If your skin has been feeling uncomfortable and itchy, there’s no use in keeping it a secret. Fungal infection is real. By searching for remedies to it, you can still salvage your skin and prevent the itch from spreading. Antifungal soaps have been swirling around drugstores and are deemed a cheap, affordable remedy to fungal infection in all its forms and shape.
Stop scratching yourself into oblivion and start reading through this article to finally put a stop to your skin-wrecking episodes. Find out which antifungal soap formulation treats you best and choose from among our top picks which soap will you most likely lather on your itching skin. To help you make your decision, read the comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Rona Abad-Constantino!
Rona Abad-Constantino, MD, DPDS, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing mainly in Taguig and other parts of Metro Manila. She is ready to provide consultation services for any skin, hair, and nail concerns – from questions about skincare habits to the management of acne and beyond. She believes that every person is uniquely beautiful and encourages patients to embrace the beauty they were born with. Like and follow her on Instagram and Facebook to know more about her practice!
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.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
It is but natural to be panic-stricken whenever we see our skin ravaged by a fungal infection. Although the recommended step would be to see a physician, some of these skin problems can actually be remedied gently by an antifungal soap. People turn to antifungal soaps because they deliver quick results at an affordable price.
The keyword here is 'minor' fungal infection or those that are in their early stages. It is at this level antifungal soaps are best at. This specific type of soap destroys the fungi and further inhibits its growth to counter the spreading, which is brought about mostly by sweat, poor nutrition, and hygiene - or the lack thereof. This explains why people who frequent the gym or does extreme sport often develop fungal infection.
In some cases, antifungal soaps help prevent the progression of small, limited fungal infections. The human body has innate defenses to ward off fungal invasion to an extent, and with the help of medicated soaps, they can be stopped completely. But everyone's immune system is different.
People living with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients, organ transplant patients, and people taking certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids, TNF inhibitors) have weak immune systems. Fungi and other infectious organisms like bacteria and viruses are more likely to succeed in infecting these certain populations. In these cases, consultation is warranted for early, proper diagnosis and management.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Dozens of antifungal medicine have been perfected over the years and of those, ketoconazole and miconazole are best for topical treatments of fungal infections. They treat a variety of skin infections such as jock itch or hadhad, which often appear in the groin and inner thighs, athlete's foot or alipunga, ringworm or buni, and severe cases of dandruff.
A skin infection known as Tinea (Pityriasis) Versicolor, commonly known as an-an, or the lightening or darkening of the skin of the neck, chest, arms, and legs, is also treated using any of these active ingredients. However, if medicated ingredients are not to your liking, you can opt for all-natural such as eucalyptus oil, peppermint, jojoba, and coconut oils, to mention a few.
It's important to emphasize that topical antifungal medications are still the first line of treatment for uncomplicated fungal infections limited to the skin. There are several drug classes of antifungals, but the most commonly used for superficial fungal infections are imidazoles (e.g. Ketoconazole, Miconazole, Clotrimazole) and allylamines (e.g. Terbinafine).
Depending on the body part affected, the duration of treatment varies with each medication. The frequency of application also varies depending on the medication, and there is a proper way of application. So, it's best to have a dermatological consult for proper assessment and treatment instructions.
Among the herbal remedies, tea tree oil holds the most promise and is almost comparable to standard antifungal medications. But more studies are needed to establish the most effective concentration to use. Products containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or urea may also be used to reduce scaling.
The antifungal soap you choose should match your skin type. Some ingredients may be so potent that they leave your skin dry or worse - they may cause you to break out. Most oily-skinned folks can tolerate antifungal soaps, especially if you want to use the soap on the face.
This means that for the dry skin type, a combination of a moisturizing agent and the active ingredient to ward off fungal infection would be the best bet. Most natural ingredients have got you covered around on the moisturizing part, so the secret here is to go natural.
Cleansers play an important role in decreasing disease because they are designed to remove sebum, dirt, bacteria, and fungi from the face and body. And regardless of the formulation (bar or liquid), they can be divided into three types: soaps, syndets, and combars.
Generally speaking, syndets are the mildest type of cleansers and the least damaging for people with dry or sensitive skin. On the other hand, soaps disrupt the skin barrier the most and result in a feeling of tightness after usage, but it is a good cleansing choice for excessively dirty or oily skin.
Combars are milder than true soaps, but induce more thorough cleansing than syndets, making it a good cleanser for normal skin with a moderate amount of environmental dirt.
Along with the active ingredients comes the scent. Some antifungal ingredients may reek of a funky smell so you might want to opt for an added fragrance to cover the other scent. Still, others may just sit through the lathering session and work the soap into their skin despite the smell. This is because artificial fragrances can irritate the skin.
Therefore, you really have to factor in this feature if your skin is sensitive. Antifungal soaps with coconut, almond, and palm oils create a more bubbly lather. Milk, aloe vera, and yogurt may replace some or all of the water needed in making the soap to create a smoother texture.
While it is true that fragrances - artificial or natural - pose a risk for contact dermatitis, it is only for a small percentage of the general population. Fragrances can be found in almost all personal care products, and if you haven't had a skin reaction to the one you've been using for months, then you're good.
From ₱64
Armed with Keratolytic, a potent agent in the removal of warts, calluses, and other lesions in which the epidermis produces excess skin, Katialis has been a household name in the country in treating kulugo, pimples, prickly heat or bungang-araw, underarm odor, and, even insect bites!
The dynamic combination of Sulfur, Zinc Oxide, and Salicylic Acid guarantees that, with continued use, you can kiss your imperfections goodbye! With its mainstay quality in Filipino homes, more households are discovering new uses of Katialis proven to be safe, effective, and affordable. It is one of the cheapest ones on the list and it is yet to fail you with your skin problems.
Both antifungal and anti-bacterial, the vigorous mixture of the active ingredients stops the infection from spreading by hitting it where it starts. Effective, affordable, and readily available, shoo every itchy feel with this power soap.
From ₱1,130
A formula appealing mostly to men, zeroing in on its solution to jock itch, body odor, and nail fungus, this antifungal-antibacterial soap and body wash is both a healing agent and skin treat.
For the price of one, you can get these two massive bottles ready to be lathered on your eczema, back acne, ringworm, and athlete's foot, to name just a few. It's so good for the skin it treats even those which affect the most sensitive parts of your body.
Perfect for gym fanatics, athletes, and other active individuals, start feeling fresh and invigorated after every wash with this liquid formulation. Free from harmful chemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and dyes, savor the soothing experience the essential oils in these bottles can afford your skin.
From ₱105
Filipinos know Akapulco by heart and its naturally-endowed healing powers on the skin. This Acapulco Soap has been formulated to be organic and natural, without the fuzz of any synthetic additives.
Otherwise known as Cassia Alata, the potent ingredient in this antifungal bar soap is widely known as a fungicide that treats fungal infections like ringworms, scabies, and eczema. It is through its antifungal properties that people have been DIYing their own akapulko soap, shampoos, and lotions.
This specific formulation from Milea seeks to cure skin problems as well as enhance the skin condition through its anti-aging, anti-acne, whitening, and moisturizing abilities, given its all-natural approach to skin health and care.
From ₱1,495
Created with the active person in mind, this fusion of powerful natural ingredients led to the formulation of an extra-strong product to soothe the skin woes of people who are always on the go. Besides combating fungal infections from head to toe, it also leaves the skin supple, moisturized, and fresh.
It's so gentle on the skin it guarantees to heal even eczema, which is not only uncomfortable and itchy but also excruciatingly painful. Confident that it will bring out the best in your skin, restoring it to its natural, healthy state, this soap will also restore your confidence while causing no irritation!
The extra strength formula heals fast and helps prevent numerous unwanted conditions, even in the most sensitive areas of the body.
From ₱3,824
Skin dehydration is commonly blamed for the skin's low immunity to infection, apart from the immunity we normally gain from nutrients and the like. This antifungal soap guarantees to wash away ringworm, jock itch, and other skin irritations you can think of.
Creating a truly refreshing experience, this concentrated liquid solution goes a long way as it deodorizes and refreshes body areas which typically produces excessive sweat. With the blend of organic ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut, olive, and jojoba oils, put an end to your dry and flaky skin and leave it moisturized in no time at all.
Enriched with a full spectrum of tea tree oils and essential oils, you may now fiercely face the world with a pimple-free face and body. Guaranteed made out of fresh ingredients, no hint of alcohol, fragrances, and preservatives are added to the formulation.
From ₱199
Ideal for deodorizing and cleaning while giving of a fruity scent from its natural ingredients, Plantex Organic Probiotic Bath Soap knows that not all bacterias are harmful. Sometimes, it keeps you healthy.
Containing Beneficial and Efficient Microbes which consume toxic material and prevent any pathological bacteria by targeting it from the roots, it is indeed best for fungal infections, odors, and sweat which produces bacteria in multitudes. As an antibacterial soap, it kills pathogenic microorganisms as well.
Probiotics serve as a fortress against bad bacteria not only in your tummy but also for your sensitive face. With a completely organic solution to skin problems, you can rest assured that you are keeping yourself, your skin, and the environment safe from harm.
From ₱1,290
With 100% pure essential oils, say goodbye to your sensitive skin, psoriasis, and eczema! This is a must amongst its satisfied users in maintaining clear skin, no-body-odor, and less sweaty versions of themselves.
Foot and body odor amongst those who frequent the gym or lead very active lifestyles have reportedly lessened. Even parents whose kids' heads are infested by lice swear by this product in terminating those creepy, itchy, little parasites. This is also perfect for growing teens haunted by nightmares of lice and dandruff ruining their teenage years.
People with especially sensitive skin, particularly those with acne, will find skin love in this natural formulation as it addresses acne, pimples, and clogged pores by helping reduce oils and bacteria build-up.
From ₱95
If you are constantly peeved by stubborn acne which just won't go away despite numerous skincare products, probably an all-natural solution from FunG will end your skin misery business. Branded as the best soap for acne pimple clearing, this bar soap proves to be an all-around, complete skincare soap.
It does not only eliminate acne-causing germ but also body odor, especially around the feminine area which can make it a great replacement for your everyday feminine wash. It protects the skin from drying out while targeting bacteria-prone areas like the face, armpit, and feet.
Perfect for women and men alike, the tea tree oil and other naturally-obtained active ingredients to the bar soap formulation are ready as you are in taking your skin problem business to an end.
From ₱1,640
Infused with activated minerals, this antifungal bar is enriched with a dual-combination of glycerin – with shea butter and with olive oil. It has been known to fight fungus up to 6 times faster than other leading brands!
Terrasil prides itself on being a healing revolution, combating skin infections through pure and natural ingredients, backed by fifteen years of research, and commended by thousands of satisfied consumers. The natural agents in this bar formulation contain natural skin conditioning qualities to leave skin moisturized and soft.
The activated minerals target fungal infection, and provide effective and fast-acting relief, making Terrasil one of the most effective bar formulation in the world today.
From ₱549
This soap has been proven to improve a number of skin disorders from eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, acne, to mention a few. Whatever the weather in the Philippines may be, skin infection will always thrive if you let it. Luckily, Omnifresh is here to the rescue.
This has been quickly forming its cult of followers through satisfied users who commend the soap as it does not easily dissolve and lasts longer than most soaps sold in the market today. With various natural ingredients coming into the creation of this antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal bar soap, it combats even psoriasis and other visible skin lesions.
Be itch and inflammation-free with the natural exfoliating powers of Omnifresh, which help improve dry and flaky patches and clogged pores as well.
Fungal infections are common, especially in tropical climates, but there are ways to prevent them. Moist skin is prone to maceration, which facilitates fungi invasion. Hence, thoroughly drying your skin, wearing breathable clothing & footwear, and applying antifungal or absorbent powders will make it harder for fungi to thrive.
It is also best to keep your hygiene products, grooming tools, and accessories (e.g. soaps, towels, brushes, barber and nail salon instruments, hats, footwear) strictly for personal use, and avoid going barefoot in public showers.
We also asked Dr. Rona for some of her tips on how to better take care of your skin. Continue reading to find out!
There are classic signs and symptoms that point to a fungal infection, such as round, scaly lesions that gradually increase in size or in number. But there are times that these classic features are absent because there are various types of fungal infections with different skin manifestations.
If the classic features are not there, but there is a high index suspicion, diagnostic tests may be prescribed for you. Your doctor may order a Potassium Hydroxide Test (KOH) or a skin punch biopsy to ensure the diagnosis.
Once the fungal infection has already caused symptoms or the skin/hair/nail changes are already apparent, these will not go away without treatment.
You would need either a topical or oral antifungal medication, and note that there are different treatment durations (depending on the type of infection). That's why it is important to consult a board-certified dermatologist for proper treatment and guidance.
To prevent this, it's important to keep your skin dry. Because moist skin is prone to maceration, which facilitates fungi invasion. Thoroughly drying your skin, wearing breathable clothing & footwear, and applying antifungal or absorbent powders will make it harder for fungi to thrive.
It is also best to keep your hygiene products, grooming tools, and accessories (e.g. soaps, towels, brushes, barber and nail salon instruments, hats, footwear) strictly for personal use, and avoid going barefoot in public showers. Direct contact with the skin lesions of someone who has a fungal infection should also be avoided.
Up your cleansing and spot-treatment routines and say bye-bye to what's causing your skin the most booboo using these products!
Author: A. Ugay
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.
No. 1:Katialis |Katialis Sulfur Zinc Oxide Salicylic Acid Soap|KSKLSoaps
No. 2:Derma-nu Miracle Skin Remedies|Antifungal Antibacterial Soap & Body Wash
No. 3:Milea|Acapulco Soap
No. 4:Truremedy Naturals|Remedy Soap Antifungal Body Wash
No. 5:Viking Revolution|Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Body Wash Soap for Men|2-Pack
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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