Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP 1%
Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP 1%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength topical antibiotic gel containing 1% clindamycin phosphate to target acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammatory lesions, and help clear mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Lightweight, water-based gel formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue.
Antibacterial Action
Inhibits Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes) by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking bacterial protein synthesis to stop growth and reduce infection.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Inhibits Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes) by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking bacterial protein synthesis to stop growth and reduce infection.
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with papules and pustules. Helps calm active breakouts and speed healing.
Lightweight Gel Vehicle
Water-based gel absorbs quickly without greasiness. Contains allantoin for added skin-soothing benefits while delivering the active ingredient.
Reduces Free Fatty Acids
Decreases free fatty acid levels on skin surface from approximately 14% to 2%, reducing pore-clogging irritants that worsen acne.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAnimal studies show no fetal harm. No adequate studies in first trimester. Topical use has minimal systemic absorption. Use only if clearly needed — consult your doctor.
Unknown if topical clindamycin enters breast milk, but oral forms do. Topical application has minimal absorption and is unlikely to affect nursing infants. Avoid applying to chest area.
The gel formula itself does not feed Malassezia yeast. However, prolonged antibiotic use can disrupt skin flora and potentially allow yeast overgrowth. Not a treatment for fungal acne.
Water-based gel formulation with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Do not use if you have a history of ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Topical clindamycin can be absorbed systemically.
Do not use clindamycin alone for extended periods. Combine with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance. Limit use to 12 weeks as recommended by dermatology guidelines.
Does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Generally well-tolerated with minimal irritation.
This is an Rx-only medication. Not available over the counter. Consult your dermatologist or healthcare provider for a prescription.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
A water-soluble ester of the lincosamide antibiotic clindamycin. Rapidly converted to active clindamycin in the skin where it inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 23S RNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit.
- Mechanism: Bacteriostatic and bactericidal against Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes)
- Clinical Data: 8-week study showed significant reduction in pustule and papule counts vs. placebo
- Free Fatty Acids: Reduces skin surface free fatty acids from ~14% to ~2%
- Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption — serum levels of 0–3 ng/mL after topical use
Allantoin SupportingProven
A naturally derived compound known for its skin-soothing and moisturizing properties. Helps counterbalance potential dryness and irritation from the antibiotic active.
- Function: Skin protectant, moisturizer, and wound-healing promoter
- Benefit: Reduces irritation and promotes cell regeneration at higher concentrations
- Source: Originally from comfrey plant; synthetically produced for purity in cosmetics
Propylene Glycol VehicleFunctional
A humectant and penetration enhancer that helps deliver clindamycin into the skin while maintaining moisture. Also provides antimicrobial preservation benefits.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer
- Benefit: Aids delivery of active ingredient into pores and comedones
- Note: Helps prevent product from freezing or melting in varying temperatures
8 ingredients
Clindamycin Phosphate, Allantoin, Carbomer 934P, Methylparaben, Polyethylene Glycol 400, Propylene Glycol, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning. Wait 5–10 minutes before layering moisturizer. Use in both AM and PM routines, or as directed by your dermatologist. Always follow with sunscreen during daytime use.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Wash with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat skin dry and wait 2–3 minutes to ensure skin is completely dry before application.
Apply a Thin Film
Squeeze a pea-sized amount and apply a thin layer to the entire affected area — not just individual pimples. This prevents new breakouts from forming.
Allow to Absorb
Let the gel absorb for 5–10 minutes before applying other products. Do not rub excessively. The gel should dry to a matte, invisible finish.
Follow With Moisturizer & SPF
Layer a non-comedogenic moisturizer on top. During the day, always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules and pustules)
- You need a prescription-strength antibacterial for active breakouts
- You want a lightweight, oil-free gel that layers well under makeup
- Your dermatologist recommends combining it with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids
- You have oily or combination skin prone to acne
- You need a fragrance-free option for sensitive skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have primarily non-inflammatory acne (blackheads and whiteheads only)
- You have a history of ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or antibiotic-associated colitis
- You are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin
- You have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) — this requires antifungals, not antibiotics
- You want an over-the-counter solution without a prescription
- You need long-term maintenance therapy (resistance risk with prolonged use)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight water-based gel absorbs instantly without adding shine. Matte finish is ideal for oily skin types. Reduces sebum-related bacterial overgrowth.
Works well on oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Can be applied to specific breakout areas or all over as directed.
Well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Allantoin in the formula helps maintain skin comfort. Follow with moisturizer.
May cause additional dryness and peeling. Always layer with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Consider the lotion formulation instead.
Fragrance-free and generally well-tolerated. Allantoin provides soothing action. Patch test first — propylene glycol can irritate very reactive skin.
Specifically formulated for acne treatment. Non-comedogenic, oil-free. Targets the root bacterial cause of inflammatory acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 10–12Initial Adjustment
Mild dryness, slight peeling, or temporary purging may occur as the antibiotic begins working. Skin is adjusting to the treatment. Some users notice reduced redness early on.
20% noticed improvementVisible Reduction in Inflammation
Inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) begin to flatten and heal. Redness decreases noticeably. New breakouts slow down as bacterial colonies shrink.
50% noticed improvementSignificant Clearing
Clinical studies show significant reduction in papule and pustule counts by week 8. Skin appears calmer and clearer. Free fatty acid levels on skin markedly reduced.
75% noticed improvementOptimal Results
Full treatment benefits achieved. In clinical trials, once-daily application demonstrated equivalent efficacy to twice-daily dosing of older formulations. Discuss maintenance plan with your dermatologist.
90% noticed improvementRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven to reduce inflammatory acne lesions significantly
- Lightweight, non-greasy gel absorbs fast under makeup
- Fragrance-free and oil-free — minimal irritation risk
- Contains soothing allantoin to offset dryness
- Low systemic absorption (0–3 ng/mL serum levels)
- Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive
- Affordable generic pricing compared to brand-name versions
- Reduces skin surface free fatty acids that worsen acne
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not available OTC
- Risk of antibiotic resistance if used alone long-term
- Not effective for non-inflammatory acne (blackheads/whiteheads)
- Rare but serious risk of pseudomembranous colitis
- Contains methylparaben (preservative concern for some users)
- Results take 6–12 weeks — not an overnight solution
- May cause initial dryness, peeling, or burning
- Not effective against fungal acne or hormonal cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Identical active ingredient at the same 1% concentration. Different manufacturer (Perrigo vs. Encube) with slightly different inactive ingredients. Functionally equivalent generic.
Available without prescription. Kills acne bacteria through oxidation rather than antibiotic action. No resistance risk. More drying but effective for mild acne. Often recommended as a companion to clindamycin.
OTC retinoid that targets comedonal acne and cell turnover rather than bacteria. Different mechanism — best for blackheads and prevention. Often combined with clindamycin for comprehensive treatment.
Another topical antibiotic for acne with similar mechanism. Higher resistance rates than clindamycin. Often considered a second-choice alternative when clindamycin is not suitable.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHSUse by expiration date printed on tube crimp. Typically stable for 24 months unopened; use within 3–6 months after opening for best efficacy.
Store at controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from freezing. Keep container tightly closed. Do not store in direct sunlight.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. Available in 30g and 60g sizes. Expiration date and lot number printed on tube crimp.
Yes — 30g tube is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Non-flammable gel formulation (unlike the solution form). Keep tightly sealed during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQClindamycin is classified as former FDA Pregnancy Category B. Animal studies have shown no evidence of fetal harm, and clinical use during the second and third trimesters has not been associated with increased birth defects. However, there are no adequate first-trimester studies. Topical application results in minimal systemic absorption (serum levels of 0–3 ng/mL), so the fetus is exposed to very low amounts. For breastfeeding, oral clindamycin enters breast milk, but topical application has minimal absorption and is unlikely to affect nursing infants. Avoid applying to the breast area. Always consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The gel formula itself does not contain common fungal acne triggers like fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. However, clindamycin is an antibacterial antibiotic — it does not treat fungal acne and could potentially worsen it. Prolonged antibiotic use can disrupt the skin's bacterial balance, allowing Malassezia yeast to overgrow. If you suspect fungal acne (uniform itchy bumps), consult a dermatologist for antifungal treatment instead. The gel vehicle ingredients (carbomer, PEG-400, propylene glycol) are generally considered safe for malassezia-prone skin.
Yes, with proper spacing. Clindamycin can be used with retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) — in fact, combination products exist for this purpose. Apply clindamycin first, wait 5–10 minutes, then apply retinoid. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used at a different time of day. AHAs and BHAs may increase dryness when combined; introduce slowly. Do not combine with erythromycin, as these antibiotics are antagonistic. Always pair with benzoyl peroxide (at a different time or in combination) to prevent antibiotic resistance.
This gel works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The water-based formula absorbs quickly without adding greasiness, making it especially suited for oily skin. It is also well-tolerated by normal and sensitive skin types due to its fragrance-free, oil-free formula with soothing allantoin. Dry skin types may experience additional dryness and should use a rich moisturizer on top, or consider the lotion formulation instead.
Most users begin to see improvement in inflammatory lesions within 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Clinical studies demonstrate significant reduction in papule and pustule counts by week 8. Full results are typically achieved by week 10–12. Do not stop treatment early even if symptoms begin improving after a few days — consistency is key. If no improvement is seen after 6 weeks, consult your dermatologist for adjustments.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. The gel should be applied to clean, completely dry skin as step 3 in a typical routine: (1) Cleanser, (2) Toner (optional), (3) Clindamycin Gel, (4) Moisturizer, (5) Sunscreen (AM only). Wait 5–10 minutes after application before layering other products. If using with benzoyl peroxide, apply one in the morning and the other at night.
No. Clindamycin Phosphate Gel 1% has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. The water-based gel is oil-free and formulated specifically for acne-prone skin. The inactive ingredients (carbomer, PEG-400, propylene glycol, allantoin) are all low on the comedogenicity scale. In fact, clindamycin actively helps by penetrating into comedones and reducing the bacterial colonization that contributes to pore blockage.
Use by the expiration date stamped on the tube crimp. Once opened, the gel remains effective for approximately 3–6 months when stored properly at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F). Keep the container tightly closed after each use. Protect from freezing and direct sunlight. If the gel changes color, texture, or smell, discard it and obtain a fresh tube.
Verdict: Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP 1% by Encube is a clinically proven, FDA-approved topical antibiotic for treating mild to moderate inflammatory acne. Its lightweight, fragrance-free gel formula makes it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, with minimal irritation thanks to the inclusion of allantoin. The key limitation is that it should not be used alone long-term due to antibiotic resistance risk — always combine with benzoyl peroxide as your dermatologist recommends. For the price, it offers excellent value as a generic alternative to brand-name clindamycin products. Best for patients seeking a prescription-strength antibacterial treatment as part of a comprehensive acne regimen.
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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
|
|
| 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyethylene
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Abrasive, Bulking Agent, Adhesive
|
|