Acnesol gel 1% topical solution is used to treat acne vulgaris. It contains clindamycin, an antibiotic belonging to the lincomycin group that blocks protein synthesis in the bacteria responsible for causing acne-affected skin infection, thus killing the bacteria. The gel formulation gets into the blackheads and blocks the growth of the bacteria. Clindamycin reduces bacteria growth that contributes to acne lesions and prevents infection spread.

Acnesol gel is an antibiotic used in topical formulations and effectively reduces acne's severity.  

Before applying Acnesol gel 1%

 — Wash the area to be treated thoroughly but gently with warm water and mild soap/cleanser.⁃ Rinse well and pat dry

 — Wait for at least 30 minutes after shaving. This is because alcohol in the formulation may irritate freshly shaven skin.  

Application tips:

  — Apply directly to the skin

  — Apply a thin gel layer once daily to the skin where acne lesions are present. Use an adequate amount to cover the affected area.

  — If it gets into your eyes, carefully wash your eyes straight away with water. If you still feel a burning sensation in your eyes, get immediate medical help.

  — After applying the medicine, do not wash for at least two hours.

  — You should wash your hands after applying this topical product.

  — Your condition may improve after eight weeks if you respond well to the treatment. If you think you need more than twelve weeks of treatment, speak to your dermatologist.

  — Watch for increased dryness or irritation if using Acnesol with other topical products.

Safety and effectiveness in paediatric patients under 12 and elderly patients 65 and over have not been established.

Acnesol gel 1% is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to preparations containing clindamycin, ulcerative colitis, or a history of antibiotic-associated colitis.

Using the topical formulation of clindamycin results in absorption of the antibiotic from the skin surface. Bloody diarrhoea and colitis have been reported with the use of this topical product  

To help avoid side effects and ensure proper use, speak to your dermatologist before taking Acnesol gel 1%. Talk to your dermatologist about problems you have, including if you:

 — You are pregnant or planning to conceive

 — You are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed while using the medication.

Clindamycin gel is for topical use only. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, other mucous membranes, or areas of broken skin.                                                                                                        

Acnesol gel may cause side effects. These include eye pain, peeling skin, dry or scaly skin, itching, redness, hives, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as indigestion and gas. Call your doctor immediately if you develop itching, skin rash, redness, or other signs of irritation that bothers you. If you have troublesome symptoms of side effects not mentioned here or become bad enough to interfere with your daily activities, talk to your dermatologist.