# Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [Clindamycin](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/clindamycin)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for oily skin due to the presence of isopropyl alcohol and propylene glycol, which help manage excess sebum by providing a drying and humectant action, respectively.
- It offers moderate treatment for acne lesions with clindamycin phosphate, though it lacks specialized ingredients for direct oil control to address your oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Clindamycin Phosphate, Ethanol, Propylene Glycol

## What the research says

- Clindamycin-BPO 2.5% aqueous gel applied once daily provided statistically significant greater efficacy than individual active ingredients and vehicle in reducing inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions and acne severity in 2813 patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18805603/))
- Once-daily fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% gel achieved superior treatment success (52.5%) and greater reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to vehicle (8.1%) and dyad component gels in participants with moderate-to-severe acne over 12 weeks. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/))
- Topical clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1% gel achieved significantly greater treatment success and lesion reductions compared to vehicle in participants with moderate-to-severe acne. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37656094/))
- Topical 4% nicotinamide and 1% clindamycin gels showed similar overall efficacy in reducing acne grade in patients with moderate inflammatory facial acne vulgaris over 8 weeks, with nicotinamide being more effective for oily skin and clindamycin for non-oily skin. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23786503/))
- The incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events and colitis in patients exposed to topical clindamycin for acne vulgaris is extremely low across pharmacovigilance, retrospective, and clinical trial data. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38568005/))
- Once-daily benzoyl peroxide 3% and clindamycin 1% gel demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in inflammatory lesions compared to twice-daily azelaic acid 20% cream in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26915831/))
- Topical cyproterone acetate alcohol lotion at 0.5% and 1% reduced total acne lesions and acne severity index significantly more than placebo in female patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Dermatology Online Journal, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16638440/))
- Topical patchouli alcohol significantly accelerated the recovery of UV-induced skin lesions in mice through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions and down-regulation of MMP-1 and MMP-3 expression compared to vehicle. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25033712/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))

## Why other serums fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

Users report this solution is effective for mild to moderate acne, with many experiencing significant clearing of inflammation and pustules, leading to long-term clear skin. However, a number of users note an initial purging phase or severe dryness before seeing results.

- Liked: Effective acne clearance (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Excessive dryness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast acting results (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Works in combination (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning sensation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial worsening (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Easy to apply (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Effectiveness wears off (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution work for oily skin?

Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution works moderately well for oily skin by helping to treat breakouts, though it lacks specialized ingredients for direct oil control to address your oily shine. A product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc pca, and soothing extracts to effectively control sebum production and manage shine.

### Which ingredients make this solution a good fit for oily skin?

Isopropyl alcohol and propylene glycol make this solution a good fit for oily skin by helping manage excess oil through drying and holding moisture. To fit oily skin even better, products of this type need ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control shine and address pores.

### What does Clindamycin Phosphate do for oily skin?

Clindamycin Phosphate helps calm oily skin and clear pimples when used as part of an acne treatment routine. It works by targeting the bacteria linked to breakouts, which may help reduce inflammation and keep skin clearer.

### What does Alcohol do for oily skin?

Alcohol helps dry up excess oil and can make oily skin feel less greasy, but it is also likely to strip away too much moisture and irritate your skin over time. Regular use may weaken the skin barrier, so oily skin types generally need gentler ingredients that balance oil without causing dryness or irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19014531/), [RSC Advances, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35497613/)

### Where does this solution go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing toners and before your moisturizer. Oily skin also needs specialized ingredients for direct oil control to help manage excess shine.

### Can I use this solution with benzoyl peroxide, and in what order?

You can use this solution alongside benzoyl peroxide, but because they both can be drying, it is safest to apply them at separate times or use a combination product to keep your skin calm. To fit oily skin best, this type of product also needs specialized ingredients that directly control excess oil and shine.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18805603/)

### How often should I use this solution?

This treatment is used in the evening routine. For oily skin, a product of this type needs specialized ingredients for direct oil control to address your oily shine.

### Can this solution clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This solution is unlikely to clog pores, but reviewers frequently complain about initial worsening and excessive dryness. To properly care for oily skin, a product of this type needs specialized ingredients for direct oil control to address your oily shine.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United States has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Clindamycin Phosphate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Water
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clindamycin/phosphate-topical-solution/for/oily-skin
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