This Weird-Smelling Ingredient Could Clear Up Your Breakouts For Good

Funny smell, seriously dramatic results. If you have yet to incorporate sulfur-infused acne products into your regime, you're going to want to get acquainted with the variety of masks, serums, and spot treatments that include the hero ingredient. "Sulfur is one of the best active ingredients to clear acne breakouts due to its natural anti-bacterial properties," explains esthetician Emme Diane. "It has the ability to draw out impurities from the skin, including excess oil, and helps to cleanse the pores and clarify skin." Since sulfur is also anti-inflammatory, sensitive skin types (including complexions with rosacea) won't be further irritated. You won't have to swap out anything in your existing product lineup, though be wary if you already use a ton of active acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Too many aggressive treatments can lead to dry skin, and as a result, rebound breakouts--yes, they're a thing...

And as for that smell? "It's like cilantro or gasoline in the sense that people either love it or hate it. There's no in between. Most sulfur preparations are nowhere near as pungent as they used to be, but a sensitive nose will always notice it," Diane adds. "Cleansing the skin after using a sulfur mask should remove most of the smell." Spot treatments and serums can be rinsed off the morning after, and if you still catch a whiff, try following up with a toner. We compiled a list of the best sulfur-infused products that can calm breakouts of any intensity level. Keep reading to shop each one now.