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Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP, 1%

Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP, 1%

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

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.

FDA-Approved Generic Prescription Strength Dermatologist Recommended Fragrance-Free Oil-Free Alcohol-Free Non-Comedogenic Fungal Acne Safe
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
0/5
Type
Topical Antibiotic
Active
Clindamycin 1%
Size
30g / 60g
pH
~5.0–6.5
Format
Aqueous Gel
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Targets Acne Bacteria

Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the 50S ribosomal subunit, reducing Cutibacterium acnes populations in the pore.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Clear water-gel
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
30–60 seconds
Finish
Invisible, matte

Targets 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.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those with seborrheic dermatitis or pityrosporum folliculitis.

Non-Comedogenic (0/5)

Water-gel base with no pore-clogging oils or silicones — will not contribute to blackheads or whiteheads.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

FDA Pregnancy Category B. Limited data; some topical absorption occurs. Discuss with your OB-GYN before use, especially during breastfeeding.

Antibiotic Resistance

Long-term monotherapy can promote resistant C. acnes strains. Dermatologists recommend pairing with benzoyl peroxide to minimize resistance.

Do Not Use If

You have a history of ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Discontinue if severe diarrhea develops.

Layering Compatibility

Compatible with most actives. Pairs exceptionally well with benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, tretinoin, niacinamide, and azelaic acid.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Clindamycin 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.
Use for a limited course as directed by your doctor. Best paired with benzoyl peroxide to prevent antibiotic resistance.

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.
A small percentage of users with very sensitive skin may experience mild tingling or redness. Patch test first.

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.

FREE FROM: Fragrance · Essential oils · Alcohol (ethanol) · Sulfates · Silicones · Mineral oil · Dyes · Parabens (except methylparaben preservative) · Retinoids · Salicylic acid · Benzoyl peroxide · Animal-derived ingredients · Gluten.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Clindamycin Gel
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply after cleansing and any watery serums, but before moisturizer. Wait 5 minutes after washing to avoid stinging.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & 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.

2

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.

3

Use Twice Daily

Apply morning and evening as directed by your dermatologist. Wash hands thoroughly after application and avoid eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.

4

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+.

5

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.

6

Be Patient

Full improvement may take 8–12 weeks. Consult your provider if no improvement after 6 weeks, or if symptoms worsen.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect 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)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Water-based, oil-free, matte finish. Absorbs quickly with no greasy residue — ideal for excess sebum and shine.

Combination
Excellent

Lightweight texture targets the oilier T-zone without dehydrating drier cheek areas.

Acne-Prone
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and formulated specifically to reduce inflammatory acne lesions.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Can cause additional dryness or flaking. Pair with a rich, barrier-supporting moisturizer and consider once-daily use.

Sensitive
Good

Fragrance-free and generally well-tolerated, but propylene glycol may cause tingling in reactive skin. Patch test first.

Mature Skin
Good

Effective for adult hormonal breakouts. Layer with hydrating serums to offset any drying effects on aging skin.

08

Results timeline

WEEKS 10–12
Days 1–7

Initial 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% noticed
Weeks 2–4

Visible Lesion Reduction

Existing papules and pustules begin to heal faster. Fewer new inflammatory breakouts appear. Comedones (blackheads/whiteheads) are largely unaffected.

~55% noticed
Weeks 6–8

Significant Clearing

Clinical studies show approximately 50% reduction in inflammatory lesion counts at the 8-week mark. Skin tone appears more even.

~70% noticed
Weeks 10–12

Full 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% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

580+ REVIEWS
Drugs.com
7.4/10
Rating
280+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can cause initial dryness and purging in the first 2–3 weeks for some users.
WebMD
3.8/5
Rating
300+
Reviews
Main complaint: Works slowly — some users abandon treatment before the 8–12 week mark.
SkinSort
4.2/5
Rating
146+
Routines
Main complaint: Doesn't help blackheads or scarring — best paired with a retinoid.
Glenmark / Pharmacy
4.3/5
Rating
FDA-Approved
Status
Main complaint: Prescription-only in many markets — not available over the counter.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • 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
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
95% Match
Cleocin T Gel 1% (Pfizer/Pharmacia & Upjohn)
$150+

The branded reference product. Identical active ingredient and concentration. Glenmark is the FDA-approved generic equivalent at a fraction of the price.

92% Match
Clindac-A Gel 1% (Galderma India)
$3–5
Budget Pick

Another Indian generic clindamycin 1% gel with nearly identical formulation. Widely used in India and frequently praised online for value.

88% Match
Clinsol Gel 1% (Ranbaxy / Sun Pharma)
$2–4
Budget Pick

Same 1% clindamycin phosphate active with a very similar excipient profile. Results are comparable; pick based on availability.

70% Match
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
$9.90
OTC Alternative

A non-antibiotic, over-the-counter option that targets inflammation and post-acne marks. Different mechanism but useful for mild acne without a prescription.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Active Adapalene 0.1% (retinoid)
Format Gel
Best For Comedonal + inflammatory acne
Fungal-Acne Safe Yes
Size 45g
Prescription OTC (US)
Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength
Active Benzoyl peroxide 10%
Format Foaming cleanser
Best For Anti-bacterial cleansing
Fungal-Acne Safe Yes
Size 170g
Prescription OTC
10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Active Azelaic acid 10%
Format Cream
Best For Acne + rosacea + PIH
Fungal-Acne Safe Yes
Size 30ml
Prescription OTC
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Do not use past the printed expiry date on the carton.

Storage

Store at room temperature, 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Excursions permitted 15°–30°C. Protect from freezing. Keep tube tightly capped.

Packaging

Aluminum tube with screw cap, 30 g or 60 g. Protects the formulation from light and air oxidation.

Travel Friendly

Yes — both 30g and 60g sizes are well under the 100ml liquid/gel carry-on limit for air travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Topical 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.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

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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lightbulb 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.

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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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
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lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

wound Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Allantoin
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Clindamycin Phosphate
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lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
37% 37% 25%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 8 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Clindamycin Phosphate
ache Ache-fighting
1 A
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
1 A
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
4 A
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
0 Unknown
PEG-6 Methyl Ether
Solvent
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS