A 60 ml bottle of Clindamycin Phosphate topical lotion, 1%, designed exclusively for topical use, stands against a gradient background.
A 60 ml bottle of Clindamycin Phosphate topical lotion, 1%, designed exclusively for topical use, stands against a gradient background.
Rx
4.8
26,602 Nurx-wide reviews
Rx

Clindamycin phosphate lotion 1%

4.8
26,602 Nurx-wide reviews

Clindamycin phosphate† is an antibiotic that may be prescribed to treat the bacteria that causes acne.

Acne Icon Acne
Topical cream Icon Topical cream

$27/month

As low as $0/mo with insurance

Find my treatment

Medication costs vary based on prescribed treatment and applicable insurance coverage. Not all insurance plans are accepted. Additional costs apply, including a consultation and support fee. Medication shipped and billed every 3 months. One tube of medication contains a 3-month supply.
This treatment requires an online consultation with a Nurx medical provider. If prescribed, they'll check in to ensure your treatment is working.*

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How clindamycin phosphate treats acne*

  • Stops the growth of bacteria that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts
  • Provides anti-inflammatory benefits that helps skin look more radiant and fresh
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DID YOU KNOW?

Acne is the most common skin condition in the US.

Real patient stories

Side-by-side images depict a woman's face before and after using Tretinoin Cream for acne treatment. Left: acne visible on cheek. Right: clear skin with closed eyes, highlighting the cream's effectiveness.
REAL RESULTS

Shannon, Nurx patient

Side-by-side comparison of a person with acne on the left and clearer skin on the right, highlighting the transformative effects of Tretinoin Cream. Both images show the person wearing glasses and facing the camera, showcasing their journey towards healthier skin.
REAL RESULTS

Nathalia, Nurx patient

The science behind it‡

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FACT 01

Antibiotic treatment

Antibiotics are a type of drug used to treat or prevent bacterial infections.

Fact 02

Stops bacteria growth

Clindamycin phosphate works by stopping the growth of bacteria that can accumulate in clogged pores.

Fact 03

Anti-inflammatory benefits

This medication also may help reduce swelling and redness for active acne breakouts.

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How to use clindamycin‡

Consistency is key to maximizing the effectiveness of your acne treatment.

Drug facts

Step 1

Apply a thin layer to the affected area as directed by your provider. Try to apply at the same time(s) every day.

Step 2

Use this medicine on the entire affected area (i.e. apply to your entire face, don't just spot treat of you have a breakout on your chin).

Step 3

Be sure to wait at least 30 minutes after shaving or washing the skin to apply the medication.

How Nurx works◊

Find my treatment
1

Request treatment

Complete our online medical consultation, which asks questions about your health history and skin concerns.

2

Connect with a provider

After evaluating your consultation, a provider licensed in your state will prescribe treatment (if clinically appropriate).

3

Get it delivered

We’ll send a 3-month supply to your doorstep and check in with you to see how it’s working. Pause or cancel anytime.

Find my treatment
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100%

online expert-level care

2+ million

Nurx patients served

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Why Nurx?

Affordable

Quality treatment at an attainable price

Convenient

Easy refills & shipping to your door

Personalized

Providers help you find the right treatment

Supportive

Unlimited messaging for any questions, anytime

Common questions‡

See all FAQs
  • How does clindamycin phosphate work?

    Clindamycin phosphate works by stopping the growth of cutibacterium acnes, a bacteria that accumulates in clogged pores. When treating acne, clindamycin works well when used in conjunction with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids like adapalene. Clindamycin phosphate does not exfoliate, so it might not unclog pores like BHAs (beta hydroxy acid) and AHAs (alpha hydroxy acid).

    Clindamycin phosphate has anti-inflammatory benefits and works to keep skin radiant and fresh. Regular and consistent use of clindamycin phosphate should produce results in four to six weeks.

  • What precautions should I take when using clindamycin phosphate?

    Clindamycin phosphate can interact with other medications, especially other antibiotics or antibacterial medications. It is best to consult your Nurx provider before using clindamycin to make sure it won't interfere with your medications. Clindamycin is not safe for people with colitis, ulcerative colitis, or regional enteritis.

  • Does clindamycin phosphate have any known side effects?

    Common side effects of clindamycin include:

    • Dryness
    • Flakiness
    • Minor peeling

    Clindamycin phosphate may sting when the product is first applied, although most users tolerate it well. Uncommon side effects like painful burning cracking skin or severe redness should be reported to your Nurx provider.

    Rare side effects include severe headache, diarrhea, stomach cramps, or bloody stool.

  • What else should I know about clindamycin phosphate?

    It is important to be consistent with the application of clindamycin phosphate and try to apply it at the same time every day. If you miss an application, use the medication as soon as you remember.

    Don't just spot treat breakouts, be sure to apply the solution to the entire area. If the breakout is on your chest, treat the entire chest; if the breakout is on your chin, apply to your entire face.

    Because of the alcohol in this product, It is recommended to wait 30 minutes after shaving or washing to allow the skin time to calm before applying clindamycin phosphate. This should help with irritation and reduce reactions.

    Clindamycin phosphate is flammable, so keep it away from an open flame.

  • Can clindamycin phosphate help with acne scarring?

    Unfortunately, clindamycin phosphate is an antibacterial antibiotic and although it can help prevent acne scarring by treating and preventing acne, it probably won't help with scarring that you already have. Consult your Nurx provider for the best advice regarding acne scarring and options to treat it.

  • Is it safe for my preteen to use my clindamycin phosphate medication?

    As with all medications and prescriptions, sharing it with others is not advised. Considering that this medication is prescribed specifically for you and your condition, it may not be appropriate for someone else to use and can cause undue harm. If your preteen is struggling with acne, they should speak to their healthcare provider to determine which medication options are right for them.

See all FAQs
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DR. PETER YOUNG, MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Meet your medical team

Peter Young, MD is the Medical Director for Nurx’s Dermatology specialty. Dr. Young is a board-certified dermatologist who advises the Nurx medical team on how to provide the highest quality of care for dermatology conditions through telehealth.

†Clindamycin phosphate solution 1%, Rx only, treats acne vulgaris. This drug may cause side effects, including dryness, flakiness, and minor peeling. If you would like to learn more, see full prescribing information here. You are encouraged to report negative side effects to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
*Individual results may vary.
‡The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided here for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your provider.
◊Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of the required consultation.

Talk to our experts

Not sure if this medication is right for you?

Connect with a Nurx provider for a personalized treatment recommendation.◊
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Exceptional care at every step

At Nurx, we make it easy to get the expert healthcare you deserve. From schedules to health history, everybody is different—so we provide treatment and care that’s personalized to you. Through life’s cycles, changes, and transitions, we’re here to help you make informed choices about your health.

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