Topical Antibiotic / Topical Keratolytic
Reviews
4.0
150 Reviews
Topical Antibiotic / Topical Keratolytic
Efficacy
81%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Topical Antibiotic / Topical Keratolytic
Side Effects
Low-Medium
Topical Antibiotic / Topical Keratolytic
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Not often used because it smells bad, colors the skin when applied, and can (rarely) lead to severe side effects. Limited evidence shows that it does significantly clear mild-to-moderate acne, but we need more research to know for sure how well it works.
Topical Antibiotic / Topical Keratolytic
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Sodium Sulfacetamide / Sulfur
Compare To Other Treatments
5
38%
4
37.3%
3
15.3%
2
7.3%
1
2%

Used Sodium Sulfacetamide / Sulfur? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
May 17, 2008

Pros:

I have used this product for ~5 years and it's the best stuff going. It consistently keeps my face clear. I consider PMS a different story, but even then, my face doesn't break out THAT badly.

Cons:

It is expensive, even with insurance. I do wish some long-term studies could be done to ensure that there are no other ancillary health impacts from using this for a long time.

I recommend it because it really works. My only issue is the unknown regarding any potential long-term health impacts.
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April 12, 2008

Pros:

It's 100% effective. When I first started going to the dermatologist for my acne, she prescribed several products. This is the only one I have to use now to upkeep my clear skin. With my insurance, I pay $10 for a 12oz bottle that lasts 10 weeks.

Cons:

It drys the skin a little but all that I needed was a pea-sized amount of an over-the-counter face cream to combat that.

It works and I would recommend it to anyone! I started using it three months ago after years of acne and I haven't had a breakout in at least 6 weeks...not one pimple!
March 15, 2008

Pros:

Awesome... cleared my skin up in about 1 day: I hope this keeps working too because I am getting married in August. I don't have BAD ACNE.. just a few stubborn pimples... and I'm so happy I got this product. I'm using Finacea gel as well at night

Cons:

Can dry my face out a little. But I think it's because I am using the Finacea gel as well. I always use the Cetaphil daily lotion for the face. I love Cetaphil too.. it's great and doesn't clog my pores!

This product really works. I used it last year and it cleared up my face. Then I stopped using it and I when I started getting pimples again I went to my doctor. I asked for Plexion and Finacea gel.. both seem to work fantastic. Pimples are so annoying and I really hope my face stays clear for my wedding. I also work out every day and I drink A LOT of water.. AT LEAST 8 glasses a day (depending on your weight). I'm also a vegetarian and I think eating spicy foods can aggravate my skin sometimes. On price paid it's what I paid for both the plexion and the finacea gel.
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February 2, 2008

Pros:

Has helped me tremendously, and my face is now clear (knock on wood).

Cons:

Like some have said the smell. You notice it at first but get use to it and forget about it after a short time using it. Also the price if you don’t have insurance. I think I pay around $8-$10 so I’m not sure how much it can be without insuran

Hi, I have gone from Accutane, high doses of Minocycline, and Differin Cream, to this. I can't recommend this product enough. While Accutane and Minocyline helped, (especially Accutane) you can't use them forever. This product, for me, works. I use it once in the morning and apply Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer since it can be a little drying, but nothing horrible. At night I use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser with Differin Cream. I still use Differin Cream since it's easy on my face and think that it still helps my skin. I emphasize the Cream since the Gel would probably be too rough for my face. I also take Minocycline dose once every 3 days since I'm working my way off of it. Also don't eat right before you go to bed. Let it digest. I has helped me as well. I'm not saying this will work for you, but coming from someone who has suffered from acne for years and had only temporary solutions, I strongly recommend that you try this product for a few week
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January 4, 2008

Pros:

Very good for sensitive skin and works almost instantly. I could feel my skin getting better the first time I used it.

Cons:

The smell is bothersome, but its worth it.

It's a very good product and I'd recommend it for sure. It really does work.
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October 19, 2007

Pros:

clears up most all types of acne.
sulfur is not as harsh as benzoly peroxide.

Cons:

It dosent smell so good.
some alot of people are allergic to sulfur.
without coverage it could get expensive.

I have tried a sample of clenia that i got from a doctor. I really liked it.I have been suffering from really bad acne and I hope to soon get a larger bottle. My friend also uses clenia and has been for almost a year. he had really bad acne and his skin looks great. you would never know that he suffered from acne.he now would reccomend nothing else for acne but clenia.The only time he ever has a problem is when he is lazy and forgets to wash his face. Then his skin really starts to break back out.
September 20, 2007

Pros:

It works for me!

Cons:

Might be a little smelly, but that's a small price to pay for clear skin.

I've been battling severe, sudden-onset acne rosacea on my forehead for the past six months, and my skin was suddenly producing excess oil by the gallon. Nothing else I used, including prescription meds, really worked, but after just two days of using Clenia wash and cream, my skin cleared up completely, and my oil problem was under control. I am truly amazed. It's taken me months to determine my acne and rosacea triggers, but now, between avoiding those and using Clenia, I feel really good again. This is by far the most effective product I've ever used.
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August 20, 2007

Pros:

keeps me clear from acne, evens out and smooths out my skin

Cons:

just a little drying at times, but nothing serious

it's the best cleanser i have ever used and i always come back to this cleanser when i try other products that break me out. Especially now that I am on birth control, it has kept me clear because i usually breakout out on bcp but this cleanser hasn't allowed that. i LOVE it! And the generic version is really affordable, just $10!
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July 7, 2007

Pros:

Works wonders on rosacia.

Cons:

None...just keep it away from your eyes.

I suffered from rosacia my entire adult life: red, itchy and scaly skin. Tried everything, only steroids worked. And, not for long. Plexion has been a miracle, finally have normal skin "just like everyone else." I can't recommend it enough.
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May 24, 2007

Pros:

I started using it a few months ago, and right away noticed a difference. I ran out and then my acne came back. I got a refill and it started workin within a week. I really like how well it works. I have used Proactive also with worsening of my skin.

Cons:

The smell is not too pleasant, does not lather up very well, and doesn't take off makeup very well.

I would recommend this to anyone who has mild acne. It works to take away black heads and little white bumps that i had. I would say that i didnt have any new pimples after using it except with "that time of the month".
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.