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Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion 1%

Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion 1%

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A prescription-strength topical antibiotic lotion that delivers 1% clindamycin phosphate directly to acne-prone skin, targeting Cutibacterium acnes bacteria while reducing inflammation. This lightweight, emollient lotion formula by Padagis is the generic equivalent to Cleocin-T and is designed for twice-daily application to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

Prescription Antibiotic FDA-Approved for Acne AB-Rated Generic to Cleocin-T Dermatologist Recommended Anti-Inflammatory Alcohol-Free Lotion Base
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Type
Rx Lotion
Size
60 mL
Active
Clindamycin 1%
Manufacturer
Padagis
Equivalent
Cleocin-T
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria

Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to 23S ribosomal RNA, stopping Cutibacterium acnes growth and reproduction on the skin surface.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Thin Lotion
Scent
Mild Medicinal
Absorption
1–2 Minutes
Finish
Matte-Natural

Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria

Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to 23S ribosomal RNA, stopping Cutibacterium acnes growth and reproduction on the skin surface.

Reduces Inflammation

Provides anti-inflammatory benefits that help reduce the redness, swelling, and pain associated with inflammatory acne lesions like papules, pustules, and cysts.

Emollient Lotion Base

Unlike alcohol-based solutions, this lotion formula with glycerin and cetearyl alcohol provides hydration while delivering the active ingredient, minimizing dryness and irritation.

Low Systemic Absorption

Following topical application, very low serum levels of clindamycin are detected (0–3 ng/mL), with less than 0.2% of the dose recovered in urine.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy: Use With Caution

No adequate studies exist for the first trimester. Systemic clindamycin in the second and third trimesters has not shown increased congenital abnormalities. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor.

Breastfeeding: Use With Caution

Unknown if topical clindamycin enters breast milk. Oral/parenteral clindamycin does appear in breast milk. If applied to the chest area, take care to avoid infant ingestion.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains cetearyl alcohol, stearic acid, isostearyl alcohol, and glyceryl stearate — fatty acid-based ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast. Prolonged antibiotic use may also promote yeast overgrowth.

GI Contraindication

Contraindicated for individuals with a history of ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Topical use can rarely cause pseudomembranous colitis.

Antibiotic Resistance Risk

Prolonged monotherapy may lead to bacterial resistance. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends combining with benzoyl peroxide and limiting use to 12 weeks.

No Retinoids or Hydroquinone

This formulation does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.

Atopic Individuals

Should be prescribed with caution in atopic individuals (those with asthma, hay fever, or eczema). Patch testing is recommended if you have a history of skin sensitivities.

Drug Interactions

Clindamycin has neuromuscular blocking properties. Use with caution if taking neuromuscular blocking agents. Antagonism exists between clindamycin and erythromycin — do not use concurrently.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Clindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven

A water-soluble prodrug that rapidly converts to active clindamycin in vivo. Works as a bacteriostatic antibiotic by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking protein synthesis in C. acnes bacteria.

  • Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the 23S RNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit
  • Clinical Data: 12-week studies showed significant reductions in pustule counts vs. placebo, with ~90% of patients showing improvement
  • Concentration: Equivalent to 10 mg clindamycin per mL — the standard FDA-approved therapeutic dose
  • Absorption: Serum levels remain very low (0–3 ng/mL) with less than 0.2% systemic recovery
Do not use as monotherapy long-term. Combine with benzoyl peroxide to reduce antibiotic resistance risk. Limit use to 12 weeks as recommended by AAD guidelines.

Cetearyl Alcohol 2.5%Emollient

A mixture of cetyl and stearyl fatty alcohols that functions as an emulsifier and emollient. Helps create a smooth, spreadable lotion texture and prevents water-oil separation in the formula.

  • Function: Emulsifier, texture enhancer, and skin-conditioning agent
  • Safety: Non-toxic and non-irritating according to safety studies. FDA allows "alcohol-free" labeling with fatty alcohols
Fatty alcohol base may not be suitable for malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne). Some debate exists about comedogenic potential.

GlycerinProven

A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin, helping maintain hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. Offsets potential drying effects of the antibiotic.

  • Function: Humectant, skin protectant, and moisture-binding agent
  • Benefit: Helps prevent the dryness and peeling commonly associated with topical acne treatments
Universally well-tolerated across all skin types. Fungal acne safe. Non-comedogenic.

Glyceryl Stearate SEEmulsifier

A self-emulsifying form of glyceryl stearate that stabilizes the lotion formula, allowing the oil and water phases to remain uniformly mixed. Also provides a smooth skin feel.

  • Function: Self-emulsifying agent and texture modifier
  • Note: Contains potassium monostearate for enhanced emulsification

Methylparaben 0.3%Preservative

A widely used antimicrobial preservative that prevents bacterial and fungal contamination in the product. Maintains shelf stability and safety of the lotion.

  • Function: Antimicrobial preservative
  • Safety: FDA-approved for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use at concentrations up to 0.4%

Sodium Lauroyl SarcosinateSurfactant

A mild amino acid-derived surfactant that enhances the cleansing and spreading properties of the lotion. Gentler than traditional sulfate surfactants.

  • Function: Mild surfactant and conditioning agent
  • Benefit: Helps the lotion spread evenly over the skin without excessive foaming

9 ingredients

Clindamycin Phosphate 1%, Cetearyl Alcohol 2.5%, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE (with Potassium Monostearate), Isostearyl Alcohol 2.5%, Methylparaben 0.3%, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Stearic Acid, Purified Water.

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Parabens (except methylparaben), Sulfates, Retinoids, Salicylic Acid, Hydroquinone, Chemical Sunscreens, Alcohol (ethanol/isopropyl), Dyes, Essential Oils, Silicones
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Product
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen

Apply twice daily (AM & PM) after cleansing and toning. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption before applying moisturizer. If using with benzoyl peroxide, apply at different times of day to reduce irritation.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Skin

Wash the affected area with a mild, soap-free cleanser. Rinse with warm water and gently pat dry with a clean towel. Allow skin to fully dry before application.

2

Shake the Bottle Well

Shake the lotion bottle vigorously immediately before each use. The formula may separate when sitting — shaking ensures uniform distribution of the active ingredient.

3

Apply a Thin Film

Apply a thin film of lotion to the entire affected area — not just individual spots. Cover the full area prone to breakouts (e.g., entire face, jawline, or back). Use clean fingertips to spread evenly.

4

Wash Hands & Continue Routine

Wash your hands after application. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and broken skin. Wait 1–2 minutes, then follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen (AM).

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
  • You need a prescription-strength antibacterial treatment
  • You prefer a lotion formula over alcohol-based solutions
  • You experience hormonal or premenstrual acne flare-ups
  • Your dermatologist has prescribed it as part of a combination regimen
  • You want to reduce redness and inflammation from active breakouts

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have primarily comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads only)
  • You have a history of colitis, enteritis, or C. difficile infection
  • You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
  • You are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin
  • You want an over-the-counter, no-prescription option
  • You are looking for a long-term maintenance-only treatment
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight lotion absorbs quickly without adding oil or shine. The antibacterial action directly targets excess sebum-related bacterial growth.

Dry Skin
Good

Emollient lotion base with glycerin provides some hydration, but a richer moisturizer should follow. Less drying than alcohol-based clindamycin solutions.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones. Apply to full affected area rather than spot-treating for best results.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Generally well-tolerated. The lotion form is gentler than gel or solution. Patch test recommended for atopic individuals. Burning or itching possible at first.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

This product is specifically formulated to treat acne. Comedogenic rating of 2/5 — low risk of pore clogging. Best when combined with benzoyl peroxide.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 10–12
Week 1–2

Reduced Redness & Inflammation

Many users notice a decrease in redness and swelling of active inflammatory lesions within the first week of consistent use. New breakouts may still appear as the skin adjusts.

40% noticed reduced redness
Week 3–4

Fewer New Breakouts

Bacterial counts on the skin begin to drop significantly. Pustule and papule counts start to decline. Some mild dryness or peeling may occur as skin adjusts to the treatment.

55% noticed fewer breakouts
Week 6–8

Visible Improvement in Clarity

Significant reduction in inflammatory acne lesions becomes apparent. Skin texture improves, and post-inflammatory redness begins to fade. Clinical studies typically assess efficacy at this timeframe.

70% noticed clearer skin
Week 10–12

Full Therapeutic Effect

Maximum therapeutic benefit is reached. Clinical trials showed nearly 90% of patients experienced improvement or marked improvement by week 12. Discuss continuing treatment or transitioning with your prescriber.

~90% experienced improvement
09

Ratings by platform

562+ REVIEWS
Drugs.com
6.8/10
Rating
232+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report initial dryness and skin irritation; takes several weeks to see results
WebMD
3.7/5
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Applicator bottle design makes dispensing difficult; burning sensation on sensitive skin
Acne.org
3.5/5
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Acne can return after stopping use; some users experienced initial purging phase
GoodRx
3.8/5
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: Price without insurance can be high ($25–$125); needs to be paired with other treatments for best results
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Effective at reducing inflammatory acne (papules, pustules, cysts)
  • Lotion base is less drying and irritating than gel or solution forms
  • Fast visible improvement in redness within 1–2 weeks
  • Works well as part of combination therapy with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids
  • Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically
  • Available as affordable generic (AB-rated to Cleocin-T)
  • Simple formula with only 9 ingredients

Criticized

  • Should not be used as monotherapy — risk of antibiotic resistance
  • Acne often returns after discontinuing treatment
  • Not effective against comedonal (non-inflammatory) acne
  • May cause dryness, peeling, burning, or itching
  • Rare but serious risk of C. difficile-associated diarrhea/colitis
  • Not suitable for fungal acne
  • Requires prescription — not available OTC
  • Bottle applicator design criticized as difficult to use
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion 1%
$20–$30
Budget Pick

Another AB-rated generic to Cleocin-T with an identical active ingredient at the same concentration. Very similar inactive ingredient list with 10 ingredients. Also manufactured under FDA oversight.

70% Match
Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength
$9.50
Budget Pick

OTC benzoyl peroxide wash that kills acne bacteria without antibiotic resistance risk. Different mechanism (oxidizing agent vs. antibiotic), used as a cleanser rather than leave-on treatment. Cannot replace Rx for moderate-severe acne.

65% Match
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
$14.99
Budget Pick

OTC retinoid that targets comedonal and inflammatory acne through a different mechanism (cell turnover). Addresses root cause of clogged pores. Works best for blackheads/whiteheads where clindamycin is less effective. Can be combined with clindamycin.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE

Onexton (Clindamycin 1.2% + BPO 3.75%)

Active Ingredient Clindamycin 1.2% + BPO 3.75%
Type Prescription Gel
Size 50 g
Mechanism Antibacterial + Oxidizing + Anti-inflammatory
Best For Moderate Inflammatory Acne
Resistance Risk Low (BPO prevents resistance)

Epiduo Forte (Adapalene 0.3% + BPO 2.5%)

Active Ingredient Adapalene 0.3% + BPO 2.5%
Type Prescription Gel
Size 45 g
Mechanism Retinoid + Oxidizing Agent
Best For Moderate to Severe Acne (all types)
Resistance Risk None (no antibiotic)
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Active Ingredient Adapalene 0.1%
Type OTC Gel
Size 45 g
Mechanism Retinoid (cell turnover)
Best For Comedonal & Mild Acne
Resistance Risk None (not an antibiotic)
13

Storage & shelf life

24 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

Use within the expiry date printed on the bottle. Typically stable for 24 months unopened; use promptly once opened per prescriber guidance

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Brief excursions permitted to 15°C–30°C (59°F–86°F). Do not freeze. Keep container tightly closed

Packaging

60 mL plastic squeeze bottle with applicator tip. Shake well before each use — formula may separate upon standing

Travel Friendly

Yes — 60 mL is under the 100 mL / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on limit. Non-flammable lotion formula (unlike solution form)

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. There are no adequate studies of topical clindamycin during the first trimester of pregnancy — it should only be used if clearly needed. Systemic clindamycin given during the second and third trimesters has not been associated with increased birth defects. For breastfeeding, it is unknown if topical clindamycin passes into breast milk, though oral and injectable forms do. If applied to the chest, care should be taken to prevent infant ingestion. Always consult your prescribing physician.

No. This lotion contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including cetearyl alcohol (2.5%), stearic acid, isostearyl alcohol (2.5%), and glyceryl stearate SE — all fatty acid-based compounds. Additionally, prolonged use of antibiotics like clindamycin can disrupt the skin microbiome and potentially allow yeast overgrowth, which may worsen or trigger fungal acne. If you suspect malassezia folliculitis, consult a dermatologist for antifungal treatment instead.

Yes, but with care. Clindamycin lotion can be combined with retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) — in fact, dermatologists commonly prescribe this combination. Apply them at different times of day to minimize irritation (clindamycin in the morning, retinoid at night). It can also be used alongside vitamin C serums and BHA/AHA exfoliants, though you should introduce products gradually to avoid over-irritating the skin. Do not use with erythromycin — antagonism exists between these antibiotics.

This lotion works well across most skin types. It is especially effective for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, non-greasy formula. The emollient lotion base is gentler on dry and sensitive skin than alcohol-based clindamycin solutions or gels. However, it is specifically designed for those with inflammatory acne (red, swollen pimples) rather than comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads).

Most users notice reduced redness and inflammation within 1–2 weeks. Significant improvement in acne lesion counts typically appears by 4–6 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full therapeutic benefits are reached at 8–12 weeks. Clinical studies showed nearly 90% of patients experienced improvement by week 12. Do not stop using the product early even if you see initial improvement — consistency is essential for maintaining results.

Apply after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. Cleanse your face, allow it to dry completely, then apply a thin film of the lotion to the entire affected area. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption, then follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, finish with sunscreen. If using benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, apply them at a different time of day to reduce irritation.

The comedogenic rating is approximately 2 out of 5 — considered low risk. The lotion contains cetearyl alcohol and stearic acid, which have mild comedogenic potential, but the overall formulation is designed for acne-prone skin. Most users do not experience pore clogging. However, individual reactions vary, so monitor your skin during the first few weeks of use. If you notice increased blackheads or clogged pores, discuss alternative formulations (gel or solution) with your prescriber.

Use this medication before the expiration date printed on the bottle. Once opened, keep the container tightly closed and stored at room temperature (20°C–25°C / 68°F–77°F). The 60 mL bottle, when used twice daily for the face, typically lasts approximately 1–2 months. Always shake well before use as the lotion can separate. Do not use if the product appears discolored or has an unusual odor.

— Skincarisma verdict
3.8 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion 1% by Padagis is a reliable, FDA-approved prescription antibiotic for treating mild to moderate inflammatory acne. Its emollient lotion base makes it gentler than alcohol-based solutions, and its simple 9-ingredient formula minimizes irritation. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy, with roughly 90% of patients seeing improvement within 12 weeks. However, it should not be used as a standalone treatment due to antibiotic resistance concerns — combining with benzoyl peroxide is strongly recommended. It is not suitable for fungal acne or comedonal acne, and requires a prescription. As an affordable AB-rated generic, it offers the same proven formula as brand-name Cleocin-T at a fraction of the cost, making it a solid choice within a dermatologist-guided acne treatment regimen.

Product Overview

question
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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
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

brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Clindamycin Phosphate
question
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
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
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
55% 11% 33%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 9 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Clindamycin Phosphate
ache Ache-fighting
1 A
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Surfactant, Emulsifying
0 Unknown
Isostearyl Alcohol
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS