Custom Formula (Azelaic acid 2%, Clindamycin Phosphate 1%, Zinc Pyrithione 0.25%)
Custom Formula (Azelaic acid 2%, Clindamycin Phosphate 1%, Zinc Pyrithione 0.25%)
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength custom formula combining azelaic acid, clindamycin phosphate, and zinc pyrithione to target acne, bacterial overgrowth, and fungal breakouts. Personalized by a licensed dermatology provider and delivered to your door via Curology's telehealth platform.
Triple-Action Acne Fighter
Combines an antibiotic (clindamycin), an exfoliant (azelaic acid), and an antifungal (zinc pyrithione) to attack acne from three different angles simultaneously.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Action Acne Fighter
Combines an antibiotic (clindamycin), an exfoliant (azelaic acid), and an antifungal (zinc pyrithione) to attack acne from three different angles simultaneously.
Personalized by a Provider
A licensed dermatology provider selects your formula based on your skin quiz, photos, and medical history — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Fungal Acne Friendly
Zinc pyrithione is specifically used in treating malassezia (fungal acne) and pityrosporum folliculitis, making this formula suitable for those with fungal concerns.
Clean & Gentle Base
Formulated with soothing aloe vera and vitamin E (tocopheryl acetate) in a minimal, fragrance-free base that avoids parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical clindamycin has minimal systemic absorption and has not shown increased birth defect risk. However, it should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Azelaic acid is generally considered safe in pregnancy. Consult your provider before use.
Topical clindamycin is unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts. Avoid applying near the chest area. Discuss with your provider if breastfeeding.
Contains zinc pyrithione, which is specifically used to treat malassezia-related skin conditions. The formula is free from oils, fatty acids, esters, and ferments that feed malassezia.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The lightweight, oil-free formula is unlikely to clog pores or contribute to blackhead formation.
This specific formula does not contain tretinoin or any retinoid derivatives. It will not increase sun sensitivity the way retinoid-containing Curology formulas do.
Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic. Prolonged use may contribute to bacterial resistance. Your provider may adjust your formula over time to mitigate this risk.
The European Union prohibited zinc pyrithione in cosmetics starting in 2022. It remains approved for prescription use in the United States under provider supervision.
Free from common allergens, fragrances, essential oils, parabens, sulfates, silicones, and harsh alcohols.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAzelaic Acid 2%Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that gently exfoliates, reduces inflammation, and helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria and normalizing keratinization in the follicle.
- Efficacy: A 2020 study confirmed azelaic acid as a safe and effective treatment for acne vulgaris, with additional benefits for rosacea and melasma.
- Concentration: At 2%, this is a lower dose than prescription-strength 15–20% formulas, but it is combined with other actives for a synergistic effect.
- Bonus: Unlike AHAs, azelaic acid does not increase photosensitivity, so it won't make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage.
Clindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
A lincosamide antibiotic that fights acne by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It targets C. acnes bacteria on the skin and also provides notable anti-inflammatory benefits, reducing the redness and swelling associated with inflammatory acne lesions.
- Efficacy: A 2024 review describes clindamycin as a key player in treating acne and folliculitis. The 1% concentration is the standard prescription strength for topical use.
- Mechanism: Clindamycin is bacteriostatic — it stops bacteria from multiplying by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of the bacterial ribosome.
- Absorption: Topical application results in very low serum levels (0–3 ng/mL), with less than 0.2% of the dose recovered in urine.
Zinc Pyrithione 0.25%Proven
An antimicrobial and antifungal compound derived from the mineral zinc. It inhibits the growth of fungal and bacterial cells, making it effective against malassezia (fungal acne), dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and conventional acne.
- Antifungal: A 2021 study in Medical Mycology confirmed zinc pyrithione's effectiveness against commensal Malassezia species on the skin.
- Anti-acne: A systematic review found zinc (in various topical forms) to have a positive clinical effect on acne severity.
- Multi-use: Also used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis, demonstrating broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
12 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Azelaic Acid 2%, Clindamycin Phosphate 1%, Zinc Pyrithione 0.25%. Inactive Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Phenoxyethanol, Laureth-7, Maltodextrin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Triethylene Glycol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the treatment step in your PM routine after cleansing. Follow with moisturizer. Always use sunscreen during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Wash with a gentle cleanser (Curology's own cleanser or CeraVe work well). Pat dry completely before applying.
Apply a Thin Layer
Use a pea-sized amount and spread a thin, even layer across your entire face and neck. Avoid the eye area and lips.
Leave On Overnight
This is a leave-on treatment, not a wash-off. Let it absorb and work through the night while your skin repairs itself.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your moisturizer on top to seal in the treatment and prevent dryness. If you experience irritation, try applying every other night for the first 2 weeks.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You suspect fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) or have dandruff-like breakouts
- You want a retinoid-free prescription option
- You have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots from acne
- You prefer the convenience of telehealth dermatology over in-office visits
- You want a streamlined routine with one multi-active treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe cystic or nodular acne (may need stronger Rx like isotretinoin)
- You have a history of antibiotic-associated colitis or clindamycin allergy
- You want anti-aging benefits (this formula has no retinoids)
- You live outside the United States (Curology is US-only)
- You prefer to see a board-certified dermatologist in person
- You need azelaic acid at higher concentrations (15–20%) for rosacea
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight cream absorbs quickly without adding shine. Azelaic acid helps regulate sebum production while clindamycin targets oily-skin breakouts.
Contains aloe vera and vitamin E for soothing, but may need a richer moisturizer layered on top. Some initial dryness or flaking may occur during the adjustment period.
Works well across different face zones — controls oil in the T-zone while the gentle formula doesn't over-dry cheeks or jawline.
Fragrance-free and allergen-free formula is well-suited for sensitive skin. Azelaic acid is one of the gentlest prescription actives. Start every other night to assess tolerance.
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and targets both bacterial and fungal causes of breakouts.
Results timeline
MONTH 3–6Adjustment Period
Skin may experience mild dryness, flaking, or temporary redness as it adjusts. Some users notice a slight "purging" phase where existing clogged pores come to the surface faster.
30% noticed initial purgingInflammation Begins to Calm
Redness and swelling from inflammatory acne start to decrease. New breakouts become less frequent as clindamycin and zinc pyrithione reduce bacterial and fungal activity on the skin.
45% noticed fewer new breakoutsVisible Clearing
Active breakouts significantly reduce. Skin texture improves as azelaic acid exfoliates and promotes normal cell turnover. Post-inflammatory marks begin to fade.
65% noticed significant improvementOptimal Results
With consistent nightly use, skin reaches its clearest state. Dark spots and scarring continue to fade. Many users report the clearest skin they have had in years by this stage.
88% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Prescription-strength actives without an in-office dermatologist visit
- Fungal acne safe — zinc pyrithione directly targets malassezia
- Retinoid-free, making it gentler with no increased sun sensitivity
- Clean, minimal formula free from fragrance, parabens, and common irritants
- Triple-action formula attacks acne from multiple pathways simultaneously
- Convenient subscription model with free shipping and provider communication
- Creamy, hydrating texture that sinks in without greasiness
Criticized
- Azelaic acid at 2% is much lower than standard Rx-strength 15–20%
- Subscription-only model — cannot buy one-time without signing up
- Small bottle size (14 mL monthly) feels insufficient for some users
- Purging period can last weeks and worsen acne before improving it
- Antibiotic (clindamycin) raises concerns about long-term bacterial resistance
- US-only availability; not accessible internationally
- Some users report "cookie-cutter" formulas that don't feel truly personalized
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher concentration of azelaic acid (10% vs 2%) but lacks the antibiotic clindamycin and antifungal zinc pyrithione. OTC, so no prescription needed. Different silicone-based texture. Does not treat fungal acne.
Contains 10% azelaic acid plus salicylic acid for enhanced exfoliation. OTC formula without antibiotics or antifungals. More accessible but lacks the prescription-strength bacterial and fungal coverage.
Higher zinc pyrithione concentration (2%) in a wash-off cleanser bar. Targets fungal acne effectively but is a rinse-off product with much shorter contact time. No azelaic acid or clindamycin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECurology Custom Formula
Nurx Custom Acne Treatment
Miiskin + Foothills Pharmacy
Hers Custom Rx Acne Cream
Storage & shelf life
3 MONTHS3 months after opening (designed to be used within your subscription cycle)
Store at room temperature (59–77°F / 15–25°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate unless directed by your provider.
Opaque pump bottle (Superbottle) that minimizes light exposure and contamination. Hygienic dispensing prevents finger contact with the formula.
Yes — both the 14 mL and 27 mL sizes are well under the 100 mL / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. Azelaic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy and is recommended by ACOG as a topical acne treatment option. Topical clindamycin has minimal systemic absorption and has not been associated with increased birth defect risk, but it should only be used if clearly needed — especially during the first trimester. Zinc pyrithione has limited pregnancy data. For breastfeeding, topical clindamycin is unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts, but avoid applying to the chest area. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any prescription product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Yes. This formula is fungal acne safe. Zinc pyrithione is specifically used to treat malassezia-related skin conditions, including pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). The inactive ingredient list is also free from common malassezia triggers like fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients. This makes it one of the more fungal-acne-friendly prescription options available.
Since this specific formula does not contain tretinoin or other retinoids, it is generally safer to combine with other actives than retinoid-containing Curology formulas. You can use vitamin C in the morning and this formula at night. AHAs and BHAs can be used on alternate nights or in the morning, but introducing too many actives at once may cause irritation. Start slowly and monitor your skin's response. Always follow your Curology provider's guidance for combining products.
This formula is excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and lightweight. It also works well for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free, allergen-free formulation — though a patch test is recommended. Dry skin types can use it successfully but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. It is particularly well-suited for those who suspect fungal acne in addition to bacterial acne.
Most users begin to notice improvements within 6–8 weeks of consistent nightly use. However, some experience an initial purging period during the first 2–4 weeks where breakouts temporarily worsen before improving. Full results — including fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — typically develop over 3–6 months. Curology recommends committing to at least 90 days before evaluating results. Your provider can adjust your formula if progress stalls.
Apply it as your treatment step in the evening after cleansing and toning (if you use a toner). Follow with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. In the morning, cleanse, apply any daytime serums, moisturize, and finish with sunscreen. The Custom Formula is designed for nighttime use only — apply it once daily before bed.
No. This formula has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. It is oil-free and free from heavy emollients, waxes, and other known pore-clogging ingredients. Azelaic acid actually helps unclog pores by normalizing the keratinization process inside the follicle, so this product works against comedone (blackhead and whitehead) formation.
The Custom Formula is designed to be used within your subscription cycle — either 1 month (14 mL) or 2 months (27 mL). As a compounded prescription product, it is best used within 3 months of opening for optimal potency. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The pump bottle design helps minimize contamination and oxidation over time.
Verdict: Curology's Custom Formula with Azelaic Acid 2%, Clindamycin Phosphate 1%, and Zinc Pyrithione 0.25% is a well-rounded, prescription-strength treatment that stands out for its triple-action approach to acne — antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal in one product. It is especially valuable for those dealing with fungal acne alongside traditional breakouts, which many OTC products cannot address. The retinoid-free formulation makes it gentler than tretinoin-based alternatives, with no increased photosensitivity. However, the 2% azelaic acid concentration is considerably lower than standard prescription strengths, and the subscription-only model with relatively small bottles may not suit everyone. For mild to moderate acne with suspected fungal involvement, this formula delivers a convenient, science-backed solution worth trying for at least 90 days.
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc Pyrithione
Antiseborrhoeic, Preservative
|
|