Clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide acne guide
How to use the prescribed antibiotic and benzoyl peroxide gel for inflammatory acne, with a firm 12-week limit.
How to use
- 01
Step 1
What it is and how it works
Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic and benzoyl peroxide reduces acne-associated bacteria while helping limit antibiotic resistance. The 1% + 3% and 1% + 5% gels are for mild to moderate inflammatory acne.
- 02
Step 2
Apply it as prescribed
Apply a thin layer once daily in the evening over the whole affected area, not only individual spots. Use it on clean, dry, intact skin and avoid the eyes, mouth and mucosa. Wash your hands afterwards.
- 03
Step 3
Skin care and interactions
Do not combine it with recent clindamycin or erythromycin, another benzoyl peroxide product or a topical retinoid unless reviewed by the prescriber. Avoid abrasive or drying cosmetics. Let the gel dry before fabric contact because it can bleach colours.
Dose schedule
- 01
Step 1
Timing and review
Use once nightly for the prescribed course. Improvement may begin after 2–5 weeks, but treatment has a maximum of 12 weeks and must not be prolonged without a new clinical review.
- 02
Step 2
If you miss an application
Apply it when you remember unless the next scheduled application is near. In that case, skip it and continue as usual. Do not apply extra product to make up for it.
Side effects
Local irritation
Mild redness, dryness, stinging or peeling can occur, especially at the start. Use a gentle moisturiser and follow the prescribed adjustment plan. Stop and seek advice if the reaction is marked or persistent.
Diarrhoea and bowel inflammation
Topical clindamycin can rarely be associated with colitis. Stop the gel and seek prompt medical assessment for severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea, abdominal cramps or fever.
04 · Do not use if
Do not use this treatment if
- You are allergic to clindamycin, lincomycin, benzoyl peroxide or another ingredient
- You have Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or a history of antibiotic-associated colitis
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding, or recently used clindamycin or erythromycin, without a clinical review
05 · When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor if
- Facial swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread blistering, eye pain, light sensitivity or altered vision — seek urgent medical care
- Severe, prolonged or bloody diarrhoea — stop the gel and seek medical care immediately
- Acne is worsening or scarring, or there is no satisfactory response by the planned review
Storage
Keep the tube tightly closed in its original package, out of children's reach. Follow the temperature and expiry instructions on the label and do not use the product after it expires.
What to expect
An early response may appear within 2–5 weeks. Complete only the prescribed course and review by 12 weeks; antibiotic-containing gel is not a long-term maintenance treatment.