Sulfur 10% Powder-To-Cream Concentrate
Sulfur 10% Powder-To-Cream Concentrate
Product Description
Product overview
A fast-acting powder-to-cream acne spot treatment with 10% colloidal sulfur that visibly reduces pimple size and redness in under one hour. The unique formula transforms from powder to cream on contact, providing discreet, mess-free application equivalent to over 150 pimple patches.
Fast-Acting Formula
Clinically shown to reduce pimple redness, height, and diameter in under 1 hour after a single application.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFast-Acting Formula
Clinically shown to reduce pimple redness, height, and diameter in under 1 hour after a single application.
Colloidal Sulfur Technology
Uses smaller particle size sulfur for better skin penetration while minimizing visibility and traditional sulfur odor.
150+ Patch Equivalent
One bottle provides the equivalent of more than 150 pimple patches, making it highly cost-effective.
Portable & Discreet
Unique powder format transforms to cream on contact, dries translucent for invisible daytime wear under makeup.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical sulfur is generally considered safe, but consult your doctor. No controlled human pregnancy studies exist. Use cautiously with minimal application.
Sulfur has proven antifungal properties and actively fights Malassezia yeast. Excellent choice for fungal acne sufferers.
Sulfur is gentler than benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Colloidal form reduces irritation potential.
Sulfur may react with silver surfaces. Remove silver jewelry before application and wash hands thoroughly after use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSulfur 10%Proven
FDA-approved acne treatment ingredient with antibacterial, antifungal, and keratolytic properties. Helps dry out blemishes, reduce inflammation, and promote skin cell turnover.
- Mechanism: Produces pentathionic acid on skin, which is deadly to bacteria and fungi including Malassezia
- Research: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology confirms sulfur's efficacy against acne-causing bacteria and Malassezia species
- Benefit: Reduces sebum production and exfoliates dead skin cells to unclog pores
Niacinamide SupportingProven
Vitamin B3 derivative that strengthens skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and helps fade post-acne marks. Regulates oil production and minimizes pore appearance.
- Research: Multiple studies show niacinamide reduces acne lesions and inflammation
- Synergy: Works with sulfur to calm redness while preventing new breakouts
L-Carnitine (Levocarnitine) SupportingPromising
Amino acid derivative that helps regulate sebum production at the cellular level. Assists in energy metabolism within skin cells.
- Function: Helps reduce excess oil production that contributes to acne formation
- Benefit: Supports faster healing of acne lesions
Kaolin SupportingProven
Natural white clay mineral that absorbs excess oil and impurities without over-drying. Helps mattify and creates the powder-to-cream texture.
- Function: Oil absorption and pore-cleansing properties
- Benefit: Provides instant mattifying effect on application
15 ingredients
Glycerin, Propanediol, Silica Silylate (Nano), Sulfur, Aqua/Water/Eau, Carnitine, Niacinamide, Acacia Senegal Gum, Kaolin, Polylysine, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply directly after cleansing on dry skin. Can be used 1-3 times daily. Compatible with makeup application over top once dried.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry completely before application.
Dispense Powder
Tap out a small amount of powder onto a clean fingertip. A little goes a long way.
Transform to Cream
Rub between fingers to transform the powder into a smooth cream consistency.
Apply to Blemishes
Dab directly onto active pimples. Do not rinse off. Let it work and continue with your routine.
Build Up Gradually
Start with once daily. If tolerated well, increase to 2-3 times daily as needed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have occasional to frequent breakouts needing fast treatment
- You want a gentler alternative to benzoyl peroxide
- You suffer from fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to harsh acne treatments
- You need a discreet, portable spot treatment for on-the-go use
- You want to replace wasteful single-use pimple patches
- You have hormonal or cystic acne with inflammatory lesions
Consider alternatives if:
- You are allergic to sulfur or have known sensitivity
- You have extremely dry skin that can't tolerate any drying agents
- You need treatment for body acne in large areas (spot treatment only)
- You cannot tolerate even minimal sulfur scent
- You are pregnant and your doctor advises against it
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSulfur naturally reduces sebum production. The mattifying kaolin absorbs excess oil instantly without clogging pores.
Perfect for targeted spot treatment on oily T-zone without affecting drier areas. Use moisturizer on dry patches.
Can be drying if overused. Limit to once daily and always follow with a hydrating moisturizer. Spot use only.
Gentler than benzoyl peroxide. Colloidal sulfur minimizes irritation. Patch test first and start with once daily use.
Specifically designed for acne. Non-comedogenic formula (0/5), antibacterial, and helps prevent new breakouts from forming.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEImmediate Visible Reduction
Clinical testing shows reduced pimple redness, height, and diameter within the first hour of application. Formula starts working on contact.
100% saw results in clinical testingSignificant Improvement
Pimples dry out considerably. Inflammatory lesions flatten and redness continues to diminish with consistent application.
Most users report pimples "flat" within 2 daysClearer Skin
With regular use on new breakouts, overall skin clarity improves. Fewer new pimples form as sulfur prevents bacterial growth.
Noticeable reduction in breakout frequencyPrevention & Maintenance
Continue using at first sign of breakouts for fastest resolution. Niacinamide helps fade post-acne marks over time.
Best results with consistent spot treatment approachRatings by platform
700+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Works incredibly fast – visible results under 1 hour
- Equivalent to 150+ pimple patches in one bottle
- Gentler than benzoyl peroxide for sensitive skin
- Fungal acne safe – actually helps treat Malassezia
- Dries translucent – invisible under makeup
- Affordable price point for an effective treatment
- Portable, mess-free, travel-friendly format
- No added fragrance or harsh irritants
Criticized
- Natural sulfur scent noticeable to some users
- Small 5g bottle size
- Powder-to-cream format has a learning curve
- Can be drying if overused
- Not suitable for large area application
- Results vary for deep cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame 10% sulfur concentration in a petrolatum base. Must be washed off after 10 minutes. Stronger sulfur smell, greasier texture, but highly effective and extremely affordable.
Contains sulfur, salicylic acid, and calamine. Pink bi-phase formula requires shaking. Works overnight but visible pink color not wearable during day.
10% sulfur in a pink drying lotion format. Higher price point, contains fragrance. Similar overnight results but less discreet for daytime use.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
De La Cruz Sulfur Ointment
Kate Somerville EradiKate Spot Treatment
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed to maintain powder texture.
Compact squeeze tube with controlled dispensing tip for precise powder application
Yes - 5g/0.17oz is well under the 100ml liquid limit and compact enough for any makeup bag
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical sulfur is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding according to dermatological literature, as it has minimal systemic absorption. However, there are no controlled human pregnancy studies. The FDA has not formally categorized topical sulfur. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use, especially during the first trimester. If approved, use sparingly on affected areas only.
Yes! This product is not only safe for fungal acne but actively helps treat it. Sulfur has proven antifungal properties and produces pentathionic acid on the skin, which is effective against Malassezia yeast. The formula is free from oils, fatty acids, and ferments that feed Malassezia, making it an excellent choice for fungal acne sufferers.
The Ordinary advises not using this product alongside other spot treatments simultaneously. For daily routine, sulfur can generally be used with other actives, but exercise caution: Avoid layering directly with benzoyl peroxide, as both can be drying. Retinol can be used at different times of day. Vitamin C is generally compatible. AHA/BHA may increase dryness – use on alternate days if sensitivity occurs. Always introduce slowly and monitor skin response.
This product works excellently for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's particularly beneficial for those with inflammatory acne, hormonal breakouts, and fungal acne. Sensitive skin users typically tolerate it well since sulfur is gentler than benzoyl peroxide. Dry skin types should use sparingly and follow with moisturizer, as sulfur can be drying with excessive use.
Clinical testing shows visible reduction in pimple redness, height, and diameter in under 1 hour after application. Most users report significantly flatter pimples within 24-48 hours with consistent use. The product starts working immediately upon application. For best results, apply at the first sign of a breakout and continue using until the blemish has resolved.
Apply directly after cleansing on dry skin, before toners, serums, and moisturizers. The product is designed to be left on and not rinsed off. You can apply your regular skincare products and makeup over it once it has dried to a matte finish (usually within seconds). Can be used morning, evening, or both – up to 3 times daily as needed.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 and is non-comedogenic. Sulfur actually helps unclog pores through its keratolytic (exfoliating) action. The formula is oil-free and specifically designed for acne-prone skin. None of the ingredients are known pore-cloggers, making it safe for those concerned about breakouts from skincare products.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain the powder texture and prevent moisture from affecting the formula. Despite the small 5g size, a little goes a long way – The Ordinary states one bottle is equivalent to over 150 pimple patches in terms of applications.
Verdict: The Ordinary Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate delivers on its promise of fast-acting blemish treatment at an exceptional value. The innovative powder-to-cream format solves the visibility problem of traditional spot treatments, while the 10% colloidal sulfur provides clinical-strength results in under an hour. It's gentler than benzoyl peroxide, fungal acne safe (and actually helpful), and the equivalent of 150+ pimple patches for under $10. The learning curve with application and natural sulfur scent are minor drawbacks for most users.Recommended for: Anyone seeking an effective, affordable, and portable spot treatment that works fast without harsh irritation.
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sulfur
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent -Miscellaneous, Antiseborrhoeic
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 0 |
Acacia Senegal Gum
Masking
|
|
|
| 0 |
Chlorphenesin
Antimicrobial, Preservative
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin Conditioning, Deodorant
|
|