Sulfur is one of the most important elements because it is involved in the construction of the human body. This element is necessary for life. Determines health status and appearance.
It is becoming increasingly popular in cosmetics due to its beneficial effect on the skin and regeneration processes. It is thanks to sulfur that a person’s skin looks healthy, hair is strong and shiny, and the circulatory and nervous systems work effectively.
Helps fight acne and seborrhea. Lack of the mineral causes keratosis and hair loss. Negatively affects the condition of the skin and nails.
Beneficial properties of sulfur for the body
Sulfur is a macronutrient found in every cell of the body. It ranks fourth in the hierarchy of macroelements necessary for human life.
At room temperature it appears as a yellow solid. In the form of dust, it irritates the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract. However, sulfur does not cause poisoning in the body.
Contained in all cells of the human body as a component:
- Protein structures;
- Vitamins;
- Brain tissue, muscles and bones;
- Two amino acids (methionine and cysteine);
- Hormones, including insulin;
- Coenzymes.
It is also part of collagen, which is responsible for the condition of skin and hair.
No other mineral is involved in metabolism in such a multifaceted way. This is a kind of intermediate link in the process of metabolism of proteins, minerals and vitamins.
The unique properties of sulfur have been known since ancient times. Possesses:
- Bactericidal;
- Anti-inflammatory;
- Antiseptic;
- Antifungal;
action.
Affects the regulation of hormonal balance. Calms, preventing mood swings. A lack of sulfur can lead to:
- Depression;
- Anxiety;
- Cataract;
- Decreased immunity;
- Disruption of blood supply processes.
Depends on sulfur:
- Fat and carbohydrate metabolism;
- Cell regeneration;
- Cellular respiration;
- Energy processes.
Responsible for the proper functioning of joints. Relieves inflammation and improves the regeneration of articular cartilage.
Used as an aid in the treatment of:
- Rheumatic diseases;
- Joint degeneration;
- Gout;
- Arthritis.
Shortage:
- Reduces joint flexibility, increasing the risk of injury;
- Leads to damage to the bones, which begin to rub against each other and wear out at the point of contact.
A popular method of treating rheumatic and degenerative diseases is sulfide baths. Used as rehabilitation therapy after sprains or orthopedic surgeries.
Sulfur:
- Responsible for the proper process of removing toxins from the liver.
- Increases the secretion of bile acids.
Sulfur supplements are recommended for smokers because they bind nicotine and heavy metals into compounds that are subsequently removed from the body.
Helps the liver remove toxins from mushroom poisoning. Used in the treatment of systemic mycoses.
Sulfur, together with other elements such as manganese and phosphorus, determines the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Low levels in the body impair the absorption of other elements, including:
- Potassium;
- Chlorine;
- Yoda;
- Gland;
- Silicon;
- Magnesium;
- Manganese
which leads to a lack of these nutrients.
The reasons for insufficient sulfur in the body may be:
- Nutrition;
- Ionizing radiation;
- Chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, coronary heart disease, liver damage.
In addition, changes in the color of the iris occur in the form of a ring that appears around the circumference.
The adult human body contains about 100 grams of sulfur. Sulfur is not a typical nutrient, so the daily requirement for this mineral cannot be determined by weight or even in total.
However, it is believed that 0.25 percent of a person is made up of sulfur. Therefore, the consumption rate is close to the daily protein requirement.
It is worth emphasizing that there are no symptoms of overdose, since sulfur is excreted in the urine.
Where is it used?
Pharmacy sulfur is used to treat various diseases; medicines based on this trace element can quickly eliminate the manifestations of articular and dermatological pathologies.
What does sulfur help with:
- allergies and dermatological diseases;
- bronchial asthma;
- arthritis, scoliosis, bursitis, osteoarthritis, myositis, sprains;
- convulsions;
- as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic;
- to strengthen the immune system, speedy recovery after long-term illnesses;
- to reduce the body's need for insulin in diabetes mellitus.
Read also: What are the benefits of olives?
In cosmetology, products with sulfur are used to prevent early aging, improve the appearance of the skin, give strength and shine to hair, and strengthen nail plates.
Sulfur is used in cosmetology
For external medicinal preparations, precipitated (purified, combustible) sulfur is used; it is part of sulfur ointment, which is prescribed for the treatment of scabies, seborrhea, and psoriasis. In combination with lanolin, petroleum jelly, and stearic acid, the microelement has an anthelmintic, exfoliating and anti-inflammatory effect - such drugs are prescribed to eliminate rosacea and scalp lesions.
Purified sulfur in the form of tablets is used in the treatment of enterobiasis, constipation, and as an external remedy for the treatment of dermatological pathologies. In the form of a yellow powder, the product is used in folk and traditional medicine; it can be used internally and in the preparation of medicines.
Homeopathic sulfur has a weak therapeutic effect; it is produced in the form of granules; the drug must be taken for a long time under the supervision of a specialist.
Sulfur is useful not only for people, but also for animals - the feed product is included in vitamins for animals. This microelement is also used to enrich fertilizers in agriculture, in the production of steel and rubber, explosives, and pyrotechnics.
Beneficial properties of sulfur in cosmetics
The chemical element is used in the production of cosmetic care products for:
- Faces;
- Bodies;
- Hair.
Is a building element:
- Zubov;
- Hair;
- Nails.
Alpha-lipoic acid, which contains sulfur in its structure, neutralizes free radicals, restores reduced amounts of other antioxidants, including vitamins E and C. It has an exfoliating effect and smoothes the skin.
Together with L-carnitine, it exhibits detoxifying and antioxidant properties, which allows its use in anti-aging procedures.
Biotin is vitamin B7 or vitamin H, a compound that is resistant to heat and UV radiation. Participates in the synthesis of keratin and a substance that binds dead skin cells, hair and nails.
Helps smooth out wrinkles, regulates skin lipid metabolism and suppresses the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Together with vitamin K, it participates in the synthesis of prothrombin and supports the functioning of the immune system.
Biotin is a cosmetic ingredient:
- Skin and hair care;
- Anti-aging products for internal and external use;
- For the treatment of acne and brittle nails.
Cosmetics with sulfur have:
- Bactericidal;
- Calming;
- Disinfectant;
- Anti-inflammatory;
- Cleansing;
- Knitting
effect.
Supports the natural regeneration processes of the epidermis. Softens, smoothes and cares for rough skin. Rejuvenates the skin, restores softness and elasticity.
Thanks to the properties:
- Regulates the secretion of sebum;
- Relieves skin irritations;
- Improves epidermal restoration;
- Helps remove dead skin cells;
- Reduces the occurrence of acne;
- Reduces excess callosum;
- Fights dandruff.
The deficiency leads to:
- Excessive keratosis of the epidermis;
- Pale skin;
- Flabby connective tissue;
- Brittle hair and nails;
- The appearance of dandruff.
The best sulfur-based cosmetics
If you are just starting your acquaintance with cosmetic sulfur, take note of the effective products for problem skin presented below, collected by the glowsly portal.
- Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Mask Acne Treatment Mask
Containing 10% sulfur, this clay mask helps brighten skin, absorb excess oil, and deeply cleanse pores to prevent breakouts. This mask is best suited for combination and oily skin.
- Sunday Riley Saturn Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask
Sunday Riley's sulfur mask with tea tree oil, turmeric extract and niacinamide successfully fights acne and has a mattifying effect. The mask is suitable for most skin types, with the exception of very sensitive ones.
- DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask
This mask combines bentonite clay with 10% sulfur. The product is aimed at combating acne, blackheads, fungal infections and excessive oily skin. After the first use of the mask, the skin remains completely cleansed and matte, and with regular use, the number of rashes is reduced to zero.
- Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Clarifying Colloidal Sulfur Mask
Overnight face mask from Dr. Dennis Gross is enriched with colloidal sulfur, bentonite clay, retinol and licorice root. Thanks to its beneficial composition, the mask not only fights acne, acne and post-acne, but also has anti-aging properties.
- Dermadoctor Ain't Misbehavin' Intensive 10% Sulfur Acne Mask & Emergency Spot Treatment
Made with 10% sulfur, kaolin clay and willow bark extract, this mask cleanses and exfoliates the skin while absorbing excess oil and preventing breakouts. To quickly eliminate rashes, you can use the mask precisely. This product is best suited for oily and combination skin.
- Vivant Skin Care Sulfur Clay Mask
Vivant Skin Care's Bentonite Clay Sulfur Mask deeply cleanses and mattifies skin while calming inflammation and redness with soothing ingredients like zinc sulfate. For people with oily and combination skin, this product is an excellent choice.
- Kate Somerville EradiKate Acne Treatment
This product is intended for spot treatment of acne. It has a bottom layer of sulfur and zinc and a top layer of alcohol and salicylic acid. Just dip a cotton swab into the bottle and apply the product to problem areas of the skin.
- Tarte Knockout Tingling Treatment
This exfoliating sulfur toner contains lactic acid, salicylic acid, niacinamide and a range of skin-repairing extracts. The product prevents the appearance of acne and signs of premature aging, and also leaves the skin matte and fresh.
- Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
In addition to sulfur, this lotion also contains salicylic acid to deeply cleanse pores and calamine to quickly reduce redness. This product must be applied pointwise using a cotton pad.
- PCA Skin Blemish Control Bar
This unique product is a sulfur soap for problem skin, aimed at combating acne. This soap contains salicylic and azelaic acids, which help gently exfoliate dead skin cells. Don't forget that after using sulfur soap you need to use a toner that regulates the pH level.
- Origins Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin
If you suffer from oily skin and frequent breakouts, try this mask, which contains sulfur, camphor, salicylic acid and zinc oxide to quickly reduce redness and inflammation and help prevent breakouts in the long run.
- Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant
This gentle sulfur-based cream helps get rid of dead skin and acne. The product also contains lactic and salicylic acids for effective skin exfoliation and deep cleansing of pores.
- Indie Lee Clearing Mask
Indie Lee's Natural Sulfur Mask contains glycolic and salicylic acids to exfoliate dead skin cells, zinc oxide to soothe irritations, and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate. This product helps cleanse the skin, giving it softness and a healthy glow.
Who is it suitable for?
Due to its healing properties, cosmetics with sulfur are suitable for caring for:
- Problematic;
- Acne;
- Seborrheic;
- Bold
skin.
Recommended for those who suffer from:
- Atopic dermatitis;
- Seborrhea;
- Psoriasis.
Cutaneous seborrhea and acne can be dangerous to health. Pimples, blackheads, and purulent acne are a breeding ground for the development of bacteria.
Cosmetics with sulfur not only cleanse the skin, but also:
- Normalizes sebum secretion;
- Smooth out;
- Calm;
- Relieves inflammation;
- Cleanses and tightens pores;
- Lightly moisturize.
In addition, they improve skin tone.
The ability to regulate sebum production is beneficial for those struggling with dandruff. Dandruff can also be accompanied by itching or seborrhea of the scalp.
Special cosmetics with sulfur:
- Exfoliates;
- Regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
- Stabilizes skin condition;
- Helps strengthen hair follicles;
- Reduces hair loss.
Cosmetic products with sulfur
Due to its properties, sulfur is called the “element of beauty” and is increasingly becoming a component of innovative cosmetics. The advantage of such products is rapid skin regeneration while slowing down the aging process.
Sulfur compounds, such as barium sulfate, have a covering effect and can be used as a component of facial powders.
Magnesium sulfate with astringent, mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Relieves symptoms of excessive sun exposure. Often used in tanning products and bath salts.
The cosmetics industry offers a wide range of sulfur cosmetics for the care of:
- Face;
- Hands;
- Body;
- Hair;
- With fingernails.
Sulfur-containing compounds can be used in products such as:
- Cream;
- Shampoos;
- Bath products;
- Masks;
- Shower gels;
- Soap;
- Hair conditioners.
Sulfur soap
Sulfur soap is a natural cosmetic product designed to care for problematic skin, especially oily, seborrheic and acne-prone skin.
Sulfur regulates excessive secretion of sebum and has a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect. Helps with acne and skin inflammation.
Additionally softens the calloused epidermis, thereby helping to remove the contaminated outer layer. Adding, for example, olive oil or mink oil gives:
- Anti-aging properties;
- Reduces pigmentation;
- Helps with erythema.
Sulfide face cream
Organic sulfur is also used as an ingredient in face cream.
Cosmetics with sulfur are designed to care for:
- Dry;
- Dull;
- Tired;
- Sensitive;
- Prone to over-exfoliation
skin.
Such skin occurs with psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. Sulfide cream is also recommended for people with atrophic skin, the so-called smoker's skin, i.e. gray, with poor blood supply, prone to aging, pigmentation and capillary rupture.
Sulfide mask
Mask:
- Nourishes and smoothes the skin;
- Reduces keratosis and exfoliation of the epidermis;
- Moisturizes;
- Reduces the visibility of cellulite and stretch marks;
- Improves skin tone.
Shampoo
In cosmetics, sulfur is also used as an ingredient in hair care products. Recommended for oily hair and dandruff problems.
Sulfur Shampoo:
- Cleanses the scalp;
- Regulates excessive sebum production;
- Reduces dandruff.
Sulfur cosmetics can also be used by people with thin, dry hair after coloring procedures.
Sulfur baths
Sulfide baths are prescribed to people suffering from:
- Psoriasis;
- Seborrheic eczema;
- Scleroderma;
- Hyperkeratosis of the skin.
Sulfur contained in water improves:
- Skin regeneration;
- Exfoliation of dead epidermis.
- Clears away excess sebum.
Sulfur brines are used in the treatment of rheumatological diseases and spinal discopathy. In addition, they stimulate the circulatory system. Therefore, it is recommended for people suffering from atherosclerosis.
What is the healing effect of sulfur?
Sulfur is used not only as a separate remedy, but also as part of certain preparations.
1. Stimulates the production of collagen - the main component of the structure of the skin, providing elasticity. 2. Provides a slight antiseptic effect. Allows you to slow down the proliferation of pathogenic flora on the surface of the skin, stopping the appearance of new and growth of existing acne. 3. Helps inflammatory elements mature faster. 4. Soothing effect on the skin. 5. Dries out fresh pimples and, thanks to its individual properties, removes their crust. Since the appearance of acne is promoted by problems with the function of the digestive tract and the state of the endocrine system, sulfur in the composition of preparations has a beneficial effect on these areas of the body.
What products contain
If you have problems with skin, hair or nails, you should not only use cosmetics with sulfur. According to nutritionists, the best source of minerals and vitamins is food.
Sulfur is present in products such as:
- Eggs;
- Milk;
- High protein foods: meat and fish;
- Onion;
- Garlic;
- Potato;
- Broccoli;
- Asparagus;
- Horseradish;
- Radish;
- Radish;
- Avocado;
- Strawberry.
As you can see, the wide spectrum of action of sulfur makes the element useful for use in cosmetology, dermatology and spa medicine.
Cautions regarding the use of sulfur
To ensure that acne treatment is not complicated by the development of undesirable consequences, you need to know the characteristics of sulfur, what reactions you should be prepared for, and when the use of this component is unsafe.
Clinical trials of the drug and personal experience of patients allowed us to establish that:
• Grinder made from sulfur is characterized by a pungent, unpleasant odor. The element also temporarily creates a specific color for the skin of the face. Therefore, if you have to leave the house soon, it is better not to apply the product, waiting until a more opportune moment.
• If you take sulfur orally, in 85% of cases flatulence occurs - increased production and accumulation of intestinal gases. The development of this phenomenon is observed even in completely healthy people with normal digestive tract function. You can relieve this unpleasant symptom by taking sorbents. The most common drug in this series is present in every family's medicine cabinet - this is ordinary activated carbon. Depending on the dosage of the drug, it is often taken at the rate of 1 tablet. per 10 kg of weight. The positive effect occurs 3-4 hours after taking activated carbon. If the use of sulfur for the treatment of acne remains relevant, it is permissible to combine therapy with the use of a sorbent.
• Combustible sulfur causes increased dryness and subsequent peeling of the skin. In 65% of cases, if sulfur intolerance with a similar manifestation develops, the number of inflammatory elements only increases. Itching, redness, the obvious appearance of a new rash, and swelling may not develop immediately, but after several days of use or generally closer to the end of the course of treatment with sulfur. Then you need to stop taking it prematurely, and if there is a need to continue the fight against acne, choose another drug. Also, the occurrence of complications should not be left without the attention of a doctor.
• Earwax differs in composition from regular wax produced organically. In addition to useful elements, it contains 15-20% of the remains of keratinized and independently rejected cells, 5% of hair particles, 10% of dust that has entered the ear canal from the environment, 5% of bacteria. This composition is not safe for use, although many people use this express method to treat isolated wounds on the face.
• Sulfur ointment is contraindicated for use by women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Sulfur is an unsafe element for the body of a young mother. Not only is it poorly accepted by the body undergoing hormonal changes, but the component easily crosses the placental barrier. Sulfur also permeates mother’s milk, having a toxic effect not only on the mother’s body, but on the health of the newborn. Despite the fact that the element is supplied in small quantities during feeding, it is deposited, after which it is present for a long time in the blood and tissues, causing harm to the heart, liver, intestines, and spleen.
• If you need to treat acne that occurs in a child under 3 years of age, it is advisable to choose a more gentle method. Sulfur is contraindicated for use at this age. Focusing on the listed precautions, you will be able to undergo high-quality, and most importantly, safe treatment.
