What Is Benzoyl Peroxide Clindamycin? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin is a prescription combination topical gel used to treat acne vulgaris — the most common type of acne. It combines two active ingredients that attack acne through different but complementary mechanisms, making it more effective than either ingredient alone.

Available under brand names including BenzaClin, Acanya, Duac, Onexton, and Neuac — as well as several generics — this medication has been a dermatologist favorite since its FDA approval in 2000. Here's everything you need to know about it in 2026.

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide/Clindamycin Used For?

Benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin combination gel is FDA-approved for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris — specifically inflammatory acne. It's effective against:

Inflammatory lesions — red, swollen pimples, papules, and pustules caused by bacterial infection and inflammation

Non-inflammatory lesions — blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones)

It's typically prescribed for mild to moderately severe acne vulgaris and is approved for patients 12 years and older. Acne can appear on the face, chest, shoulders, and back — all areas commonly treated with this medication.

What Are the Brand Names and Generic Versions?

Benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin comes in several brand names, each with slightly different formulations:

BenzaClin — 5% BPO / 1% clindamycin; applied twice daily

Acanya — 2.5% BPO / 1.2% clindamycin; applied once daily

Duac — 5% BPO / 1.2% clindamycin; applied once daily in the evening

Onexton — 2.5% BPO / 1.2% clindamycin; applied once daily

Neuac / Z-Clinz — Additional brand formulations with varying strengths

Generic clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide — Available in 1%/5% and 1.2%/5% strengths; significantly less expensive than brand-name versions

What Is the Correct Dosage and How Do I Apply It?

Dosing depends on which formulation you're prescribed. Always follow your doctor's instructions. Generally:

5% BPO / 1% clindamycin (BenzaClin): applied twice daily, morning and evening

2.5% BPO / 1.2% clindamycin (Acanya, Onexton): applied once daily

5% BPO / 1.2% clindamycin (Duac): applied once daily in the evening

Here is the step-by-step application process:

Wash the affected area with warm water and a mild, non-medicated cleanser

Pat skin dry with a clean towel and allow it to dry fully (wait 15 minutes if possible)

Apply a thin layer of gel evenly over the affected area using your fingertips

Avoid the eyes, nose, mouth, and any broken skin

Wash your hands after applying to avoid bleaching clothing, towels, or hair

If you can see a white film on your skin, you've applied too much. The goal is a thin, even layer — not a thick coating.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin has a relatively fast onset compared to some acne treatments. Here's a general timeline:

2–4 weeks: Early signs of improvement begin. Antibacterial action sets in quickly.

4–6 weeks: Noticeable reduction in inflamed lesions for most patients

10–12 weeks: Full assessment of treatment efficacy. Clinical trials showed a 64% reduction in inflammatory lesion counts after 12 weeks.

Use beyond 12 weeks should be evaluated by your doctor. Some patients may require long-term maintenance therapy.

Who Should NOT Use Benzoyl Peroxide/Clindamycin?

This medication is contraindicated in certain patients. Do not use if you:

Are allergic to clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, or lincomycin

Have a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis (including pseudomembranous colitis)

Are under 12 years of age (safety and efficacy have not been established)

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medication. It is not known whether topical benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin harms an unborn baby or passes into breast milk.

How Should I Store This Medication?

Storage requirements vary by brand. In general, store at room temperature (68°F–77°F / 20°C–25°C) in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze. Discard unused medication based on your specific formulation's expiration:

Duac® gel: discard after 60 days

BenzaClin® gel: discard after 3 months

Onexton™: discard after 10 weeks

Where Can I Fill My Prescription?

Generic clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide is available at most major pharmacy chains and independent pharmacies. If you run into availability issues with a specific strength or formulation, Medfinder can check real-time inventory at pharmacies near you. For step-by-step guidance, see our guide on how to check if a pharmacy has benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin in stock.