Topical Antibiotic
Reviews
3.6
669 Reviews
Topical Antibiotic
Efficacy
55%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Should never be used on its own and for a maximum of 3 months.
Topical Antibiotic
Side Effects
Low
Topical Antibiotic
Acne.org’s Real World Take
One of the less effective treatments out there. It should never be used on its own or for longer than 3 months and may lead to resistant strains of bacteria. It may provide a slight improvement in mild acne in some people.
Topical Antibiotic
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Clindamycin
Compare To Other Treatments
5
27.8%
4
32.4%
3
19%
2
14%
1
6.9%

Used Clindamycin? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
December 7, 2009

Pros:

After three months of use, I have virtually no whiteheads or pustules.

Cons:

Dries skin like crazy.

So far so good. I am using this in conjunction with an oral antibiotic (minocyclin) and cream (retin-a). While the whiteheads and pustules have virtually disappeared, I still have cysts that form every month or two and those require injections. All of these medications are available as generic, so monthly costs are low. My skin isn't perfect, but it's so much better than it's ever been. My skin tends to dry out on it's own in winter - so we shall see how this season treats it with the combination of medication and nature. I may have to invest in a stronger moisturizer.
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December 3, 2009

Pros:

Clears some acne.

Cons:

it is a tier 3 drug on my insurance plan. Tier 3 drugs have a $50 co-pay.

I have been using it for about a month. We will see how well it works in the long run.
November 11, 2009

Pros:

Worked well
Worked quickly

Cons:

Stopped working abruptly

I started using clindamycin about ten months ago. My face was breaking out horribly mostly with whiteheads. After a few days my face started clearing. After about a week my face was almost completely clear! I used this everyday, twice a day and my face was clear for almost the whole summer. Now unfortunately it isn't working anymore. My face is starting to break out again because I think it built up resistance to the antibiotics.If you have any type of acne I would at least give this an initial try and it will probably work for awhile, but it's not forever.
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November 4, 2009
I have used this for about 2 weeks and I am having great results! It is drying, but I have been using with a moisturizer and my skin looks great!
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November 4, 2009

Pros:

I was using Dalacin T version, went on easy and didn't dry the skin.

Cons:

Makes your skin very shiny, had to stop using it in the morning.

Didn't make a massive difference to my acne. I suggested to my doctor that I stop using this treatment after 3 months, I've gone onto Duac once daily.
October 1, 2009

Pros:

i like the topical gel. stops breakouts from occurring. Its light and mess free. almost like water.

Cons:

It has a light smell. works better when using twice a day. takes a while to work with your body.

I have been using clindamycin for about a month now and im seeing results. I wish the gel was working a little faster than normal. I had a baby and started seeing changes in my skin. I never had pimples, breakouts until now. It clears little bumps but takes a while to get to the big ones, and it makes me really upset. I want my old beautiful smooth skin back again. I hope wiht time it does the job!!!!!! Seriously.
September 10, 2009

Pros:

Didn't dry out my skin, made a tiny bit of a difference.

Cons:

Stung, smelled not so great, didn't help all that much with acne. Didn't work for my brother either.

Didn't work that well, but at least it didn't make things worse.
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August 16, 2009

Pros:

none...

Cons:

didnt clear my acne

not very good
August 13, 2009

Pros:

Made face smooth and hydrated. Prevented new breakouts which in turn helped me treat the current breakouts. Within 2 weeks my face was almost clear with the occasional red spot or two.

Cons:

Was told it would work on bacne as well but it did nothing for that, but if you just want it for your face it's good.

I would recommend this product if you have mild to moderate acne on your face. This alone won't work and I would suggest pairing it with a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide cleanser. It can take a while to work, but just stick with it because your skin really will feel softer and smoother if you do.
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August 12, 2009

Pros:

I love it, it totally works and it helped reduce my acne by A LOT! I am using the Clindet pads and they honestly really do work

Cons:

None !

I honestly reccomend this for everyone, it helped me a lot and not only did it help my acne, it also helped me feel good about myself ;) It`s expensive if you aren`t covered but it is seriously worth the money!

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.