Can sulfur soap relieve itching?
Disease description:
Recently, small bumps have been appearing on my back, accompanied by itching. I heard from someone that washing with sulfur soap can relieve the itch. After using it several times, my skin feels drier, the itching seems somewhat alleviated, but there's a slight prickling sensation. Does this product truly help relieve itching? Is it suitable for long-term use?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
In general, sulfur soap can relieve itching to some extent. However, if the itching is severe, prompt medical treatment is recommended.
Sulfur soap, a special type of soap containing sulfur, has certain applications in dermatology. Sulfur possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and keratolytic properties, and its use in sulfur soap can serve as an adjunctive treatment for specific skin conditions such as acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Among its effects, itch relief is a common benefit of sulfur soap.
However, sulfur soap is an irritating product and therefore should not be used for prolonged periods or too frequently, to avoid causing unnecessary harm to the skin. Individuals with sensitive skin, in particular, should use sulfur soap cautiously. It is recommended to first conduct a patch test on a small area of skin to check for possible allergic reactions. Additionally, if intense itching or other severe symptoms occur on the skin, prompt medical consultation is advised, and treatment should follow the recommendations of a qualified physician.
When using sulfur soap and other daily skincare products, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene habits, such as bathing regularly and changing clothes frequently, to help protect skin health.
