Sodium Sulfacetamide
Also known as: sulfacetamide sodium
Used in clinical settings | Antibacterial agent tackles acne + rosacea
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Sulfacetamide?
Sodium sulfacetamide, also known as sulfacetamide sodium, is a prescription medication used in clinical settings to treat several types of dermal issues, including acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and rosacea, among others. It belongs to a larger class of drugs known as sulfonamides, which contain one sulfur atom (hence the name). Sulfonamides inhibit bacterial growth by preventing folic acid synthesis within bacteria, which prevents its propagation and survival.
In addition to its antibacterial properties, sodium sulfacetamide also has soothing properties that help combat the inflammatory conditions it is used to treat. When used to fight acne, it is often combined with sulfur, where it can be found in cleansers, creams, and foams designed to tackle C. acnes bacteria. There are some reports of application site irritation, especially when used over longer periods of time, and it’s not as gentle as alternatives such as azelaic acid or various hydroxy acids.
In addition to its use as a topical skin medication, sodium sulfacetamide is also used to combat eye infections. Prescribed usage levels of sodium sulfacetamide range between 5-15%, depending on the prescriber’s request.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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University of Maryland Center of Excellence in Regulatory Science and Innovation, Website, Accessed September 2025 []
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Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, August 2025, ePublication []
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Current Pharmaceutical Letters and Reviews, January-March 2025, pages 19-27 []
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World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, November 2024, pages 359-371 []
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RSC Advances, November 2020, pages 42,983–42,992 []
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