Sulfur

Sulfur is a non-metal chemical element with the atomic number 16 (meaning it is the 16th element on the periodic table). In its raw form, pure sulfur is a bright yellow, crystalline solid that is colorless and odorless. The traditional “rotten egg” smell commonly associated with sulfur is the result of a chemical reaction involving bacteria. Sulfur has been used since antiquity to treat skin disorders. In modern times, its unique properties are used to alleviate symptoms of several skin conditions, including psoriasis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. [br] [br] Sulfur’s value in dermatologic practice stems from its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Regarding acne, sulfur is also used due to its keratolytic effect, promoting the shedding of dead cells from skin’s surface (in other words, it is an exfoliant). Quick note on the difference in exfoliating action between sulfur and salicylic acid: the latter is considered more effective since it’s oil-soluble and able to penetrate into the pore lining where clogs develop. In contrast, sulfur is water-soluble so primarily acts on skin’s surface to break the bonds holding dead cells and encourage shedding. Sulfur is included in the United States FDA’s Over the Counter (OTC) Acne Drug Products Monograph as one of five approved active ingredients for topical acne treatment. The others are benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, resorcinol, and resorcinol monoacetate. The monograph establishes guidelines for acceptable ingredients, concentrations, product forms, required labeling, and usage conditions for OTC acne products. Approved concentrations of sulfur for acne products, both rinse-off or leave-on, is 3–10%. Pharmacists can compound topical prescriptions with sulfur and other medications, but there are also numerous over-the-counter products containing sulfur. Since sulfur can be drying for some people’s skin, it is important that you choose products that do not contain harsh or irritating ingredients (and many of them do, so check labels carefully), as they will counter the benefits you want from using sulfur. Also worth noting: sulfur can pose a risk of skin irritation when used in high concentrations and frequent use. Amounts between 3-5% tend to provide benefits with minimal to no risk of dryness or irritation. **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 Sodium Sulfacetamide