If you thoroughly read the list of ingredients on the back of your fave skincare products, you may have come across sulfur. If you haven’t — we’re here to breakdown this key ingredient and the benefits of using it.
What is sulfur?
Found near volcanic areas, sulfur was officially discovered as a periodic table element way back in the early 1800’s. Most people have 140 grams of sulfur in their bodies! We ingest it regularly in our diet, usually in eggs, meat, fish, garlic, onions, and beans. It’s essential to all human beings.
In terms of skincare, sulfur is a powerful staple that is able to stop the growth of bacteria on the skin’s surface, while exfoliating and shedding dead skin cells. It can effectively dry out active acne without significantly dehydrating or irritating the surrounding skin. In addition, it’s great at controlling oil production.
What conditions can sulfur treat?
Sulfur is an ideal ingredient to treat acne, and it’s renowned for being an ingredient that’s great for acne prone, yet sensitive skin. It can be a replacement in your routine for more intensive acne-fighting ingredients you may be sensitive to, like benzoyl peroxide.
Along with combating acne, Sulfur can also treat eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, rosacea, psoriasis, warts, pityriasis versicolor (skin discoloration), hair-follicle infections, and shingles. Balneotherapy — soaking in a mineral-infused mud bath that contains sulfur — is said to be very soothing for those suffering from eczema or psoriasis.
Where can I find sulfur?
Usually found in topical skincare creams, gels, cleansers, and ointments, sulfur is included in hundreds of acne products. Now go out and try sulfur out and experience it for yourself!
What if you have an allergy to sulfa which is in medicine? Can you use sulfur if you have a sulfa allergy. It’s a severe allergy.