FAQ - Sulfur Bar Soap

Individual results may vary.

What does sulfur soap treat?

DermaHarmony 10% sulfur bar soap is used to treat acne. We do not promote our soaps for scabies and skin fungus conditions. 

Sulfur in concentrations between 3 to 10 percent are approved by the FDA for acne treatment. It is used for the management or treatment of acne. Sulfur clears, clears up, clears up most, dries, dries up, dries and clears, helps clear, helps clear up, reduces the number of or reduces the severity of acne blemishes, acne pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads. Sulfur allows the skin to heal. It penetrates pores to eliminate most, control, clear most, or reduce the number of acne blemishes, acne pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads.  Sulfur helps keep skin clear of new acne pimples.  It prevents new acne blemishes and helps prevent the development of new blackheads or whiteheads.

How long does one bar last?

With daily use on the face, most customers report that a single 4 oz bar lasts four to six weeks. If you're using it on larger areas (back, chest, and face), it may last three to four weeks.

Does it smell bad?

Sulfur has a natural odor, but the vast majority of customers describe our bars as mild — especially compared to prescription sulfur washes or other sulfur soaps. The scent typically fades quickly after rinsing and doesn't linger on skin.

Will it dry out my skin?

Sulfur is a drying ingredient — that's part of how it helps clear acne blemishes. Most customers manage this easily by following up with a moisturizer. Start with once-daily use and increase gradually. If dryness becomes bothersome, reduce to every other day.

Can I use it on my face and body?

Yes. This sulfur soap for face and body use is designed for acne wherever it appears — face, back, chest, shoulders, and beyond. It is safe for daily use.

Is this soap safe for sensitive skin?

This bar is noncomedogenic and hypoallergenic. Many customers with sensitive skin report that it works without the irritation or stinging they experience from other acne treatments. We recommend the sensitivity test described in the Directions section if you're trying sulfur for the first time.

How is this different from your Sulfur & Salicylic Acid soap?

This bar contains sulfur only (10%) as its active ingredient. Our Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Bar Soap combines 10% sulfur with 3% salicylic acid (or 5% sulfur with 2% salicylic Acid) for those who want both ingredients. If you're new to sulfur, starting with the single-ingredient bar can help you understand how your skin responds before adding salicylic acid.

Can I use this with other acne products?

Skin irritation and dryness is more likely to occur if you use another topical acne medication at the same time. If irritation occurs, only use one topical acne medication at a time. If you're unsure, consult your doctor.

Is this a prescription product?

No. This is an over-the-counter (OTC) acne medication. However, some customers tell us their dermatologist suggested trying sulfur soap. Because this product is available without a prescription, it can be a convenient option for people who want an OTC sulfur-based acne treatment.

What type of sulfur is used in DermaHarmony sulfur bars?

We use precipitated sulfur - a pale yellowish or grayish amorphous or microcrystalline powder by precipitation that is used chiefly in treating skin conditions.

Why do you make two different sulfur soap bars?

The most common customer complaint about our sulfur bar is smell.  Ten percent sulfur soap smells like sulfur.  Tea tree does a good job at masking the sulfur smell.  In addition, we believe that the tea tree has health benefits for cleansing problem skin.  We offer 10% Sulfur in addition to 10% Sulfur with Tea Tree Oil.  You get to choose which bar is right for you.

How to use sulfur soap?

Wet the area you are going to cleanse. Work up a lather with warm water and the bar and gently rub on the skin. Leave on skin for at least 30 seconds before you rinse.

Some customers report leaving it on the skin for longer than 30 seconds. Leaving sulfur on skin too long is not encouraged and can lead to excessive dryness, irritation, and damage to your skin's moisture barrier. While sulfur has numerous benefits, using it improperly can worsen skin conditions rather than improve them. 

Will sulfur soap tarnish jewelry?

Yes, it will tarnish silver so we recommend removing any silver jewelry while using sulfur soap.