Sulfur is a natural element famous for its characteristic smell, but also for its benefits in skincare. Its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties make it an especially effective treatment against acne: it gently exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, balances sebum production and reduces inflammation. Here, we explain everything you need to know about sulfur and how to integrate it into your skincare routine.
In the past year, research highlighting sulfur in a skincare context has jumped by nearly 82% worldwide, with soaps as a flagship product. This craze does not only concern those who seek their acne, but also those who have sensitive skin and suffer from dermatitis. Sulfur soothes itching and promotes healing.
“This mineral exists naturally and is present in soil, plants, food and water,” explains Andrea Craig, head of training at Murad UK. Sulfur is also the fifth most widespread element on earth in terms of mass.
That explained, the element found in skincare products, i.e. colloidal sulfur, is slightly different. “Unlike traditional sulfur, it is made of tiny particles, which makes it more effective as an active ingredient,” says Craig. In this instance, is the smell of colloidal sulfur as acre as its equivalent present in nature? “We can indeed distinguish this characteristic smell of rotten eggs,” says Shereene Idriss, certified dermatologist and founder of Dr Idriss Skincare. “But its effectiveness is formidable.” Skincare products containing sulfur are therefore designed to be applied in the form of home care, or masks that act throughout the night.
“Sulfur is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and has exfoliating properties,” says Dr. Idriss. It has been used for centuries to treat acne and. rashes. It works by drying out excess sebum, unclogging pores, and prevents the formation of pimples.” However, clogged pores and blackheads are not only due to an excess of sebum: they can be clogged by dead skin debris, which can lead to inflammation and, eventually, rashes. “Sulfur also soothes redness and inflammation, making it an essential element for sensitive or irritated skin.”
Experts advise against multiplying the layers of products containing sulfur. This may cause dry skin and worsen the situation in some instances. Follow the instructions specific to each product, and be careful in case of peeling skin, irritation, or tightness.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, sulfur has a beneficial action on dermatitis, rosacea and psoriasis. Studies show that its topical application is as effective as taking antibiotics in the treatment of rosacea. There is no scientific consensus on the action of sulfur on eczema, but reports indicate that its soothing properties relieve itching.
Craig recommends combining sulfur with these three ingredients: salicylic acid, kaolinite, and peat concentrates. “Salicylic acid allows gentle exfoliation for rough skin to obtain a smoother skin texture,” she says. “Kaolinite helps eliminate excess sebum and makes the skin shine; while peat concentrates, an ideal moisturizing extract for acne-prone skin, reduces visible signs of redness and promotes the elimination of impurities without drying out the skin.”
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