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Compare Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ziana (clindamycin/tretinoin) and benzoyl peroxide are both used to treat acne, but they work in different ways and have some key differences. Ziana is a combination of clindamycin, an antibiotic that kills acne-causing bacteria, and tretinoin, a retinoid that promotes healthy skin growth and reduces oil. Ziana is a gel available by prescription and can take up to 12 weeks to show improvement. Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, is an antiseptic that prevents bacteria from growing and is available over-the-counter in various forms, such as gels, creams, and washes. It generally starts to work in about 4 weeks but can take up to 3 months for full effects. Ziana is typically used once a day at bedtime, while benzoyl peroxide is applied 1 to 3 times daily depending on the form. Benzoyl peroxide is more affordable and accessible, whereas Ziana might be a better option for those who haven't had success with other treatments. Both medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it's important to use sunscreen and protective clothing.

  • Ziana (clindamycin / tretinoin)
    Benzoyl peroxide
  • Ziana (clindamycin / tretinoin)
    Benzoyl peroxide

  • Summary of Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

    Summary for Lincosamide antibiotic / Retinoic acid derivative
    Prescription only

    Ziana (clindamycin / tretinoin) is a combination medication used to treat acne in people over 12 years old. While side effects are mild for most people, it can take up to 12 weeks to see improvement.

    Summary for Antiseptic

    Benzoyl peroxide is an affordable medication that works well to clear up acne. It's available over-the-counter and comes in many different forms, but it's not a good option for people with sensitive skin.

  • Indications of Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

    Indications for
    •Acne
    Indications for
    •Acne

  • Pros and Cons of Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

    Pros and Const for Lincosamide antibiotic / Retinoic acid derivative
    Pros
    •Works well with mild side effects
    •Only needs to be applied once a day
    •Might work when other acne treatments have failed
    •Easier to use a combination gel instead of two separate medications to treat acne
    Cons
    •Can take several weeks to work
    •Your acne might look worse when you first start it.
    •Not safe to use if you have Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or inflammation of your intestines
    •Can be expensive even though a generic is available
    Pros and Const for Antiseptic
    Pros
    •Lower-cost and available over-the-counter
    •Comes in many different forms (e.g., gel, cream, and lotion) and strengths
    •Easy to apply
    •Can be used by people with either dry or oily skin
    Cons
    •Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight
    •Can bleach your hair, clothing, and bedding
    •Might not work well for people with severe acne
    •Can cause uncomfortable side effects, like skin burning and itching
    •Not a good option for people with sensitive skin

  • Common Side Effects of Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Skin redness (26-35%)
    •Scaly skin (13-17%)
    •Itchy skin (4-10%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Redness
    •Burning
    •Itching
    •Peeling
    •Swelling
    •Dryness

  • Warnings of Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

    Common Side Effects for
    •SEVERE DIARRHEA
    •SUNBURNS
    Common Side Effects for
    •Bleaching of hair and clothing
    •Skin irritation
    •Sensitive skin

  • Prices with our coupons for Ziana vs. BenzeFoam

    Learn more about Ziana
    Learn more about Benzoyl peroxide

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