Why are my pimples increasing after using sulfur soap to wash my face?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, using sulfur soap to wash the face may lead to an increasing number of pimples due to reasons such as excessive cleansing, skin incompatibility, worsening of Propionibacterium acnes infection, seborrheic dermatitis, or rosacea. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a reputable hospital. In daily life, choose facial cleansers according to your skin type, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and avoid staying up late.
Generally, an increasing number of pimples after washing the face with sulfur soap may be caused by excessive cleansing, incompatible skin type, worsened Propionibacterium acnes infection, seborrheic dermatitis, or rosacea. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a reputable hospital. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Excessive Cleansing
Sulfur soap has strong cleansing power; frequent use can damage the skin barrier and stimulate sebaceous glands to compensate by producing more oil, leading to clogged pores. Discontinue sulfur soap immediately and switch to a gentle facial cleanser. Wash your face no more than twice daily, and apply moisturizing lotion promptly after cleansing.
2. Incompatible Skin Type
Using sulfur soap on dry or sensitive skin may easily cause dryness, flaking, and trigger inflammatory reactions. Switch to an amino acid-based cleanser, avoid soap-based products, practice daily sun protection, and minimize external irritants.
3. Worsened Propionibacterium Acnes Infection
After skin barrier damage, Propionibacterium acnes multiplies rapidly, intensifying follicular inflammation. Follow medical advice to use clindamycin gel, adapalene gel, or isotretinoin soft capsules. Avoid squeezing pimples with hands.
4. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Sulfur soap may irritate sebaceous glands and trigger seborrheic dermatitis, presenting as red patches, oily scaling, and acne. Under medical guidance, take vitamin B6 tablets or itraconazole capsules, apply ketoconazole cream externally, and reduce dietary intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods.
5. Rosacea
Irritation from sulfur soap may induce rosacea flare-ups, causing inflammatory papules, pustules, and facial flushing. Follow doctor’s instructions to use doxycycline tablets, hydroxychloroquine tablets, or azelaic acid cream. For severe cases, intense pulsed light therapy may be considered. Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.
In daily life, choose facial cleansers according to your skin type; maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late; eat a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables; keep a positive mood and reduce stress; treat acne promptly and properly, and avoid misuse of irritating products.
