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:

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December 1, 2010
Product used: Prascion (Cleanser)

Cons:

still have my break out

I have not seen any improvements, around the pimples seems better. but the pumps are still coming and here. combination of meds and cream
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March 5, 2009

Pros:

I used this for about a year, then stopped because I moved and my doctor had never heard of it. I've been back on it for about 2-3 weeks and there is a significant difference. My skin in clear day. I also use Duac Topical Gel and Lotion.

Cons:

The smell isn't the best, and it doesn't foam like it says.

I would most definetly recommend this for people that have moderate to severe acne. It actually works and it's affordable. You get used to the smell also.
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October 9, 2008

Pros:

-cheap (with insurance)
-makes skin really soft.
-Clears acne and helps just over all appearance of skin.

Cons:

It smells, so what, get over it.

It makes your skin feel really soft and smooth. I have used it for awhile now (about 6 months?) I came off of it for a couple of weeks just because I ran out and was too lazy to go to Walgreens. I instantly noticed a difference in my skin, my cystic acne came back. I've had acne for years. Ive been on everything you can think of (seriously) differn, birth control, retin a, pro active, an asortment of antibiotics and so on. Just try the wash. It works pretty well, worth a shot.
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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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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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December 11, 2007

Pros:

Works great. Makes skin feel silky smooth especially if used after shaving.

Cons:

Might take a couple day to see results.

I was using peroxide, but it didnt make my skin feel right. Any product that can dye my towels and sheets just isnt for me. Started using this with monodox and my skin cleared up within a week. I had moderate acne, but I can already see results as girls have been more flirty. Also using finacea.
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September 23, 2007

Pros:

it may be good to use before you shave because it cleans your face extremely well

Cons:

the cloths are overdrying, doesnt seem to get rid of acne, its wayyy too over irritating leaving bumps on some parts of my skin eventually turning into acne, i would suggest not using it more than once a day

i would only use this once a day
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November 14, 2006

Pros:

well, it seemed to work

Cons:

but it doesnt seem to work enough

well, maybe is because iam using the topical cream and not he pads, but i thought it was going to work.i dont really know if it is doing anything, and if it is, its not doing enough.sigh...well, ill give it some more time and see if it works or ill just move on to the next treatment.
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September 26, 2014
Product used: Sumaxin (Wash)
Turned things around for me.
Back when my acne was bad my dermatologist put me on Sumaxin and saw results in the first week. Reduced redness and fewer breakouts. It worked great. I got off the wash and was using other washes. I noticed recently an increase in outbreaks again and got a new RX for Sumaxin.
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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.