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Skinformed
Acne treatmentaka sulfur mask · sulfur spot treatment

Sulfur

Caution: Old-school, thin evidenceevidence: weak/contestedFDA 2024

Sulfur has been used on breakouts for over a century, and the FDA still allows it in acne products. But careful modern studies are scarce, it's almost always mixed with other ingredients, and it can irritate or sensitize some skin. It's not harmful used as directed. There are just better-proven options for the same job, like benzoyl peroxide.

what the evidence says

FDA OTC monograph ingredient (3-10%); reviews note a lack of rigorous modern trials and possible irritation in combinations.

last reviewed 2026-07-02

can you use it with…

Try any combination in Mix Check →

sources

  1. 1.U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 21 CFR § 333.310 — Topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use: active ingredients (2024)
  2. 2.Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology · Over-the-counter Acne Treatments: A Review (2012)

note:Skinformed is general education, not medical advice. It doesn't know your skin, can't diagnose anything, and is no substitute for a clinician. If something on your skin hurts, spreads, or worries you, that's a doctor visit, not a product search.

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