Products are independently selected by our editors.
We may earn an affiliate commission from links.
And its not just people with acne looking for the hardworking ingredient.
Getty
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.
What exactly is sulfur?
Its the fifth most prevalent element on the Earths surface, in fact.
Does that mean colloidal sulfur doesnt smell quite as pungent as the raw element, then?
Itdoeshave a distinctive smell that some say resembles rotten eggs, admits board-certified dermatologist and founder ofDr.
Idriss Skincare, Shereene Idriss.
However, it works very effectively.
Why is it so beneficial when used on acne/acne-prone skin?
Sulfur is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and has exfoliating properties, describesDr.
Idriss, and has been used for centuries to treat acne and blemishes.
Excess sebum isnt 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 shouldnt 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.
What other conditions can sulfur treat?
Because of its anti-inflammatory nature, sulfur is a good option for dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis.
Somestudieshave shown that topical sulfur utility can be as effective as an antibiotic in treating rosacea.
What ingredients does sulfur work best with?
Typology
L73 Clarifying Face Scrub
TYPOLOGY.
