Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel
Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength topical antibiotic gel that targets acne-causing bacteria directly at the source. Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel by Greenstone delivers clinically proven antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action in a lightweight, clear gel vehicle designed for once- or twice-daily application on mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
Antibacterial Action
Inhibits Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes) by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, stopping bacterial protein synthesis and halting the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Inhibits Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes) by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, stopping bacterial protein synthesis and halting the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Reduces redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with active acne breakouts, helping skin look calmer and more even-toned faster.
Lightweight Gel Vehicle
Water-based, oil-free gel formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Contains allantoin for added soothing and skin-conditioning benefits.
Clinically Proven Efficacy
Demonstrated in a 12-week randomized controlled trial to significantly reduce both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesion counts versus vehicle gel.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFDA former Category B. No increased risk of birth defects found in animal or human studies, but topical clindamycin should only be used during the first trimester if clearly needed. Consult your OB-GYN.
Topical application results in minimal systemic absorption and is unlikely to affect breastmilk significantly. Avoid applying to the chest area. Consult your doctor before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, fatty esters, and polysorbates. All inactive ingredients are considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free, silicone-free gel formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Very low risk of clogging pores.
Do not use if you have a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Topical clindamycin can be absorbed systemically.
Prolonged use as monotherapy may lead to bacterial resistance. Best used in combination with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid to minimize resistance development.
Used as a preservative in very low concentration. Generally well-tolerated, though individuals with paraben sensitivity should exercise caution.
May increase sun sensitivity. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily while using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
A water-soluble ester of the semi-synthetic antibiotic clindamycin. Once applied, it is rapidly hydrolyzed in vivo to active clindamycin, which binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria to inhibit protein synthesis.
- Mechanism: Bacteriostatic against Cutibacterium acnes — stops bacterial growth and reduces inflammation
- Clinical Data: 12-week RCT showed significant reduction in inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts vs. vehicle
- Absorption: Less than 0.04% of topical dose reaches systemic circulation (plasma levels 0–3 ng/mL)
AllantoinProven
A naturally occurring compound found in comfrey root that provides soothing, anti-irritant, and skin-conditioning properties. Helps counteract potential irritation from the active ingredient.
- Function: Skin protectant, moisturizer, and wound-healing promoter
- Benefit: Helps soften and protect treated skin, reducing dryness and peeling
Propylene GlycolEstablished
A humectant and penetration enhancer that helps deliver the active ingredient deeper into the skin while maintaining moisture. Also provides antimicrobial properties to extend product shelf life.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, penetration enhancer
- Note: Helps improve absorption of clindamycin phosphate into the pilosebaceous unit
Carbomer 934PVehicle
A high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used to create the gel texture. Due to its large molecular size, it has minimal skin penetration and is considered an inert, non-irritating thickening agent.
- Function: Gel-forming agent, viscosity modifier
- Safety: Non-comedogenic and non-sensitizing at standard use levels
8 ingredients
Clindamycin Phosphate (1%), Allantoin, Carbomer 934P, Methylparaben, Polyethylene Glycol 400, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on clean, dry skin. Wait 1–2 minutes before layering other products. Use AM and/or PM as directed by your dermatologist. Always follow with sunscreen during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash the affected area with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser. Pat dry completely before application.
Apply a Thin Film
Squeeze a pea-sized amount and apply a thin layer over the entire affected area — not just individual spots. Use enough to cover lightly.
Allow to Absorb
Let the gel absorb for 1–2 minutes before applying any additional skincare products such as serums or moisturizers.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day. Repeat once or twice daily as prescribed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You need a prescription-strength antibacterial without retinoid irritation
- You prefer a lightweight, oil-free gel that layers well under makeup
- You have fungal acne concerns and need a malassezia-safe treatment
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have primarily comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads) — a retinoid may be more effective
- You have severe or cystic acne — oral medication may be needed
- You have a history of colitis, enteritis, or antibiotic-associated diarrhea
- You are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin
- You prefer an over-the-counter solution without a prescription
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free gel absorbs quickly without adding shine. Lightweight texture is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
May cause mild dryness or peeling. Pair with a hydrating moisturizer for best results on dry skin types.
Works well across different face zones. Gel texture balances oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks.
Fragrance-free and minimal-ingredient formula. Allantoin provides soothing benefits. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, fungal acne safe. Specifically designed to treat inflammatory acne lesions.
Results timeline
WEEK 10–12Initial Improvement
Reduction in redness and inflammation of existing breakouts. Some users report visible improvement in active pimples within days. Slight dryness or mild irritation may occur as skin adjusts.
40% noticed improvementNoticeable Clearing
Significant reduction in the number of new inflammatory lesions. Papules and pustules begin to flatten and heal. Skin tone starts to look more even.
65% noticed improvementMarked Improvement
Clinical studies show measurable reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts by this point. Skin appears clearer and calmer overall.
80% noticed improvementOptimal Results
Peak efficacy reached. In clinical trials, 40% of patients with clindamycin alone achieved excellent results (greater than 75% lesion reduction). Combination therapy shows even higher success rates.
90% noticed improvementRatings by platform
532+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Rapidly reduces inflammation and redness, often within the first week
- Lightweight, clear gel texture layers well under makeup and sunscreen
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, and fungal acne safe formula
- Only 8 ingredients — minimal, clean formulation
- Does not cause purging like retinoids, making it gentler initially
- Affordable generic pricing with insurance or GoodRx coupons
- Contains allantoin for soothing and skin-conditioning benefits
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not available over the counter
- Should not be used as monotherapy due to antibiotic resistance risk
- Less effective on comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads)
- Can cause dryness, peeling, and mild burning in some users
- Rare but serious risk of colitis (diarrhea, bloody stools) even with topical use
- Some users report greasy feeling on certain skin types
- Limited long-term use recommended (typically 8–12 weeks)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESIdentical active ingredient at the same 1% concentration. Different manufacturers (Mylan, Perrigo, Padagis) may use slightly different inactive ingredients like different carbomer grades, but efficacy is the same.
Over-the-counter antibacterial for acne. Different mechanism (oxidizing agent vs. antibiotic) but targets the same bacteria. No prescription needed. Can be more drying and may bleach fabrics.
Offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties plus brightening for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Available without a prescription. Works more slowly but with less resistance risk.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Erythromycin 2% Topical Gel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (use within prescription period as directed)
Store at controlled room temperature 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F). Protect from freezing and direct sunlight. Keep container tightly closed.
Aluminum tube with screw cap (available in 30g and 60g sizes)
Yes — 30g tube is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQClindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel is classified as former FDA Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies have not shown fetal harm, but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women during the first trimester. Topical use results in very low systemic absorption (less than 0.04% of the dose). Several human studies have not shown an increased chance of birth defects. For breastfeeding, topical application is unlikely to produce significant levels in breast milk, but the manufacturer advises caution. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes. This gel formula is fungal acne safe. It contains no ferments, fatty acids, fatty esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. All 8 ingredients — including clindamycin phosphate, allantoin, carbomer 934P, methylparaben, PEG 400, propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, and purified water — are considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Yes, clindamycin gel can generally be combined with retinoids (like tretinoin or adapalene), vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants. In fact, dermatologists commonly prescribe clindamycin alongside retinoids for enhanced acne treatment. However, layering multiple active ingredients may increase irritation. Start slowly and apply them at different times of day if needed (e.g., clindamycin in the AM, retinoid in the PM). Consult your dermatologist for the best combination for your skin.
Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its oil-free, lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. It also works well for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free formula and soothing allantoin content. Those with dry skin may find it slightly drying and should pair it with a hydrating moisturizer.
Many users report noticeable improvement within 1–2 weeks, particularly a reduction in redness and inflammation. However, optimal results are typically seen after 6–12 weeks of consistent use. A 12-week clinical trial demonstrated significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts. If you don't see improvement after 6–8 weeks, consult your dermatologist about adjusting your treatment plan.
Apply Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel after cleansing and toning, but before serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Cleanse your face, pat dry, then apply a thin film of the gel to the entire affected area. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption, then continue with the rest of your routine. Always use SPF during the day.
No. Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. Its oil-free, silicone-free gel vehicle uses non-comedogenic ingredients like carbomer, allantoin, and PEG 400. The formulation is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and will not exacerbate breakouts.
As a prescription pharmaceutical, the product should be used within the timeframe directed by your prescriber, typically within 2–3 months per tube. The shelf life is generally 24 months from manufacture when stored at room temperature (20°C–25°C). Keep the container tightly closed, protect from freezing, and do not store in direct sunlight. Discard if the gel changes color, texture, or develops an unusual odor.
Verdict: Clindamycin Phosphate 1% Gel by Greenstone is a reliable, clinically proven prescription treatment for mild to moderate inflammatory acne. Its minimal 8-ingredient formula makes it one of the cleanest topical antibiotics available — fragrance-free, oil-free, fungal acne safe, and non-comedogenic. The lightweight gel vehicle absorbs quickly and layers well in any skincare routine. However, it works best when paired with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid to prevent antibiotic resistance and address comedonal acne. Not ideal as a standalone treatment, but an excellent cornerstone in a comprehensive acne-fighting regimen prescribed by your dermatologist.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|