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Apr 5, 2023 · Bar soaps. Sulfur-rich soap is another option for acne and most appropriate for oily skin as the lather is very effective at eliminating excess oiliness. Instructions: Using warm water, work the soap into a rich lather and gently wash your face. Leave on for 2–3 minutes then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; pat dry.
- Overview
- How can it help?
- What types of acne can it treat?
- Can it treat acne scars?
- How to use sulfur
- Risks and side effects
- Summary
Using products containing sulfur for acne treatment may improve the symptoms of this skin condition. People may use sulfur treatments alone or alongside other acne treatments.
Sulfur, which has antimicrobial properties, is an ingredient in some over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription acne treatments. These products often combine sulfur with other active ingredients, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Sulfur may reduce acne due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It can inhibit the growth of a type of bacteria called Propionibacterium that contributes to acne development.
Sulfur also has keratolytic effects. Substances that act as keratolytics help soften the skin’s keratin — the key structural material in the outermost layer of the skin.
Keratolytic substances aid in skin exfoliation, and they may be an effective treatment for dry skin conditions.
Sulfur’s exfoliating and drying effects also help remove the buildup of the skin’s natural oils that contributes to acne development.
Additionally, OTC and prescription products often combine sulfur with other acne-reducing substances, such as:
•benzoyl peroxide
Sulfur is likely most effective for mild acne.
Mild acne typically takes the form of whiteheads or blackheads. Sulfur targets both the oil buildup and dead skin cells that contribute to the formation of these comedones.
Moderate acne includes papules and pustules, which are forms of inflammatory acne that cause red lesions to appear on the skin.
For moderate forms of acne, sulfur alone may not be effective. However, it may be beneficial in combination with other acne-fighting ingredients, such as sodium sulfacetamide.
Acne scars can be difficult to treat. Sulfur may work for very light scarring because it dries out the skin and removes dead cells. However, most acne scars will require more intense treatments, such as:
•salicylic acid
•topical retinoids
•dermabrasion
•chemical peels
•laser treatments
Sulfur is available in a wide variety of skin care products, as well as targeted acne treatments.
People who wish to use sulfur on their skin can choose from:
•cleansers
•creams
•exfoliants
•face washes and foams
Sulfur is generally suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Even so, it has the potential to cause side effects, such as:
•dryness
•irritation
•itching
•peeling
•redness
People have used sulfur as an acne treatment since ancient times. Today, it is widely available OTC or with a prescription.
Sulfur has antimicrobial properties, and it can exfoliate and remove excess oil. It is relatively gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
Sulfur may be most effective for mild acne. Products that contain sulfur alongside another acne-fighting ingredients may treat moderate forms of acne.
Anyone who would like to know more about sulfur for acne treatment should speak to a pharmacist, doctor, or dermatologist.
- Jayne Leonard
Mar 8, 2019 · Sulfur works best for breakouts that are formed with a combination of dead skin cells and excess sebum. These include milder forms of acne, such as whiteheads and blackheads. Still, it’s ...
- Kristeen Cherney
Mar 2, 2024 · Best for acne overall: Cetaphil DermaControl Purifying Clay Mask, $19. Best for blackheads: Clinique Acne Solutions Oil-Control Cleansing Mask, $32. Best for hormonal acne: Urban Skin Rx Acne and ...
Mar 14, 2023 · Clearogen Sulfur Acne Lotion $37.00. Shop. After cleansing and toning, smooth two pumps of Clearogen’s Sulfur Acne Lotion across the face to try to fight breakouts and minimize redness (thanks to a cocktail of salicylic acid, rosemary extract, and aloe). Murad Clarifying Acne Mask $42.00. Shop.
Apr 2, 2024 · Best for acne overall: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Mask. Best for dry skin: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask. Best pore-refining mask: Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask. Best at ...
People also ask
Can a sulfur face mask help with acne?
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Aug 16, 2021 · Sulfur helps with acne by drying out the surface of the skin. That helps absorb any excess oil that may clog your pores. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth, targeting the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium) that can cause acne. Sulfur also has keratolytic effects.
