Clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide work through the following mechanisms:
Antibacterial activity
Clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide kill acne bacteria (C. acnes).
Anti-inflammatory activity
Clindamycin reduces skin inflammation.
Anti-keratinization
Benzoyl peroxide reduces the production of keratin (a sticky skin protein), which helps skin cells shed from the skin. This helps clear and prevent clogged pores.