Sulphur
A clarifying mineral that gently exfoliates, absorbs excess oil and dries out the look of blemishes; best for oily skin, as it can be drying.
sulphur, sulfur, colloidal sulphur, precipitated sulphur
Blemish-prone skin · Texture & large pores
What it does
A naturally occurring mineral element, sulphur has long been used in skincare for oily and blemish-prone skin. Most commonly used in spot treatments, masks and cleansers, it helps dry out the look of blemishes, absorb excess oil and keep pores clear.
How it works
Sulphur has a mild keratolytic action, loosening dead surface cells and gently exfoliating the topmost layer of the skin, buffing away debris that can block pores. It also has a drying effect that absorbs excess surface oil, helping the skin look clearer and less shiny. It is often paired with other clarifying ingredients, such as clay, zinc or salicylic acid.
MG says
A great alternative for blemish-prone skin that finds salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide irritating or a little too harsh. Use it on individual blemishes or as a short-contact mask rather than all over, and follow with a light moisturiser. You'll also find a little sulphur in several of Biologique Recherche's Lotion P50 formulas, alongside their exfoliating acids.
Cautions
Sulphur can be drying and irritating, and it has a distinctive smell. Patch test first, avoid broken skin, and don't use it on the same area at the same time as other drying blemish treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids or strong acids. As with any exfoliant, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. If you're pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, check with your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before using sulphur products.
Regional notes
Australia: Sulphur blemish products are cosmetics only if any acne claim is limited to preventing acne through cleansing, moisturising, exfoliating or drying the skin. A claim to treat acne makes the product a therapeutic good.
United States: Sulphur at 3–10% is a permitted active ingredient in over-the-counter acne drug products, which must carry FDA drug labelling.
United Kingdom: Sulphur skincare is sold as a cosmetic; a product presented as treating acne would be regulated as a medicine.
