How Can I Mask The Bitter Taste Of Organic Sulfur
If MSM tastes bitter to you, dont despair. You can try mixing in a little stevia or organic juice to mask the bitter taste with something sweet. Or, alternately, you can purchase empty, vegan capsules to fill with MSM yourself. A more convenient option is to find the crystals already prefilled in capsules.
Is Sulfur Safe For All Skin Types
As with any effective anti-acne medication, sulfur can cause temporary skin dryness. However, it has fewer drying effects than benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, making it suitable for any skin type, including sensitive skin. For those with eczema, sulfur mineral baths are often recommended to soothe and heal the skin.
Why Use Msm For Eczema
The general theory behind using MSM is: processing, heat and long-term storage can diminish the amount of MSM contained in foods, or even cause it to disappear altogether. Although you may be eating a well-balanced diet, you may need additional supplementation of MSM to ensure that you are maintaining a sufficient amount of it for use by your body.
It is very important to only use pure MSM. Most forms of MSM, such as those imported from china, are derived from fossil fuel sources. As a result, they often contain fuel additives or heavy metals. The best MSM supplements are all-natural, and are derived only from pine trees. These are the only MSM for eczema supplements that we recommend to patients. These are the supplements that have no side effects.
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Uses And Health Benefits Of Organic Sulfur
The health benefits of organic sulfur/MSM are inextricably linked with the health benefits of getting enough oxygen. Not air, mind you. Oxygen.
You might be breathing air just fine, but whether or not the 20% oxygen in that air makes its way to your cells is a totally separate matter.
Organic sulfur grabs up oxygen from water and air, then ports it across your cell membranes so it can be used to produce energy and flush toxins. Unlike other vital minerals, your body cant store organic sulfur. But guess what can? Plants .
Our bodies use sulfur to produce glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that scavenges for free radicals that pose a threat to our cellular health and can cause cancer and disease.
Unsurprisingly, ongoing studies³ show that organic sulfur has a wide variety of uses and health benefits.
Are There More Effective Acne Treatments Than Sulfur
While its role in skin care has been lauded for centuries, it turns out sulfur and acne treatment do not necessarily go hand in hand as the most effective treatment in todays world. Due to its numerous negative side effects, many acne patients prefer to use other treatment options that have fewer side effects and tend to be more effective. The most common are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
So which should you use? One of the most effective acne treatment ingredients is salicylic acid. Unlike sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, and other drying ingredients used in common acne treatment options, this emollient gently and effectively sloughs dead skin cells off the surface of the skin. This natural ingredient penetrates deep into pores to unclog hair follicles, clearing current acne blemishes and preventing future breakouts.
While sulfur acne treatments dont work for everyone, this bacteria-killing mineral can be useful for certain skin types dealing with mild to moderate acne. Sulfur products are best used for spot treatments. Use sulfur sparingly and consider alternative regimens like our Clear Skin Routine. If you notice any excess dryness or redness, discontinue or reduce your use of sulfur products to avoid harming your skin.
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The Best Products With Sulfur
Both Shah and Cheung recommend prescription products to their patients , but below are a few favorite formulas you can find over-the-counter.
When you think of a sulfur acne treatment, a glass vial like this might come to mind. Made with 10 percent sulfur , this drying lotion recommended by Shah is the perfect nighttime treatment for your blackheads, whiteheads, or papules. To use, simply dip a Q-tip in the solution and dab it over the area.
Formulated with 3 percent sulfur, aloe vera, and antioxidants, this acne lotion soothes the skin as it exfoliates and treats existing breakouts and blackheads and is a favorite product of Shah’s.
If you love a creamy cleanser, Shah suggests this cult-favorite formula by Kate Somerville. The 3 percent sulfur tackles the oil and breakouts while the honey and rice-bran extract are meant to soothe the skin.
If masks are more your thing, try this formula from Sunday Riley, which comes highly recommended by Shah. Together, the 10 percent sulfur, niacinamide, and zinc PCA ingredients work to minimize redness, reduce oil, and clear up your acne breakouts.
If you’ve tried all the latest-and-greatest products and haven’t found a great option, go with an old favoriteand we mean old. This bar soap from Grandpa Soap Co., one of Shah’s favorites, targets acne and inflammation and removes excess oil with 3 percent sulfur.
Honeyskin Organics Ultimate Face And Body Cream
Another great cream for fast eczema relief, the Honeyskin Organics Face and Body Cream contains powerful ingredients which effectively cure inflammation and pain caused by eczema and other skin conditions and helps in rejuvenating the skin cells.
It is organically safe with no parabens and harsh chemicals which may harm your skin. It is also non-allergenic and fragrance-free so it is safe to use for babies and kids with highly sensitive skin.
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Artificial Sulfur Supplementation And External Application Includes:
- Taking sulfur-rich dietary supplements that are sold in the form of tablets.
- Taking daily sulfur baths. This acts like topical or external treatment of eczema, readily reducing the overall itchiness and inflammation of the skin. Sulfur soaps and shampoos are retailed for a similar purpose.
- Using mildly-medicated sulfur creams that are available in an over-the-counter format.
What Is The Cause Of Sulfur Intolerance
Sulfur intolerance is the result of an excess of sulfur in the body. This excess is partly due to a reduction in the bodies capacity to metabolise sulfur into sulphate.
A reason for this reduced sulfur metabolism is exposure to glyphosate.
Glyphosate is the active ingredient found in the herbicide, Roundup.
Farmers spray Roundup on genetically modified crops such as canola, corn, sugar beets and soy.
When ingested into the body glyphosate binds to Molybdenum. Molybdenum is one of the cofactors used by the body to convert sulfur into sulphate.
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Is Sulfur Good For My Skin
If youve ever heard of taking MSM or sulfur for your skin, you might not fully know why its helpful for your skin.
Sulfur is a really critical nutrient its actually one of the top three minerals stored in your body.
And it serves a vital role in helping to maintain and repair skin as well as being involved with antioxidant activity.
Even though sulfur is found in a lot of foods, its easier than you think to become deficient!
Believe it or not, many of my clients with chronic rashes are deficient. They are shocked to discover this despite eating lots of cruciferous vegetables, onions and garlic.
There are important reasons why a sulfur deficiency can happen and Im going to dish on that today!
- Why is sulfur helpful for your skin?
- What food contains sulfur?
- Best options for supplementing sulfur
- MSM supplementations effect on allergies
- How you become deficient in sulfur
- What about a Sulfa allergy?
Can Sulfur Treat Eczema
After calcium and phosphorous, sulfur is 3rd most abundant mineral in your body, 50 percent of sulfur is found is muscles, skin and bones.
Anyway, it plays a vital role in overall body functioning like protein synthesis, collagen production and is a part of keratin, which strengthens hair, skin and nails.
But can it treat eczema?
Yes, not just eczema, it can treat acne, psoriasis, warts and other skin diseases.
Though you can get required amount of sulfur through diet, at times your body meets with sulfur deficiency which triggers health problems. So to restrain them, balanced amount of sulfur consumption is important, either through natural sources or through supplements.
Note: Consult your physician before opting for sulfur supplements.
Eczema is a chronic skin disease which makes your skin dry and itchy. More on eczema here.
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A Less Than Pleasant Odor
While not exactly a side effect, some sulfur products do exhibit a strong odorthat rotten egg scent we mentioned earlier. Natural, organic sulfur products and those without additional fragrances are generally more odorous. If the smell is overwhelming, it can cause headaches, which generally leads acne patients to search for sulfur products that contain fragrances unfortunately, the addition of fragrances can worsen breakouts and affect sensitive skin types more severely.
Which Is The Best Form Of Sulfur Acne Treatment To Use
Many products contain sulfur, so which should you use? It depends on your skincare type and needs! You may also combine various products to create the best acne treatment for you. Whichever you choose, be sure always to end your skincare routine with an effective moisturizer.
Sulfur treatment creams
The most effective way to use sulfur is with sulfur treatment creams that stay on the skin for the whole night. For decades, sulfur treatment creams are known as one of the safest and most effective treatments for teen and adult acne, fungal acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis. That said, older sulfur preparations had an unpleasant smell that limited their use.
A new sulfur treatment launched recently has solved the odor problem. This new sulfur cream is the world’s first sulfur 3%, which combines the sulfur with a few other active ingredients and, most importantly, smells great. In addition to pure sulfur, niacinamide, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and natural plant complexes help reduce skin redness and fade dark spots.
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Health Benefits Of Sulfur
Robyn Openshaw – Updated: December 27, 2019 – – This Post May Contain Affiliate Links
What do Iceland, Italy, Finland, and Greece have in common?
Just some of the lowest rates of obesity, heart disease, depression, inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune diseases in the entire world.¹ Not to mention, some of the oldest and healthiest people on the planet.
But what happens when you take those Icelanders, Italians, Finlandians, and Grecians and transplant them to the United States or Canada? Those health benefits even if the same diet is maintained begin to disappear.
Why? In part, because countries like Italy, Greece, Finland, and Iceland are extremely rich in sulfur, the so-called miracle mineral.
And while its true that most people in the United States are severely deficient in sulfur,² you dont need to pack your bags for Europe quite yet. You can fix the problem without going anywhere.
Keep reading to learn more about the incredible health benefits of sulfur, symptoms of sulfur deficiency, foods that are high in sulfur, and whether or not you should supplement with organic sulfur, or MSM .
In this article:
Cetaphil Pro Eczema Soothing Moisturizer
This moisturizer developed by Cetaphil is particularly developed for treating eczema. It contains 1 percent colloidal oatmeal that helps in soothing irritated, itchy and dry skin caused by eczema.
The Cetaphil Pro Eczema Soothing Moisturizer also has a unique combination of Fila grin complex and ceramide that helps the skin to retain its moisture for a smooth and soft skin you will love!
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What Are The Risks
Sulfur is a known irritant, and so risks inflammatory skin reactions. A 2014 case report highlighted a patient with second-degree burns after exposure to a sulfur hot spring the case received global media attention .
It can also dry the skin after prolonged usage so use sparingly until you find out how much you can safely tolerate.
As with most medicines used to treat skin conditions, contact with the eyes and mouth should be avoided. Sulfur can discolor metallic jewelry, and mercury contact will produce hydrogen sulfide which has the classic rotten eggs sulfur smell .
Can Sulfur Help With Your Allergies
A lot of my clients with eczema also have issues with allergies. Whats interesting is that MSM could be helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms when it comes to dealing with allergic concerns.
I came across this really interesting small study that gave MSM supplementation in those with allergic rhinitis.
The researchers recruited 18 people with allergic rhinitis into this study. Each participant was given an initial high dose of 12 grams of MSM.
Then participants were separated into three groups that were advised to take the following daily doses of MSM: 1 gram, 3 grams, and 6 grams.
Researchers found that 3 grams per day of MSM appeared to be the most consistently helpful and noted that a longterm daily dose of MSM can significantly improve nasal breathing.
They went on to share that MSM produces fewer side effects than prescription medications such as antihistamines.
Pretty neat, right?
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Can Sulfur Help Fungal Acne Too
Despite its resemblance to bacterial acne, fungal acne is an infection within the skin’s hair follicles caused by yeast resulting in pimple-like bumps. Nothing on the acne shelves will combat this bacterial acne imposter. Fungal acne is often caused by:
Sulfur’s antifungal and antibacterial properties make it one of the best and safest treatments for fungal acne. Sulfur washes, masks, and spot treatments are a gentle method to combatting this frustrating condition by killing fungi on the skin and reducing inflammation.
Sulfur Health For Dry Skin Acne & Eczema
Sulfur is an essential mineral found in large quantities within the body. Internally, it is helpful for a variety of conditions, from helping improve blood sugar regulation to decreasing blood pressure. For these conditions, sulfur is generally taken orally, in supplements such as MSM. For most adults, this is important because we dont get enough sulfur in our diets as we age. You can intake sulfur from a variety of sources, such as grass-fed beef and raw milk.
Sulfur is also important for connective tissues, such as the ligaments and skin. As sulfur levels decrease in our body, our skin barrier weakens, and the skin can sag. You might also develop dry skin or dandruff, and your hair could become more friable and break easily.
The good news is that you can use sulfur topically to treat a variety of skin conditions. A product known as DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide, is a topical agent that is readily absorbed across the skin. This product is usually used to treat inflammatory disorders, such as arthritis pain.
Topical sulfur products come in a range of brands and formulations. In addition to skin cleansers, there are lotions and ointments. Some brands that you might find with sulfur in them include Sulforcin and Fostril. Certain sulfur-based products may have a form of sulfur known as sulfacetamide, which is found in products such as Clarifoam and Plexion.
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Dove Sensitive Skin Unscented Beauty Bar
Dove Sensitive Skin Unscented Beauty Bars hypoallergenic, unscented formula is gentle enough for use by those with sensitive skin, and comes highly recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians. Like all Dove brand soaps, ¼ of this bar is made from moisturizing cream to help moisturize and nourish even the most delicate skin.
Side Effects Of Sulfur
Sulfur can be drying and may irritate sensitive skin, so Shah suggests those people use caution when trying products containing sulfur. With that said, she adds that it tends to be gentler than some other acne medications, which usually makes it a good choice for people with sensitive skin . For this reason, it’s always smart to consult your dermatologist for guidance in selecting the best topical for you.
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Can I Take Sulfur If I Have A Sulfa Allergy
Its not uncommon to hear someone say I cant take MSM because I have a sulfa allergy.
I get it the words sulfa and sulfur sound a lot alike!
But they really arent the same thing.
According to WebMD, people with an allergy to sulfa react to sulfonamides in some antibiotics and related drugs. They do not react to elemental sulfur.
While yes there are certain drugs that contain sulfur, sulfa drugs are the class of antibiotics that contain sulfonamides found in the formulation.
If you have any concerns about supplementing with sulfur due to a sulfa allergy, talk to your doctor first and get their two cents.
Were all unique which is why I believe that before starting any supplement, you should speak with your doctor or practitioner first. Especially to avoid potential interactions between supplements and drugs youre taking.
I know its really tempting to just dive right in because you read a supplement online and everyone seems to feel that it works for them. But here’s the thing you’re not them.
You are unique. Your case is unique.
My recommendation is to start by increasing sulfur-rich sources in your diet that obviously you’re not allergic to .
If you discover that you need more sulfur, then supplementation may be warranted.
I hope that this has been helpful!
Got questions or comments to share? Leave them below in the comment section so we can keep the conversation going.
Thank you so much for tuning in and I look forward to seeing you in the next episode!
How Can I Safely Treat My Son’s Eczema
My three-year-old son started getting eczema last year. It was originally confined to the back of his legs and elbows, but has recently spread to his torso and now his face. The eczema is very painful – it is raw, cracked and sometimes bleeds. I am worried by the amount of cortisone cream I’m using, as we only have a few days’ grace before it comes back again and I have to apply more. I keep his nails short, moisturise his skin, use special bath emollient and try to make sure the house isn’t too hot at night, but nothing makes a difference. My doctor has suggested wet bandages, but that won’t solve the problem on his face. I feel that my GP is very traditional, and isn’t looking at all the available alternatives. Can you help?
The HomeopathDr Peter Fisher
· Dr Peter Fisher is clinical director at the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital
The Dermatologist Andrew Wright
· Andrew Wright is a consultant dermatologist at St Luke’s Hospital, Bradford
The Nutritionist Dr John Briffa
· Dr John Briffa is a holistic doctor specialising in nutritional medicine www.drbriffa.com
· If you have a health question for our experts, email
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