What is Clisof Gel used for? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Application and Benefits

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

Combination topical therapies often provide superior results for acne compared to single-ingredient treatments, with Clisof Gel being a prime example. This prescription-only gel is used to combat acne vulgaris by combining an effective topical antibiotic with a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

Quick Summary

Clisof Gel is a prescription topical medication containing clindamycin and nicotinamide used for acne vulgaris. It works by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation, thereby helping to clear pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Key Points

Treats Acne Vulgaris: Clisof Gel is a prescription topical medication primarily used to treat mild to moderate acne.
Dual-Action Formula: The gel contains Clindamycin (an antibiotic to kill bacteria) and Nicotinamide (an anti-inflammatory to reduce redness and swelling).
Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria: Clindamycin specifically targets C. acnes bacteria, helping to resolve existing breakouts and prevent new ones.
Reduces Inflammation and Redness: Nicotinamide soothes the skin and helps reduce the swelling, redness, and tenderness associated with acne.
Requires Consistent Use: For best results, the gel should be applied as a thin layer to the entire affected area, usually once or twice daily as directed by a doctor.
May Cause Initial Irritation: It is common to experience dryness, redness, or peeling in the first few weeks, but these effects often decrease with continued use.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Users should wear sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure while using the gel, as it can increase skin sensitivity.

Understanding Clisof Gel's Role in Acne Treatment

Clisof Gel is a medicated topical gel designed to address the primary causes of acne breakouts. By combining two active ingredients—Clindamycin and Nicotinamide—it offers a multi-pronged attack on acne, targeting both the bacterial and inflammatory components of the condition. This approach is often more effective than using a single ingredient, especially for cases of mild to moderate acne.

How the Active Ingredients Work

Clindamycin: The Antibacterial Component

Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic that plays a crucial role in managing acne. The bacteria Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) are naturally present on the skin and can contribute to acne by thriving on excess sebum (skin oil) and clogging pores.

Kills bacteria: Clindamycin works by inhibiting protein synthesis in C. acnes bacteria, effectively stopping their growth and multiplication. By reducing the bacterial population, it helps to resolve existing inflamed lesions like pimples and pustules.
Prevents future breakouts: A reduction in acne-causing bacteria also helps prevent the formation of new inflammatory blemishes.

Nicotinamide: The Anti-Inflammatory Component

Nicotinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, is well-regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a key characteristic of acne, causing the redness, swelling, and tenderness associated with breakouts.

Reduces inflammation: Nicotinamide helps to soothe inflamed skin, reducing the size and redness of active acne lesions.
Promotes healing: Its anti-inflammatory action also supports the skin's natural healing process, which can help in reducing post-acne marks and promoting a more even skin tone.

Who is Clisof Gel for?

Clisof Gel is typically prescribed by a dermatologist for individuals aged 12 and older who are experiencing mild to moderate acne vulgaris. The combination of its active ingredients makes it particularly effective for treating inflammatory acne, characterized by red, swollen bumps and pus-filled pimples. It also addresses non-inflammatory acne, including blackheads and whiteheads.

How to Apply Clisof Gel Correctly

Proper application is essential for maximizing the gel's benefits and minimizing potential side effects. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor, but the general procedure is as follows:

Cleanse the Skin: Gently wash the affected area with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and pat the skin completely dry.
Apply a Thin Layer: Apply a small, pea-sized amount of the gel to the entire affected area, not just individual pimples. This helps prevent future breakouts.
Rub In Gently: Rub the gel into the skin gently and evenly until it is no longer visible.
Wash Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after applying the medication.
Timing: The gel is typically applied once daily, often at bedtime, as advised by your healthcare provider.

Precautions During Use

Use the gel externally on the skin only. Avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, nostrils, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
Do not apply the gel to cut, scraped, or sunburned skin.
Avoid overusing the gel. Applying more than the recommended pea-sized amount will not speed up results and can increase the risk of skin irritation.
Be patient; it can take several weeks for noticeable improvement.

Potential Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Attention

Like all medications, Clisof Gel can cause side effects. Common, mild side effects that often diminish with continued use include:

Dry skin or dryness at the application site
Skin redness (erythema)
Peeling
Mild burning or stinging
Itching

More serious side effects can occur, particularly those related to the clindamycin component. You should stop using the gel and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

Severe, watery, or bloody diarrhea
Severe stomach pain or cramps
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Clindamycin is associated with a risk of colitis (inflammation of the colon), which has been reported following both oral and topical use.

Comparing Clisof Gel to Other Acne Treatments

This table compares Clisof Gel's properties with another common, over-the-counter acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide.


Feature	Clisof Gel (Clindamycin + Nicotinamide)	Benzoyl Peroxide Gel (OTC)
Mechanism	Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.	Kills acne-causing bacteria and helps shed dead skin cells.
Availability	Prescription only.	Available over-the-counter in various strengths.
Target	Primarily inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.	Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.
Resistance	Potential for bacterial resistance over time; nicotinamide helps mitigate this.	No known issue with bacterial resistance.
Side Effects	Dryness, redness, peeling, burning. Rarely, colitis.	Skin irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling. Can bleach fabrics.
Recommended Use	Often used once daily, usually at night.	Can be used once or twice daily.

Conclusion

Clisof Gel is a powerful and effective prescription treatment for acne vulgaris, harnessing the combined power of an antibiotic (clindamycin) and an anti-inflammatory agent (nicotinamide). It works by targeting the root causes of acne—bacteria and inflammation—leading to a clearer, smoother complexion. While common side effects like dryness and irritation are to be expected, they typically subside with continued use. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions, use it consistently, and be aware of the potential for more serious side effects like colitis. As with any prescription medication, a consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Clisof Gel is the right treatment for your specific skin concerns. For a more detailed look at the ingredients, you can refer to regulatory information on the FDA's website.

Your Skin, Your Confidence

By addressing acne systematically, Clisof Gel offers a path toward healthier, clearer skin. The dual-action formula means it is working on multiple fronts, tackling active blemishes while also soothing inflammation. Remember that patience is key, and the best results are achieved through consistent, daily application under the guidance of a medical professional. A clearer complexion can significantly boost confidence and improve overall quality of life, which is the ultimate goal of effective acne treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clisof Gel is primarily used to treat acne vulgaris (pimples). Its dual action targets both the bacteria causing acne and the associated inflammation.

No, Clisof Gel is a prescription-only medication. A dermatologist must assess your condition and provide a prescription before you can use it.

You should apply a pea-sized amount of the gel in a thin layer to the clean, dry, affected skin area, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. It is important to cover the entire affected area, not just individual pimples.

Common side effects include dryness, redness, peeling, or a burning sensation. These are typically mild and may decrease over time.

It can take several weeks to see a noticeable improvement in your acne. It is important to continue using the medication consistently as prescribed, even if you don't see immediate results.

In rare cases, the clindamycin in the gel can cause severe diarrhea or colitis (inflammation of the colon). If you experience severe diarrhea or abdominal pain, stop use and contact your doctor immediately.

The use of Clisof Gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor. They will need to evaluate the risks and benefits for your specific situation.

Yes, it can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. You should wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors to protect your skin.

No, Clisof Gel is not intended for spot treatment. It should be applied in a thin layer to the entire affected area to help prevent new breakouts from forming.