Benzaclin Acne Medication Review – Side Effects and Results

Benzaclin is composed of 2 powerful acne medicines: clindamycin (an antibiotic) and benzoyl peroxide (an antibacterial). Clindamycin kills the bacteria that contribute to the growth of red, inflamed pimples while benzoyl peroxide has antibacterial and non-inflammatory properties. Benzaclin is a prescription drug.

The most common complaint from consumers is dryness of the skin which occurs in about 1 of 8 people who use it. Some have also reported itching and peeling of the skin. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, mouth, nose or on your lips. Wash with water immediately if it does get into any of these areas.

These could be the least of your worries. While benzaclin is applied to the skin, your body may absorb enough clindamycin to cause serious side effects. Once in your system, benzaclin is known to cause inflammation of the intestines (enteritis) and ulcerative colitis. Moreover, researchers are not yet sure if benzaclin is safe for pregnant women; it may be harmful to the fetus.  It is also not known if either benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. To be on the safe side, do not use benzaclin if you are nursing or pregnant. Researchers have also yet to establish if benzaclin is safe and effective for pediatric patients.

Allergic reactions have also been reported among those who used clindamycin / benzoyl peroxide products. Some animal studies show that benzoyl peroxide is a tumor promoter. Those who are taking benzaclin should make sure that they are not taking erythromycin. Studies have shown antagonism between these two antimicrobials.

As if these aren’t enough, the medication itself is quite sensitive.  Its shelf life is quite short; unused gel should be discarded after two months. Precious money is wasted if you don’t get to use the entire tube. Benzaclin is also hazardous for your clothes and appearance. It may bleach hair or colored fabric.

The numerous risks associated with benzaclin might make you think twice about using it. It should probably be used as a treatment of last resort when everything else has failed. Before taking medicines which may pose potential health hazards, natural acne products should be given a try.

Unlike their pharmaceutical counterparts, natural acne treatment products are less likely to cause allergic reactions and are safer to use. They are also less likely to interact with other drugs.

Apart from treating acne, natural based products also dissolve dead cells, destroy pathogens, nourish your skin and protect it from free radicals. Sometimes, these herb based creams and ointments also maintain moisture and contain vital substances that may be lacking in your skin. These may promote the cell renewal process, giving your skin that fresh and healthy look.