Accutane increases skin fragility

Jordana S. Gilman, MD answers: Microdermabrasion after Accutane?

I took Accutane for 3 months and now I want to have Microdermabrasion. How long should I wait?


Jordana S. Gilman, MD
2 months ago

Accutane makes the skin more fragile and we typically tell patients to avoid any laser procedures, including microdermabrasion, for at least 6 months.  However, many microdermabrasion machines have adjustable levels and allow for a more gentle treatment.  I would also be interested to know what dose of Accutane you took.  Accutane is typically given according to a patient's weight, but often patients are on a lower (or sometimes higher) than usual dose.  If  you were on a low dose you may not have experienced significant skin fragility.  You should see a physician who is very experienced with microdermabrasion, as every patient is different.  You may be able to begin microdermabrasion treatments before 6 months have passed.

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