Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP, 1%
Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP, 1%
Product Description
Product overview
Glenmark Pharma Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP, 1% is a dermatologist-trusted prescription topical antibiotic formulated to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris. This FDA-approved generic of Cleocin T delivers 10 mg of clindamycin per gram in a lightweight, water-based gel vehicle that targets acne-causing Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria and reduces inflammatory lesions. Fragrance-free, oil-free, and alcohol-free — suitable for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin.
Targets Acne Bacteria
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the 50S ribosomal subunit, reducing Cutibacterium acnes populations in the pore.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTargets Acne Bacteria
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the 50S ribosomal subunit, reducing Cutibacterium acnes populations in the pore.
Reduces Inflammation
Clinical trials show up to 65% reduction in inflammatory lesions (papules & pustules) after 12 weeks of consistent use.
Lightweight & Oil-Free
Water-based gel vehicle absorbs quickly without greasy residue — ideal for oily and combination skin types.
Allantoin-Soothed
Contains allantoin, a gentle skin-conditioning agent that calms irritation often associated with antibiotic treatments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those with seborrheic dermatitis or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Water-gel base with no pore-clogging oils or silicones — will not contribute to blackheads or whiteheads.
FDA Pregnancy Category B. Limited data; some topical absorption occurs. Discuss with your OB-GYN before use, especially during breastfeeding.
Long-term monotherapy can promote resistant C. acnes strains. Dermatologists recommend pairing with benzoyl peroxide to minimize resistance.
You have a history of ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Discontinue if severe diarrhea develops.
Compatible with most actives. Pairs exceptionally well with benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, tretinoin, niacinamide, and azelaic acid.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
A semi-synthetic lincosamide antibiotic. Once applied, it is rapidly hydrolyzed on the skin to active clindamycin, which binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of Cutibacterium acnes and halts bacterial protein synthesis. Delivers 10 mg clindamycin per gram.
- FDA label: Indicated for the treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 12 years and older.
- Clinical data: 12-week RCTs show a ~65% reduction in inflammatory lesion counts versus vehicle.
- Mechanism: Also lowers free fatty acids on the skin surface from ~14% to ~2% after application.
Allantoin ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A gentle skin-conditioning and soothing agent naturally found in comfrey root. Helps mitigate the dryness and mild irritation sometimes associated with topical antibiotic use, and supports healthy keratinization.
- Function: Soothing, moisturizing, and mildly keratolytic — helps smooth rough, flaky skin.
- Safety: CIR panel rates it safe at typical cosmetic concentrations; non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
Carbomer (974P) ~0.5–1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight polymer used as the primary thickening and gelling agent. Creates the clear, water-based gel vehicle that allows even distribution of clindamycin across the skin.
- Function: Rheology modifier — provides smooth, non-tacky texture.
- Inert: Does not penetrate skin; purely functional for product stability.
Methylparaben ~0.1–0.3%Proven
A widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects the formula from bacterial and fungal contamination — critical in a water-rich aqueous gel.
- FDA & EU approved: Safe at concentrations up to 0.4% (single) and 0.8% (mix).
- Necessary: Water-based products require preservation to remain safe throughout shelf life.
PEG-6 Methyl Ether (PEG-400) ~1–5%Proven
A water-soluble solvent and humectant that helps dissolve clindamycin phosphate and carry it evenly across the skin surface. Supports smooth, even application.
- Function: Solvent and co-vehicle; improves ingredient solubility.
- Non-comedogenic: Rated 0 on the comedogenicity scale.
Propylene Glycol ~5–15%Proven
A humectant and penetration enhancer that draws moisture into the skin and helps clindamycin pass through the stratum corneum to reach the pilosebaceous unit where acne bacteria live.
- Function: Humectant + penetration enhancer.
- Tolerance: Well-tolerated by most; rare irritation in very sensitive skin.
Sodium Hydroxide trace (pH adjuster)Proven
Used in minute amounts to neutralize the carbomer and adjust the formula's pH to skin-compatible levels (approximately 5.0–6.5). Fully neutralized in the final product — not an active ingredient.
- Function: pH adjuster and carbomer neutralizer.
- Safety: Present only in trace, neutralized amounts; not irritating in final product.
Purified Water ~80%+ (base)Proven
The main solvent and base of the gel vehicle. Creates the lightweight, quick-absorbing aqueous gel texture that makes the product comfortable on oily and acne-prone skin.
- USP grade: Pharmaceutical-grade purified water.
- Function: Primary vehicle; enables oil-free formula.
8 ingredients
Clindamycin Phosphate (1% w/w, equivalent to 10 mg clindamycin per gram), Allantoin, Carbomer (974P), Methylparaben, PEG-6 Methyl Ether (Polyethylene Glycol 400), Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and any watery serums, but before moisturizer. Wait 5 minutes after washing to avoid stinging.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Wash face with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser. Pat dry completely and wait ~5 minutes before applying — damp skin increases absorption and may cause stinging.
Apply a Thin Layer
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto clean fingertips. Apply a thin, even film to the entire affected area (not just individual spots) — acne forms before it's visible.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and evening as directed by your dermatologist. Wash hands thoroughly after application and avoid eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
Follow with Moisturizer
Let the gel absorb for 1–2 minutes, then apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to support the skin barrier. In the morning, finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Pair with Benzoyl Peroxide
To prevent antibiotic resistance, most dermatologists recommend using a BPO wash or gel alongside clindamycin. Use BPO in the AM and clindamycin in the PM if irritation occurs.
Be Patient
Full improvement may take 8–12 weeks. Consult your provider if no improvement after 6 weeks, or if symptoms worsen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules and pustules)
- Your skin is oily or combination and tolerates water-based gels well
- You've been prescribed clindamycin by a dermatologist
- You want a fragrance-free, oil-free, non-comedogenic option
- You plan to pair with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid for best results
- You need a fungal-acne-safe spot treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a history of ulcerative colitis or antibiotic-associated colitis
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your OB-GYN first)
- You have a known allergy to clindamycin or lincomycin
- Your acne is primarily hormonal cystic or comedonal (whiteheads/blackheads) — a retinoid may be more effective
- You want an over-the-counter, non-prescription option
- You've already used topical antibiotics long-term (resistance risk)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWater-based, oil-free, matte finish. Absorbs quickly with no greasy residue — ideal for excess sebum and shine.
Lightweight texture targets the oilier T-zone without dehydrating drier cheek areas.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and formulated specifically to reduce inflammatory acne lesions.
Can cause additional dryness or flaking. Pair with a rich, barrier-supporting moisturizer and consider once-daily use.
Fragrance-free and generally well-tolerated, but propylene glycol may cause tingling in reactive skin. Patch test first.
Effective for adult hormonal breakouts. Layer with hydrating serums to offset any drying effects on aging skin.
Results timeline
WEEKS 10–12Initial Calming Effect
Some users report visible reduction in redness and inflammation of active pustules within the first few days. Skin may feel slightly dry as it adjusts to the antibiotic.
~25% noticedVisible Lesion Reduction
Existing papules and pustules begin to heal faster. Fewer new inflammatory breakouts appear. Comedones (blackheads/whiteheads) are largely unaffected.
~55% noticedSignificant Clearing
Clinical studies show approximately 50% reduction in inflammatory lesion counts at the 8-week mark. Skin tone appears more even.
~70% noticedFull Clinical Benefit
Published 12-week RCTs report up to ~65% reduction in inflammatory lesions. This is the endpoint most dermatologists use to evaluate treatment success.
~80% noticedRatings by platform
580+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven — ~65% reduction in inflammatory acne in 12 weeks
- Lightweight, fragrance-free, fast-absorbing gel
- Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic (0/5)
- Affordable generic alternative to Cleocin T
- Gentle enough for most sensitive skin
- Minimal free-from list — no silicones, oils, or fragrance
- Layers well with retinoids, BPO, and niacinamide
Criticized
- Prescription-only in most countries
- Can cause dryness, redness, and peeling initially
- Doesn't address blackheads, whiteheads, or scarring
- Risk of antibiotic resistance with long-term solo use
- Rare but possible GI side effects (diarrhea, colitis)
- Not ideal for pregnancy/breastfeeding without doctor approval
- Takes 8–12 weeks for full results
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe branded reference product. Identical active ingredient and concentration. Glenmark is the FDA-approved generic equivalent at a fraction of the price.
Another Indian generic clindamycin 1% gel with nearly identical formulation. Widely used in India and frequently praised online for value.
Same 1% clindamycin phosphate active with a very similar excipient profile. Results are comparable; pick based on availability.
A non-antibiotic, over-the-counter option that targets inflammation and post-acne marks. Different mechanism but useful for mild acne without a prescription.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Do not use past the printed expiry date on the carton.
Store at room temperature, 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Excursions permitted 15°–30°C. Protect from freezing. Keep tube tightly capped.
Aluminum tube with screw cap, 30 g or 60 g. Protects the formulation from light and air oxidation.
Yes — both 30g and 60g sizes are well under the 100ml liquid/gel carry-on limit for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical clindamycin is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies have not shown risk but adequate human studies are lacking. A small amount of clindamycin is absorbed systemically through the skin, and oral/IV clindamycin has been shown to appear in breast milk. Most dermatologists consider it generally acceptable during pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks, but you should always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use — especially while breastfeeding. Safer-to-use alternatives during pregnancy include azelaic acid and glycolic acid.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The only ingredients are clindamycin phosphate, allantoin, carbomer, methylparaben, PEG-6 methyl ether, propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, and water — all of which are considered fungal-acne-safe. This makes it one of the few antibiotic treatments suitable for people who also struggle with pityrosporum folliculitis or seborrheic dermatitis.
Yes — in fact, combining clindamycin with a retinoid (adapalene, tretinoin) is considered the gold standard for moderate inflammatory acne. Most dermatologists also recommend pairing with benzoyl peroxide to prevent antibiotic resistance. You can layer it with vitamin C, niacinamide, and azelaic acid without issue. When combining with AHAs or BHAs, apply on alternate evenings to minimize irritation. Always moisturize afterward and use SPF during the day.
This gel is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin thanks to its lightweight, oil-free, water-based formula. It works best for inflammatory acne (red papules and pustules) rather than comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads). Sensitive skin types can generally tolerate it well due to its fragrance-free formula, though a small percentage may react to propylene glycol. Very dry or compromised skin may experience additional dryness — pair with a barrier-supporting moisturizer.
Most users notice reduced redness and calming of active breakouts within the first 1–2 weeks. Meaningful reduction in lesion count usually appears at the 4–6 week mark, and the full clinical benefit — approximately 65% reduction in inflammatory lesions — is typically reached by week 12. If you see no improvement after 6 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, consult your dermatologist about adjusting your regimen.
Apply it after cleansing and any watery serums, but before your moisturizer. The recommended order is: (1) gentle cleanser, (2) toner or hydrating serum, (3) wait 5 minutes if skin is wet, (4) thin layer of clindamycin gel, (5) moisturizer, (6) broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning. Some users prefer BPO in the morning and clindamycin in the evening if irritation occurs from combining them.
No. It has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is water-based with no oils, butters, or silicones. All eight ingredients are considered non-pore-clogging at the concentrations used. This makes it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin where avoiding pore blockage is critical.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Always check the expiry date printed on the carton and tube — an unopened tube is typically stable for 2–3 years from manufacture. Store at controlled room temperature (20°–25°C / 68°–77°F), protect from freezing, and keep the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination and evaporation. Discard immediately if you notice discoloration, separation, or an unusual smell.
Verdict: Glenmark Pharma Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP, 1% is a reliable, clinically-proven FDA-approved generic for mild to moderate inflammatory acne. Its clean, minimal 8-ingredient formula is fragrance-free, oil-free, fungal-acne safe, and non-comedogenic — a rare combination among prescription treatments. Real-world reviews back up the ~65% inflammatory lesion reduction reported in 12-week clinical trials. The main caveats are the prescription-only status in most regions, the 8–12 week timeline for full results, and the need to pair with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid to prevent antibiotic resistance. For oily and acne-prone skin dealing with persistent red pustules, it remains one of the most trusted and dermatologist-recommended topical antibiotics on the market.
Product Overview
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Quick Product Notes
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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.
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Notable Effects & Ingredients
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-6 Methyl Ether
Solvent
|
|






