Could Sulfur Be The Clear-Skin-Solution You’re Looking For?
Is sulfur the answer to keeping acne away? While there’s no shortage of skincare products that promise to banish blemishes, a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t work when it comes to treating acne—and some acne-fighting ingredients, like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, are simply too strong for those with sensitive skin. That’s where sulfur comes in.
When applied topically, sulfur works to unclog your pores, and it does so without over drying or irritating, making it a great alternative when you just can’t seem to find the right solution to clear up mild acne like whiteheads and blackheads. Read on to find out if a sulfur acne treatment is right for you, and check out the best sulfur options for getting your breakouts under control.
Meet the Expert
Jessie Cheung, MD, dermatologist at Cheung Aesthetics and Wellness in Chicago, specializes in surgical and cosmetic procedures for skin and wellness needs.
How does sulfur help with acne?
Before you start slathering sulfur on your face, it’s important to understand how it works. “Sulfur is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and is keratolytic,” says Jessie Cheung, MD, dermatologist at Cheung Aesthetics and Wellness in Chicago. What that means is that sulfur can break down the keratin in your skin and thin the lining of your pores (that’s a good thing!), which builds up due to excess sebum, bacteria, and dirt. Not only does sulfur work to eliminate current pimples, but it also prevents them from recurring with continued use. Used in everything from cleansers to masks, sulfur is combined with additional ingredients to ensure you achieve the acne-fighting results you’re after. “Sulfur is often combined with sodium sulfacetamide, another antibacterial, to increase effectiveness while decreasing the risk of potential side effects,” says Dr. Cheung.
What types of acne does sulfur work for?
If you suffer from mild acne, have oily skin, or find yourself constantly dealing with whiteheads and blackheads, then it might be time to try a sulfur treatment. “Sulfur monotherapy is best for milder acne, and will even help treat acne rosacea due to its anti-inflammatory properties,” says Dr. Cheung. Although sulfur won’t clear up severe acne and isn’t as effective on moderate acne, it’s still a great solution if you’re looking to clear pimples and zap excess oil without turning to a heavy-duty acne medication.
What skin types can use sulfur?
The best thing about sulfur is that it’s way more gentle than other acne-fighting ingredients, making it suitable for skin that can’t tolerate other treatments. “Sulfur can be mild enough to treat sensitive skin types,” says Dr. Cheung. Sulfur’s anti-inflammatory and anti-sebum properties also make it a safe choice for treating skin conditions like rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis (and if you’ve had either, you know that irritating your skin with a harsh treatment is the last thing that you want).
Are there any side effects?
While those with sensitive skin are drawn to sulfur for it’s gentle yet effective treatment, it’s still best to spot test before slathering on the sulfur. “Stronger sulfur products can be drying and cause irritation,” says Dr. Cheung, so be sure to follow the product’s instructions.
The best acne products with sulfur to try now:
1. SUNDAY RILEY Saturn Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask
This multitasking mask can clear acne breakouts and works overtime to keep blemishes from forming in the first place. Not only does this formula contain 10% sulfur, but it also serves up a soothing dose of another key ingredient—niacinamide—to clear your skin and leave you with a glowing complexion. Ipsters say the results are impressive. “MY NEW HOLY GRAIL!!! I have combo/acne prone/sensitive skin and this has done wonders,” raves one Ipster. Simply apply for 20 to 30 minutes and wash off to enjoy its smoothing, glowing results.
2. DERMADOCTOR Ain’t Misbehavin’ Intensive 10% Sulfur Acne Mask & Emergency Spot Treatment
This pore-penetrating mask contains 10% sulfur to clear up zits and absorb excess sebum, stopping your pimples from forming in their tracks. It also contains witch hazel and kaolin to help calm and soothe acne-prone skin, making it a perf option for overnight use. Just apply as a spot treatment on stubborn pimples before you sleep, and get ready to wake up to clearer skin.
If you suffer from mild acne and haven’t found your go-to treatment, it might be time to try sulfur products—a gentle but effective solution for getting your acne under control.
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