Accutane cured acne but left scars

I've had acne off and on now for the past 4 years. I recently finished using Accutane and now my acne is gone but i have some ugly scars that I didn't have before. They are not that deep but they do have some depth. They are brownish at the bottom. Any idea why they just showed up out of nowhere or how i can get rid of them?

Accutane cured acne but left scars
5 answers to “Accutane cured acne but left scars”

A: Wait At Least A Year

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

     Accutane  helps scarring somewhat. It is found to decrease the pink discoloration of scarring quite significantly.      At one time plastic surgeons and cosmetically oriented dermatologists would actually refer their patients for Accutane treatment prior to embarking on... more

A: Your scars would likely have been worse without Accutane

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

There are many different options for acne scar revision but most physicians would reoommend waiting at least 6 months up to 2 years after completion of Accutane before trying any scar revision procedures. Brown pigmentation may be a secondary response to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Consider the... more

A: Accutane doesn't leave acne scars, it's the acne that leaves the scars.

Don Mehrabi, MD

 Thank you for your question. Accutane is an excellent treatment for acne, and without a doubt, the most effective. Accutane does not cause scarring unless an invasive procedure such as laser resurfacing or dermabrasion is done in the post-accutane period. It is much more likely that you have scarring... more

A: Accutane does not cause scars

Mary Lupo, MD

Accutane is used for severe cystic acne. Cystic acid results in scars. If Accutane is delayed, the acne scars can be permanent and require laser or dermabrasion for improvement. You must, however, wait at least 12 months after you finish Accutane to get resurfacing procedures. I have no explanation for why you... more

A: There are effective acne scar treatments.

Bryan K. Chen, MD

I would consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon regarding your options.  A technique called subcision is effective and safe for ethnic skin.  Beware of laser resurfacing - can be problematic for ethnic skin.  I suggest that you wait 6 months after completing accutane... more

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