Sulfur in Skincare: An Old Ingredient With a Smell
Sulfur has a long history in dermatology and still turns up in masks and spot products for oily, breakout-prone skin. It can be drying and it has a smell, so it is usually used as a short-contact product.
TL;DR
- What it is: an element found in the earth's crust, used in skincare in a purified form.
- What it does: it has keratolytic and antimicrobial properties, which is why it appears in products for oily and blemish-prone skin.
- The trade-off: it can be drying, and some formulas have a noticeable smell.
- Where it fits: usually in rinse-off masks or spot products, not as an everyday leave-on.
- Who should be careful: dry or reactive skin, which can find it too drying.
- Our position: we don't currently use it.
What is sulfur in skincare?
Sulfur is a chemical element found in the earth's crust. In skincare it is used as a purified powder or suspension, listed on labels as sulfur.
It has a long history in dermatology. A 2004 review in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, "The use of sulfur in dermatology", covers its use in skin care over time.
What does sulfur do for skin?
Sulfur is described as keratolytic, which means it helps loosen dead skin cells so they shed more easily. It also has antimicrobial properties.
That is why you see it in clay masks and spot products aimed at oily, congested and blemish-prone skin. It is a supporting player alongside ingredients like salicylic acid and kaolin clay.
Why does sulfur smell?
Sulfur compounds can give off a faint rotten-egg note, especially in unscented formulas. Brands often mask the smell with fragrance, which can be a problem for sensitive skin.
A smell does not mean a product is off. It does mean you should check the label if you are fragrance-sensitive.
Who is sulfur best for?
It suits people with oily skin who want a short-contact option for congestion. It generally works best as a wash-off mask or a targeted spot product.
If your skin is dry, reactive or already using exfoliating acids or retinoids, adding sulfur can be too much. Introduce one new active at a time.
What are the side effects of sulfur?
The common ones are dryness, tightness, peeling and a mild stinging sensation. They are more likely when it is combined with other strong actives.
Allergic reactions are uncommon but possible. Patch test first using our patch testing guide, and stop if your skin reacts.
How do you use sulfur?
Follow the directions on the product. With a mask, apply a thin layer, leave it for the time on the label, rinse and moisturise.
Start once or twice a week and see how your skin responds before going more often. Use sunscreen in the morning, especially if your routine includes exfoliating acids.
Do not layer sulfur with several other strong actives on the same night. Your barrier will tell you quickly if it is too much.
Sulfur or charcoal and clay?
Sulfur, charcoal and clay all show up in masks for oily skin, but they work differently. Clay and charcoal adsorb oil on the surface, while sulfur works on the skin cells and bacteria.
Many people do well with a clay mask first. If you are not sure, our skin quiz can help you choose.
FAQ
Is sulfur good for acne-prone skin?
It is used in products for oily, blemish-prone skin because of its keratolytic and antimicrobial properties. Results vary, and persistent acne is worth discussing with a doctor.
Does sulfur dry out skin?
It can. Start with a short-contact mask and a moisturiser afterwards.
Can you use sulfur with salicylic acid?
Some products combine them, but together they can be drying. Introduce them gradually.
Is sulfur the same as sulfates?
No. Sulfur is an element. Sulfates are a family of surfactants that are chemically different.
Is hypochlorous acid an alternative to sulfur?
They do different jobs. Hypochlorous acid is a light antimicrobial mist that does not exfoliate, so it is a gentler add-on rather than a swap.
Do we use sulfur at Dope Skin Co?
No. We don't currently use it in any product.
