Clinwas Gel Topico With Clindamicina 1%
Clinwas Gel Topico With Clindamicina 1%
Product Description
Clinwas Gel TΓ³pico by Chiesi is a prescription-strength topical antibiotic gel delivering Clindamycin Phosphate 1% (10 mg of clindamycin per gram). Formulated by Chiesi EspaΓ±a for the treatment of mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris in adults and teens aged 12+, it is a clear, fragrance-free, oil-free gel that slows the growth of acne-causing bacteria and calms inflammation. A minimalist 8-ingredient pharmacy formula β not a cosmetic.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Targets Acne Bacteria
Clindamycin slows the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), the bacteria that drive inflammatory breakouts.
Calms Inflammation
Beyond its antibiotic action, clindamycin has anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce redness, papules and pustules.
Minimalist 8-Ingredient Formula
No fragrance, alcohol, oils, silicones or sulfates β a stripped-back pharmacy gel suited to reactive, breakout-prone skin.
Lightweight Water-Gel Base
A clear, fast-absorbing gel that layers easily under moisturiser and sunscreen without a heavy or sticky residue.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
The Chiesi leaflet contraindicates Clinwas during pregnancy. Discontinue and consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
Use during breastfeeding is contraindicated per the manufacturer. Speak to a healthcare professional about alternatives.
Contains no fatty acids, esters or polysorbates that feed Malassezia β verified fungal-acne safe by ingredient checkers.
Using a topical antibiotic alone can drive bacterial resistance. Dermatology guidelines recommend combining clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide.
Contraindicated in atopic (very sensitive, dry) skin. Keep away from eyes, nasal/oral mucosa and broken or eczematous skin.
Not recommended if you have a history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis) or antibiotic-associated colitis.
Clindamycin is not inherently photosensitising, but daily broad-spectrum SPF is still advised for acne-prone skin and post-acne marks.
Commonly prescribed alongside adapalene or tretinoin (AM antibiotic / PM retinoid) for faster, more complete acne clearance.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π¦ Clindamycin Phosphate 1% (10 mg/g) Proven
The single active ingredient β a topical lincosamide antibiotic. It binds the bacterial ribosome to halt protein synthesis in C. acnes, reducing bacterial load and the inflammation behind red papules and pustules.
- JAAD (n=592): A 65% reduction in inflammatory lesion count after 12 weeks of clindamycin 1% gel.
- Acne.org review: Topical clindamycin reduces acne by roughly 56% over 12 weeks across the clinical literature.
- Mechanism: Inhibits C. acnes (MIC ~0.4 Β΅g/mL in vitro) and exerts a direct anti-inflammatory effect.
π§ Propylene Glycol Humectant Promising
A well-studied humectant, solvent and skin-conditioning agent. It draws water into the skin to offset dryness and keeps the active dissolved and stable in the gel base.
- CIR Expert Panel: Confirmed non-toxic at cosmetic use levels with no sensitisation in clinical studies.
- Retrospective data (6,751 patients): Only ~0.31% showed a positive patch-test reaction, and fewer than half were clinically relevant.
𧴠Carbomer Gel-former Proven
A high-molecular-weight acrylic-acid polymer used to thicken the formula and create the clear gel texture. Because of its large molecular size it barely penetrates skin and is considered inert.
- Function: Emulsion-stabilising and gel-forming; gives the lightweight, spreadable consistency.
- Use level: Typically 1% or less, which avoids the pilling seen at higher concentrations.
𧲠Disodium EDTA <1% Proven
A chelating agent that grabs and deactivates trace metal ions from water and packaging, keeping the formula stable and effective. It also counteracts hard-water minerals.
- Stability: Protects the gel from oxidation and preserves performance over the shelf life.
- Tolerance: Patch testing shows no significant irritation at typical use levels and minimal dermal absorption.
π‘οΈ Parabens & Triethanolamine <0.8% / pH Proven
Methylparaben (listed as Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate) and Propylparaben preserve the water-based gel against bacteria, yeast and mould, while Triethanolamine (TEA) buffers the formula to a skin-friendly pH so the antibiotic works optimally.
- SCCS 2023: Methylparaben is considered safe up to 0.4% alone, or 0.8% combined with other paraben esters.
- Absorption: Parabens cross the stratum corneum but ~99% is metabolised in living skin; only trace amounts are absorbed.
8 ingredients
Clindamycin Phosphate 1%, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Propylene Glycol, Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate (Methylparaben), Propylparaben, Triethanolamine, Water (Aqua).
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply to clean, dry skin before heavier creams. Many dermatologists pair it with benzoyl peroxide and reserve a retinoid for night. Always follow your prescriber's exact instructions.
π How to Use
Cleanse & fully dry
Wash with a gentle, non-medicated cleanser and warm water, then pat completely dry before applying.
Apply a thin layer
Spread a thin film over the whole affected area (not just spots), usually twice daily β or exactly as prescribed.
Avoid sensitive zones
Keep away from eyes, lips, nostrils and broken or eczematous skin. Wash hands after applying.
Moisturise & protect
Follow with a light moisturiser, and use broad-spectrum SPF every morning to support healing skin.
Stay consistent, then review
Results take several weeks. Do not exceed 12 weeks of continuous use without medical review.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne (red papules, pustules)
- You are an adult or teen 12+ with a prescription
- You want a fragrance-free, oil-free, fungal-acne-safe formula
- You can pair it with benzoyl peroxide to limit resistance
- You prefer a lightweight gel over a rich cream
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have eczema/atopic dermatitis or very reactive skin
- You have a history of IBD or antibiotic-associated colitis
- Your acne is mainly comedonal (blackheads/whiteheads) β a retinoid suits better
- You are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight water-gel absorbs fast and leaves a matte, non-greasy finish β ideal for oily, breakout-prone skin.
Targets inflamed areas without overwhelming drier zones; layer a moisturiser where needed.
Purpose-built for inflammatory acne β non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe.
Generally well tolerated thanks to propylene glycol, but follow with a richer moisturiser to prevent tightness.
Fragrance-free, but contraindicated for eczema/atopic skin and may sting reactive skin. Patch test and consult your doctor.
π Results Timeline
Early calming
Some users notice slightly less inflammation and fewer new spots. A few report rapid improvement, but most see little change yet β this is normal.
~30% notice early changeVisible reduction
Inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) begin to drop noticeably as bacterial load falls. Consistency is key during this window.
~60% see improvementFull clinical effect
Peak benefit is reached, with studies reporting roughly a 56β65% reduction in inflammatory lesions by week 12.
~65% lesion reductionReview with your doctor
Continuous use beyond 12 weeks is not recommended due to antibiotic resistance. Your prescriber may switch you to a maintenance plan (e.g. a retinoid + benzoyl peroxide).
Maintenance phaseβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Strong clinical evidence for inflammatory acne (~56β65% reduction at 12 weeks)
- Lightweight, fragrance-free, oil-free clear gel
- Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic (rated 1/5)
- Minimalist 8-ingredient pharmacy formula
- Inexpensive and widely available with a prescription
- Pairs well with benzoyl peroxide and retinoids
β Criticized
- Prescription only β not an over-the-counter pick
- Antibiotic resistance limits long-term solo use
- Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding and eczema
- Limited effect on comedones (blackheads/whiteheads)
- Can cause dryness, burning or, rarely, gut upset
- Few public consumer reviews for this specific brand
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Over-the-counter and non-antibiotic. Azelaic acid is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and helps fade marks, with no resistance risk β but acts more slowly on active inflammatory lesions.
Kills C. acnes without antibiotics, so bacteria can't become resistant. More drying and can bleach fabrics, but it's the ingredient dermatologists pair with clindamycin anyway.
An OTC retinoid that unclogs pores and tackles both comedonal and inflammatory acne. Slower to start and can cause initial purging, but excellent for long-term maintenance.
π Comparison with Competitors
Chiesi Clinwas Gel (Featured)
~β¬3β4Duac (Clindamycin 1% + Benzoyl Peroxide)
~β¬15Dalacin T (Clindamycin 1% Solution)
~β¬6Differin (Adapalene 0.1% Gel)
~β¬13π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
Use within the prescribed 12-week treatment course. Do not store or reuse leftover antibiotic β return it to a pharmacy.
No special storage conditions required. Keep below 25Β°C, out of the sight and reach of children.
Aluminium squeeze tube containing 30 g or 50 g of clear gel.
Yes β well under 100 ml. Carry it in original packaging with the prescription label.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Chiesi manufacturer leaflet contraindicates Clinwas during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or nursing, do not use it and ask your doctor about pregnancy-friendly acne options such as azelaic acid.
Yes. The 8-ingredient formula contains no fatty acids, esters, oils or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast, so ingredient checkers classify it as fungal-acne safe. Note that it treats bacterial acne, not fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) itself.
It is most often paired with benzoyl peroxide (to prevent resistance) and with a retinoid such as adapalene or tretinoin β typically antibiotic in the morning and retinoid at night. It can layer with a vitamin C or a gentle BHA, but introduce actives one at a time to avoid irritation, and follow your prescriber's plan.
It suits oily, combination and acne-prone skin best, thanks to its lightweight, matte-finish gel. Dry skin can use it with a richer moisturiser on top. It is not recommended for eczema-prone or atopic (very sensitive, dry) skin.
Most people see meaningful improvement between weeks 4 and 6, with peak results by weeks 8β12 (clinical studies report roughly a 56β65% reduction in inflammatory lesions at 12 weeks). It is normal to notice little change in the first couple of weeks β consistency matters.
Apply it to clean, dry skin after cleansing (and after benzoyl peroxide if used), before your moisturiser. Finish with broad-spectrum SPF in the morning. A retinoid, if prescribed, is usually applied at night.
No β it is considered non-comedogenic, with an estimated comedogenic rating of 1/5. The actives and base ingredients are low-clogging, and the gel is oil- and silicone-free.
Because it is a prescription antibiotic, you should use it only for the duration of your prescribed course (no longer than 12 weeks of continuous use) and not store or reuse leftover gel. Any unused product should be returned to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
Verdict: Chiesi's Clinwas Clindamicina 1% Gel is a reliable, affordable prescription option for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne, backed by decades of clinical evidence showing a 56β65% reduction in inflammatory lesions over 12 weeks. Its lightweight, fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe gel is easy to wear and pairs naturally with benzoyl peroxide and retinoids. The main caveats are antibiotic resistance (so it shouldn't be used alone or long-term), and it isn't suitable during pregnancy, breastfeeding or for eczema-prone skin. Used correctly and under medical guidance, it remains a dermatology staple β best as part of a combination routine rather than a standalone fix.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
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 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate
|
|