Sulfur For Fungal Acne, Acne And Rosacea
A lady in her late 20s is worried about recurring pimples and redness on her face. She has tried many OTC products, but she is forced to quit them.
The treatments seem to worsen the condition and also irritate her. She had given up on the journey to facial recovery until she decided to meet her dermatologist. She is advised to use sulfur medicated soap and medicated shampoos. She is weary; should she try it, or will it be like other topical medicines she has tried?
Did you know that sulfur is a safe cure for skin conditions that fall in the acne family? Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral that is gentle to sensitive skin that has gone through intermittent skin infections.
While sulfur is considered a safe skin treatment, there are do’s and don’ts that relate to it. To understand better the dos and don’ts of sulfur on your skin, continue reading.
What is sulfur?
The mineral is the 10th most abundant element on earth and is found in volcanoes, hot springs, and the oceanic body in its natural form. All plants and human bodies have traces of these sulfur elements. The mineral is the third most abundant in the human body.
Sulfur ingestion is how humans receive a portion of this crucial mineral. Foods like vegetables, red and white meats, whole grains, and nuts are good sources of Sulfur. You can also find Sulfur in your drinking water and in the air you breathe.
Sulfur is currently used in a number of skincare products to treat existing skin problems. Facial infections like acne, rosacea, fungal acne, and seborrheic dermatitis benefit highly from Sulfur-based products. [1]
Benefits of Sulfur in Skin Care
Sulfur is a non-metal and non-toxic element that early research shows is useful to human health in many ways;
Unclogs Skin Pores
Clogged pores on your skin block the release of excess lipids in the body, failure to which the oils build up into pimples. According to studies, early research suggests, most face conditions result from clogged pores. [2]
Sulfur-containing products have a keratolytic element, which removes dead skin cells, thus purifying the skin’s pores.
Eliminates Excess Oils
Sebum/Oils are useful secretions of the human body. However, when abundantly produced, this excess oil can cause facial and body acne. Fortunately, sulfur has a drying effect which is suitable for sensitive oily skin types.
Sulfur Fights Harmful Bacterias
Sulfur has antibacterial properties essential to clearing out acne bacteria while reducing its inflammatory effects.
Kills Skin Parasites
The mineral has an antiparasitic component that kills the Demodex folliculorum parasites. Research shows that Demodex folliculorum is a skin parasite that causes Rosacea. [3]
Sulfur is an Antifungal
Although not yet fully understood due to insufficient evidence, sulfur is thought to prevent the replication of Malassezia(the yeast responsible for fungal acne). However, we do know that when administered topically, sulfur is deadly to fungi. [4] The breakdown of these fungal species also helps to reduce seborrheic dermatitis concerns such as scaling and skin redness among other symptoms.
What are the Benefits of sulfur soap?
Sulfur treatments come in various forms. They can be packaged as soap, sulfur cream, or jelly containing sulfur. Whichever solution you pick will have positive effects on your dandruff treatment and acne management strategies. The use of sulfur soap has been found to be more appropriate for sensitive skin.
Let’s look at the benefits of using soap containing Sulfur on your skin:
Stops the Spread of Acne
The soaps contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory elements essential in healing facial acne (acne vulgaris). [5]
Acne is produced when facial follicles have a blockage, thus preventing the skin from excreting excess oils and follicular debris. Sulfur soaps clear dead cells to allow your skin ‘to breath’ hence obtaining better health.
Absorbs Excess Oils
Sulfur soaps and salicylic acid are both used to reduce the emission of excess lipids. Both elements have a drying effect which is most helpful to reduce the case of oily faces.
Reduces the Effects of Rosacea
Rosacea is an uncomfortable skin condition that is clinically incurable. However, sulfur soaps alleviate symptoms of Rosacea by drying the red bumps of Rosacea.
Treats Seborrheic Dermatitis
Sulfur soaps are essential in killing fungal infections that cause seborrheic dermatitis.
Sulfur can treat acne gently
Acnes are pimples that arise from clogged pores due to excess sebum and dead cell regeneration.
Many topical acne drug products, including salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and sulfur, have been proven effective. However, among the three topical acne drugs, sulfur is the only one with clinical properties that are gentle to the skin’s surface since it is a natural mineral and not a manufactured chemical.
Symptoms of Acne
- Existence of Whiteheads and Blackheads
- Pimples or papules (red and tender bumps on the skin’s surface.)
- The appearance of huge, painful lumps under the skin
- Painful, pus-filled lumps that occur under the skin
Sulfur treatment reduces excess sebum to reduce the effect of acne on the skin. The third most abundant mineral in the body is also helpful in clearing dead cells to open clogged pores.
Although the effects of Sulfur have not been highly researched, many dermatologists believe it can cure a vast majority of acne. Here are the types of acne that Sulfur can cure:
Mild to adverse White and Blackheads
These are the mild forms of acne that occur when dead skin cells combine and clog skin follicles. Whiteheads have a closure at the top of the pore, whereas blackheads have an opening at the top.
Papules and Pustules
Pustules are pimples filled with pus. Both pustules and papules represent moderate acne. They appear due to a breakdown of the walls of the pores, which harden into painful papules and pustules.
Nodules and cysts
Nodules and Cysts are severe cases of acne. This condition occurs when pores are highly inflamed, leading to big, pus-filled, painful lesions.
Just like benzoyl peroxide, sulfur acne treatment has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment. However, Sulfur can be irritating to dry skin, thus recommended as a safer solution for acne breakouts on oily skin. [6]
Can Sulfur Cure Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne is an itchy skin infection caused by fungal elements that accumulate in the hair follicles. Due to the difference in structure, fungal acne can not be treated by most acne vulgaris treatments.
Since Sulfur has both antibacterial and antifungal elements, it is a good treatment for this type of acne. Sulfur is a preferred remedy for reducing fungi and inflammation with its gentle factor.
Is Sulfur Good For Rosacea?
Rosacea is a skin condition associated with flares, redness, dryness, and high irritation rates. Its nature of high sensitivity makes it difficult to identify suitable treatment.
For Rosacea, 5% sulfur is mixed with 10% sodium sulfacetamide to become an effective treatment. The American Academy of Dermatology Association advises the use of Sulfur is safe for Rosacea. [7]
Dermatologists advise patients with Rosacea to use FDA approved sulfur products and avoid Rosacea triggers for an effective treatment.
Sulfur soothes rosacea
Both Sulfur and Sodium Sulfacetamide reduce inflammation bruises and papulopustular Rosacea. In turn, the treatment leads to the reduction of erythema lying deep under the skin. [8]
How does sulfur help seborrheic dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin problem that affects the scalp and other body parts like the face. The condition is characterized by scaly patches, red skin dandruff, and itching.
A fungal infection is likely the cause of seborrheic dermatitis(SD). Therefore, using sulfur will activate its antimicrobial properties to heal this itchy skin infection. Sulfur also reduces itching and the flaking effects of SD.
Sulfur exfoliates
Sulfur is keratolytic which implies that it softens and thins the epidermis. This helps peel dead skin and remove impurities that contribute to clogged pores, breakouts, and uneven texture. In turn, it leaves your skin moisturized and smooth.
The Best Products to try with Sulfur
Sulfur is a FDA approved ingredient in beauty and other medical products. [9]
Sulfur is often combined with other FDA OTC ingredients to reduce its odor and improve results. Let’s look at a few of the best sulfur-based skin care products available on Amazon.
NB. Treatment options may take up to two months before results are seen, so it is important to be patient and consistent.
*Pricing Guide
- $ = Under $20
- $$ = Between $20 -$30
- $$$ = Above $30
From time to time we include products that we believe will be beneficial to our readers. If you make a purchase using the links on this page, we may receive a commission.
1. Dermalogica – Charcoal Rescue Masque
Pros
- Contains activated charcoal, which can help to absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin
- Can be used as both a spot treatment and an all-over mask
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some users may find that the mask is too drying
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
- Can be a bit messy to use
When it comes to acne and rosacea, there are a lot of different treatments out there. But one that is often overlooked is the Dermalogica – Charcoal Rescue Masque. This mask contains sulfur, which has been shown to be effective in treating both acne and rosacea.
This is an all-in-one face mask that is suited for dry skin. This product has a 4.5 rating for its effectiveness.
For best results, use the Dermalogica – Charcoal Rescue Masque 2-3 times per week. You should start to see a difference in your skin within a few weeks.
Water, Kaolin, Bentonite, Maris Limus (Sea Silt) Extract, Sulfur, Lactic Acid, Niacinamide, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Butylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Charcoal Powder, Volcanic Ash, Peumus Boldus Leaf Extract, Phytic Acid, Naringenin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Panthenyl Triacetate, Glycerin, Galactoarabinan, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Benzoic Acid, Phenoxyethanol
How to apply it:
- Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser
- Then apply the mask to your face, avoiding the eye area
- Leave on for 10-15 minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
Overall, Dermalogica’s Charcoal Rescue Masque is a promising product for those looking for a natural way to treat their acne or rosacea. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it is definitely worth trying if you are struggling to find an effective solution.
Price: $$$
2. Kate Somerville – EradiKate Acne Treatment
Pros
- Sulfur is a natural element that has been used to treat acne and rosacea for centuries
- Helps to dry out the pimple and kill the bacteria that causes the acne
- Excellent spot treatment
Cons
- Strong sulfur odor
- Can have a drying effect on the skin. so it’s important to use a moisturizer after applying the treatment.
- Not suitable for large areas of the face or body
When it comes to dealing with acne and rosacea, Kate Somerville’s EradiKate Acne Treatment is tough to beat. This powerful sulfur-based spot treatment quickly and effectively banishes blemishes while helping to prevent future breakouts.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Sulfur 10.0%
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Isopropyl Alcohol, Water, Zinc Oxide, Sulfur, Camphor, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Salicylic Acid, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides)
How to apply it:
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry
- Apply a thin layer of EradiKate Acne Treatment to the affected area. Be sure to avoid contact with eyes, nostrils, and lips
- Insert a clean cotton swab to the bottom of the bottle, and apply only the pink sediment to the affected areas.
- Leave the treatment on for up to eight hours, or overnight if possible.
You’ll start to see results in as little as 24 hours, with blemishes disappearing quickly. For best results, use EradiKate Acne Treatment two to three times a week until your skin is clear.
So there you have it – a simple, effective way to banish acne and rosacea using Kate Somerville’s EradiKate Acne Treatment. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Price: $$
3. Peter Thomas Roth – Therapeutic Sulfur Mask Acne Treatment
Pros
- Helps dry up pimples and prevent new ones from forming
- Absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin
- Suitable for use on all skin types
- Has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin
- Dries Clear
Cons
- Some people may find the sulfur scent to be overpowering
- The mask can be drying, so it’s important to follow up with a hydrating moisturizer after use
- It’s not suitable for use on broken or irritated skin
- Some people may experience redness or irritation after using the mask
- May sting the eyes
If you are experiencing difficult acne or rosacea, this powerful medicated treatment masque might be right for you.
This product is popular for a reason: it includes sulfur, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This makes it ideal for treating acne and rosacea. It gently exfoliates the skin, reduces redness and swelling, unclogs pores, and dries up excess oil.
It’s made with maximum strength 10% sulfur and other purifying ingredients like bentonite and kaolin clay, while glycerin and aloe vera help soothe and calm the skin.
Can be used up to three times a week.
It’s important to use this mask as directed and to follow up with a effective moisturizer.
You may see an improvement in your skin within a few weeks of regular use.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Sulfur 10.0%
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS:
Water, Bentonite, Kaolin, Propylene Glycol, Talc, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Zinc Oxide (Ci 77947), Polysorbate 20, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Carbomer, Fragrance (Parfum), Sodium Hydroxide, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
How to apply it:
- Cleanse and pat dry the affected area (face, chest, or back)
- Apply the mask
- Leave it on for 5-10 minutes
- Rinse off with warm water
Price: $$$
4. Glytone – Acne Treatment Mask
Pros
- Easy to use
- Works well on oily skin
- Dries out pimples leaving your skin smooth
- Does not irritate
- Best for spot application
Cons
- Some people may find that their skin is dry or irritated as it adjusts
- Strong sulfur scent
Glytone’s Acne Treatment Mask is a sulfur-based product that can help to treat acne and rosacea. The mask works by helping to clear pores and reduce inflammation. It can be used once or twice a week as needed.
This Acne Treatment Mask formulated with sulfur to help treat acne breakouts and calm rosacea flare-ups. Sulfur has long been used as a topical treatment for acne, as it helps to dry out the blemishes and reduce inflammation.
It also contains kaolin clay, which helps to absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin.
The mask can be used as an overnight spot treatment or applied over the entire face for 20-25 minutes, 1-3 times per week.
Glytone’s Acne Treatment Mask is a safe and effective way to help treat acne and calm rosacea flare-ups.
.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: 6.7% Sulfur
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS:
Water, Bentonite, Isopropyl Alcohol, Kaolin, Zinc Oxide, Glycerin, Calcium Oxide, Cocamide Mipa, Fragrance, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Methylparaben, Calcium Carbonate, Quartz, Magnesium Oxide, Calcium Sulfate, Isopropanolamine
How to apply it:
- Apply a ample amount to the entire face and neck
- Allow drying for 20-25 minutes for the product to absorb into the skin.
- Rinse in lukewarm water
Price: $$
5. DermaHarmony Sulfur and Salicylic Acid Bar Soap
Pros
- Acne fighting ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%)
- Clears Keratosis Pilaris
- Exfoliate the skin leaving it bright
- Clears out blemishes and unclogs pores
- Eliminates pimples and spots
Cons
- The soap dissolves quickly in water
DermaHarmony Sulfur and Salicylic Acid Bar Soap is a soap that contains sulfur and salicylic acid. These two ingredients are very effective at treating acne and rosacea. Sulfur helps to kill the bacteria that causes acne. And salicylic acid helps to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.
The bar soap is safe for use on the whole body.
Saponified Oils, Water, Precipitated Sulfur, Glycerin (from vegetable oil), Salicylic Acid, Soyethyl Morpholinium Ethosulfate, Table Salt, Salt of Pentetic Acid
How to apply it:
- Leave it for 2 to 5 minutes
- Rinse off
- Repeat the cycle twice daily for a month
Price: $
6. Dr. S. Wong’s Sulfur Soap
Pros
- Can help to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne and rosacea
- May help to clear up existing breakouts
- Can be used as a spot treatment or all over the face
- Sulfur is a natural antibiotic, so it can help to kill bacteria that can cause acne
Cons
- May be drying to some skin types
- Some people may experience irritation from the sulfur
- May not be as effective as other acne treatments
Dr. S. Wong’s Sulfur Soap with 3% Sulfur and Aloe Vera can be a great choice for those suffering from acne or rosacea. This sulfur soap is antifungal and antiparasitic and is designed to help treat and prevent acne breakouts, as well as soothe the skin. The aloe vera in the soap helps to calm and moisturize the skin, while the sulfur works to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. This combination can help to improve the appearance of your skin and give you relief from your acne or rosacea symptoms.
The bar soap can be used on all skin types and applied to the whole body.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: 3% Sulfur
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS:
Fragrance, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Sodium, Palmate, Sodium Palm Kernelate
How to apply it:
- Wet your face with warm water and massage the soap into your skin for 45-60 seconds
- Rinse your face thoroughly with cool water
- Pat your skin dry and apply a light moisturizer if needed
- Use the soap once or twice daily as needed to keep breakouts under control
Price: $
7. De La Cruz – 10% Sulfur Ointment Acne Treatment
Pros
- Acne fighting ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide (10%)
- Targets acne at the source (bacteria),
- Fast-acting treatment for severe acne
- Eliminate stubborn spots, blemishes, and pimples including backhead and whiteheads
- Soothes as it treats
- Reduces inflammatory acne
- Prevents new acne from appearing
- Works for some cystic forms of acne
- Reduces hormonal acne
- Works for stubborn body acne
Cons
- Not recommended for use on sensitive skin
De La Cruz 10% Sulfur Ointment Acne Treatment is an effective way to treat acne and rosacea. The sulfur in the ointment helps to kill the bacteria that cause acne and rosacea. The ointment also helps to reduce inflammation and redness. De La Cruz 10% Sulfur Ointment Acne Treatment is a safe and effective way to treat mild to moderate acne and rosacea.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: 10% Sulfur
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS:
Polyethylene Glycol
How to apply it:
- Apply a thin layer onto the affected skin two to three times per day
- Let it dry for 10 minutes
- Then wash your face thoroughly
If you are looking for an effective acne treatment, try De La Cruz 10% Sulfur Ointment Acne Treatment. This sulfur-based acne treatment will help to clear your skin and prevent future breakouts.
Price: $
8. TARTE-Knockout Tingling Treatment
Pros
- Powerful acne-fighting ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Low pH
- Alcohol-Free
Cons
- Some people may find the tingling sensation to be too strong
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
This powerful spot and all-over treatment contains sulfur to help dry out pimples, while niacinamide and aloe vera soothe the skin. Knockout Tingling Treatment can be used morning and night and is safe for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.
It also contains salicylic acid that works to unclog pores and prevent future breakouts.
If you have acne or rosacea, give TARTE-Knockout Tingling Treatment a try. You’ll love the way your skin looks and feels!
Water, Niacinamide, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Propanediol, Glycerin, Gluconolactone, Malic Acid, Phytic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Magnesium Chloride, Acetic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Allium Cepa (Onion) Bulb Extract, Calcium Gluconate, Cochlearia Armoracia (Horseradish) Root Extract, Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract, Myrtus Communis Extract, Rumex Acetosa Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Extract, Calcium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Sulfur
How to apply it:
- Apply a thin layer of the treatment to clean, dry skin
- Leave on for 10 minutes
- Rinse with warm water
- Use three to four times a week as needed
So, should you try Tarte’s Knockout Tingling Treatment? If you’re struggling with acne and are looking for a product that contains potent ingredients, then yes! Just keep in mind that it may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s always best to test it on a small area of skin first.
Price: $$
9. Mario Badescu – Drying Lotion
Pros
- Contains sulfur, which is a known acne-fighting ingredient
- It is said to help dry up blemishes overnight
- Many people find that it works well for them and doesn’t cause any irritation
Cons
- Some people find that it’s too drying and causes their skin to flake
- You have to apply it with a cotton swab
- It’s not suitable for use on broken skin
The Mario Badescu Drying Lotion is an excellent, award-winning spot treatment for blemishes
It’s a quick and easy way to dry up pimples and calm redness and inflammation. The lotion contains sulfur, which is a natural antibacterial agent, as well as other ingredients such as calamine that help to soothe and heal the skin.
Isopropyl Alcohol, Aqua, Water Calamine, Camphor, Sulfur, Resorcinol, Salicylic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Talc, Glycerin
How to apply it:
- Cleanse your skin thoroughly before applying the lotion. This will help to remove any dirt or oil that could potentially clog your pores and lead to further breakouts
- Important! Do not shake prior to opening
- Dip a cotton swab in the pink liquid at the bottom of the bottle
- Gently dab the affected areas with the cotton swab, being careful not to rub or scrub the skin
- Allow the lotion to dry completely before applying any other products to your skin
- If you experience any redness, itching, or burning after applying the lotion, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist
It’s gentle enough to use on a daily basis, and it’s very affordable. If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to treat and manage acne and rosacea symptoms, the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion is a great option.
Price: $
10. DermaHarmony Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Castile Soap (Liquid)
Pros
- Contains both acne and rosacea-fighting ingredients in one product.
- Gentle and non-drying, which makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
- Liquid formula of the soap ensures that it will not strip the skin of its natural oils.
Cons
- Sulfur can be drying to the skin if used in too high of a concentration
- The liquid formula of the soap means that it can be difficult to control the amount of product that is dispensed
- Some people may find the scent of sulfur unpleasant
If you’re looking for an all-natural way to fight acne and rosacea, look no further than DermaHarmony’s Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Castile Soap (Liquid). This soap contains sulfur, which is known to be helpful in treating acne, as well as salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.
Plus, it’s made with castile soap, which is gentle and non-irritating. So if you’re looking for a soap that can help with both acne and rosacea, DermaHarmony’s Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Soap is definitely worth a try.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
5% Sulfur, 2% Salicylic Acid
INGREDIENTS
Potassium Oleate, Potassium Olivate, Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Pumice, Glycerin, Acrylates Copolymer, Citric Acid
How to apply it:
- Lather up and massage onto wet skin
- Rinse thoroughly
- For best results, use twice daily
This soap contains 5% sulfur and 2% salicylic acid, which makes it an effective treatment for acne and rosacea. When used on the skin, it helps to reduce inflammation and redness, and also works to kill bacteria. This soap is gentle enough to use on the face but should be avoided if you have very sensitive skin.
Price: $
Is there a Cure for Acne?
There is no “cure” for acne. However, there are many different treatment options available that can help improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the number of breakouts.
Treatments include topical acne creams, gels, washes, oral medications, and various types of laser therapies.
Prevention Tips for Avoiding Future Breakouts
One of the best ways to avoid future acne breakouts is to adopt a healthy lifestyle that incorporates a proper diet and regular exercise.
Eating a balanced diet that is low in processed foods and high in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to keep your skin clear.
Avoiding dairy products especially skimmed milk might also help maintain healthy skin.
In addition, regular exercise can also help to reduce stress, which can help to decrease acne flare-ups.
Other best practices for preventing acne include avoiding touching your face with your hands, keeping your hair clean and off of your face, and cleansing your skin regularly.
Be sure to use a gentle cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type to avoid further irritation.
And last but not least, if you do experience a breakout, resist the urge to pick at your blemishes, as this can lead to further skin damage.
Pro-Tip
Another often overlooked factor is sleeping habits.
Bacteria and dirt can accumulate on bedding and pillowcases. When you sleep with your hand or arm across your face, this bacteria can be transferred to your skin and clog pores. Which can then lead to the development of acne or make existing acne worse.
To help prevent this, it is important to keep your bedding and sleeping area clean. Pillowcases should be changed or washed frequently, and sleeping towels should be replaced every few months. In addition, it might be best to sleep on your back or with a clean towel over your pillow each night to avoid contact with bacteria and dirt.
What if you’ve Tried Everything and Nothing Works?
Maybe You Have “Acne Pimples” Not “Acne”
If you have tried everything and nothing seems to work, it is important to consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help you identify the type of acne you have and recommend the best treatment option to help clear up your skin.
In some cases, you may have what is known as Malassezia folliculitis, instead of acne vulgaris.
Malassezia folliculitis, also known as Pityrosporum folliculitis, is a type of acne that is caused by a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. This condition typically manifests as small, itchy red bumps on the skin and can be treated with a range of effective fungal acne washes, creams, and other medications.
A Dysfunctional Barrier
Another very critical and also very commonly overlooked reason for persistent acne is a broken skin barrier
The moisture barrier is an invisible film of lipids that lines the skin’s outer layer. This layer helps to keep your skin hydrated and protected from the environment. When this barrier is damaged or not functioning properly, it can cause acne by allowing irritants, bacteria, and excess sebum to get trapped in your pores.
When your skin’s barrier is compromised, it becomes more vulnerable to external aggressors, such as pollution, UV radiation, smoke, dust, etc. An impaired barrier is also less resistant to chemical irritants and physical abrasion.
Existing acne might get worse and new blemishes may form more quickly due to increased inflammation and irritation happening in the skin. Bacteria may penetrate the skin more readily if the skin barrier is disrupted, thus exacerbating acne.
Fortunately, there are many effective remedies that can help to repair your moisture barrier and clear up breakouts. Some of the most common include topical creams and gels that contain potent barrier-boosting ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, urea, niacinamide, and squalane.
Important!
Addressing any moisture barrier issues is without a doubt one of the most crucial things you can do to help your skin heal and return to normal. When the barrier is intact the skin remans resilient.
Summary
There are many different acne treatment options available, from over-the-counter creams and cleansers to prescription medications, which can work well for mild to moderate acne.
However, one of the best acne treatments for especially more severe cases is a combination of topical retinoids and antibiotics.
These medications can effectively unclog pores and reduce the bacteria that cause acne breakouts.
If you are looking for more personalized and effective acne treatment options, talk to your healthcare provider about a combination of topical retinoids and oral antibiotics. This therapy is very successful and can help you get clear skin, even if other treatments haven’t worked.
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