Nilac Gel

Nilac Gel is an acne gel that combines clindamycin 1% w/w, an antibiotic, with nicotinamide 4% w/w (niacinamide). Doctors use it for red, inflamed pimples: clindamycin acts against acne bacteria, while nicotinamide calms inflammation and helps regulate oil.

What it does

• Acts against the bacteria involved in inflamed acne
• Helps reduce redness, swelling and tenderness of pimples
• Nicotinamide helps control excess oil
• Light, non-greasy gel

Key ingredients

• Clindamycin 1% w/w – a topical antibiotic
• Nicotinamide 4% w/w – a form of vitamin B3 that soothes and balances oil

Who it's for

People with inflammatory acne who have been advised this gel by a doctor. Topical antibiotics work best, and are less likely to stop working, when used for a limited period alongside other acne treatments your doctor recommends.

Where it fits in your routine

On clean, dry skin, apply a thin layer to the affected areas, usually twice a day or as your doctor advises. Wash your hands before and after use. Follow with a light moisturiser and, in the morning, sunscreen.

Good to know

• Prescription medicine. Dispensed only against a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Use exactly as your doctor directs.
• 20 g
• Made in India by Encube Ethicals Pvt. Ltd., Goa
• Shelf life: 24 months from manufacture
• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes.

• Clindamycin (1% w/w)

• Nicotinamide (4% w/w)

FAQs

Q1. How do Clindamycin and Nicotinamide in Nilac Gel work together against acne?
A1. Nilac Gel combines two complementary mechanisms: Clindamycin 1% inhibits protein synthesis in Cutibacterium acnes bacteria by binding the 50S ribosomal subunit, directly reducing the bacterial load responsible for inflamed papules and pustules. Nicotinamide 4% suppresses sebum production via PPARα signalling, reduces follicular wall inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier to minimise post-acne dryness. Together they attack acne from both its microbial and inflammatory roots simultaneously.

Q2. Will long-term use of Clindamycin in Nilac Gel cause antibiotic resistance?
A2. Topical antibiotic resistance is a recognised concern with prolonged Clindamycin monotherapy. Nilac Gel reduces this risk by pairing Clindamycin with Nicotinamide — an independent, non-antibiotic active — which lowers the total selective pressure on C. acnes. Your dermatologist will typically limit antibiotic courses to three to four months and review the treatment plan at each visit to preserve long-term antibiotic effectiveness.

Q3. Will Nilac Gel help with PIH — the dark marks left after pimples?
A3. Nilac Gel's Nicotinamide 4% provides secondary brightening benefit by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, partially slowing PIH development. However, for established post-acne dark marks — especially on Fitzpatrick III–VI South Asian skin tones — a dedicated depigmenting agent such as azelaic acid, arbutin, or tranexamic acid used alongside Nilac Gel produces better results. Consult your dermatologist to combine appropriately.

Q4. Can I use Nilac Gel at the same time as Retinol or Benzoyl Peroxide?
A4. Use Nilac Gel and a retinol on alternate nights if irritation is a concern, or apply Nilac Gel in the morning and retinol at night. Importantly, avoid applying Nilac Gel simultaneously with benzoyl peroxide on the same skin area — benzoyl peroxide can oxidise and inactivate Clindamycin; if both are prescribed, separate them into AM and PM routines. Vitamin C serums can be layered safely in the morning after Nilac Gel has absorbed.

Q5. How long before Nilac Gel works, and what side effects should I expect?
A5. Most users notice a reduction in new pimple formation and inflammation within two to three weeks, with significant improvement in skin clarity by six to eight weeks. A mild worsening or purging in the first two weeks can occur as follicle contents are expelled — this is normal. Support skin with a non-comedogenic moisturiser and daily broad-spectrum SPF, which also helps reduce UV-triggered PIH on healing acne spots.

Country of Origin: India
Mfg/Marketer details: Encube Ethicals Pvt. Ltd., Plot No. C1, Madkaim Ind. Estate, Madkaim, Post Mardol, Ponda, Goa – 403404, India
Shelf Life: 24 months from manufacturing date
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Safety Information: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Keep out of reach of children. Use only under medical supervision.