How to use Acne Star gel

How do you apply the gel?

1. 1Wash gently. Use a gentle cleanser twice daily, and remove makeup at the end of the day. Do not scrub.
2. 2Apply the gel thinly to the skin as directed on your prescription. Keep clindamycin away from your eyes, nose, mouth and broken skin.
3. 3Repeat at the prescribed time each day. Do not apply extra gel or use it more frequently than prescribed.

Some clindamycin gels are used once daily; most brands are used twice daily. There is no single morning or evening schedule for every clindamycin gel. If your label is unclear, ask the pharmacist to confirm the schedule rather than borrowing instructions from another acne gel.2

Should you use clindamycin on its own?

Clindamycin controls bacteria involved in acne and reduces swelling. For acne, an antibiotic should be combined with another acne treatment, such as benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid, to reduce antibiotic resistance and improve treatment. Resistance means bacteria become less responsive to the antibiotic. If clindamycin is your only acne medicine, ask your prescriber whether the treatment plan needs another medicine. Use all the prescribed treatments, not just the gel that seems easiest to fit into the day.2456

A gel containing clindamycin plus benzoyl peroxide has different directions from clindamycin alone: some combinations are applied once daily in the evening. Retinoids help prevent clogged pores and treat blackheads and whiteheads. They are used across the acne affected area rather than only on individual spots. Confirm which medicines your gel already contains before discussing an additional treatment.45

Can you use moisturizer?

Use moisturizer daily when your skin feels dry. Benzoyl peroxide and retinoids can dry and irritate skin, and moisturizer can help you tolerate those treatments. Applying moisturizer after washing helps retain water in the skin. Look for 'oil free' or 'noncomedogenic' on the container; a moisturizer does not need a name that sounds like a private members' club.7

Choose skincare and makeup that will not clog pores. 'Noncomedogenic' means exactly that, despite looking like a word designed to make moisturizer shopping require a dictionary. Avoid picking or squeezing spots because this can cause scars. With clindamycin, abrasive or medicated soaps and products containing alcohol can worsen side effects.23

How long should you keep using it?

Acne treatment aims to heal existing spots and prevent new ones. Antibiotic treatment should be reviewed at 12 week intervals, rather than continued indefinitely. Keep follow up appointments so your prescriber can check progress and change treatment if needed. Once acne clears, a maintenance treatment can help prevent new breakouts without keeping an antibiotic in the routine. Get medical help earlier for deep, painful spots, scarring, or acne that is affecting your mental health.3456

Who needs extra care?

Before using clindamycin, tell your prescriber about pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease or previous severe diarrhea after antibiotics. Discuss other medicines and skincare products. Report severe or persistent dryness, peeling, burning or redness. Call your doctor immediately for diarrhea, watery or bloody stools, or stomach cramps.2

What if you miss an application?

Apply it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Then skip the missed dose. Do not double up.2