Bioderm Ointment
Bioderm Ointment
Product Description
Product overview
Dr. S. Wong's Bioderm Ointment is a legendary Filipino multi-purpose antibacterial and antifungal spot treatment. This time-tested formula combines four clinically proven actives — Zinc Oxide (12.90%), Benzoic Acid (4.50%), Sulfur (3.40%), and Salicylic Acid (1.87%) — to dry out pimples overnight, calm itchy skin, fight fungal infections, and soothe minor irritations. A household staple in the Philippines for decades, Bioderm is loved for its affordability, versatility, and fast-acting results on acne, insect bites, rashes, ringworm, and more.
Dries Pimples Overnight
Sulfur and salicylic acid work together to shrink active breakouts while you sleep.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDries Pimples Overnight
Sulfur and salicylic acid work together to shrink active breakouts while you sleep.
Antibacterial + Antifungal
Tackles ringworm, athlete's foot (alipunga), tinea versicolor (an-an), and fungal acne.
Cooling Menthol Relief
Instantly soothes itching from insect bites, heat rash, and dermatitis flare-ups.
Zinc Oxide Skin Barrier
12.90% zinc oxide calms inflammation, absorbs oil, and protects healing skin.
Pharmacy-Priced Powerhouse
A little goes a long way — one tube lasts months for targeted spot use.
FDA-Registered Since Decades
A multi-generational household staple trusted by Filipino families for over 50 years.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains zero fatty acids, esters, or oils that feed Malassezia. Sulfur is actively antifungal.
All four actives score 0–1 on the comedogenicity scale — won't clog pores.
No added perfume, parabens, sulfates, silicones, or drying alcohols.
Contains 1.87% salicylic acid. Topical BHA is generally considered low-risk at this level, but check with your OB-GYN before use.
Do not apply all over the face. Concentrated actives can dry and irritate healthy skin.
Don't combine with retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or high-strength AHAs on the same spot — too drying.
Avoid on open cuts, puncture wounds, serious burns, or mucous membranes.
Sulfur can cause mild burning or dryness in sensitive skin. Test on inner forearm first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc Oxide 12.90%Proven
The star active by concentration. A mineral compound that soothes inflammation, absorbs excess sebum, and acts as a physical barrier to protect healing skin. Widely used for diaper rash, eczema, and acne.
- Mechanism: Anti-inflammatory, astringent, and skin-protectant properties.
- FDA Status: Recognized as a skin protectant in OTC monographs.
- Bonus: Also offers mild UV-scattering protection.
Benzoic Acid 4.50%Proven
A natural antimicrobial and pH adjuster that suppresses fungal growth on the skin. Works synergistically with sulfur to tackle ringworm (Tinea), dhobie itch, and other dermatophyte infections.
- CIR Panel 2017: Confirmed safe for topical cosmetic use.
- Role: Potent antifungal + preservative against yeasts and molds.
- Pairs With: Salicylic acid as the classic Whitfield's Ointment duo.
Sulfur 3.40%Proven
A century-old dermatology workhorse with keratolytic, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. Dries out active pimples, calms rosacea-like inflammation, and treats seborrheic dermatitis.
- Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: Effective against C. acnes at 3–10% concentrations.
- Gentler Option: Considered milder than benzoyl peroxide for sensitive skin.
- Synergy: Extra effective when combined with salicylic acid.
Salicylic Acid 1.87%Proven
The gold-standard BHA that penetrates oily pores, dissolves dead skin cells, and clears blackheads and whiteheads. Also anti-inflammatory, reducing redness around active breakouts.
- FDA OTC Monograph: Approved anti-acne active at 0.5–2%.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble — unclogs pores from within.
- Bonus: Mild keratolytic action helps fade post-acne texture.
Kaolin Clay BasePromising
A fine white clay that absorbs excess sebum and impurities without stripping skin. Acts as a gentle mattifying agent and helps hold the active ingredients on the skin surface.
- Comedogenicity: 0 (non-comedogenic).
- Role: Oil control and formula texture enhancer.
Menthol Low %Proven
Delivers the signature cooling sensation that instantly relieves itching from bug bites, heat rash, and inflamed acne. Derived from peppermint oil.
- Action: Activates skin's cold-receptors (TRPM8) for analgesic relief.
- Heads-Up: May tingle or sting on broken skin.
Allantoin Low %Proven
A well-researched soothing agent that hydrates, reduces irritation, and promotes skin recovery — essential for counterbalancing the drying nature of sulfur and salicylic acid.
- Benefit: Keratolytic + moisturizing + wound-healing support.
- Typical Use Range: 0.5–2% in skincare.
7 active ingredients + base
Zinc Oxide (12.90%), Benzoic Acid (4.50%), Sulfur (3.40%), Salicylic Acid (1.87%), Kaolin, Menthol, Allantoin, Suitable Ointment Base (petrolatum/paraffin).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step on clean, dry skin directly to pimples or affected areas — best used at night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Pat Dry
Wash affected area with gentle soap and warm water. Dry thoroughly — moisture dilutes actives.
Complete Your Skincare
Apply your toner, serum, and moisturizer to the rest of your face as usual.
Dab Onto Spots Only
Using a cotton swab, apply a thin layer directly on pimples, bites, or irritated patches. Avoid healthy skin.
Leave On Overnight
For best results, apply before bed and let it work undisturbed for 6–8 hours.
Rinse In the Morning
Wash off the white residue with your regular cleanser. Follow with sunscreen — salicylic acid increases sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You get occasional inflamed pimples or whiteheads
- You suffer from fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- You have oily or combination acne-prone skin
- You need a multi-use travel ointment (bites, rashes, itches)
- You're on a tight skincare budget
- You want a fragrance-free medicated spot treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You need to apply all over the face
- You're sensitive to sulfur scent
- You have severe cystic or nodular acne (see a derm)
- You prefer invisible spot treatments (white cast is noticeable)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSulfur and kaolin absorb excess sebum while salicylic acid keeps pores clear.
Fungal-acne safe, non-comedogenic, and targeted at multiple types of breakouts.
Ideal for spot use on T-zone breakouts; avoid drier cheek areas.
Use very sparingly and follow with moisturizer — actives can increase dryness.
Fragrance-free but contains menthol and sulfur — patch test before use.
Good for adult hormonal breakouts; limit to spot use to avoid overdrying.
Results timeline
2–4 WEEKSCooling & Itch Relief
Menthol delivers instant cooling sensation — itching from bites and rashes subsides.
92% noticedPimple Drying
Whiteheads visibly flatten and scab; the white film on top helps form a protective seal.
78% noticedActive Breakouts Fade
With consecutive nightly use, inflammatory pimples shrink significantly and begin healing.
70% noticedFungal Issues Clear
Ringworm, tinea versicolor, and fungal acne bumps begin to resolve with twice-daily application.
65% noticedSkin Clears & Calms
Overall clarity improves with fewer new breakouts; remaining marks (PIH) may persist and need separate treatment.
58% noticedRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dries pimples overnight — fast visible results
- Multi-use: acne, bites, rashes, ringworm, athlete's foot
- Very affordable — often under $3 per tube
- Fungal-acne safe formula (rare in acne treatments)
- Cooling menthol instantly relieves itching
- FDA-registered, pharmacy-available
- Compact, travel-friendly size
- Time-tested by generations of families
Criticized
- Strong sulfur/rotten-egg smell
- Leaves a visible white cast on skin
- Can transfer onto pillowcases overnight
- May cause dryness or PIH if overused
- Not ideal for dry or very sensitive skin
- Slow to absorb — sticky texture
- Doesn't fade existing dark spots
- Not effective on deep cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHigher sulfur concentration (10% vs 3.4%) for stronger drying, but lacks zinc oxide and salicylic acid. More single-purpose for acne only.
Contains sulfur 8% + resorcinol 2% in a tinted cream base. Similar drying action with better cosmetic coverage but pricier.
Pink two-phase formula with sulfur, salicylic acid, and calamine. Similar overnight-drying effect with a cult following but at 5× the price.
2% salicylic acid gel only — no sulfur, zinc, or antifungal properties. Clear finish but less powerful for mature pimples.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
De La Cruz 10% Sulfur Ointment
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening (thanks to benzoic acid preservative action).
Store in a cool, dry place below 30 °C. Keep tightly closed, away from direct sunlight.
Aluminum tube (15g) or tin jar (5g) with screw cap. Compact and hygienic.
Yes — well under 100 ml TSA limit, perfect for carry-on luggage and medicine kits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBioderm contains 1.87% salicylic acid, which is below the generally cautioned topical BHA threshold for pregnancy. Topical salicylic acid under 2% applied to small spot areas is widely considered low-risk, and zinc oxide, benzoic acid, and sulfur are all typically considered safe during pregnancy. However, because medical advice varies and this is a medicated product, we strongly recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes. Bioderm contains zero fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Even better, sulfur and benzoic acid are both actively antifungal, making Bioderm one of the few spot treatments that can actually help clear Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne). Many users successfully use it on fungal acne bumps on the forehead, chest, and back.
Apply Bioderm on separate spots from retinol or benzoyl peroxide — layering both on the same pimple can cause severe dryness, peeling, or irritation. Vitamin C in the AM is fine as Bioderm is typically a PM spot treatment. Avoid layering with additional AHA/BHA on the same area since Bioderm already contains 1.87% salicylic acid. If you use strong actives elsewhere on your face, Bioderm is safe as a localized spot-only treatment.
Bioderm is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin — especially those with fungal acne concerns or frequent body breakouts. It works well for teens and adults with hormonal breakouts. If you have very dry, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers, use cautiously and spot-test first, as sulfur and salicylic acid can be drying.
Most users see pimples visibly flattened overnight after one application, with the cooling menthol relief felt within minutes. Whiteheads typically dry and scab within 24–48 hours. Inflammatory pimples usually resolve in 2–4 days of consecutive nightly use. For fungal infections like ringworm or tinea versicolor, allow 1–2 weeks with twice-daily application. Severe cystic acne will not resolve with Bioderm alone — see a dermatologist.
Apply Bioderm as the very last step in your nighttime skincare routine — after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Because it's an ointment with a thick occlusive base, placing it last prevents your other products from sliding off. Apply only directly onto pimples or affected areas, never all over the face. In the morning, rinse off, continue your AM routine, and always apply sunscreen (salicylic acid increases sun sensitivity).
No, Bioderm is non-comedogenic (rated 1/5). Zinc oxide, kaolin, sulfur, and salicylic acid all score 0–1 on the comedogenicity scale, meaning they do not clog pores. In fact, salicylic acid actively unclogs them. The petrolatum-based ointment vehicle can feel heavy but is also rated non-comedogenic when used as a spot treatment rather than all-over.
Bioderm has a generous 24-month Period After Opening (PAO) thanks to its benzoic acid content, which acts as both an active ingredient and a preservative. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for maximum shelf life. If the ointment changes color, smell, or separates, discontinue use.
Verdict: Dr. S. Wong's Bioderm Ointment is a true pharmacy-shelf legend — a multi-purpose, fungal-acne-safe, FDA-registered spot treatment that punches far above its price point. With four clinically backed actives (Zinc Oxide, Benzoic Acid, Sulfur, Salicylic Acid) working in synergy, it reliably dries overnight pimples, soothes itch, fights fungal infections, and calms minor skin irritations. The white cast and sulfuric smell are minor trade-offs for a product that's been trusted by generations of Filipino households.Highly recommended for oily and acne-prone skin seeking a no-frills, budget-friendly spot treatment that actually works — and doubles as a travel-size first-aid essential.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Benzoic Acid
Masking, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sulfur
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent -Miscellaneous, Antiseborrhoeic
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
|
Ache-fighting
Pores
|