathering made for a positive experience. It’s a keeper, despite the occasional mushiness.”
Do remember10. Best For Treating Psoriasis: Shea Moisture African Black Soap
Image: Sheamoisture Store Formulated with natural and organic ingredients, this SheaMoisture African black soap is vegan and contains palm ash, tamarind extract, and plantain peel. Being one of the best oil-control soaps, it helps balance oily skin. It may also help to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. Take a look at this review video to know more about the product and make an informed buying decision.
Pros
- Contains shea butter and coconut oil, which moisturize and soothes the skin
- Contains no sulfates, mineral oil, phthalates, and parabens
- Has certified organic ingredients
- Cruelty-free and vegan soap
Cons
- May cause irritation on sensitive skin
Review: A user says, “Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap has been wonderful for my acne-prone, sensitive skin. Within weeks, my severe cystic acne improved, leaving my skin moisturized and soft. While not a miracle, its gentle cleansing and reasonable price make it a must-try.”
11. Best Dermatologically Tested: Clinique Facial Soap
Image: Clinique Clinique Liquid Facial Soap is dermatologically-approved to treat oily skin. It effortlessly removes dirt and oil from the face, making it one of the best bar soaps for oily skin. Regular cleansing with this soap can leave your skin clean and clear.
Pros
- Contains menthol that gives out a refreshing and subtle smell
- Long-lasting and convenient to use
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically-tested
Cons
- Could be expensive for some
Review: According to a reviewer, “Being a long-time Clinique fan, I’m pleased with the Facial Soap for oily skin. It controls oil effectively, leaving my skin shine-free. I wish it were the size of regular soap bars.”
Quick tip12. Best Travel-Friendly: Clinique Three Little Soaps
Image: Clinique This pack brings you three dermatologically-approved soap bars, each packaged in an elegant and portable soap dish. Among the best soaps for oily skin, it is clinically formulated to cleanse the face. It does not have much fragrance, and the soap bar is ideal for use during travel.
Pros
- Value pack
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Has a mild formulation
Cons
- The size of the bar is a tad small for use at home
Review: As per a tester, “These bars are perfect for travel and offer great value for the quality they provide. My skin feels soft and clean, making them an ideal choice for my combination skin type. However, these soaps might be a bit smaller than expected, so they run out quickly.”
13. Best For All Ages: Eumora Beauty Bar
Image: Eumora The Moor Bar With H Ma Factor Store This expert-recommended soap bar by Eumora is made with natural ingredients and is suitable for oily skin. It is infused with moor clay, Hydration Microalgae (HMa), olive oil, and chamomile extract, which are proven to deliver visible results. The antibacterial properties of the soap may help prevent infections and treat symptoms of acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema. The pack contains four soaps for pimples and oily skin.
Pros
- Moor clay helps in cleansing and detoxifying the skin
- HMa helps moisturize the skin
- Hypoallergenic and cruelty-free
- Contains no paraben, fragrance, mineral oil, SLS, and other harmful chemicals
- Suitable for children and adults
Cons
- Small in size
Review: A reviewer says, “I’m amazed by the Eumora Beauty Bar’s transformational effects on my skin. My face feels less oily, tighter, and healthier. The small bar size was unexpected, but it’s worth every penny. After just a few days, my skin tone improved remarkably.”
14. Best Antibacterial: Joesoef Anti-Acne Soap
Image: Joesoef Skin Care The dermatologically-approved Joesoef Anti-Acne Soap has been formulated to assist you in fighting skin issues such as clogged pores, acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and dermatitis. The anti-bacterial, antiseptic, and anti-fungal formula gently eliminates harmful dirt and oil from your skin. In addition, it has natural volcanic sulfur and salicylic acid to tackle various skin problems. The soap comes in a pack of three and is specially formulated for oily skin.
Pros
- Dermatologically-tested
- Prevents future breakouts
- Promotes healthy complexion
- Neutral scent
- Quality soap for acne-prone and oily skin
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May be slightly drying
- Some may not like the smell
Review: A user notes, “Using the Joesoef Anti-Acne Soap has been a pleasurable experience. It effectively reduced the breakouts on both my body and face. I don’t even have to scrub it for it to work on the acne. It has a faint sulfur smell, which fades eventually, but its lasting results make it worth it.”
15. Best Colorant-Free: DHC Pure Soap
Image: Dhc Store This soap for oily face from DHC helps in dissolving the impurities on the face. It is loaded with antioxidants and olive fruit oil which help in reducing the signs of aging. It is also loaded with aloe leaf juice extracts that are guaranteed to give you hydrated skin without compromising the natural moisture of your skin. To use this soap, create a lather in your palms and massage it on the face to increase the foamy content and cleanse your skin.
Pros
- Does not clog pores
- Fragrance-free
- Colorant-free
Cons
- May cause redness of the skin
Review: According to a tester, “DHC Pure Soap has been a fantastic find for my oily skin. It effectively cleanses without drying out my face, making it a much better choice than other products I’ve tried. Highly recommended for lasting value and results. However, it is slightly on the pricier side.”
16. Best Handmade: The Healing Tree Herbal Handmade Soap
Image: Dr. Squatch This handmade herbal soap by The Healing Tree is infused with the goodness of tea tree oil, bamboo charcoal, coconut oil, and shea butter. It is suitable for acne-prone skin. This soap for oily face deep cleanses the skin to remove dirt, dead skin cells, and toxins. It detoxifies the skin and makes it smooth and soft.
Pros
- Handmade and vegan
- Contains no parabens, SLS, or other harmful chemicals
- Unclogs pores and makes your skin feel fresh
Cons
- May not be suitable for everyone
- May irritate sensitive skin
Review: As per a reviewer, “I find the exfoliating effects of the Dr. Squatch All Natural Bar Soap rejuvenating, and the captivating pine tar fragrance is truly remarkable. Nonetheless, certain bars exhibited a problem of disintegration and drying out when placed in the soap dish. Despite this, I still consider it a reliable option due to its distinctive aromas and high-quality components.”
Reasons That Cause Oily Skin
The sebaceous gland under the pores of the skin produces sebum or natural oil. It ideally helps to keep the skin healthy and hydrated. However, some people produce excess oil, and so they have oily skin. It could be due to the following reasons.
- Environment: Hot weather and humidity may make your skin secrete more oil. Therefore, in summer months, you may tend to have oily skin, and in winter months, your skin may turn dry.
- Genetics: If any of your parents have oily skin, it could be passed through the genes, and you may have large sebaceous glands, secreting more oil than usual.
- Overusing skin care products: Washing your face too many times or overusing skin care products could cause overproduction of oil from your skin.
- Hormonal changes: When hormones fluctuate, there is an excess of sebum production. It could happen during pregnancy and menopause and before menstruation. Sometimes, stress may cause an increase in oil production too.
- Others: Some other reasons for an increase in oil production could be poor diet, enlarged pores, and usage of wrong cosmetics.
How To Choose The Right Soap For Oily Skin?
You have to be careful when picking the right soap for your oily skin. Some of the factors to consider are:
- Ingredients: Always go through the list of ingredients to learn about the active ingredients and filler ingredients. Choose a soap that is made with natural ingredients and is free of chemicals and artificial fragrances. Avoid soaps that contain parabens, petroleum, sulfates, and other harmful substances.
- Skin type: Consider your skin type. Do you have oily, oily sensitive, or combination skin? Is your skin prone to acne or allergic to any substance? Based on these factors, you may pick the soap bar to suit your skin type.
- Eco-friendly: Nowadays, many brands formulate soaps with environmental-friendly ingredients. Some are cruelty-free and vegan too. It may be wise to pick those.
Dr. Dmitriy Schwarzburg, a renowned New York-based dermatologist and owner of Skinly Aesthetics, says, “Soaps with minimal ingredients are often the best, as they are free of harmful chemicals commonly hidden in even the most popular products.” He further says, “Avoid soaps with artificial fragrances as they tend to dry out the skin.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do soaps dry out the skin?
Soaps containing sulfates can dry your skin. So, choose your soap wisely according to your skin type and preference.
2. Do soaps help with acne?
Soaps with tea tree oil, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid as the active ingredients can help in treating and preventing acne.
3. Can soaps be used every day?
Yes, soaps can be used every day. If your skin type is oily, using soap every day can be beneficial for removing excess sebum and sweat. However, if you have dry skin, you might want to use a moisturizer after using your soap. Also, you can use a soap with moisturizing properties instead.
4. Do soaps expire?
Yes, soaps come with an expiration date. However, they have a longer shelf life than most cosmetics. Handmade soaps tend to expire faster than industrially-made soaps.
5. How should I store soaps?
It is best to store soaps in a dry place and in a covered container that allows proper drainage.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a beauty, skin care, and fashion enthusiast. She has compiled this list of the best soaps for oily skin based on consumer reviews and beauty forum recommendations. She has also offered tips on choosing the right product for your skin and requirements based on factors such as skin type and ingredients. These soaps will help clear your oily skin without completely stripping it of moisture.
The Bottom Line
The best soaps for oily skin are specially formulated to keep your skin clean and healthy and reduce oiliness. If you are looking for a soap for oily skin, go for one made from natural ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, tea tree oil, neem, and rosemary, as they can give you a soothing effect and rejuvenate your skin. Our top picks include the Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar, which provides a rich lather and leaves your skin soft and moisturized, and the Truremedy Naturals Remedy Tea Tree Oil Balm & Body Wash, featuring natural ingredients, which is suitable for daily use. You can also consider The Marie Originals Eczema Bar Soap, known for its detoxifying formula. However, avoid soap containing harmful ingredients like paraben and sulfates, as they may have a strong odor and cause excessive dryness.
Infographic: Points To Remember When Buying Soaps For Oily Skin
Oily skin tends to be more prone to acne and other skin issues, so choosing a soap that effectively cleanses and balances the skin’s oil production is important. So, look at the infographic below to learn about a few key points you should keep in mind to buy the perfect soap for your oily skin. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function enhances skin hydration and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15689218/ - How To Control Oily Skin
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
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