Sulfur Acne Treatments
September 17, 2008 · Print This Article
Sulphur has long been considered a disinfectant and used in skin treatments for eczema, psoriasis, acne etc. Sulfur acne treatments come in the form of topical applications like lotions, creams and soaps. In treating acne, these preparations work in many ways. It loosens and dislodges the blackheads from skin pores by causing the skin to peel including the dead skin cells which clog the pores.
Though, in sulfur acne treatments it is not known how sulphur affects acne conditions, it has been used effectively for more than 50 years. Sulphur is mostly used in combination with other substances like zinc, resorcinol etc. Sulfur acne treatment products such as Acne and Pimple Gel, Acnederm Ointment and Clearasil Cream
Medication can assist in various other treatment procedures also. Sulphur is a keratolytic and helps suppress bacteria that may make the acne worse.
Sulphur is also often combined with other ingredients, besides resorcinol and zinc, like salicylate acid and benzoyl peroxide. It is not usually used by itself because of its strong, unpleasant odor. Using harsh chemicals such as Benzoyl Peroxide only serve to damage the natural moisture balance of the skin. Though they may be effective for a short while, it may actually cause the acne to get worse over time.
Locally available face masks and creams using sulphur based preparations can support the skin by maintaining a healthy moisture balance and destroying the bacteria that is the real cause of the acne at the same time. Sulfur based face masks not only removes everyday dirt and oil, preparing it for other topical treatments, but also contains ingredients which fight skin blemishes.
Local home made applications can also be tried out. These sulfur acne treatments consist of one teaspoon pure sulphur powder made to a paste, two tablespoons Fuller’s earth and one egg white. This can be applied as a mask every day to cure acne.
Since some people are however allergic to sulphur, a skin test should be conducted before use. In case of no reaction to this test, the preparation can be used safely everyday. The skin shows an improvement in its tone and health usually within two to three weeks. The Eskamel cream available in the market is a very potent sulphur drug preparation for acne.
