Elemental sulfur in colloidal form. One of the oldest topical anti-acne ingredients. Disrupts hyperkeratosis at follicular openings and provides mild keratolytic and antibacterial effects. Used for acne and seborrheic dermatitis. The characteristic smell limits patient acceptability.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Topical sulfur 2-10% is included in AAD 2024 guidelines as an option for mild acne and rosacea (combined with sulfacetamide). The effect is modest compared with adapalene or benzoyl peroxide, but it is well tolerated in pregnancy.
Sulfur (elemental colloidal sulfur) is one of the oldest topical anti-acne ingredients. In use since the late 19th century. Mechanism. On the skin it converts to hydrogen sulfide and polythionic acids that enter the follicle. Disrupts hyperkeratosis at follicular openings and delivers mild keratolytic effect. Antibacterial action against Cutibacterium acnes – via DNA synthesis disruption. Also suppresses Demodex folliculorum and Malassezia – relevant in rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis. Where applied. Acne products (Sulfur 5-10% mask, Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, Kate Somerville EradiKate), rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis treatments, perioral dermatitis lotions. In Spain – Letibalm, Acnomel. Evidence base. AAD 2024 recommends sulfur as an alternative when first-line agents (benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, azelaic acid) are not tolerated. Meta-analysis (Gupta 2004) showed moderate effect in acne and rosacea over 8-12 weeks. Efficacy is below benzoyl peroxide but tolerance is better. Safety. CIR confirmed safety up to 10% in leave-on and up to 20% in rinse-off. The characteristic 'rotten egg' smell limits patient acceptability. May over-dry skin with daily use above 5%. Non-sensitizing. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. AAD 2024 includes sulfur in first-line topical acne therapy in pregnancy (alongside azelaic acid, erythromycin, clindamycin). Suitable for. Inflammatory acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, demodicosis, fungal acne. Especially useful in pregnancy when retinoids and tetracyclines are contraindicated.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
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Sulfur is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Sulfur suits: oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Sulfur has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Elemental sulfur in colloidal form.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
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Use with caution
The INCI name is Sulfur. It may also appear as: Colloidal Sulfur, Precipitated Sulfur, Сера.