Sodium Sulfacetamide

Sodium sulfacetamide, also known as sulfacetamide sodium, is a prescription medication used in clinical settings to treat several types of dermal issues, including acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and rosacea, among others. It belongs to a larger class of drugs known as sulfonamides, which contain one sulfur atom (hence the name). Sulfonamides inhibit bacterial growth by preventing folic acid synthesis within bacteria, which prevents its propagation and survival. In addition to its antibacterial properties, sodium sulfacetamide also has soothing properties that help combat the inflammatory conditions it is used to treat. When used to fight acne, it is often combined with sulfur, where it can be found in cleansers, creams, and foams designed to tackle _C. acnes_ bacteria. There are some reports of application site irritation, especially when used over longer periods of time, and it’s not as gentle as alternatives such as azelaic acid or various hydroxy acids. In addition to its use as a topical skin medication, sodium sulfacetamide is also used to combat eye infections. Prescribed usage levels of sodium sulfacetamide range between 5-15%, depending on the prescriber’s request. **Note: In the past, we’ve raised concerns about sulfur and its derivatives because of their tendency to be harsh and drying. Today, thanks to evolving research and ingredient technologies, we know much more about how to use this ingredient effectively. When formulated within its recommended range, sulfur can play a valuable role in addressing certain skin concerns—especially acne—by helping reduce breakouts, calm redness and inflammation, and promote smoother skin.* *What about the issue of sulfur’s pH being too alkaline for skin? As it turns out, sulfur can be formulated in a wide pH range without losing its efficacy or impacting product stability. We know much more know about which buffers and stabilizers are necessary to ensure sulfur doesn’t creep into the skin-damaging alkaline pH range. As always with skin care, it comes down to the total formula and technologies behind it rather than a single ingredient.*

Related ingredients: Colloidal Sulfur Sulfur