Sulfur (the naturally occurring element known for, ahm, that distinct scent) is also an age-old skincare ingredient. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties, it’s a particularly effective remedy for acne—gently exfoliating skin and unclogging pores, balancing oil production, and minimizing inflammation.
Globally, searches for sulfur skincare are up 82% over the last 12 months, with people searching more than ever for sulfur soap, specifically. And it’s not just people with acne looking for the hardworking ingredient. For those with dermatitis or easily irritated skin, sulfur provides soothing relief by reducing itching and promoting healing. If that sounds like a saving grace, it is. Persistent scratching of irritated areas can break the skin further and promote infection. Calming the itch enough to leave the area alone can make a marked difference in the length and severity of flare-ups.
Here, we’ve detailed everything you need to know about the natural element and how to best use sulfur in your skincare routine.
What exactly is sulfur?
“Sulfur is a mineral that exists in nature and can be found in soil, plants, food, and water,” says Andrea Craig, Murad’s education and training manager. It’s the fifth most prevalent element on the Earth’s surface, in fact.
However, the sulfur used in most skincare products, called colloidal sulfur, is different from its organic counterpart. “Unlike traditional sulfur, it’s engineered to have much smaller particles, boosting its potency and effectiveness as an active ingredient.” Does that mean colloidal sulfur doesn’t smell quite as pungent as the raw element, then? “It does have a distinctive smell that some say resembles rotten eggs,” admits board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Idriss Skincare, Shereene Idriss. “However, it works very effectively.”
With this smell in mind, many skincare products that contain sulfur are designed to be used as treatments or masks worn when you’re sleeping or otherwise at home. While sulfur soap is a thing, the wash-on, wash-off quality means you could layer an odor-nixing body lotion over the top. These skincare products might not smell as strong as the mineral found in volcanic rock, but it’s better to err on the side of caution before leaving the house.
Why is it so beneficial when used on acne/acne-prone skin?
“Sulfur is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and has exfoliating properties,” describes Dr. Idriss, and has been used for centuries to treat acne and blemishes. It works by helping to dry out excess oil (also known as sebum), unclogging pores, and preventing the formation of pimples.” Excess sebum isn’t always the only reason for clogged pores, though. Dead skin cells not being efficiently sloughed off can cause congestion, inflammation, and eventual breakouts. “It calms redness and inflammation, too, which is what makes it useful for sensitive or irritated skin.”
Are there any ingredients that sulfur shouldn’t be mixed with?
Avoid layering multiple sulfur-containing products on top of each other, say the experts. This can lead to excessive dryness and aggravate existing conditions. Instead, use the products as instructed and keep an eye out for flaking, irritated, or overly tight feeling areas.
What other conditions can sulfur treat?
Because of its anti-inflammatory nature, sulfur is a good option for dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis. Some studies have shown that topical sulfur application can be as effective as an antibiotic in treating rosacea. As of yet, there is not a scientific consensus on whether sulfur is a solution for eczema but anecdotal reports say that the soothing properties help to alleviate severe itching.
What ingredients does sulfur work best with?
There are three ingredients that Craig advises using alongside sulfur: salicylic acid, kaolin clay, and Austrian peat extract. “Salicylic acid helps exfoliate rough and bumpy skin for a smoother texture, kaolin clay helps remove excess oil and shine, while Austrian peat extract—a hydration-replenishing extract ideal for acne-prone skin—helps reduce visible signs of redness and enhance removal of impurities without over-drying skin,” Craig emphasizes.
