What does sulfur do for acne?

What sulfur does for acne

the rest of acne does not get a free endorsement by association. Sulfur also has antibacterial activity.12

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence for sulfur is limited. DermNet notes little published evidence supporting sulfur in over the counter acne products. A Cochrane review included sulfur among several topical acne ingredients and found low or very low quality evidence for many comparisons and outcomes. That leaves sulfur as a reasonable topical option, not a treatment with a well established comparative benefit.34

How to try a sulfur product

Sulfur is sold in soaps, cleansers and products that stay on the skin, which gives one element a surprisingly busy costume department. Start with a sulfur cleanser alone. If it works well for you but you want more oil control, consider a product that stays on the skin. There is no single schedule or time of day that fits every form; follow the directions for the specific product you have.1

When adding sulfur to a routine, introduce one new product at a time. Changing several products at once makes it hard to tell which one caused a reaction; your face is a poor place to run a mystery trial. For a new product, try a small area of your face for a week. If you notice itching, burning or breakouts, do not spread it over a larger area.1

When should you expect results?

Topical acne treatments can take weeks to months to show improvement, so sulfur is not an overnight fix. The available guidance does not give sulfur a more precise results timeline. If irritation, burning or redness occurs, general acne guidance is to discuss side effects with a doctor.23

Is sulfur suitable for sensitive skin?

Sulfur is often gentler on sensitive skin than benzoyl peroxide, but that comparison is not a promise that it will suit every person. Topical acne medicines can still cause skin irritation, burning or redness. Start with one product, follow its directions and discuss bothersome side effects with a doctor.12

What if the product contains sulfacetamide too?

Sulfacetamide sulfur is a prescription combination with a sulfonamide antibiotic as well as sulfur; it is a different medicine from a sulfur only cleanser. Use it externally as prescribed, applying a thin film to the affected area at the same time each day. Do not use it more often than directed, and ask the care team before applying other skin products to the treated area. Tell the care team about kidney disease, large areas of burned or damaged skin, breathing disease, skin sensitivity or allergy, pregnancy or plans to become pregnant, and breastfeeding. Get prompt medical advice for fever or flu like symptoms with a rash, or a rash that blisters or peels.5