Topical Keratolytic
Reviews
3.1
2211 Reviews
Topical Keratolytic
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Topical Keratolytic
Side Effects
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Topical Keratolytic
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Due to its antimicrobial properties and ability to absorb skin oil and dry out the skin, sulfur has been used for thousands of years for various skin conditions, including acne. However, it is normally reserved for noninflammatory acne (whiteheads and blackheads), because it doesn't work as well as other over-the-counter medications for inflammatory acne (papules and pustules).
Topical Keratolytic
How to Get It
This is an over-the-counter treatment. Here are some places you can find it online.
Read All About Sulfur
Compare To Other Treatments
5
22.1%
4
24.2%
3
17%
2
16.1%
1
20.6%

Used Sulfur? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
August 20, 2007

Pros:

Doesn't dry out acne so much as it just reduces the size entirely. I suppose you could say it TREATS it. Great as a spot treatment and stays well overnight.

Cons:

Expensive, though I think it's kind of worth it since nothing has worked as well as this. Some might have a problem with the smell, I think it's fine. SMALL tube for the price. Once you start to run out, it's difficult to get out.

I had used the mask twice a week and left it on for about 15 minutes. I gave that up and started using it as a spot treatment instead and was pleasantly surprised. I was completely clear for about two weeks (aside from red spots left by previous acne which was starting to fade with the use of this mask) until I adopted a new puppy that has been licking my face and cuddling up against him (I can't help it, he's so soft). I have about three new zits but I wore the spot treatment last night and I'm wearing it as I type this, since it's Sunday and I have nowhere to be, and it's dramatically reduced the size. Easy to apply and dries quickly but does not dry in humid weather. Feels kind of sticky and uncomfortable. All in all, I love it and I'll continue to use it. Hopefully they'll start selling larger tubes at a better price. Then I'll be hooked for life.
August 10, 2007

Pros:

Doesn't dry out skin, the fragrance isn't that bad, makes skin look clear and clean!

Cons:

Isn't hard nor easy to wash off your face.

It works!!!
July 27, 2007

Pros:

It healed the old breakout for a while. I only like the cleanser.

Cons:

Dried out my face, smelled really bad, irrated my face, if you forgot to use it for a day you have new breaksout, I had to force myself to put it on.

It made my face itchy
July 4, 2007

Pros:

Nothing.

Cons:

Everything!

This is the worst product I have ever used, and I wish I had read some of these reviews before buying it. I also, like many of you, experienced tiny red bumps all over my face. It is burning and itching with red blotchy spots. I usually have oily skin and now it's extremely dry and itchy. I had to buy Eucerin sensitive skin/rosacea lotion this morning to help calm my skin. This is the worst product I've ever used, and I only used it for 2 days! I'm taking it back to the store tomorrow and getting my money back!
June 14, 2007

Pros:

smelt good

Cons:

dried my skin and make my acne worste

waste money
June 13, 2007

Pros:

Nothing

Cons:

burns like hell and doesn't work

This stuff I really had high hopes for but the truth is that it is crap. This stuff burns your skin and makes it very dried out. They do give you a lotion with the package but it doesn't work either. Maybe there was a reason that this product didn't have any spokespeople, BECAUSE IT DOESN'T WORK.. I am going to try proactiv and totally give up on this crap. Don't buy this worthless product.
April 11, 2007

Cons:

This has ruined my life.

Please do not use this product. I beg of you, I am 15 years old, and I used this product in hopes of clearing up my acne. I used a very small amount trying not to overdo it and dry my skin or cause irritation. Unfortenately, I developed large cysts (which is something I never had before) and I also developed acne in places I have never had before either. I now have to see a dermatologist, but the scarring is so bad, it won't clear up nor can it be taken care of by chemical peels, dermabrasion or any treatments of that sort. I really regret using this product. It's not worth the money nor destroying your face. It's best to leave it alone. Go see a dermatologist before buying any acne treatment.
March 9, 2007

Pros:

really helps get rid of pimples, whiteheads and blackheads faster

Cons:

I spot treat so my dad thinks i look kind of funny walking arounf the house at night with little white dot on my face. lol it can also be drying so use a moisturizer before applying it.

Works good as a spot treatment. Best product in the proactive line!
January 6, 2007

Pros:

In the FAQ on the Australian site it says 18.When do i use the refining mask?
Always start with a clean face before applying the mask. Follow with the Toner and Lotion. The mask can be used with or without the Proactiv® Solution system.

Cons:

i've been using it after my 3 steps so it felt dry..now i know what order i'll try it again...

not sure coz i've been using it wrong..but my spot treatments have been OK, only thing is evryone who sees you when you wake up says What's that on your face?lol!
September 17, 2012

Pros:

Sometimes it does work.

Cons:

Smell
Doesnt work that well.

I've had this product for a long time and it smells horrible. When you wakeup and take it off you can still smell it. It doesn't do a thing for my pimples. It sometimes works but not often. It does NOTHING.

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.