Sulfur is one of the oldest acne medications around, having been used for more than half of a century, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). It continues to be one of many active ingredients found in nonprescription (drugstore) topical treatments for acne. Sulfur medications do come with expected side effects, cautions skin care expert Paula Begoun. Before you use sulfur to treat acne, find out how to use it properly to avoid unpleasant side effects.
About Acne Treatment
There are many factors that contribute to acne, according to the Mayo Clinic, namely excess oil production, bacteria and the natural process of skin cells that shed within the hair follicle, where acne forms. But when looking for an acne treatment that works, Begoun stresses the importance of finding one that works. She states that the treatment you choose should reduce oil on the skin, have exfoliating properties that "improve the shape and function of the pore" and disinfect the skin from bacteria that cause acne.
About Sulfur
The AAD states that it's unclear how sulfur works to reduce acne. Because sulfur medication is unpleasantly odiferous, it's often combined with other active ingredients, such as alcohol and salicylic acid; however, resorcinol is most often combined with sulfur, according to the Mayo Clinic. Together, these reduce dead skin cells and oil and reduce comedones (whiteheads and blackheads). Sulfur treatments for acne come in cream, ointment and bar soap preparations, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although used in many over-the-counter treatments, some sulfur medications require a doctor's prescription.
Appropriate Use
If using sulfur soap for acne, first work up a lather, according to the Mayo Clinic, then cleanse the skin well with warm water. Rinse well, then use the soap again. Towel off the lather or wipe it off using a tissue, without rinsing. If using sulfur as a topical treatment that is left on after washing, first cleanse with soap and water, and then blot dry with a towel. Apply just enough of the medication to make sure that areas affected with acne are covered.
Side Effects
The active ingredients in acne medications are capable of causing unpleasant side effects, and sulfur is no exception. The Mayo Clinic reports that you may noticed redness and peeling after using sulfur for a few days. Generally, side effects are temporary, according to the clinic. However, if redness and peeling persist, or if your skin becomes noticeably inflamed, contact your doctor.
Precautions
Side effects may be reduced by treating your skin gently. The Mayo Clinic stresses the importance of avoiding abrasive skin care products, including those that contain alcohol or other agents that dry the skin; medicated makeup; and other medications used for acne, especially those that contain a peeling agent. Strictly avoid applying a topical that contains mercury (such as ammoniated mercury ointment) if you're using sulfur to treat acne. Not only will you experience a bad odor, you can stain your skin black.
Considerations
Sulfur is a good disinfecting agent, Begoun says, however, along with acne treatments that contain alcohol, sulfur can be very drying and irritating to the skin. This can make your skin problems even worse, she says, and hinder the healing process. Begoun recommends choosing nonprescription treatments for acne that contain salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide instead.
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