BenzaClin
BenzaClin is a simple and pretty popular prescription acne ointment. It has been shown to be significantly effective, but carries some risks and the typical high costs of prescription treatments. Is it worth it?
BenzaClin Ingredient Analysis
Each 50 g tube of BenzaClin contains two active ingredients which are suspended in a sodium hydroxide solution. These are-
- Clindamycin phosphate – 1% concentration
- Benzoyl peroxide – 2.5% concentration
Clindamycin is an antiobiotic meant to kill the root source of acne which is the bacteria that live inside your pores. Benzoyl peroxide is a commonly used and fairly potent peroxide that causes your skin to shed its outer layer, which can help clear up acne faster.
BenzaClin Effectiveness
From the research and clinical trials done, BenzaClin has proven itself to be effective at reducing the appearance of acne within 1-2 weeks of regular use. This is about average for a good acne treatment, though we recommend you consider the safety issues surrounding the product.
BenzaClin Safety Concerns
All antibiotics are controlled by prescription to slow the rate at which strains of bacteria evolve to develop tolerance to these antibiotics. This is one of the main reasons why this product is prescription-only. Another important consideration is the association of clindamycin use and ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the colon). Those who have a history of colitis should not use this product and even without a history there is still some risk of getting it. Take our word for it, you do NOT want colitis. Other than this, the most common side effects reported with use are dryness and peeling skin.
BenzaClin Value Rating
BenzaClin, like all prescription products has the cost of a consultation with a doctor factored into value considerations. If you participate in the rebate program they offer, you can get a tube of this stuff for $20 with insurance or $25 without. This added to the $50-$100 or so that you’ll likely be paying for your doctor’s time makes this cream over-priced. It’s as simple as that. Considering the very high risks you’re taking with a product like this, it is definitely one of the products we would put on a “last resort” list.
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