Although the antibiotic clindamycin is available orally, it is most commonly prescribed as a topical gel used to treat a variety of acne issues. The treatment works best when used in tandem with other products. Read on for more information about what you need to know about this product and how it can help you to achieve your goal of clear skin.
What is Clindamycin Phosphate Gel?
Clindamycin Phosphate is a topical antibiotic used to treat mild to severely inflamed acne.
The anti-inflammatory properties of this gel work to lessen the appearance of red and swollen acne breakouts. The gel works by inhibiting the formation of new bacteria on the skin. Because one of the main causes of acne is bacteria, stopping it before it starts can be an effective way to treat breakouts at their source. Because the gel does not unclog pores, clindamycin should be used in conjunction with additional acne-zapping treatments for best results.
Does Clindamycin Work on Acne Scars?
Clindamycin is a preventative treatment. The mechanisms in the antibiotic will not treat existing acne scars. However, because clindamycin works to stop acne in its tracks, it can prevent new scars from developing.
Does Clindamycin Fade Dark Spots?
Hyperpigmentation is the clinical term for dark spots that can form on the surface of the skin. Unfortunately, this condition does not respond to the treatment of clindamycin. The active properties of the product will not treat existing dark spots. However, the continued use of clindamycin can work to keep hyperpigmentation from happening in the first place.
3 Alternatives to Clindamycin for Acne Scars (That Actually Work)
For those dealing with scarring related to discoloration, consider the advice below on incorporating daily use oh AHAs, Vitamin C serums or a niacinamide containing product. If you're dealing with pitted acne scars, your treatment options will vary.
1. Exfoliate with AHAs
As one of the most powerful skin care treatments available, AHAs have proven to be especially effective at treating existing acne and acne scarring. Glycolic acid is the most commonly used AHA. Using this product as an exfoliator can help to reduce breakouts by removing dead skin cells. AHAs also brightens the overall skin tone while also reducing the appearance of scars and other imperfections. AHAs are available in products through prescription or over the counter in less powerful forms.
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2. Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boasts a bevy of uses in the field of dermatology. When used as a topical treatment, vitamin C serum's can prevent the issues that often come as a result of photoaging and dark spots. Serums work by promoting the healing of tissue. This lessens the appearance of skin imperfections such as acne scars.
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3. Niacinamide
Also known as vitamin B3 and nicotinic acid, this compound can reduce the appearance of existing acne scars by lowering the amount of cutaneous pigmentation. Products containing niacinamide are also being increasingly used to decrease incidents of hyperactive pigmentation. In addition to lessening the appearance of scaring, niacinamide is used to reduce enlarged pores. All of these uses make niacinamide a one-stop product for a multitude of skin issues.
See Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Booster on Amazon
FAQ:
What does clindamycin gel do for acne?
When used in conjunction with other acne-fighting products, clindamycin gel works by reducing the number of bacteria that forms on the skin. It is this bacteria that can build up and cause breakouts. By eliminating the bacteria, your skin will naturally begin to clear up.
How do you use clindamycin gel?
You will find the most success with clindamycin if you use it once per day. After thoroughly cleansing the skin at night, apply the gel and do not rinse it off. For best results, do not use clindamycin gel solely as a spot treatment. In addition to treating the existing areas of acne, you need to apply the treatment to the entire area of the skin that is prone to breakouts. It is important to try to use the product at the same time every day. This consistency will deliver the most powerful results.
How long does it take for clindamycin to clear acne?
Clindamycin is not an overnight miracle drug. You should allow at least four to six weeks to see the full effects of the treatment. If you have not noticed results after this time frame, it may be a good idea to talk to your dermatologist about adjusting your treatment protocol.
