13 Best Baby Soaps in the Philippines

One essential item in your baby’s skincare routine is the baby soap. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about baby soaps in the Philippines, from choosing the right one to ensuring your baby’s skin remains soft and healthy.

Baby soaps play a crucial role in maintaining your infant’s hygiene while keeping their skin moisturized. As a parent, you want nothing but the best for your little one, and selecting the right baby soap is a significant step towards ensuring their well-being.

History of Baby Soaps in the Philippines

The history of baby soaps in the Philippines is closely intertwined with the country’s cultural and environmental factors. Over the years, these soaps have evolved to cater to the specific needs of Filipino families and their infants.

Traditional Practices

Historically, Filipino families relied on natural ingredients for baby care. Coconut oil, known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, was a common choice. Mothers would often massage their babies with coconut oil to keep their skin soft and healthy. This traditional practice laid the foundation for the use of natural ingredients in baby soaps.

Colonial Influences

During the colonial period, the Philippines was influenced by Spanish and American cultures. This influence extended to baby care products, including soaps. Imported soaps from Europe and the United States became more accessible, introducing Filipinos to new soap formulations and fragrances.

Local Innovations

As the Philippines gained independence, local entrepreneurs began to create baby soaps tailored to the needs of the Filipino market. They incorporated traditional ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera into soap formulations. These innovations aimed to provide gentle cleansing while preserving the natural moisture of a baby’s skin.

The Rise of Hypoallergenic Soaps

With growing concerns about skin allergies and sensitivities, hypoallergenic baby soaps gained popularity. These soaps were formulated to minimize the risk of skin irritations and allergic reactions, addressing the needs of babies with sensitive skin.

Focus on Natural and Organic Ingredients

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in natural and organic products. This trend has also influenced the baby soap market. Many Filipino parents now prefer baby soaps made from organic and natural ingredients, aligning with the country’s rich tradition of using coconut oil and other botanicals.

Cultural Significance

Baby soaps in the Philippines hold cultural significance as they are often used in traditional baby ceremonies and rituals. Bathing a newborn with a special baby soap is a common practice to welcome them into the world and ensure their health and well-being.

What Makes Baby Soaps in the Philippines Special?

Ingredients from Nature: Many baby soaps in the Philippines harness the power of natural ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera. These gentle ingredients provide hydration and nourishment to your baby’s skin

Ingredients from Nature

Many baby soaps in the Philippines harness the power of natural ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera. These gentle ingredients provide hydration and nourishment to your baby’s skin.

Hypoallergenic Formulas

Baby skin is sensitive, and the tropical climate of the Philippines can make it even more prone to irritation. That’s why many baby soaps here are hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of allergies or skin reactions.

Mild Fragrances

Filipino baby soaps often feature light, pleasant scents that keep your baby smelling fresh without overwhelming their senses.

Different Types of Baby Soaps

When it comes to choosing a baby soap, you’ll find a variety of options on the market. Each type of baby soap is formulated to cater to specific needs. Here are some different types of baby soaps you can consider:

Hypoallergenic Baby Soaps

These baby soaps are specially designed for infants with sensitive skin. They are formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions or skin irritations. Hypoallergenic baby soaps are typically free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes.

Organic Baby Soaps

Organic baby soaps are made from natural and organic ingredients. They are free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides, making them a popular choice among parents who prefer all-natural products for their babies.

Glycerin Baby Soaps

Glycerin-based baby soaps are known for their moisturizing properties. They help keep your baby’s skin hydrated and soft. Glycerin is a gentle and effective ingredient for maintaining skin moisture.

Fragrance-Free Baby Soaps

These soaps are designed for babies who may be sensitive to scents. Fragrance-free baby soaps do not contain any added perfumes or fragrances, making them a suitable choice for infants with fragrance allergies.

Medicated Baby Soaps

Medicated baby soaps may be recommended by a pediatrician if your baby has a specific skin condition, such as eczema or cradle cap. These soaps often contain medicinal ingredients to address these skin issues.

Tear-Free Baby Soaps

Tear-free baby soaps are formulated to be gentle on your baby’s eyes. They are designed to prevent stinging or irritation if soap accidentally gets into your baby’s eyes during bath time.

Antibacterial Baby Soaps

These baby soaps are formulated to help prevent the spread of bacteria. While they can be useful, it’s essential to use them sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as excessive use of antibacterial products may affect the natural balance of your baby’s skin.

Sensitive Skin Baby Soaps

If your baby has extremely delicate or easily irritated skin, you can opt for baby soaps specifically labeled for sensitive skin. These soaps are typically mild and gentle.

2-in-1 Shampoo and Body Wash

Some baby soaps also double as shampoo and body wash. These can be convenient for quick and efficient bath times.

How to Choose the Right Baby Soap

When it comes to selecting the right baby soap for your little one, there are several essential considerations to keep in mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed choice:

Know Your Baby’s Skin Type

Every baby’s skin is unique, and understanding your baby’s skin type is the first crucial step. Some infants have sensitive skin, while others may have dry or oily skin. Identifying your baby’s skin type will help you choose a soap that caters to their specific needs.

Read the Ingredient List

Carefully examine the ingredient list on the baby soap packaging. Look for soaps that contain natural and hypoallergenic ingredients. Natural ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera are gentle on the skin and provide hydration and nourishment. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or dyes, as these can be harsh on your baby’s delicate skin.

Seek Dermatologist Recommendations

If you’re unsure about which baby soap to choose, consider consulting with a pediatric dermatologist. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your baby’s skin condition. Dermatologists can help you select a soap that is safe and suitable for your baby’s skin.

Test for Allergies

Before using a new baby soap, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the soap on a small, inconspicuous area of your baby’s skin and observe for any signs of irritation or allergies. If your baby experiences redness, itching, or discomfort, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Review of the Best Baby Soaps in the Philippines

1. Aveeno Baby Calming Comfort Bath Soap

Aveeno Baby Calming Comfort Bath Soap is a gentle and tear-free baby wash specially crafted to soothe fussy infants when it’s time for their bath. It boasts a blend of calming fragrances derived from lavender and vanilla, renowned for their relaxation-inducing qualities.

Pros:

• Incorporates natural components such as oatmeal and the skin-protecting agent dimethicone
• The formulation is hypoallergenic, devoid of parabens and phthalates, and, importantly, tear-free

Cons:

• Some babies are sensitive to the lavender and vanilla scents
• Not all babies benefit the same from this product because each baby’s skin is different

2. Baby Dove Rich Moisture Bar Soap

Baby Dove Rich Moisture Bar Soap is a gentle and nourishing soap bar enriched with 1/4 moisturizers and essential nutrients. It’s designed to keep your baby’s skin feeling wonderfully soft and prevent dryness, which can be caused by regular baby soap bars.

Pros:

• The soap is highly moisturizing and has a delightful fragrance
• It’s hypoallergenic and pH-neutral
• This soap makes lots of bubbles and removes oil from baby massages without making the skin dry

Cons:

• Finding it in some stores can be difficult

3. Babyflo Oatmeal Body Wash Soap

Babyflo Oatmeal Body Wash Soap is a gentle bath product that’s kind to your skin. It effectively cleanses all skin types, including sensitive skin. This soap is known for its soothing qualities.

Key Features:

• Hypoallergenic
• Free of soap and fragrances
• Contains natural colloidal oatmeal

4. Cetaphil Baby Gentle Cleansing Bar

Cetaphil Baby Gentle Cleansing Bar is a specially crafted product created to softly clean and hydrate a baby’s sensitive skin. It contains a combination of 1/3 baby lotion and organic calendula extract, derived from the marigold flower, which has been trusted for centuries to soothe dry and sensitive skin.

Pros:

• Produces a creamy lather when applied
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Dermatologist tested and clinically

Cons:

• Some individuals have reported that it may result in a slight feeling of dryness after use

5. Chicco Baby Moments Bar Soap

Chicco Baby Moments Bar Soap is a gentle cleanser for your baby’s skin. Packed with natural ingredients like glycerine, olive fruit oil, and aloe vera, it nourishes while cleansing. This soap comes in two sizes, 75g, and 300g, and boasts a subtle, pleasant fragrance.

Pros:

• Deeply moisturizing formula
• Creamy texture
• Delightful, distinctive scent

Cons:

• Some users find it expensive compared to other baby soaps
• Not suitable for babies with highly sensitive skin

6. Dr. Bronner’s All-One Hemp Baby Bar Soap

Dr. Bronner’s All-One Hemp Baby Bar Soap is a fragrance-free, pure-castile bar soap crafted from organic ingredients. This soap is specially formulated for sensitive skin and is suitable for babies, although it’s important to note that it is not tear-free. The soap is created using certified fair trade components and organic hemp oil sourced from the United States, resulting in a gentle, creamy lather that keeps the skin hydrated.

Pros:

• Crafted with organic coconut oil, organic palm oil, sodium hydroxide, water, organic olive oil, organic hemp seed oil, organic jojoba oil, and sea salt
• Vegan and versatile, suitable for body, face, and hair
• Generates a moisturizing lather
• Environmentally conscious packaging made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials
• Demonstrated to be highly biodegradable under rigorous testing conditions

Cons:

• Not tear-free

7. Human Nature Kid’s Natural Bath Soap

Human Nature Kids Natural Bath Soap is a completely natural soap specifically crafted for children. It’s formulated with gentle, natural cleansing ingredients that effectively remove dirt and grime, without the use of harsh synthetic surfactants such as SLS or SLES.

Pros:

• 100% natural and safe for kids
• Gentle on delicate skin
• Available in delightful scents that kids will adore
• Enriched with coco nectar, aloe vera, and avocado oil

Cons:

• The fragrance doesn’t linger on the skin.

8. Johnson’s Milk Baby Soap

Johnson’s Milk Baby Soap is a bar of soap specially crafted for babies. It’s fortified with natural milk proteins and vital vitamins to provide nourishment and hydration to your baby’s delicate skin.

Pros:

• Clinically tested and proven to be gentle.
• Cleanses tender skin while leaving it feeling soft and velvety.
• Designed with an easy-to-hold shape for hassle-free bathing.
• Mild enough for use all over the baby’s body

Cons:

• Contains fragrance, which can lead to irritation in some babies
• Includes mineral oil, which has the potential to block pores and cause skin irritation in certain infants

9. Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel Soap

Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel is a soap-free product specially crafted to gently cleanse, nourish, and hydrate a baby’s delicate skin and hair. This eco-friendly formula is enriched with Vitamin B5 and natural avocado, ensuring thorough cleansing without stripping away the skin’s natural oils.

Pros:

• Designed to be mild for sensitive newborns
• Provides nourishment and moisture for a baby’s skin and hair
• Suitable for daily use

Cons:

• The gel is too thin and hard to use
• The fragrance is not appealing to everyone

10. Oilatum Baby Bar Cleanser Soap

Oilatum Baby Bar Cleanser Soap is a gentle and hydrating soap ideal for daily use. It’s crafted to clean and soothe dry, sensitive skin, making it an excellent choice for babies and children.

Pros:

• Gentle and hydrating
• Provides emollient cleansing
• Enriched with moisturizing oils
• Suitable for everyday use
• Safe for babies and children

Cons:

• Not suitable for all skin types

11. Sebamed Baby Care Bar Soap

The Sebamed Baby Care Bar Soap is specially crafted for gently cleansing delicate baby skin. It’s produced in Germany and contains no soap or alkali, ensuring a mild cleanse. This soap boasts natural inulin for skin smoothness and a caring blend with panthenol to nourish and shield the skin.

Pros:

• Hypoallergenic and pH-balanced at 5.5
• Formulated as tear-free
• Enriched with a moisturizing blend of vitamins and amino acids

Cons:

• It tends to be pricier compared to other baby soaps available
• The soap doesn’t create as much foam as some other soaps available

12. Tender Care Hypoallergenic Baby Soap

Tender Care Hypoallergenic Baby Soap is created with the utmost care to gently cleanse and maintain the well-being of your baby’s delicate skin, reducing the likelihood of irritation. This soap has been rigorously tested and proven to be both gentle and hypoallergenic. It comes in various options, such as Classic Mild, Pink Soft, and Sakura.

Key Features:

• Gentle on the skin
• Ensures safety with its mild formulation
• Specifically crafted for cleansing and promoting the health of a baby’s skin

13. UniLove Creamy Baby Soap

Uni-Love Creamy Baby Soap is a gentle baby soap infused with amino acids that counteract harmful elements, behave as antioxidants, and keep the skin adequately moisturized.

Key Features:

• Enriched with beneficial amino acids
• Conveniently available in a pack of two, easing the load for parents
• Suitable for both baby’s facial and body cleansing
• Effective in preserving skin hydration, ensuring baby’s comfort

How to Bathe Your Baby with Baby Soap

Bathing your baby requires a gentle touch and careful steps to ensure their comfort and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bathe your baby with care:

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need for the bath. This includes a soft washcloth, a towel, clean clothes, and, of course, the baby soap you’ve chosen.

2. Maintain the Right Water Temperature

Fill the baby bathtub or basin with lukewarm water, approximately around 37°C (98°F). Use your elbow or the inside of your wrist to test the water temperature to ensure it’s neither too hot nor too cold. Babies are sensitive to temperature changes, so it’s essential to get it just right.

3. Use a Gentle Touch

Gently and carefully undress your baby, making sure to support their head and neck at all times. Hold your baby securely as you lower them into the water. Use one hand to support their neck and head while the other hand holds their body. Continue to support their head until they can do so on their own.

4. Apply Baby Soap Sparingly

Apply a small amount of the chosen baby soap to a soft washcloth or your hand. Use gentle, circular motions to lather the soap. Be sure to avoid getting soap in your baby’s eyes, nose, or mouth.

5. Pay Attention to Skin Folds

Babies have many skin folds and creases, especially around their neck, armpits, and baby diaper areas. Use the washcloth to gently clean these areas, being thorough but gentle to prevent irritation.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

After you’ve cleaned your baby, rinse them thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water. Ensure that all soap residue is removed from their skin. You can use a plastic cup or your hand to gently pour water over their body for rinsing.

7. Pat Dry

Carefully lift your baby out of the water and wrap them in a soft, clean towel. Gently pat them dry, avoiding any vigorous rubbing, which can irritate their delicate skin. Pay extra attention to drying skin folds to prevent moisture buildup.

8. Dress Your Baby

Once your baby is dry, dress them in clean clothes, ensuring they are comfortable and snug. Take your time, and make sure there are no damp areas, especially in baby diaper areas.

9. Bonding Time

Bath time is not only about cleanliness but also an opportunity for bonding with your baby. Talk to your baby, sing a soothing song, or simply enjoy the precious moments together.

10. Safety First

Never leave your baby unattended during bath time, even for a moment. Accidents can happen quickly, so always keep one hand on your baby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baby Soaps

Can I use regular soap on my baby?

While it’s not recommended, you can use baby soap or mild, unscented soap if needed. Always prioritize gentleness.

How often should I bathe my baby with soap?

You can give your baby a full bath with soap 2-3 times a week. Frequent bathing with soap can strip their skin of natural oils.

Are natural baby soaps better than commercial ones?

Natural baby soaps often have fewer chemicals and can be gentler on the skin. However, the choice depends on your baby’s needs.

Can I use baby soap on my newborn?

Yes, you can use baby soap on a newborn, but opt for the mildest option available.

What if my baby has sensitive skin?

Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free baby soaps designed for sensitive skin.

Are there baby soaps specifically for eczema-prone skin?

Yes, some baby soaps are formulated for eczema-prone skin, offering extra moisturization and soothing ingredients.

What is the importance of using baby soap?

Baby soap is crucial for gentle cleansing without causing irritation to a baby’s sensitive skin.

Can baby soap help with diaper rash?

Some baby soaps contain soothing ingredients that can help alleviate diaper rash.

Should I choose a liquid or bar soap for my baby?

It’s a matter of preference, but liquid soaps are often more convenient for baby baths.

What is the proper way to store baby soap?

Keep baby soap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Choosing the right baby soap in the Philippines is essential for your baby’s well-being. With a plethora of options that prioritize natural ingredients and gentle formulas, you can keep your baby’s skin soft, healthy, and free from irritation. Remember to consult with a pediatrician or dermatologist for personalized recommendations, and always prioritize your baby’s comfort and safety during bath time.