Antiseptic/Antiparasitic (skin treatment)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Sulfur is a natural mineral used on the skin that works by killing bacteria, fungi, and tiny parasites, and also helps dry out oily skin and remove dead skin cells.
Inhibits microbial and parasitic growth through multiple mechanisms including disruption of cellular respiration, interference with sulfhydryl group-dependent enzymes in microorganisms and mites, and promotion of keratin dissolution, thereby exerting antimicrobial, acaricidal, and keratolytic effects.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For scabies: Apply the sulfur ointment (usually 5-10%) all over your body from the neck down at bedtime, leave it on overnight, and wash it off in the morning. Repeat for 3 consecutive nights. For acne or skin rashes: Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1-2 times daily after washing and drying the skin. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and private parts.
If you forget to apply it at night, apply it the next night and continue your treatment. For scabies, you may need to extend the treatment by one extra night to make up for the missed application.
For scabies treatment, wash and sun-dry all your bedsheets, clothes, and towels to prevent re-infection — this is just as important as the medicine. Buy only from reputable pharmacies and check the expiry date, as fake or expired ointments are common. The strong smell is normal — it does not mean the product is bad.
Do not use sulfur ointment together with other strong skin products like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid at the same time, as this can cause serious skin irritation. Avoid applying sulfur on skin that has been treated with mercury-containing creams or toning products. If you use other medicated creams, space them out or ask your pharmacist which to apply first.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Sulfur with your other drugs?
Sulfur applied on the skin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it is best to consult your doctor before using it, especially during the first three months of pregnancy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in cars or near windows. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Sulfur?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.