Beauty Elixir

Can you use Salicylic Acid with Sulfur?

Use with caution

Yes, but not at the same time.

Both are drying. They appear together in some acne masks and washes, so the pairing is not dangerous, but layering them as leave-on treatments can leave skin tight and flaky. Use one as a short-contact wash or mask and the other as a leave-on, and moisturise afterwards.

How to use them

Alternate nights, for example Salicylic Acid on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Sulfur on Tuesday and Thursday, with a plain moisturiser night in between if your skin feels sensitive. If your skin is resilient and already used to both, you can try layering them: apply Salicylic Acid first, wait a few minutes, then apply Sulfur.

  1. 1
    CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
  2. AM
    Salicylic Acid (day 1)then moisturiser and SPF 50
  3. PM
    Sulfur (day 2)then moisturiser

What Salicylic Acid does

An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that gets inside pores to dissolve the sebum and dead skin behind blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts. It is the go-to for oily, acne-prone skin.

Typical strength
0.5% – 2%
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Oily And Combination skin

Everything that pairs with Salicylic Acid →

What Sulfur does

An old-school acne fighter that dries out oily spots, gently exfoliates and has antibacterial and antifungal activity. It is gentler than benzoyl peroxide for many people, though it has a distinctive smell.

Typical strength
3% – 10%
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Oily, Combination And Sensitive skin

Everything that pairs with Sulfur →

Trying to choose one? Read Salicylic Acid vs Sulfur: which is better for your skin.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Salicylic Acid and Sulfur together?

Yes, but not at the same time. Both are drying. They appear together in some acne masks and washes, so the pairing is not dangerous, but layering them as leave-on treatments can leave skin tight and flaky. Use one as a short-contact wash or mask and the other as a leave-on, and moisturise afterwards.

Which goes first, Salicylic Acid or Sulfur?

Apply Salicylic Acid first, then Sulfur. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first. For this pair, though, it is better not to layer them in the same routine at all.

Should I use Salicylic Acid in the morning or at night?

Salicylic Acid: works morning or night. Use as a cleanser daily or a leave-on 2% serum 3–4 times a week. It can dry out skin, so moisturise well.

Should I use Sulfur in the morning or at night?

Sulfur: works morning or night. Use as a spot treatment, a clay mask or a short-contact wash. It can be drying, so moisturise afterwards.

Is Salicylic Acid with Sulfur safe during pregnancy?

Neither is a known risk in normal cosmetic amounts, but guidance varies for Salicylic Acid and Sulfur. Check with your doctor.

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