Acanya®

What is Acanya?

Acanya is a gel that combines clindamycin phosphate 1.2% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%. It works in two ways:

1. killing the bacteria that cause folliculitis; and:
2. reducing the inflammation that comes with it.

It’s licensed for treating acne, but it’s also prescribed off-label for folliculitis. That means that while it’s not specifically made for folliculitis, a doctor can prescribe it if they believe it will help your symptoms.

How does Acanya work for folliculitis?

Folliculitis happens when your hair follicles become inflamed or infected, most often by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus.^[1] Acanya works for folliculitis on two fronts. The clindamycin stops the staph bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow, which helps to stop infection.^[2]

The benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria too, but also helps clear away dead skin cells and excess oil that can block follicles.^[3] Together this helps to calm any inflammation and help your skin heal.

Will I get side effects using Acanya?

Acanya, like most treatments, can cause side effects. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get any. You might notice dryness, peeling, redness, itching, or mild burning when you first start using it. This can improve as your skin gets used to the medication.^[1]

Acanya can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to limit your exposure to sun and use SPF while treating your skin.

What doses of Acanya are there?

Acanya comes in one strength: 1.2% clindamycin phosphate and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel. There are other branded treatments that contain the same ingredients, but contain slightly different amounts, like Duac, which is 3% benzoyl peroxide.

How to use Acanya

Apply a thin layer of Acanya gel to the affected skin once a day, preferably at the same time each day. Wash the area with a mild cleanser, rinse, and pat dry before applying. Wash your hands after applying Acanya.

Avoid getting Acanya in your eyes, mouth, or any broken skin.

What should I do if I use too much Acanya?

If you accidentally apply too much at once, it’s unlikely to cause serious harm, but you might want to wipe off any excess to avoid irritation.

Using more than you’re prescribed won’t make your folliculitis clear faster.