Adaplene Microspheres Plus Clindamycin Phosphate Gel
Adaplene Microspheres Plus Clindamycin Phosphate Gel
Product Description
Deriva-CMS Gel by Deriva (Glenmark Pharmaceuticals) is a dermatologist-prescribed, dual-action anti-acne gel pairing Adapalene 0.1% (as microspheres) with Clindamycin Phosphate 1%. The retinoid unclogs pores and normalizes skin cell turnover while the antibiotic targets acne-causing bacteria โ a combination designed for mild to moderate acne vulgaris, including blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory pimples.
โจ Texture & Feel
Microsphere Delivery
Adapalene is encapsulated in microspheres for sustained, controlled release into the follicle โ designed to reduce irritation versus standard gels.
Dual-Action Formula
A retinoid (adapalene) plus an antibiotic (clindamycin) tackle clogged pores, abnormal cell turnover, and acne-causing bacteria at the same time.
Oil & Pore Control
Helps normalize sebum and keep pores clear, reducing blackheads, whiteheads, and the formation of new breakouts over time.
Fragrance- & Alcohol-Free
A no-frills clinical gel base without added fragrance or ethanol, keeping the focus on the two proven active ingredients.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Not safe. Adapalene is a retinoid; this gel is considered highly unsafe in pregnancy (risk of birth defects and pregnancy loss) and unsafe while breastfeeding. Do not use if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing.
Neither adapalene nor clindamycin feeds malassezia, and the base is fragrance/oil-free โ so it is generally considered fungal-acne friendly. Patch test if you are prone.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Apply at night and use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning. Avoid excessive sun and tanning.
Avoid layering with other strong actives (extra retinoids, AHA/BHA, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C) on the same routine, as this can over-irritate. Space them out or alternate.
Dryness, redness, peeling, and a mild stinging/purging phase are common in the first few weeks. Introduce slowly and buffer with moisturizer.
This is a doctor-prescribed drug, not a cosmetic. Avoid with a history of inflammatory bowel disease/antibiotic-associated colitis, and not recommended under age 12. Use only as directed by a clinician.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ ฐ๏ธ Adapalene (as Microspheres) 0.1% Proven
A third-generation topical retinoid (vitamin-A derivative). It binds retinoic acid receptors to normalize the shedding of skin cells lining the follicle, preventing the micro-comedones that start acne. It is also anti-inflammatory and supports gradual fading of post-acne marks.
- Mechanism: Regulates follicular keratinization and cell turnover to keep pores from clogging.
- Microspheres: Glenmark uses adapalene microspheres for sustained release, aimed at reducing irritation versus conventional gels.
- Evidence: Adapalene 0.1% is a well-studied, guideline-recommended first-line topical retinoid for acne.
๐ฆ Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Proven
A topical lincosamide antibiotic. It binds the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome to inhibit protein synthesis, slowing the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) and calming inflammatory, pus-filled lesions.
- Mechanism: Antibacterial โ reduces acne-causing bacteria and associated redness and swelling.
- Synergy: Pairing an antibiotic with a retinoid targets two different acne drivers at once, often outperforming either alone for inflammatory acne.
- Best practice: Topical antibiotics are intended for limited courses to lower the risk of bacterial resistance.
9 ingredients (typical gel-base composition)
Adapalene 0.1% (as Microspheres), Clindamycin Phosphate (eq. to Clindamycin 1%), Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Poloxamer, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use at night on fully dry skin. Wait ~20 minutes after cleansing to minimize irritation, then apply a thin layer to affected areas and follow with moisturizer. Never skip morning sunscreen.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & dry
Wash with a gentle cleanser and pat skin completely dry. Applying to damp skin increases irritation.
Apply a pea-sized amount
Once daily in the evening, spread a thin layer over affected areas. Avoid eyes, lips, nostrils, and broken skin. Wash hands after.
Moisturize
Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to buffer dryness. Start every other night if your skin is sensitive.
Protect by day
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning. Stay consistent for several weeks and follow your dermatologist's plan.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (pimples + blackheads/whiteheads)
- You have oily or acne-prone skin and want oil/pore control
- You want a dual retinoid + antibiotic approach in one tube
- You can commit to nightly use plus daily sunscreen
- You are using it under a dermatologist's guidance
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have very dry, eczema-prone, or highly reactive skin
- You have a history of inflammatory bowel disease or antibiotic colitis
- You want an over-the-counter, no-prescription product
- You're under 12 years old
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel that helps regulate excess oil without a greasy finish.
Works well on breakout-prone zones; buffer drier cheeks with moisturizer.
Non-comedogenic, dual-action formula purpose-built for inflammatory acne.
The retinoid can be drying; introduce slowly and always layer a rich moisturizer.
Patch test first. Expect possible stinging/redness; use every other night and consult a doctor.
๐ Results Timeline
Adjustment & possible purging
Skin acclimates to the retinoid. Mild dryness, peeling, or a temporary "purge" of breakouts is common as turnover speeds up.
~60% report early drynessVisible improvement
Inflammation calms, fewer new pimples form, and skin texture starts to smooth as pores stay clearer.
~70% notice clearer skinSignificant clearance
Clinical use is typically assessed over a 12-week course, with marked reduction in acne lesions and gradual fading of marks.
~80% see major reductionโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Effective dual action for inflammatory acne
- Microsphere adapalene aims to lower irritation
- Controls oil and reduces new breakouts
- Lightweight, non-greasy, fragrance-free gel
- Affordable compared to many branded combos
โ Criticized
- Dryness, peeling, and stinging early on
- Purging phase can discourage some users
- Not safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Increases sun sensitivity โ SPF mandatory
- Prescription only; antibiotic best for short courses
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Identical actives โ Adapalene 0.1% + Clindamycin 1% โ from a different maker. Same dual-action approach at a lower price; texture and results are very comparable.
Also pairs Adapalene 0.1% with Clindamycin 1%. Essentially the same formula category โ a straightforward, wallet-friendly equivalent.
Adapalene-only retinoid you pair with a separate clindamycin gel. More steps and bottles, but lets you control each active independently.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Deriva-CMS Gel (This Product)
~โน400 / 15gFaceclin AT Gel (Abbott)
~โน238 / 15gEpiduo Gel (Galderma)
~โน710 / 30gAcnetor AD Gel (Torrent)
~โน700 / 15g๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
Use within 6 months of opening for best potency; do not use beyond the printed expiry date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Aluminium/laminate squeeze tube (15g or 20g) with screw cap.
Yes โ well under 100ml, cabin-bag friendly. Carry the prescription/label when crossing borders.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No. Adapalene is a retinoid, and this gel is considered highly unsafe during pregnancy โ it carries a risk of birth defects and pregnancy loss. It is also unsafe while breastfeeding. Do not use it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, and speak to your doctor about safer alternatives.
Generally yes. Neither adapalene nor clindamycin feeds malassezia yeast, and the gel base is fragrance-free and alcohol-free without the fatty acids or esters that typically trigger fungal acne. If you are highly fungal-acne prone, patch test a small area first.
Use caution. It already contains a retinoid, so adding another retinol or strong acids (AHA/BHA), benzoyl peroxide, or potent vitamin C in the same routine can cause excessive dryness and irritation. If you want to combine actives, alternate them on different nights or different times of day, and check with your dermatologist.
It suits oily, combination, and acne-prone skin best, where oil control and clearing inflammatory breakouts matter most. Dry and sensitive skin can use it but should start slowly (every other night), buffer with moisturizer, and ideally use it under medical supervision.
Most people notice visible improvement around 4โ6 weeks, with significant clearing over a typical 12-week course. The first 1โ2 weeks may bring dryness or a purging phase, which usually settles as skin adjusts. Consistency is key.
Use it at night: cleanse, let skin dry fully (about 20 minutes), apply a thin pea-sized layer to affected areas, then moisturize. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, since the retinoid increases sun sensitivity.
No โ it is non-comedogenic and rates about 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. It is designed to do the opposite of clogging pores: adapalene keeps follicles clear and normalizes cell turnover to prevent the blockages that cause acne.
Aim to use it within about 6 months of opening for full potency, and never past the expiry date printed on the tube. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and keep the cap tightly closed.
Verdict: Deriva-CMS Gel is a well-priced, dermatologist-prescribed dual-action treatment that combines proven Adapalene 0.1% microspheres with Clindamycin Phosphate 1% to tackle mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne from two angles. It earns strong marks for effectiveness, oil control, and a clean fragrance- and alcohol-free base. Expect an adjustment period of dryness or purging, commit to daily sunscreen, and avoid it entirely if pregnant or breastfeeding. As a prescription antibiotic-retinoid combo, it's best used for a defined course under a clinician's guidance โ but for the right candidate, it's a reliable, value-driven workhorse for clearer skin.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging ยซpromisesยป it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
Ache-fighting
|