Sulfur 3% Clean Gel
Sulfur 3% Clean Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A targeted acne treatment gel with 3% colloidal sulfur that penetrates pores to absorb excess oil, eliminate bacteria, and speed up blemish healing — while sodium hyaluronate and tocopherol keep skin hydrated and calm, not stripped.
Antibacterial & Anti-inflammatory
3% colloidal sulfur kills acne-causing bacteria, calms redness, and reduces inflammation to speed up blemish healing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial & Anti-inflammatory
3% colloidal sulfur kills acne-causing bacteria, calms redness, and reduces inflammation to speed up blemish healing.
Unclogs Pores & Controls Oil
Sulfur acts as a keratolytic agent, breaking down dead skin cells and absorbing excess sebum to keep pores clear.
Hydrating, Not Stripping
Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin deliver moisture so skin stays hydrated even while sulfur works to dry out blemishes.
Antioxidant Protection
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) protects healing skin from free radical damage and supports post-acne recovery.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical sulfur has not been formally assigned an FDA pregnancy category. Generally considered low-risk at 3%, but consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Sulfur is inherently antifungal and many users report improvement. However, the formula contains sorbitan isostearate and glyceryl stearate (esters) that could potentially feed malassezia. Use with caution and monitor your skin.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The lightweight gel formula is unlikely to clog pores and is designed for acne-prone skin.
Free from added fragrance or essential oils. The natural mild sulfur scent fades within an hour of application.
Alcohol appears near the end of the INCI list, indicating a very low concentration used to thin the formula texture. Not drying at this level.
Contains methyl trimethicone and silicone crosspolymer for a silky finish. These help trap sulfur against the blemish for better efficacy.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSColloidal Sulfur 3%Proven
An ancient acne-fighting ingredient with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and keratolytic properties. It penetrates pores to kill bacteria, absorb excess sebum, and exfoliate dead skin cells that cause congestion.
- Mechanism: Acts as a keratolytic agent — breaks down the outer layer of skin to unclog pores and remove dead cells.
- Antibacterial: Proven to kill Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes), the primary bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne.
- Antifungal: Also effective against fungal organisms, making it useful for some forms of folliculitis and seborrheic dermatitis.
- History: Used medicinally for skin conditions since ancient Greece, Egypt, China, and India.
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into skin layers to provide long-lasting hydration. Counteracts the drying effects of sulfur.
- Hydration: Capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, keeping treated skin plump and comfortable.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier during active acne treatment, reducing the risk of over-drying.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A potent fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from oxidative stress and supports healing. Helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals generated during the inflammatory acne process.
- Healing: Supports skin repair and may help minimize scarring when used alongside acne treatments.
Glycerin + Butylene Glycol SupportingProven
Two powerful humectants that draw moisture into the skin. Glycerin is one of the most effective and well-studied moisturizing ingredients available.
- Glycerin: Optimizes skin hydration, protects cell membranes, and soothes irritated skin.
- Butylene Glycol: Lightweight solvent and humectant that enhances penetration of active ingredients while adding hydration.
22 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Methyl Trimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sulfur, Acacia Senegal Gum, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Isostearate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Denatonium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA, Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step in your skincare routine. For spot treatment, use a cotton swab. For full-face use, spread a thin layer over the entire face. Best used in the PM routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep Your Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and complete your usual toner, essence, and serum steps. Pat skin dry.
Apply as Spot Treatment
Using a cotton swab, dab a small amount directly onto active blemishes. This is the recommended method for targeted treatment.
Or Apply as Full-Face Cream
For widespread breakouts, spread a thin layer across the entire face as the final step in your skincare routine.
Leave On Overnight
Allow the gel to work overnight. Follow up with an acne patch over treated spots if desired to boost absorption and prevent pillow transfer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have active breakouts, whiteheads, or inflamed pimples
- You want a spot treatment that won't peel or flake your skin
- You have oily or combination skin prone to excess sebum
- You need a hydrating acne treatment (not harsh or stripping)
- You want an alternative to benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
- You deal with hormonal breakouts around the chin and jawline
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin with no oiliness
- You are extremely sensitive to the smell of sulfur
- You need a treatment for deep cystic acne (may need stronger concentration)
- You prefer a wash-off formula rather than a leave-on treatment
- You are strictly avoiding all silicone-based formulas
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Sulfur absorbs excess sebum while the lightweight gel texture won't add shine or greasiness.
Great for targeting oily T-zone breakouts as a spot treatment without over-drying cheeks.
Core target audience. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory sulfur directly addresses breakout-prone skin.
The 3% concentration is gentler than most sulfur treatments. Patch test first and start with spot use only.
Sulfur can be drying. Use only as spot treatment on active blemishes, not full-face. Layer a rich moisturizer underneath.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSBlemish Flattening & Reduced Redness
Small to medium pimples visibly flatten overnight. Inflammation and redness are noticeably reduced by morning. The bump feels less tender to the touch.
70% noticed overnight improvement on small pimplesBreakout Clearing & Pus Reduction
Active blemishes dry out significantly. Pus and inflammation subside with consistent application. Skin surface feels smoother around treated areas.
65% saw breakouts begin clearingVisible Skin Improvement
Overall reduction in active breakouts. Pores appear less congested. Sebum production in treated areas is better controlled. Post-acne marks begin fading.
75% reported clearer skinMaintained Clarity & Prevention
Consistent use helps prevent new breakouts from forming. Skin looks cleaner and more balanced overall. Best results when used as part of a complete acne-fighting routine.
60% experienced fewer recurring breakoutsRatings by platform
220+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Flattens small pimples noticeably overnight
- Hydrating formula doesn't strip or peel skin like other spot treatments
- Compact tube packaging is travel-friendly and hygienic
- Works well for rosacea-related bumps according to multiple reviewers
- Can be used as spot treatment or thin all-over cream
- No skin peeling or visible residue when used at night
- Eliminates the urge to pop pimples — dries them out naturally
Criticized
- Mild sulfur smell lingers for a few hours after application
- 30g tube is small and runs out fast if used full-face
- Less effective on deep, cystic acne — best for surface blemishes
- Some users saw no noticeable improvement for their skin
- Contains silicones, which some acne-prone users prefer to avoid
- Not widely available in major Western retail stores
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESMuch higher sulfur concentration (10% vs 3%) in a thick ointment base. More aggressive and drying — requires wash-off after 10 minutes. No hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Better for severe acne but harsher on skin.
Higher 10% sulfur in a unique powder-to-cream format with niacinamide. Much smaller size (5g vs 30g). Designed purely as spot treatment — cannot be used full-face. More potent but less versatile.
Different approach — a calamine-sulfur-salicylic acid liquid with pink sediment. Contains isopropyl alcohol (very drying). No hydrating ingredients. Spot-only use with a cotton swab dipped into the pink layer. More aggressive drying action.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
De La Cruz Sulfur Ointment
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent the product from drying out.
Opaque yellow squeeze tube with nozzle tip for controlled dispensing. Hygienic design prevents contamination.
Yes — 30g is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical sulfur has not been formally assigned an FDA pregnancy category, and no controlled studies exist in pregnant women. At 3%, the concentration is relatively low, and many dermatologists consider topical sulfur to be a generally lower-risk acne option during pregnancy compared to retinoids or high-dose salicylic acid. However, it is always best to consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Sulfur at 5–10% is considered safe for topical use even in infants, which suggests a favorable safety profile, but professional guidance is recommended.
This is a nuanced answer. Sulfur itself is antifungal and is commonly recommended for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). Many users have reported positive results using this product for fungal acne. However, the formula does contain sorbitan isostearate, glyceryl stearate, and dicaprylyl carbonate — esters that could theoretically feed malassezia yeast. In practice, the antifungal action of sulfur may outweigh these concerns for many users, but if you are very sensitive to fungal acne triggers, patch test carefully or consider a simpler sulfur formula like De La Cruz Sulfur Ointment.
Use with caution. Sulfur can be drying, and combining it with other exfoliating actives (AHA, BHA, retinol) may increase irritation and over-drying. It is best to alternate — for example, use sulfur on nights when you skip retinol or acids. You can use vitamin C in your AM routine and this sulfur gel in your PM routine without issue. If combining with BHA, apply the BHA first and let it absorb fully before applying the sulfur gel only on active spots.
This product is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at absorbing excess sebum and clearing blemishes without being overly harsh. Sensitive skin types can use it as a spot treatment with caution. Dry skin types should use it only on active blemishes (not full-face) and layer a rich moisturizer underneath. The added hyaluronic acid and tocopherol help prevent the excessive dryness typically associated with sulfur treatments.
Many users report visible improvement on small pimples after just one overnight application — the bump flattens and redness decreases noticeably. For moderate breakouts, expect 2–3 days of consistent use to see significant clearing. Larger or deeper blemishes may take 1–2 weeks. For ongoing acne prevention and overall skin improvement, allow 4+ weeks of regular use as part of your routine.
Apply this gel as the very last step in your skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, essence, serum, and moisturizer. For spot treatment, dab onto blemishes with a cotton swab after completing all other steps. For full-face application during widespread breakouts, spread a thin layer as your final step in place of (or over) your moisturizer. It is best used in your PM routine.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While it does contain cetearyl alcohol and glyceryl stearate (which have individual comedogenic ratings of 2–3), they are present in small amounts and balanced by the pore-clearing action of sulfur. The product is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to clog pores for most users. If you are extremely prone to congestion, use as a spot treatment rather than full-face application.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. The 30g tube lasts approximately 2–3 months with daily spot treatment use, or about 3–4 weeks if applied all over the face nightly.
Verdict: The By Wishtrend Sulfur 3% Clean Gel is an excellent K-beauty acne treatment that strikes a rare balance between effective blemish-fighting and skin hydration. The 3% colloidal sulfur concentration is strong enough to flatten pimples overnight without the harsh drying and peeling that higher-concentration sulfur products cause. The inclusion of sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, and tocopherol sets it apart from most sulfur spot treatments that leave skin tight and stripped. It works best on surface-level inflammatory acne and small-to-medium pimples. For deep cystic acne, a stronger treatment may be needed. The compact tube is travel-friendly and hygienic, though the 30g size can feel small for full-face use. If you can tolerate the mild sulfur scent, this is one of the gentlest and most moisturizing sulfur treatments available — a smart choice for oily and acne-prone skin that still needs hydration.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methyl Trimethicone
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sulfur
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent -Miscellaneous, Antiseborrhoeic
|
Ache-fighting
|