Sulfur has been used to treat acne for over a century, and it remains relevant today because it can help reduce oiliness, unclog pores, and calm certain types of breakouts. While it isn’t usually the first-choice treatment for moderate or severe acne, it can be a useful option for mild acne or for people who cannot tolerate stronger ingredients.
Here’s why sulfur is still included in many acne products:
- Helps remove excess oil. Sulfur has drying properties that can reduce surface oil, making it beneficial for people with oily or combination skin.
- Promotes gentle exfoliation. It has a keratolytic effect, meaning it helps loosen and remove dead skin cells that can contribute to clogged pores and the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.
- May reduce acne-causing bacteria. Sulfur has mild antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the growth of bacteria involved in acne, although it is generally less potent than treatments such as Benzoyl Peroxide.
- Can calm inflammation. Sulfur may help reduce redness and swelling associated with inflamed pimples, making blemishes appear less noticeable.
- Often works well in combination products. Sulfur is frequently paired with ingredients such as Salicylic acid or Resorcinol to improve its ability to clear clogged pores and treat blemishes.
Who might benefit?
Sulfur may be especially helpful for people with:
- Mild acne, including whiteheads and blackheads.
- Oily skin.
- Occasional inflammatory pimples.
- Skin that is sensitive to retinoids or benzoyl peroxide.
It may also be an option for people with acne-prone skin who are looking for a gentler spot treatment.
Possible drawbacks
Sulfur isn’t ideal for everyone. Some people find that it:
- Causes dryness, peeling, or temporary irritation.
- Has a distinctive odor, although many modern formulations reduce this.
- Is less effective than topical retinoids for preventing new breakouts or benzoyl peroxide for reducing acne-causing bacteria.
How to use sulfur
Sulfur is available in cleansers, masks, spot treatments, and lotions. Depending on the product:
- Spot treatments can be applied directly to individual blemishes.
- Cleansers or masks may be used several times a week or as directed.
- If your skin becomes dry, reduce how often you use it and apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Where sulfur fits in an acne routine
For many people, sulfur works best as a complementary treatment rather than the foundation of an acne routine. If you’re dealing with persistent or widespread acne, combining it with evidence-based treatments such as topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide may provide better long-term control, under the guidance of a healthcare professional if needed.
Overall, sulfur remains relevant because it’s a versatile, relatively gentle ingredient that can reduce oil, help keep pores clear, and calm mild acne, making it a valuable option for certain skin types and acne patterns.
