Klenzit-C Adapalene + Clindamycin Phosphate Gel
Klenzit-C Adapalene + Clindamycin Phosphate Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength dual-action gel combining Adapalene 0.1% (third-generation retinoid) and Clindamycin Phosphate 1% (topical antibiotic) to treat mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne. Unclogs pores, kills acne-causing bacteria, and reduces inflammation in one lightweight, fragrance-free formula.
Dual-Action Acne Treatment
Combines a retinoid (Adapalene) with an antibiotic (Clindamycin) to tackle both comedonal and inflammatory acne simultaneously.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Acne Treatment
Combines a retinoid (Adapalene) with an antibiotic (Clindamycin) to tackle both comedonal and inflammatory acne simultaneously.
Third-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene is a stable, well-tolerated retinoid that normalizes skin cell turnover and prevents microcomedone formation deep in the pore.
Antibacterial Protection
Clindamycin targets and eliminates Cutibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria that fuel red, inflamed breakouts and pustules.
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Adapalene suppresses inflammatory pathways (chemotaxis of polynuclear cells), reducing redness and swelling around active lesions.
Comedolytic Effect
Actively dissolves existing blackheads and whiteheads while preventing new comedones from forming, keeping pores clear.
Clean, Minimal Formula
Only 10 ingredients. Free from fragrances, oils, silicones, harsh alcohols, and common allergens for sensitive skin tolerance.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENOT safe. Contains Adapalene (retinoid, FDA Category C). Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your physician.
Formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne sufferers.
Rated 1/5. Oil-free, silicone-free aqueous gel base is unlikely to clog pores or aggravate acne-prone skin.
Adapalene increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is mandatory during treatment. Avoid tanning beds.
An apparent worsening of acne may occur during the first 2–4 weeks. This is normal purging as the retinoid brings hidden lesions to the surface.
Contains Methylparaben as a preservative. Generally recognized as safe at cosmetic concentrations, but may be a concern for some users.
Do not layer with other irritating actives: benzoyl peroxide, AHA/BHA, vitamin C, sulfur, or resorcinol. Use on alternating nights if needed.
Do not use Clindamycin-containing products for more than 12 weeks continuously without medical supervision to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene 0.1%Proven
A third-generation synthetic retinoid that binds to specific nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR-beta and RAR-gamma). More stable and less irritating than tretinoin, it normalizes follicular epithelial cell differentiation and reduces microcomedone formation.
- Mechanism: Normalizes keratinocyte differentiation, reduces comedone formation, and inhibits inflammatory pathways
- Clinical Data: Studies show 50–60% reduction in acne lesions over 12 weeks of consistent use
- Stability: More photostable and chemically stable than tretinoin, less likely to degrade on skin
Clindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
A lincosamide antibiotic that binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis. Highly effective against Cutibacterium acnes, the primary bacterium responsible for inflammatory acne lesions.
- Mechanism: Bacteriostatic at standard concentrations; also exhibits direct anti-inflammatory effects
- Clinical Data: Combination with adapalene shown to be more effective than either agent alone for inflammatory lesions
- Note: Recommended course of 2–4 weeks; prolonged antibiotic use may contribute to bacterial resistance
Propylene Glycol 8%Proven
A humectant and penetration enhancer that helps deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin. Also functions as a solvent and contributes to the gel's smooth spreadability.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer for active ingredients
- Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA; may cause mild irritation in very sensitive individuals
Carbomer 940 0.55%Supporting
A high-molecular-weight acrylic acid polymer used as a thickening and gelling agent. Creates the smooth, transparent gel texture and helps the product spread evenly across the skin.
- Function: Viscosity controller that creates the gel matrix and ensures uniform distribution of actives
- Safety: Inert polymer with excellent safety profile; non-comedogenic and non-sensitizing
10 ingredients
Adapalene, Clindamycin Phosphate, Disodium EDTA, Carbomer 940, Propylene Glycol, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 407, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily in the evening only. Keep your PM routine simple — avoid layering other actives on the same night. Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser and a barrier-supporting moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Pat skin completely dry — applying to damp skin can increase irritation.
Apply a Thin Layer
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto your fingertip. Gently apply with light dabbing motions to affected areas (face, chest, or back).
Avoid Sensitive Areas
Do not apply near eyes, lips, nostrils, or mucous membranes. Avoid broken skin, eczema patches, and sunburned areas.
Wait & Moisturize
Allow 5–10 minutes for absorption, then follow with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to counteract any dryness or irritation.
Use Sunscreen Daily
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning. Adapalene increases photosensitivity, so sun protection is non-negotiable.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You struggle with both comedonal acne (blackheads, whiteheads) and bacterial breakouts
- You want a streamlined two-in-one prescription treatment
- You prefer a fragrance-free, oil-free gel formulation
- You have been prescribed this by a dermatologist
- You need a fungal acne safe acne treatment option
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have very sensitive skin that reacts to retinoids
- You have a history of colitis or clindamycin/lincomycin allergy
- You have eczema or dermatitis on the treatment area
- You are under 12 years of age
- You prefer a paraben-free formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free gel formula absorbs cleanly. Adapalene helps regulate sebum production, reducing shine and preventing clogged pores.
Retinoids can worsen dryness. Pair with a rich, barrier-repairing moisturizer containing ceramides. Start every other night.
Works well on the oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Apply to affected areas only for best balance across zones.
Fragrance-free is a plus, but adapalene can cause initial redness and peeling. Buffer over moisturizer and start slowly (2x/week).
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and targets both the bacterial and comedonal causes of acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Initial Adjustment & Possible Purging
Skin may feel drier than usual with mild redness or peeling. Some users experience an initial breakout (purging) as hidden acne surfaces. This is normal and expected with retinoid therapy.
60% notice purging or drynessInflammation Starts to Subside
Clindamycin begins visibly reducing red, inflamed pimples. Active pustules dry out and heal faster. Purging phase typically ends for most users by the end of week 4.
45% notice fewer active breakoutsNoticeable Clearing
Adapalene's comedolytic effects become visible — blackheads and whiteheads reduce significantly. Skin texture improves and new breakouts become less frequent.
65% see meaningful improvementFull Therapeutic Results
Clinical studies show 50–60% reduction in total acne lesions by week 12. Skin appears clearer, smoother, and more even-toned. This is the timeframe dermatologists recommend for evaluation.
80% report significant clearingRatings by platform
153+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Two proven acne-fighting actives in a single product for simplified routine
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, silicone-free — clean and minimal formula (only 10 ingredients)
- Fungal acne (malassezia) safe formulation
- Effective for both comedonal (blackheads/whiteheads) and inflammatory (pustules/papules) acne
- Lightweight gel absorbs quickly without greasiness
- More affordable than brand-name equivalents like Epiduo or Treclin
- Significantly improves skin texture and post-acne marks over time
Criticized
- Initial purging period can last 2–4 weeks and may discourage new users
- Causes dryness, peeling, and mild irritation — especially in the first month
- Increases sun sensitivity; strict sunscreen use is mandatory
- Contains Methylparaben (preservative concern for some users)
- Small tube size (15g) can run out quickly with full-face application
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Limited continuous use recommended due to antibiotic resistance concerns
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains the same 0.1% Adapalene but without the Clindamycin antibiotic. Available over-the-counter. Better for comedonal acne; less effective on inflamed pimples. No antibiotic resistance concerns.
Generic OTC adapalene gel with nearly identical base ingredients. Lacks the Clindamycin component, so less effective for inflammatory acne. Excellent value as a standalone retinoid treatment.
Uses benzoyl peroxide instead of adapalene+clindamycin. Different mechanism (oxidizing agent) but also targets acne bacteria. No retinoid = no purging, but also no comedolytic effect. OTC alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEKlenzit-C
Duac Gel (Clindamycin + BPO)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate.
Laminated foil tube with screw cap in cardboard box
Yes, 15g tube is well under 100ml TSA liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Klenzit-C contains Adapalene, a retinoid classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic risk. It is not known whether Adapalene or Clindamycin is excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before use. Discontinue Klenzit-C if you become pregnant or are planning a pregnancy.
Yes. Klenzit-C's formula does not contain ferments, fatty acids (like oleic, lauric, or stearic acid), esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The aqueous gel base with Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, and Poloxamer 407 is considered safe for fungal acne sufferers. It has been verified as fungal acne safe by SkinSort and similar ingredient analysis platforms.
It is not recommended to layer Klenzit-C with other potent actives on the same night. Combining it with retinol (redundant — Adapalene is already a retinoid), AHA/BHA, vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide significantly increases the risk of irritation, redness, and barrier damage. If you want to use these actives, apply them on alternate nights or use them in your AM routine (vitamin C) while reserving Klenzit-C for PM use only.
Klenzit-C is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its oil-free gel formula absorbs well without adding shine or greasiness. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should start slowly (every other night), buffer over moisturizer, and ensure they use a rich, barrier-repairing moisturizer to offset potential dryness from the retinoid component.
Clinical studies indicate the therapeutic effect begins developing within 1–4 weeks, with significant clearing typically visible by weeks 8–12. You may experience initial purging (worsening of acne) during the first 2–4 weeks — this is normal and not a reason to stop treatment. Persistent improvement occurs after approximately 3 months of consistent use. The recommended initial treatment course is 2–4 weeks, after which your doctor may transition you to maintenance therapy.
Klenzit-C should be applied once daily in the evening after cleansing and drying your skin. The ideal routine order is: (1) Gentle cleanser, (2) Pat skin completely dry, (3) Apply Klenzit-C to affected areas, (4) Wait 5–10 minutes for absorption, (5) Apply moisturizer. In the morning, use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF 30+ sunscreen. Do not use other topical acne treatments simultaneously.
No. Klenzit-C has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). The aqueous gel base is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the Adapalene component is actively anti-comedogenic — it works to unclog pores by normalizing skin cell turnover and preventing the formation of new comedones. This makes Klenzit-C suitable for acne-prone skin.
Klenzit-C has a shelf life of approximately 12 months after opening when stored properly. Keep the tube below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Always replace the cap tightly after each use. Check the expiry date on the packaging and discard any expired product.
Verdict: Klenzit-C is a highly effective, affordable prescription acne treatment that combines two clinically proven actives — Adapalene and Clindamycin — in a clean, minimal formula. It excels at treating both comedonal and inflammatory acne simultaneously, making it a versatile choice for mild-to-moderate breakouts. The fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, oil-free formulation is a standout advantage. However, expect an initial purging phase, potential dryness, and the need for strict sun protection. The antibiotic component limits long-term continuous use. For best results, use under dermatologist supervision and pair with a gentle moisturizer and daily sunscreen. An excellent-value alternative to pricier brand-name combination treatments like Epiduo.
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
Anti-Aging 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|