Clindamycin (Cleocin-T) is a topical antibiotic that is used to treat mild to moderate acne. When combined with other acne medications like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids like Retin-A, it can work quite well to treat acne. Clindamycin phosphate is a salt of clindamycin that is usually used for injectable or topical formulations of clindamycin. Clindamycin phosphate is a prodrug of clindamycin that is rapidly converted to active clindamycin once inside the body or applied to the skin. Why is this medication prescribed? Topical clindamycin is used to treat acne. Clindamycin is in a class of medications called lincomycin antibiotics. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria that cause acne and by decreasing swelling. What is clindamycin topical? Clindamycin topical (for the skin) is used to treat severe acne in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. Clindamycin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Find patient medical information for Clindamycin topical (Cleocin T, Clindagel, and others) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user. Topical clindamycin will not cure your acne. However, to help keep your acne under control, keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. Clindamycin is a medicated antibiotic lotion that treats acne. Acne is a common condition that causes pimples on your skin.