Overview
What is it?
Topical clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide are two commonly used medications for treating acne. Clindamycin is an antibiotic that helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, while benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria and helps unclog pores. These ingredients are often combined in a single topical gel or cream to provide a more effective treatment for acne.
How does it work?
Clindamycin works by reducing the growth of *Cutibacterium acnes*, the bacteria responsible for acne inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, kills bacteria and helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil from pores, preventing clogging. Together, they target multiple causes of acne: bacterial growth, inflammation, and clogged pores .
What are the benefits?
The combination of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide offers several benefits for acne treatment. It effectively reduces both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions, such as pimples and blackheads. Studies have shown that this combination can significantly improve acne severity and is particularly effective for moderate-to-severe acne. Additionally, using these two ingredients together helps reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, which can occur with clindamycin alone .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research shows that topical clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide are highly effective for treating acne. In clinical studies, this combination has been shown to reduce acne lesions by up to 70% and achieve a treatment success rate of over 50% after 12 weeks of use. It is more effective than using either ingredient alone and is well-tolerated by most patients .
Side Effects
Dryness
Dryness: The skin may feel dry or tight, especially during the first few weeks of use. This is a common side effect of benzoyl peroxide .
Redness
Redness: Some users may experience mild redness or irritation at the application site. This usually subsides as the skin adjusts to the treatment .
Peeling
Peeling: The skin may peel slightly, particularly in areas where the product is applied. This is a sign that the treatment is working to remove dead skin cells .
Burning or stinging
Burning or stinging: A mild burning or stinging sensation may occur, especially if the skin is sensitive. This is usually temporary and resolves with continued use .
Itching
Itching: Some individuals may experience mild itching, which can be managed by using a moisturizer alongside the treatment .
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.
This guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for managing acne vulgaris, including the use of topical treatments like clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide.
View study[2] Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.
This guideline reviews the management of acne vulgaris, emphasizing the importance of combination therapies like clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide.
View study[3] Clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1% gel for moderate-to-severe acne: Efficacy and safety results from two randomized phase 3 trials.
This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of a triple-combination gel containing clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, and adapalene for treating moderate-to-severe acne.
View study[4] Efficacy and Safety of a Fixed-Dose Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%, Benzoyl Peroxide 3.1%, and Adapalene 0.15% Gel for Moderate-to-Severe Acne: A Randomized Phase II Study of the First Triple-Combination Drug.
This study demonstrates the superior efficacy of a triple-combination gel (clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, and adapalene) for moderate-to-severe acne, with significant reductions in lesion counts.
View study[5] Tolerability and Efficacy of Clindamycin/Tretinoin versus Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris.
This study compares the tolerability and efficacy of clindamycin/tretinoin and adapalene/benzoyl peroxide in treating mild to moderate acne, highlighting the benefits of combination therapies.
View study