What Is Sulfur—and Why It Belongs in Your Skincare Routine
By Sarina Rubin
June 02, 2025
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When you think of acne-fighting skincare, ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide might come to mind. But there’s another tried-and-true option worth paying attention to: sulfur.
While this natural ingredient might not sound glamorous—especially with its distinctive smell—sulfur is one of the most underrated tools in skincare. From calming inflammation to unclogging pores, it’s a gentle multitasker with serious skin-clearing potential.
Here’s why sulfur belongs in your skincare routine, especially if you have acne-prone skin.
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What Is Sulfur?
Sulfur is a naturally occurring element found in rocks, minerals, and your body that’s essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. It’s also one of the oldest ingredients used in acne treatments, dating back to ancient bath rituals and medicinal muds.
Sulfur skincare products are commonly sold as:
- Acne spot treatments
- Cleansers
- Clarifying masks
- Soothing creams for acne or other common skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
- Sulfur soap
Tip: A light yellow or pale pink tint is often a giveaway in sulfur-based products—and yes, the smell is part of the deal.
Who Should Use Sulfur?
Sulfur treatments are considered safe for sensitive skin types and are especially effective for those managing:
- Mild-to-moderate acne
- Rosacea
- Psoriasis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Dandruff
- Pityriasis versicolor
- Folliculitis (including fungal acne)
Sulfur could be a gentle but effective solution for those who are acne-prone or prone to inflammatory conditions.
The Benefits of Sulfur for Acne-Prone Skin
Let’s break down why sulfur, as an acne-fighting ingredient, deserves a spot in your routine:
1. It Targets Breakouts at the Source
Sulfur has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which help kill bacteria, fungi, and even parasites that contribute to breakouts and skin flare-ups. Because it works topically (rather than systemically like some supplements), it targets skin issues right at the source. These acne-fighting abilities make it especially helpful for sensitive or inflamed skin conditions.
2. It Gently Exfoliates
Sulfur is keratolytic—meaning it softens and breaks down dead skin cells, helping to unclog pores, support exfoliation, and prevent new breakouts. It’s a more gentle option than many other exfoliants, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
3. It Dries Out Active Blemishes
Sulfur helps control excess sebum production. If you’re dealing with a spot that just won’t quit, a sulfur spot treatment can help dry it out and speed up the healing process.
Good to Know: banu’s sulfur spot treatment was formulated with this in mind—delivering targeted acne care with minimal odor and irritation, so it works hard without overwhelming your skin (or your senses).
4. It’s a Low-Drama Addition to Your Routine
Unlike some active ingredients that can cause peeling or burning, sulfur is generally well-tolerated—especially in acne-safe formulations. Just be mindful of layering it with other actives like salicylic acid, retinoids, tea tree oil, or benzoyl peroxide, which may lead to irritation if used all at once.
Tip: Introduce sulfur slowly into your routine, and always patch test.
How to Use Sulfur in Your Skincare Routine
- Start slow: Use 2–3 times per week and build up as your skin adjusts.
- Spot treat or apply thinly: A little goes a long way, especially when using a sulfur acne treatment for inflamed pimples or oil-prone areas.
- Avoid stacking with strong acne products, like exfoliants or drying agents, unless recommended by a derm. Doing so could lead to dryness or skin irritation, especially if your skin’s already inflamed.
- Monitor your skin: Like with any new ingredient, consistency is key—but overdoing it can backfire.
The Takeaway: A Gentle Workhorse for Acne-Prone Skin
Sulfur might not get as much buzz as other acne-fighting ingredients, but it’s earned its place as a skincare staple. Sulfur treatments can help manage breakouts without disrupting your barrier—and do it gently, without the harshness of other actives.
Whether you’re using it in a cleanser, a face mask, or a well-formulated spot treatment, sulfur skincare products can help move you closer to your goals, especially when paired with a consistent, acne-safe routine.
And yes, even sulfur can be elegant when it’s done right.