AntimicrobialKeratolyticSebum RegulatorAnti-inflammatory
Sulfur
Tier 2 Evidence
what it does
One of the oldest topical acne treatments — sulfur exfoliates dead skin cells, absorbs excess oil, and has proven antibacterial properties. Effective for acne and rosacea, particularly for skin that doesn't tolerate BHA.
The OG acne treatment from before BHA was invented. It smells like eggs, looks like chalk, and somehow still makes it into modern formulas because it works when other stuff doesn't. Great for sensitive types who can't handle salicylic acid.