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Is Hyperpigmentation a Side Effect of Accutane?
asked 2 years ago by Melanie1212 in Longview wa
Latest answer by Dina D. Strachan, MD
Question viewed 2,593 times
Tags: hyperpigmentation, side effects
I completed 16 weeks of Accutane and want to know if hyperpigmentation is a side effect of this drug. I started noticing hyperpigmentation overnight along my hairline on my forehead and have received conflicting answers as to why.
I have been told that it is possibly due to the Pearl laser treatment that I had 6 months prior to starting the Accutane?
I would also like to know what is the best treatment for this hyperpigmentation and how long should I wait to seek treatment.
2 answers to Is Hyperpigmentation a Side Effect of Accutane?
+1
Hyperpigmentation after Accutane
Without examining you and getting a complete history, it is hard to say what caused the hyperpigmentation. As you describe it as being along the hair line, I wonder if you have seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff). Many times if presents as scaling, redness, or discoloration (darker or lighter) along the hair line (usually frontal). By itself, Accutane is not a common cause ot this type of hyperpigmentation. I recommend that you discuss this with your dermatologist.
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Dina D. Strachan, MD
New York Dermatologist
New York Dermatologist
+1
Treating hyperpigmentation
Having been on accutane, you are more prone to the damaging effects of the sun which include sunburn, but also hyperpigmentation called melasma. I would start wearing an SPF 60 sunscreen, and add a topical hydroquinone (e.g. ultraquin, lustra) to bleach out the darkened skin. If things aren't better in 2-3 months, see a dermatologist for a "modified Kligman's formulation" and/or chemical peeling. Good luck!
