13 Best Soaps For Oily Skin, As Per A Makeup Artist (2024)
Because the secret to great skin is lowering sebum production without dehydrating it.
Hillary Clark is a third-generation beauty entrepreneur, celebrity makeup artist, and medical esthetician with 21 years of experience. Her stints as the youngest Beauty Director for Nordstrom and West Coast Beauty Editor for Sephora provided ample opportunities for her to collaborate with some of the most popular names in the beauty industry, such as Dr.
Read full bio of Hillary Clark
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Image: Shutterstock
Oily skin has its league of problems, be it greasy skin at all times or sebum-clogged pores. Fortunately, there is a wide range of products to tackle the woes of oily skin beauties. For example, soaps for oily skins are doing rounds in the market as they cleanse gently without drying the skin and adding moisture for suppleness.
Soaps that contain organic ingredients and don’t cause irritation are the best kind for oily skin. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, aloe vera, tea tree oil help in gentle skin cleansing. They also help exfoliate dead skin cells, eliminating sebum while thoroughly hydrating the skin. The best part is these non-greasy soaps don’t rip off the natural moisture from the skin or cause further flare-ups. However, choosing the best can be challenging with so many soaps available. Hence, we have the best oily soaps to help you take care of your oily skin. Check them out!
In This Article
Top 13 Best Soaps For Oily Skin In 2024
1. Best Organic Formula:SheaMoisture African Black Soap
Formulated with organic shea butter for richness and moisture, this soothing soap is designed to cleanse, hydrate, and calm problematic skin. Also included are ingredients like aloe vera, oat, and rosemary which help to balance oily skin for a clearer complexion. Charcoal aids in detoxifying and gives this black soap for oily skin its distinctive black color. Tamarind extract acts as a natural astringent to help exfoliate the skin, while tea tree oil helps to soothe skin and prevent breakouts. Ethically traded and sustainably produced, this sulfate-free soap ensures skin that is thoroughly cleansed and deeply nourished. It is also considered a good soap for pimples and oily skin, according to the reviews online. Here is the clear demo of SheaMoisture African Black Soap.
Pros
- Designed for problematic skin
- Contains natural and organic ingredients
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates
- Free of mineral oil
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance of this soap a bit overpowering.
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 14,311 rave reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Non-Comedogenic Product:CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
Developed with dermatologists, this deep cleansing bar gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. This dermatologically-approved cleanser soap is formulated with three essential ceramides which restore and maintain skin’s moisture, and hyaluronic acid which provides deep hydration to the skin. The product also contains 5% moisturizing cream to release a steady stream of hydration throughout the day and night. Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, this soap is suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin and for those suffering from eczema.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic and non-irritating
- Suitable for use by those with eczema or sensitive skin conditions
- Acne soap for oily skin
- Fragrance-free
- Free of parabens
- Mattifying effect
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin.
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 10,054 great reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap
This aromatic cleansing bar is infused with kojic acid and papaya to help exfoliate skin for a brighter and younger-looking complexion. Formulated with only natural ingredients, this face soap for oily skin safely brightens the complexion while reducing the appearance of dark spots, freckles, and acne scars. This product also contains hyaluronic acid which deeply nourishes the skin, improves elasticity, and softens skin. Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, the oil-free formula is suitable for all skin types. Perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin to determine if it is suitable for your skin. Look at this video for a clear review of No. 7 Instant Illusion Wrinkle Filler based on the tester’s experience.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Free of parabens and SLS
- Dermatologically-tested
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 9,362 reviews claiming its efficacy.
SheaMoisture African Black Soap Best Organic Formula | CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar Best Non-Comedogenic Product | Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap Best Hypoallergenic Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive | Oily, Acne Prone, Sensitive, Dry | Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive,All Skin Types |
| Dimensions | 1 x 3.36 x 2.1 inches | 4.88 x 3.75 x 2.5 inches | 2.2 x 4.7 x 1.2 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 Ounces | 14.88 Ounces. | 3.2 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 14,311 | 10,054 | 9,362 |
| Price | $3.97 | $6.79 | $9.95 |
4. Best Vegan Option:O Naturals 6-Piece Black Bar Soap Collection
This luxury 6-piece soap bar set is presented in a recyclable gift box, and each soap bar has unique healing benefits. Each triple-milled soap bar is made of 100% natural and organic ingredients and contains sustainably sourced palm oil. The African black soap has high antioxidant content to combat free radicals, whereas the black coffee scrub bar contains 21 minerals to moisturize and nourish tired, damaged skin. The black tea and tea tree soap relieves dryness and irritation, and the Dead Sea mud and green clay soap draws excess oil and other toxins from the skin’s surface, making it an ideal soap for oily skin. Also included in the pack are a charcoal soap which has intensive, restorative powers for purifying, smoothing, and soothing, and Dead Sea mud and salt soap which exfoliates dead and damaged skin and improves circulation.
Pros
- Contains all natural and organic ingredients
- Cold-pressed and triple-milled
- Contains sustainably sourced palm oil
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin.
5. Best Exfoliating Soap:Revitale Advanced Salicylic Acid & Sulphur Scrub Treatment
This 100% pure vegetarian soap contains almond and walnut shell particles that gently exfoliate the skin, deeply cleanse pores, and remove dirt, renewing the skin. It also soothes inflammation and redness on the skin and tightens the pores for smooth skin. As reviewers have pointed out in their reviews online, it also tones your complexion evenly. In addition, it has anti-bacterial properties.
Pros
- Improves skin tone
- Smoothes the skin
- Exfoliates the skin
- 100% vegetarian soap
- Gives clean, healthy skin
Cons
- Strong smell
Pro Tip6. Best For Skin Detox:Keika Naturals Charcoal Bar
This nourishing soap is made of a blend of 5 essential oils to help rebalance and replenish sensitive skin. Also included are oil-absorbing activated charcoal and bentonite clay which work together to pull sebum and other impurities out of the pores and onto the surface of the skin to be washed away. Formulated without artificial fragrances, this skin balancing clay-based soap is scented with just enough therapeutic-grade tea tree and peppermint essential oil to benefit the skin without irritating the eyes. As per reviewer’s experience online, this oil-control charcoal soap can be used as a face soap, body wash, or shaving soap, and works great as a skin detox or a natural treatment for troubled, sensitive skin as it is free of harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Handmade soap
- Contains natural ingredients
- Contains no artificial fragrances
- Non-GMO and chemical-free
- 100% vegan soap
- Has a light scent
Cons
- Some might find that this soap dissolves a bit fast.
7. Best For Daily Use:Bioré Pore Penetrating Charcoal Bar
Formulated with natural charcoal and jojoba beads, this deep cleansing bar works to draw out deep impurities and gently exfoliate the skin, making this an ideal soap for oily skin. Infused with peppermint oil, this unique nourishing formula thoroughly cleans the skin, leaving skin feeling fresh and smooth. Suitable for use up to twice daily, this charcoal bar can be used as both a face soap and a body wash for skin that is healthy, bright, and hydrated. This natural bar soap is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for those prone to acne and breakouts. However, we recommend patch testing if you have sensitive skin to ensure optimum safety. Check this video for a detailed review of the tester’s experience to have a clear understanding about the product.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Designed for daily use
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin.
8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Joesoef Anti-Acne Soap
Formulated, developed and validated by leading dermatologists, this anti-inflammatory soap contains 10% natural volcanic sulfur and 0.25% salicylic acid, making it ideal for those with skin prone to acne and breakouts. The micronized sulfur works to penetrate deep into the pores killing all bacteria and fungus on contact, reducing inflammation, and releasing trapped sebum, dirt, and oil to the surface. Salicylic acid gently removes dead skin cells for a complexion that is healthy and brighter, making this a suitable soap. This oil-absorbing soap also helps treat those with rosacea, tinea versicolor, body acne, dermatitis, fungus, and clogged pores.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Designed for daily use
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance of this soap a bit overpowering.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 3,625 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
9. Best Non-Toxic Formula:IHeart Nature Turmeric Body Bar
Made of natural, organic ingredients, this body bar contains turmeric powder and turmeric essential oil which brightens skin, clears pores, and reduces acne, scarring, and wrinkles, while minimizing the signs of aging. Clove essential oil rejuvenates skin, while antioxidant-rich cocoa butter moisturizes and smoothens skin. Rosemary extract and rosemary essential oil support healthy collagen and improve skin tone for skin that is fresh, healthy, and nourished. Handcrafted in small artisanal batches, this mattifying soap is ideal for daily use as a face soap and a body wash. Conduct a patch test if you have dry or irritated skin before using the product to ensure suitability.
Pros
- Contains organic ingredients
- Handmade in small batches
- Free of parabens, alcohols, sulfates, and petroleum
- Free of animal fats, synthetic fragrances, and dyes
- Non-GMO and non-toxic
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin and those with skin irritations.
10. Best Dermatologist Tested:DermaHarmony Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Soap
Formulated with 10% sulfur and 3% salicylic acid, this pore-minimizing soap is formulated especially for those with oily and sensitive skin. Designed for daily use, the dermatologically-tested soap works by purifying pores of oil, dirt, and grime. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates dead cells for skin that is nourished, hydrated, and rejuvenated. This soap can be used as a face soap and a body wash, and is ideal for those prone to acne, breakouts, and other common skin issues.
Pros
- Designed for daily use
- Suitable for all skin types
- Effective against rosacea and dermatitis
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Some might find the sulfur smell of this product unpleasant.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 2,209 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
11. Best Moisturizing Formula:Grisi Sulfur Soap
Designed for the treatment of acne, this sulfur soap helps clear up blemishes and pimples. It contains lanolin which provides deep moisturizing to the skin, leaving the skin soft, hydrated, and nourished. The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of this product make it suitable to treat sensitive skin problems. Effective against flea bites, severe acne, flaky skin, and rosacea, this clarifying soap helps skin feel squeaky clean without causing dryness, making it suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Antimicrobial and antibacterial
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Designed for daily use
- Effective against rosacea, dermatitis, and flea bites
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this soap a bit unpleasant.
12. Best Anti-Acne:Makari Classic Clear Acnyl Sulfur Soap
The Makari Classic Clear Acnyl Sulfur Soap is an anti-acne soap that fights against all kinds of acne, including active pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Perfect for blemish-prone skin, it offers you the best face cleansing and helps control excess sebum production on the skin. The bar’s particles penetrate deep into the skin and remove excess sebum while preventing acne formation. In addition, the results-driven formula of this soap gently removes all dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells to offer a fresh and clean look to your facial skin. You should use this sulfur soap 1-2 times a day for the best visible results.
Pros
- Brightens your skin
- Offers deep cleansing
- Designed for daily use
- Travel-friendly
- Clears blemishes
Cons
- Overuse may cause moisture loss
13. Best Antibacterial Soap:Olivia Care Natural Olive Oil Soap
Looking to achieve radiant skin? Try this soap. With a natural and refreshing fragrance, this non-drying soap is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that invigorates, brightens, and purifies the skin. Infused with pure olive oil, which provides deep and thorough cleansing, this antioxidant-rich product also has essential oils which enhance the skin’s moisture balance. Suitable for all skin types, this natural and herbal soap proven to deliver visible results protects the skin from drying out and is effective against eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Pros
- Contains organic and natural ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of parabens
- Non-GMO
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this soap too mild
Now that we have looked at our pick of the top 13 best soaps for oily skin in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking a soap best suited for your unique requirements.
What Are The Main Causes Of Oily Skin?
To put it simply, oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum from sebaceous glands. This sebum mixes with dead cells and gets stuck in your pores, causing acne and breakouts. This overproduction of sebum can be caused by a number of reasons, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. People tend to have oily, sensitive skin in hot, humid climates. Age can cause enlarged pores, which in turn produce more oil, leading to greasy skin. Using the wrong skin care products for your skin type can also cause the skin to get clogged and acne-prone. Oily skin will benefit from a bar soap made of ingredients like salicylic acid, aloe vera, and tea tree oil.
How Do I Choose The Best Soaps For Oily Skin?
A quick look at the ingredient list will help you choose the best soap for oily skin. Pick a gentle, natural soap that does not dry out the skin. Ingredients like salicylic acid help to clear out clogged pores reducing the occurrence of acne. Citrus essential oils like aloe vera, lemon, tea tree, and lavender oil help balance skin oils and improve acne-prone skin. Pick a product that is labeled as non-comedogenic as it will not clog your pores, and always go for those with natural ingredients that will not irritate the skin.
Infographic: 6 Effective Ingredients In Soaps For Oily Skin
While considering soaps for your oily skin, there are certain things you should be aware of. Choosing soaps with the right kind of ingredients is essential because the wrong ones might cause irreparable damage to your skin. Check out the infographic below to learn about the key ingredients that go into effective formulations for oily or acne-prone skin.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
The maintenance of oily skin can be tricky. That is why you need to add the best soaps for oily skin in your beauty regimen. The SheaMoisture African Black Soap can help oily and problematic skin with pimples, while the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. If you are looking for a product that suits all skin types, try the Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap. Hillary Clark, a medical esthetician says, “Oil breaks down oil, so look for oil in cleansers to gently dissolve oil without stripping and disrupting the lipid barrier which can kick oil production into overdrive.” Look for formulas that are enriched with ingredients like papaya, tamarind, and hyaluronic acid that cleanse the pore, remove the dirt, and have antibacterial properties to soothe the skin. However, better steer clear of soaps that have overpowering fragrances and may trigger other skin concerns.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Krati Darak, the author of this article, has a deep interest in all things beauty, makeup, and skin care. She carefully researched several products keeping in mind her readers’ perspective to curate this list of the best soaps for oily. The buying guide helps you narrow down the best options on the market by keeping parameters like ingredients and dermatological testing in mind. The shortlisted soaps are gentle on your skin, non-comedogenic, and help eliminate excess sebum effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does face soap dry out the skin?
Like with any skin product, it is best to choose a face soap based on your skin type. Soaps designed specially for the face will generally not dry out the skin, and will instead hydrate and moisturize. If your skin tends to be dry, pick a face soap with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, coconut oil, or lavender essential oil, all of which intensely moisturize and keep the skin healthy.
Does face soap help acne?
A good face wash for oily skin will help clear out pores and rid the skin of oil, dirt, makeup, and sweat, all of which cause breakouts and acne. Pick a face soap with non-comedogenic ingredients like salicylic acid, charcoal, and shea butter to help cleanse and exfoliate the skin while not drying it out.
Can face soap be used every day?
Face soaps can safely be used daily, both morning and night. Using more than twice a day might dry out the skin and is not advisable. Face soaps are an essential step in your skincare regime for skin that is healthy, fresh, and bright.
How can I treat oily skin?
If you have oily skin, it is recommended to wash your face twice daily. Use a lightweight toner and serum to refresh your skin. Gently moisturize your face with an oil-free cream and keep your skin nourished.
Is glycerin soap best for oily skin?
Yes, glycerin soap is great for oily skin. It keeps your skin hydrated without making it too greasy.
Read full bio of Hillary Clark
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.