Can you use benzoyl peroxide with clindamycin?

Can you use benzoyl peroxide with topical clindamycin?

The pairing treats different causes of acne: benzoyl peroxide reduces acne causing bacteria, while clindamycin reduces bacteria and inflammation. Combination topical treatments are an established part of acne care. A combination gel puts two acne medicines in one product.123

You can be prescribed one combination product or separate medicines, including a benzoyl peroxide wash. Strengths and directions differ, so follow the prescription for your exact product rather than borrowing another gel's schedule. The US combination gel containing 1.2% clindamycin phosphate and 5% benzoyl peroxide is intended for inflammatory acne in people aged 12 and older.14

How do you apply the combination?

For the US 1.2% clindamycin phosphate and 5% benzoyl peroxide gel:

1. 1Gently wash your face, rinse with warm water and pat dry.
2. 2Apply a thin layer to the face once daily in the evening, or as your prescriber directs.
3. 3Keep the gel away from your eyes, mouth, lips, other moist internal surfaces and broken skin.

For separate products, follow each product's instructions, even if the bathroom shelf makes them look like a package deal. A benzoyl peroxide wash is rinsed off; a leave on gel stays on the skin, which is refreshingly literal work from the product naming department. Standalone clindamycin is applied once or twice daily depending on its form. Do not assume both medicines need the same frequency, and do not apply extra clindamycin to replace a missed dose.26

How does benzoyl peroxide compare with clindamycin?

For acne without inflammation, the 1.2%/5% combination has no demonstrated extra benefit over benzoyl peroxide alone in the same gel base. For inflamed pimples, a prescriber can select the combination and strength that fits your treatment. Benzoyl peroxide is sold in several formats, because apparently even one ingredient needs a wardrobe.14

How long does it take?

As general acne guidance, expect at least 6 to 8 weeks before seeing fewer breakouts. Applying more combination medicine will not clear acne faster. Contact your clinician sooner if acne worsens, develops painful cysts or leaves scars.17

What should you avoid or watch for?

Dryness, redness, peeling and burning can occur. Tell your prescriber if symptoms are severe or persistent. Abrasive soaps and alcohol containing skincare can worsen clindamycin side effects; add other acne treatments only with professional advice. Use sunscreen, limit sun exposure and avoid sunbeds. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair, clothing and towels.256

Do not use the 1.2%/5% combination if you have an allergy to its ingredients or lincomycin, or a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis or colitis caused by antibiotics. Colitis is inflammation of the colon. Do not combine it with erythromycin containing products. Tell your prescriber about eczema, allergies, pregnancy, breastfeeding and all medicines you use before starting.456

Stop the combination gel if significant diarrhea develops. Contact a doctor immediately for diarrhea, watery or bloody stools, or stomach cramps while using clindamycin. Get emergency help for difficulty breathing or swelling of the tongue or throat.246