What is Sulfur Soap?
If you have ever struck a match you have witnessed the power of sulfur. Sulfur soap is a type of bar soap that contains this potent natural element. Soaps containing sulfur are used to treat skin conditions such as acne, whiteheads and other blemishes. In addition to anti-acne uses, sulfur soap is also purported to have antiseptic, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Does this Spark an idea?
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Ingredients
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While the ingredients for sulfur soap products vary with each manufacturer, most sulfur soaps on the market have a 10 percent sulfur content. The rest of the bar is usually made up of a combination of fragrance and a neutral soap base. For added punch against acne, some sulfur soaps also contain salicylic acid, a beta hydroxyl acid with additional anti-acne properties.
Function
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The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of the soap work to remove built-up oils and dirt. While a thorough cleansing can help prevent acne breakouts, the soap's benefits extend beyond basic cleaning. The sulfur in the soap removes old cells on the surface of the skin and helps to unclog pores and remove dirt and oil at a deeper level.
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Application
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Sulfur soap is used in much the same way as regular bar soap. It is placed under warm running water, worked into a lather and then applied to wet skin.
Warning
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Because one of the primary goals of sulfur soap is to slough away old skin cells, the soap may have a drying effect. For this reason it's a good idea to start slowly and see how the skin reacts to this product. People who take anticoagulant medications should consult their doctor before using sulfur soap. Other side effects may include skin redness and burning. Sulfur soap should never be used on skin that is already chapped or sunburned.
History
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The idea of using sulfur as a treatment for skin problems is not a new one. Sulfur has been used to treat skin conditions for more than two centuries. Skin conditions that have responded to sulfur treatments include eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections and scabies.
Variations
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In addition to sulfur soaps that contain 10 percent sulfur content, there are soaps on the market that offer smaller amounts of sulfur. These soaps are gentler on the skin and will usually contain about 3 percent sulfur content. Moisturizers such as olive oil or aloe vera may be used in conjunction with the sulfur to prevent drying and irritation.
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References
Resources
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Comments
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De La Cruz 10% sulfur ointment acne medication is great as well it helped treat my acne but I did have a little burn from leaving it on tooo long my acne is gone but now my skin is a little chapped like no I know to se a little olive oil or aloevera on my skin I was using vitamin e oil and teatree oil on my face the more you know...
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More on the soap.
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In which shops can I find sulfur soap? Thanks
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ggirl31
Dec 13, 2009
I have been using a soap product that has Natural Volcanic Sulfur 10% for the last few weeks and have seen amazing results! I first got it from my dermatologist and now I find it on line. Look up Dr. Joesoef Skin Care..
