From the Guidelines
Topical clindamycin for acne is typically applied as a 1% solution, gel, or lotion once or twice daily to clean, dry skin affected by acne, and it is recommended to use it in combination with benzoyl peroxide to minimize bacterial resistance 1. The application of topical clindamycin should be done after washing the face with a mild cleanser, applying a thin layer to the entire acne-prone area, not just individual pimples.
- Treatment should continue for 8-12 weeks to see optimal results, though some improvement may be visible within 2-4 weeks.
- Clindamycin works by killing the bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) that contribute to acne formation and by reducing inflammation.
- Common side effects include dryness, redness, or mild irritation, and if these become severe or if you experience an allergic reaction (rare), discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
- Avoid getting the medication in your eyes, mouth, or on mucous membranes, and wash your hands after application. The guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris recommend using topical therapies combining multiple mechanisms of action, and limiting systemic antibiotic use 1.
- The use of topical clindamycin is supported by the guidelines, which recommend topical antibiotics, including clindamycin, as part of a multimodal therapy approach 1.
- The guidelines also recommend combining systemic antibiotics with benzoyl peroxide and other topical therapies, which is in line with the recommended use of topical clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Apply a thin film of Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution, Clindamycin Phosphate Lotion, or Clindamycin Phosphate Gel twice daily to affected area. Lotion: Shake well immediately before using. The recommended topical clindamycin dose for the treatment of acne is to apply a thin film of the solution, lotion, or gel twice daily to the affected area. Key administration instructions include:
- Applying a thin film
- Using the lotion, solution, or gel twice daily
- Shaking the lotion well before use 2
From the Research
Topical Clindamycin Dose and Administration
- The recommended dose of topical clindamycin for the treatment of acne varies depending on the formulation and concentration of the product.
- A study comparing clindamycin phosphate 1·2%-benzoyl peroxide 3·0% fixed-dose combination gel applied once or twice daily vs. clindamycin phosphate twice daily found that both once and twice daily applications were effective in reducing total lesions, inflammatory lesions, and noninflammatory lesions 3.
- Another study found that a water-based gel of clindamycin 1% applied once daily was as effective as clindamycin 1% solution applied twice daily in reducing inflammatory lesion count 4.
- A study comparing a topical clindamycin/zinc gel applied once or twice daily with a topical clindamycin lotion applied twice daily found that all three regimens produced a gradual and time-dependent reduction in inflamed lesions, non-inflamed lesions, and overall grade 5.
- Clindamycin phosphate foam 1% has been shown to be at least as effective as clindamycin phosphate topical gel 1% for the treatment of acne vulgaris, with superior reduction in total, inflammatory, and noninflammatory acne lesion counts 6.
- Topical clindamycin phosphate 1% has been compared to oral tetracycline in the treatment of moderate acne, with both treatments showing significant reductions in numbers of pustules, papules, and inflamed nodules, and no significant differences between the two groups 7.
Administration Instructions
- Topical clindamycin can be applied once or twice daily, depending on the formulation and concentration of the product.
- It is recommended to apply a thin layer of the product to the affected area, usually after cleansing the skin.
- The product should be gently massaged into the skin until it is fully absorbed.
- Patients should be instructed to wash their hands after applying the product and to avoid getting it in their eyes, nose, or mouth.
- It is also recommended to use the product for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve before the end of the treatment period.