Sulfur
Sulfur is a topical dermatological medication used primarily for treating acne and related skin conditions. It has been used for centuries and works through keratolytic and antibacterial mechanisms to reduce acne lesions, control excess oil, and combat acne-causing bacteria. This medication is typically applied directly to the skin in various formulations.
Topical acne treatment with keratolytic and antibacterial properties.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D10AB02
- RxNorm
- 10169
- Generic
- Sulfur
- Class
- atc-d10
- Brands
- Fostex Bar, Pernox Scrub Cleanser, End-Zit, Sumadan Wash, Liquimat, Thylox, Ala Seb T, Acnomel, Rezamid, Sebex, Sebulex, Sulfo-Lo, Sulfoam, Sulpho-Lac, Plexion
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- bar soap, scrub, cleanser, wash, lotion, cream, shampoo, ointment
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, European Union, Mexico, India
- Monitoring
- local skin irritation, dryness
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 5-10% sulfur topical application
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once to twice daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5% sulfur topical application
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5% sulfur topical application
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once to twice daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks, topical application only
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
use only if clearly needed, avoid large area application
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
avoid use near delivery, limit application area
regular fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
n ano adjustment needed
avoid applying to breast area before nursing, wash thoroughly before breastfeeding
none required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 2 yearsuse under medical supervision only
not recommended for infants under 2 months of age, use only as directed by pediatrician
monitor for skin irritation and allergic reactions
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
2 12 yearsuse lower concentration formulations
use as directed, supervise application in young children
monitor for excessive dryness or irritation
geriatric
n ano adjustment needed
suitable for elderly patients, monitor for skin sensitivity
monitor for skin dryness and irritation
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
topical use poses minimal systemic absorption, generally safe
no specific monitoring required
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
topical application safe due to minimal systemic absorption
no specific monitoring required
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for topical sulfur preparations
Drug class
Topical dermatological classification
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses for topical sulfur
Concentration range
Typical concentration in OTC acne products
Treatment of acne vulgaris (common acne), seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, seborrhea, and mild psoriasis. Often used for inflammatory papules, pustules, and comedones.
Exerts keratolytic effects by softening and shedding the outer skin layer (stratum corneum), which helps unclog pores. Also has antibacterial properties that reduce acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) and has mild antifungal activity.
For topical use only—avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. May cause skin dryness, irritation, or peeling. Has a characteristic sulfur odor. Often combined with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for enhanced efficacy. Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy