Topical Keratolytic
Reviews
3.1
2211 Reviews
Topical Keratolytic
Not Enough Data
Topical Keratolytic
Side Effects
Low-Medium
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
March 2, 2018
Quick action
I struggle with under skin pimples and for sure it helped in the process of healing. I only used it one time, leaving it over night on the affected areas, and in the morning my inflammation was significantly reduced. So far, I see it did its job even if it is recommended for white-headed pimples that can be easily squeezed.
December 31, 2017
Good to dry out pimples
This stuff is good to use to dry out acne. I have used it on new pimples and old pimples to dry them out, but I wouldn't use it every night as it is very drying and can irritate your skin if you use it too much. It didn't do anything for my cysts under the skin, but did help with surfaced acne. It does have a sulfer smell to it but it really didn't bother me.
January 6, 2018
Try Vick’s vapor rub for cysts under the skin
January 24, 2018
@FvckYouAcne I will have to try that! Thank you :)
December 11, 2017
Effective for mild cases
I could see how this would help with mild acne. I have severe acne so it didn't do much for me. Make sure to leave it on or 10 min
November 9, 2017
Worked when nothing else did ( and over 10 years of trying )
I've tried different strengths of BP, Differin Gel + Cream versions, Acnomel, Clean & Clear, Proactiv, Good Genes, Salicylic Acid and more...you name it and I've more than likely tried it. So far this stuff works the best, I have acne related to poor digestion/poor microbiome that is either cystic or just really big, constant and painful. I don't get breaks in acne but it does get worse around period-time. My zits will nearly be gone the next day and certainly not painful if I use this at night. Its also the highest amount of sulphur available apparently. 10% You dip into the sediment through isopropyl alcohol which dries very fast. My regimen: Night 2 Ingredient soap bought off a seller on Etsy. Tallow and lye. (She gets the ratios correct so there isn't any fat or lye left after the saponification process, thus the most gentle, but nourishing soap there is.) moisturizer Erradikate Morning Rinse off pink stuff with warm water and follow with an organic facial oil ( I handle Argan well) Plant sulphur based moisturizer (Local to BC but can be bought online I think)
October 28, 2017
Good mask bad system.
In high school I had no acne at all.. if I did get an occasional pimple I would use this and in the morning..gone. Since then, I've developed adult acne. Yay me! A year ago I thought to just give in and buy the proactive line before seeing a dermatologist. Only after a few days.. the line completely made my skin look awful, bumps everywhere!! But the mask itself can be quite helpful. Other than that, save your money with the line. I know more people with bad proactive experiences than good. Actually I never met someone with a good proactive experience. But I wish they would tell us the makeup they use on the commercials!
July 4, 2017
Been using this stuff for years
This is a staple in my acne regimen. I've been using it since I was 15, and I'm 23 now. I basically use it as spot-treatment and leave it on overnight. I've never actually used it as a "mask", and prefer to use it overnight. It can be very drying, though - so fair warning. If I use it too much on popped pimples, it will cause my skin to flake. It does dry up pesky small pimples that don't seem to go away, and I also use it on my bacne. If I don't have this stuff, I usually freak out. update: they changed their formula, but in my opinion, their new formula is better or just as good as the last, but it does have little "beads" for exfoliation.
May 3, 2017
Product used: KAVI (Coral KAVI)
really wanted to use this product
customer representative was completely obnoxious and disgusting save your money!
April 3, 2017
Good
I use this when I have spots that need to be calmed down. I put a small amount onto the spot and either leave it for 10mins, an hour or overnight, depending on how much time I have. The one thing about this is that is is very drying, I never use it more than twice a week. On the other hand, if I wear it overnight, I wake up very oily. It calms and gets rid of spots well but not completely.
February 3, 2017
Ehh
I don't think this does much for my huge zits:/ It might just make them itchy.
October 22, 2016
Pernox Facial Scrub
I have been using this product for 40 years! Why can't I find it at the drug store anymore? I'm searching online to order. Please help.

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.