Hello Claire,

Thank you so much for taking the time to reach out! Clindamycin on it's own does not exfoliate, however one of the potential side effects of Clindamycin is peeling and irritation in the skin. If the client is experiencing those side effects, it is recommended that they don't exfoliate until those symptoms subside. The client should also follow up with the Doctor that prescribed the clindamycin if symptoms get worse or continue for an extended period of time.

Additionally, some topicals prescriptions for acne are not just Clindamycin by itself, also include Tretnoin or Adapalene in combination. Tretnoin and Adapalene do exfoliate and thin the skin, so it would not be recommended for the client to exfoliate if they are using Clindamycin in combination with either of these additional medications. I would suggest you have the client take a picture of the prescription and send it to you so you can be sure of the formulation and percentage they are using to give the best homecare advice.

All the best,

Brian Goodwin

Eminence