Treatment FAQ

how does sulfur acne treatment work

by Perry Emmerich Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Summary

  • Sulfur is an abundantly available natural element, most commonly used to create sulfuric acid
  • Ancient people may have used sulfur for acne and other medical conditions, but proof is scarce
  • Sulfur can help with acne by reducing acne-causing bacteria 🦠🦠🤺 and removing excess oil and dead skin cells

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Sulfur helps dry out the surface of your skin to help absorb excess oil (sebum) that may contribute to acne breakouts. It also dries out dead skin cells to help unclog your pores. Some products contain sulfur along with other acne-fighting ingredients, such as resorcinol.

Full Answer

Why would someone treat their acne with sulfur?

What types of acne does it work for?

  • Mild: Whiteheads and blackheads. Classified as noninflammatory, whiteheads and blackheads are the mildest forms of acne. ...
  • Moderate: Papules and pustules. Papules and pustules are a form of moderate inflammatory acne. ...
  • Severe: Nodules and cysts. Severe acne consists of inflammatory nodules and cysts. ...
  • Scars. ...

How using sulfur for acne can improve your skin?

Which Sulfur Acne Product Is Right for Your Skin Type?

  • Dry Skin. Sulfur is a gentle drying agent, but it is still a drying agent, so if you have extremely dry skin, we do not recommend using sulfur for pimples ...
  • Oily Skin. If you have particularly oily skin, we recommend the sulfur Clarifying Mask twice a week before bed.
  • Combination Skin. ...
  • Sensitive Skin. ...

Why you should use sulfur for spot treatments?

While uncommon, adverse effects of topical sulfur products include:

  • Unpleasant odor
  • Temporary discoloration of skin
  • Drying, peeling, and swelling of the skin 2,5,6,9-11

What oils help acne?

What Are the Best Essential Oils for Acne?

  1. Thyme. In the kitchen, this herb’s delicate essence is often used to enhance pasta sauces and cooked potatoes.
  2. Rosemary. In lab tests, rosemary has been shown to damage P. ...
  3. Cinnamon. It turns out cinnamon is good for more than just baking and sprinkling on your latte. ...
  4. Rose. Rose essential oil fights E. ...
  5. Tea tree. ...
  6. Oregano. ...
  7. Lavender. ...
  8. Bergamot. ...

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Does sulfur make acne worse?

When used in skincare, you will want to take note of the amount of Sulfur present in products to ensure their safety. This is because using high strength Sulfur products on a daily basis could cause a number of side effects, such as irritation, and possibly make acne worse as opposed to better.

Does sulfur shrink pimples?

Sulfur is common in treating whitehead and blackheads and preventing pimples, but it is not an effective way of treating pimples. If you have blackheads, you should consider using sulfur since it works as a drying agent.

How long does it take for sulfur soap to clear acne?

GRISI Sulfur soap with Lanolin for Acne treatment. Sulfur treatment, when used regularly, is effective in the treatment of acne. It may take 1-8 weeks for an improvement to occur in the skin, depending on the severity of each case.

What can sulfur do to your face?

Sulfur seems to have antibacterial effects against the bacteria that cause acne. It also might help promote the loosening and shedding of skin. This is believed to help treat skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or acne.

Which is better for acne sulfur or salicylic acid?

Sulfur is usually found in volcanic areas and has a long history of being used as acne treatment. Sulfur is mild and gentle compared to salicylic acid but is an effective tool used to fight acne because sulfurs can absorb excess sebum and oil on the surface of your skin.

Is sulfur good for acne scars?

Sometimes it's hard to determine what is right for everyone, so I find it useful to go ingredient-by-ingredient to weigh the pros and cons of each item - that way everyone can make an informed decision. Sulfur is one such ingredient that people often recommend for acne. Sulfur for acne scars and acne is a great option.

Does sulfur help hormonal acne?

Sulfur helps dry out the surface of your skin to help absorb excess oil (sebum) that may contribute to acne breakouts. It also dries out dead skin cells to help unclog your pores.

Does Dr S Wong's Sulfur Soap for pimples?

S. Wong's Sulfur Soap with Moisturizer is germicide, fungicide and parasiticide. With its sulfur content, it helps treat acne, pimples and other skin infections.

Does sulfur purge the skin?

When used topically, sulfur promotes the quick shedding of dead, keratinized skin cells. This helps to minimize skin oiliness and prevent pores from becoming blocked.

What are the side effects of sulfur?

Common side effects of sulfur topical may include:mild burning, tingling, stinging, itching, or redness;peeling, dryness; or.oily skin.

Can I use sulfur and benzoyl peroxide together?

Avoid layering sulfur with your other acne topicals that may dry out the skin or exfoliate such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Experimenting with multiple acne treatments together may be too much of a good thing and cause the skin to become too dry and inflamed.

Does sulfur help fungal acne?

Washes, spot treatments or masks containing sulfur can be useful. Sulfur is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, allowing it to regulate fungal or yeast production and remove it from within your pores.

How to stop acne breakouts with sulfur?

To stop breakouts before they start, begin with a salicylic acid wash, follow with a sulfur-based mask, and once the mask is rinsed off, apply a benzoyl peroxide cream to the area.

How long does sulfur treatment take?

Sulfur for acne is a gentle treatment, so it typically takes longer to show results than more conventional acne remedies. It could take up to three months before you see any results. Safety and Side Effects. Side effects may occur as the skin grows accustomed to regular sulfur treatments.

What is the best acne treatment?

Alternatives. Benzoyl peroxide is proven to be an effective acne medication; it functions similarly to sulfur in that it also removes dead cells from the surface of the skin while reducing the presence of bacteria. Salicylic acid works similarly to benzoyl peroxide but is gentler on the skin.

What is sulfur used for?

Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral understood to be a gentle acne remedy to treat minor blackheads, whiteheads and lighten acne scars. Acne flares up when a combination of bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells become trapped in hair follicles, resulting in inflammation. Sulfur is a naturally occurring amino-rich mineral that’s found in our ...

What is the best way to treat acne?

This may help it to shrink a little faster. For best results, combine sulfur with other acne-fighting agents like salicylic acid or tea tree oil. Best sulfur products to treat acne. The three most popular options are: sulfur clay masks, foaming sulfur soap, and sulfur spot treatments. Sulfur clay mask.

Why does acne flare up?

Acne flares up when a combination of bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells become trapped in hair follicles, resulting in inflammation. Sulfur is a naturally occurring amino-rich mineral that’s found in our hair, skin and nails.

How to use sulfur clay mask?

Prior to application, use either a mild face wash or splash your face with water and pat dry with a face cloth or towel. Spread the clay mask on your face, paying attention not to get any of it in your mouth or eyes.

What are the side effects of sulfur?

Side Effects. Drying, peeling, redness, and mild itching are the most common side effects of sulfur. 4  They tend to be worse when you first begin treatment. If your skin is super sensitive, try starting slowly and building up to the recommended dose. Some products still have that unique sulfur odor.

How to get rid of acne quickly?

Doing this can help your acne clear more quickly. Try using an over-the-counter sulfur cleanser in the morning and a benzoyl peroxide lotion at night.

Does sulfur help with blackheads?

So, if you have red pimples, blackheads, or a combination of the two, sulfur can improve your skin . Sulfur is found in a wide array of skin care products, including soaps and cleansers, lotions, masks, and spot treatments. It's also a staple acne treatment at many skin spas and salons. Quite often, sulfur treatments also contain resorcinol ...

Is sulfur still used in skin care?

It's still used in skin care products today. 1 . Sulfur is a natural element and has an odor that is quite…distinctive. The scent of rotten eggs comes to mind. Luckily, today's sulfur skin care products don't smell that bad. Sulfur is available in prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter acne treatment products .

Can you use sulfur in matchsticks?

Yes, sulfur. The same stuff the flammable ends of matchsticks are made of is also used as an acne treatment. Historically known as brimstone, sulfur was used in ancient times to treat a wide range of skin problems, from dermatitis and dandruff to rosacea and warts. It's still used in skin care products today. 1 .

Is sulfur good for acne?

Sulfur Is Best for Mild to Moderate Acne. Sulfur works best if you have mild blemishes or moderate acne. 3  It really isn't effective for severe acne or cystic breakouts. But it is good for inflammatory acne as well as comedonal acne. So, if you have red pimples, blackheads, or a combination of the two, sulfur can improve your skin.

How does sulfur help with acne?

Sulfur works to counter acne by reducing the bacteria that cause acne, and it also removes dead skin cells and excess oil. Sensitive and oily skin tend to benefit the most with sulfur. There is still ongoing research on how sulfur is an effective treatment for the treatment of dark acne scars.

Why does sulfur make your skin smell?

The reasons why sulfur is used is because sulfur directly affects two of the three leading causes of acne. This makes it possible to offer better results with sensitive and oily skin. Often, these skin types are very sensitive and need a lot of care, but since sulfur is gentle and drying, it works for both.

How to apply sulfur mask?

Before you apply the sulfur mask, use a splash or a facewash. Dry your face using paper towels or a clean cloth and apply the clay on your face. Avoid the eyebrows, the mouth, and the eyes. Simply follow the instructions provided on the masking label. Once the time meant for the mask is over, rinse off the mask gently.

What are the compounds that make up sulfur?

Sulfur can be made into compounds like sulfuric acids, sulfides, and sulfate. These compounds are common in shampoos and fertilizers. There are other naturally occurring compounds like sulfur dioxide which is found in volcanos. Sulfur dioxide is known to be harmful as it causes acid rain.

Does sulfur soap make your face oily?

If you have skin that that is oily, you are more inclined to wake up with an oily skin and produce more oil through the day. When you wash your face in the morning with foaming sulfur soap, your morning will start with less oil, and when you wash your face before sleeping, your pores will be clear at night.

Can you add sulfur to your acne treatment?

Try adding sulfur into your daily acne treatment. Do not go sulfur and ditch your current treatment regimen, because no solid research supports the use of sulfur as a primary solution. Instead, you can get great results when you add it to your acne treatment system.

Does sulfur help with blackheads?

Sulfur helps to clear excess sebum and in clearing out skin cells that are dead.

Does sulfur help with acne?

Acne has various degrees of severity and depending on type of acne you have, sulfur could work well or not. Acne made of dead skin cells and excess sebum is known to be easily eliminated by sulfur. You can obtain satisfactory results within a very short time.

Can you use sulfur on acne?

Those allergic to sulfur should not apply it on their skin because it may worsen condition instead of helping you. Apply optimum amounts but persistently to maximize effects and outcomes. Since acne treatment cleanses pores, you can eliminate all forms of acne except ones that are severe and have cysts.

What are the properties of sulfur?

Sulfur is an antimicrobial, which means that it inhibits the growth of microscopic organisms, particularly pathogens. It’s similar to benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, two popular acne-fighting ingredients that also boast a drying effect, but sulfur is gentler on the skin.

Effects Of Sulfur On Each Type Of Acne

Sulfur’s effects on different types of acne can vary, so it’s essential to understand the type of acne you’re dealing with to determine whether a sulfur treatment will be effective for you. Generally, sulfur for acne is recommended for mild acne and those with oily skin types.

Using Sulfur For Acne

Sulfur can be used to both prevent zits and as an acne spot treatment for existing blemishes. It’s typically applied topically in a thin layer.

Potential Risks Of Sulfur For Acne

Sulfur is considered a reasonably gentle skincare product and is often recommended for patients with sensitive skin. Nevertheless, if you’re introducing sulfur to your skin for the first time, it’s vital to watch for any changes in your skin and ease into the product.

Other Holistic Acne Treatments

Sulfur products are just one option in the fight against acne. Many holistic treatments can improve your skin and reduce acne breakouts, such as:

Final Thoughts On Sulfur For Acne

If you’re suffering from acne-prone skin and persistent blemishes, it’s always best to talk to a dermatologist before deciding if sulfur is the best acne medication for you.

Sources

McLaughlin, J., Watterson, S., Layton, A. M., Bjourson, A. J., Barnard, E., & McDowell, A. (2019). Propionibacterium acnes and Acne Vulgaris: New Insights from the Integration of Population Genetic, Multi-Omic, Biochemical and Host-Microbe Studies. Microorganisms, 7 (5), 128. Full text: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6560440/

How long does sulfur treatment last?

Use the treatment system and sulfur treatment consistently for 6 weeks. If you don’t see results at that point, then it may be time to consider other options or talk with a dermatologist.

What is sulfur used for?

Ancient people may have used sulfur for acne and other medical conditions, but proof is scarce. Sulfur can help with acne by reducing acne-causing bacteria 🦠🦠🤺 and removing excess oil and dead skin cells.

How to use sulfur clay mask?

Sulfur clay face masks can be a fun way to treat acne. Before applying a sulfur clay mask, use a mild facewash and splash your face with water. Pat dry with a towel, then spread the clay on your face, careful to avoid the eyes, mouth, and eye brows.

How long do dark spots on face last?

These dark spots could last anywhere from a few days to a few months for those with fair skin, but for dark skin, hyperpigmentation can last months or even years.

Is sulfur good for sensitive skin?

But both oily and sensitive skin could benefit from using sulfur. This is because sulfur is a gentle drying agent. The “gentle” part is why sensitive skin usually responds well to sulfur-based acne products. Even though sulfur is drying, it is less intense than many other active ingredients in other acne products.

Is sulfur good for whiteheads?

Sulfur is most useful for treating black heads and whiteheads, and preventing pimples ; it is not overly effective for treating pimples that already exist. You may want to consider using sulfur for acne if you primarily have blackheads and whiteheads because of its natural drying properties.

Can sulfur dioxide cause acid rain?

For instance, sulfur dioxide can be found in coal and volcanic material, and when released into the atmosphere through burning or eruption it can lead to acid rain. Sulfur and its many compounds range from essential for life to deeply toxic, so it’s important to find the appropriate sulfur for acne treatment.

What is sulfur used for?

In ancient times sulfur was used to treat skin infections. The ancient Egyptians used a salve made with sulfur to treat both acne and eczema. The Traditional Chinese Medicine was using sulfur in skin care before the reign of the Yellow Emperor, some 2,200 years ago.

Does sulfur foam help with acne?

(i) Sulfur foams work best for treating acne on Asian skin. Asian skin produces just one kind of melanin pigment. On the other hand other skin types produce two or three. On other skin types, sulfur generally causes the skin look red. But on Asian skin, sulfur brings out natural skin tones.

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