Clindamycin-Benzoyl Peroxide

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 23, 2024

Pros & Cons


Clindamycin and Benzoyl Peroxide (Benzaclin) Pros and Cons

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  • You only need to apply clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide twice a day to the affected areas for treatment of acne vulgaris.
  • It is generally well tolerated and causes few side effects, if any.
  • This topical acne medication can be used by people 12 years of age and older.
  • There is a lower-cost generic available.

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  • It can take 4-6 weeks to see an improvement in acne lesions and up to 12 weeks for patients to get the full effects of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide gel.
  • The gel can bleach clothing and hair.
  • It can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
  • It is not a good option for people with a history of colitis (large intestine inflammation).