An Honest Review of Katialis Medicated Soap (2025)

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Dealing with skin issues like acne, fungal infections, or persistent pimples can be frustrating. Over the years, I’ve tried a range of products that promised a lot but delivered very little. So when I came across Katialis Medicated Soap, a well-known product in the Philippines, I approached it with cautious optimism. What piqued my interest was its active ingredient list that reads like a dermatologist’s prescription: Sulfur, Zinc Oxide, and Salicylic Acid. These are big names in the world of skincare, especially when it comes to treating acne and fungal conditions. After using it consistently over a few weeks—not just on my face but also on areas like my back and feet—I feel ready to share an honest, detailed review that goes beyond surface-level impressions.

Packaging

Katialis Medicated Soap comes in a compact cardboard box—simple, recyclable, and easy to store. It doesn’t scream luxury, but its yellow, blue, and white color scheme gives off a clinical, no-nonsense vibe. The box was small enough to fit into my travel kit, which came in handy during a recent weekend trip. The label provides all the essential information, such as its active ingredients and country of origin (Philippines). The soap itself has a yellow-orange color and a classic rectangular shape with curved edges. It felt sturdy and practical, easy to grip in the shower, and it didn’t get soggy over time.

Ingredients

The formulation focuses heavily on treatment, not luxury. Each 100g bar contains:

• Sulfur (2g): Great for battling bacteria and fungus.
• Zinc Oxide (2g): Helps with healing and reducing irritation.
• Salicylic Acid (1g): Exfoliates and helps unclog pores.

These synthetic but potent ingredients really do pack a punch. While the soap may include humectants like glycerin, I didn’t find it moisturizing at all. It’s strictly medicinal. I did notice that not all retail listings include the full list of inactive ingredients, which might be problematic for anyone with allergies. One thing I wish they’d disclose more clearly is the pH level, as it would help users gauge whether it’s suitable for their skin type.

Scent

The scent is unmistakably medicinal. When I first unwrapped the bar, I was hit with the strong, sulfur-like smell that reminded me of topical acne treatments I’d used as a teenager. It’s not pleasant, but it didn’t linger on my skin post-rinse, which was a relief. The scent doesn’t try to please anyone—it simply reflects the soap’s purpose. If you’re sensitive to smells, this could be a deal-breaker, but in my experience, it fades quickly.

Lather and Application

Despite its functional appearance, Katialis surprised me with its creamy, dense lather. It foamed up fast, even in hard water, and provided full coverage with minimal effort. I followed the suggestion to leave the lather on for 1–2 minutes before rinsing, especially on problem areas like my back and around my hairline. This routine made a noticeable difference. I used the bar directly on my skin instead of with a loofah or cloth and found the texture ideal for targeted treatment. It rinsed off completely without that unpleasant slippery feel some medicated soaps leave behind.

Effectiveness

Katialis is not just good—it’s impressively effective for what it promises. Within a few days, I noticed fewer breakouts and a less oily T-zone. Over a couple of weeks, small patches of fungal irritation on my feet and legs also cleared up. However, it did come with a trade-off: dryness and tightness, especially on my cheeks. I experienced some peeling and redness in the first week, which I expected from the Salicylic Acid. I also noticed increased sun sensitivity, so I made sure to wear a lightweight sunscreen daily.

Some users mention a “purging phase,” and I did get a few breakouts initially, possibly from the deeper exfoliation. But after sticking with it, my skin settled. I also tested it briefly on keratosis pilaris on my arms, and while it didn’t eliminate the bumps entirely, it noticeably smoothed the area.

Size and Lifespan

At 90g, the bar is modest in size but surprisingly long-lasting. I used it daily for face and spot treatments on my body, and it held up for about three weeks. Its hard-milled consistency prevents it from turning to mush, provided it’s stored on a draining soap dish. It didn’t stain my towels or shower tray, despite its orange color—a small but thoughtful plus.

Brand Reputation

Produced by Yglesias (YSS) Laboratories, Inc., Katialis has earned a loyal following in the Philippines. It’s a trusted household name, often recommended for skin ailments. While I found plenty of reviews praising its results on platforms like Amazon and niche beauty forums, I did notice a lack of transparency regarding animal testing policies and ethical sourcing. The brand seems to stick with its tried-and-true formula rather than chasing trends. That said, I’d love to see more engagement from them in global markets.

Price and Value

Priced between $3 to $7 per bar depending on where you buy, Katialis is an affordable investment in clearer skin. Its performance rivals more expensive sulfur and salicylic acid cleansers I’ve used in the past. Buying multi-packs online offered me even more value, which is great if you’re planning to use it long-term. The bar’s durability, combined with its targeted effectiveness, makes it worth every penny.

Availability

Finding Katialis outside the Philippines takes a bit of effort. It’s not available at major U.S. pharmacies or grocery chains. I had to order it through Amazon, and although the delivery took longer than usual, the product arrived in perfect condition. Some local Filipino or Asian grocery stores might carry it, but I’d recommend ordering online if you want reliable access. A bonus: online shops often have bulk packs and even Katialis Ointment, which complements the soap perfectly for spot treatments.

Overall Rating

I’d rate Katialis a 8.3 out of 10. It loses half a point only because of its drying nature and limited ingredient transparency. For someone looking for a hardworking, no-frills medicated soap, it delivers consistent results. If you can get past the scent and are diligent about post-use moisturizing, Katialis could become your go-to skin treatment bar.

Tips & Recommendations

• Always follow up with a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
• Start with alternate-day use if you have sensitive skin.
• Pair it with Katialis Ointment for deeper, targeted results.
• Leave the lather on for at least 1–2 minutes for full effect.
• Use sunscreen daily to protect treated areas from UV sensitivity.
• Consider using it in cycles—a few days on, a few days off—to avoid over-drying.