Accutane Cured Acne but Left Scars

If you were on Accutane, it is likely that you had severe acne.  Severe acne can result in scarring because the inflammation results in destruction of the surrounding tissue which leaves depressed areas.  When acne is active and there are many lesions on the face it can sometimes be difficult to see scarring.   When your acne cleared after a successful treatment of Accutane, all that remained were the scars.  Accutane is a retinoid and retinoids can improve the... more

Accutane is a great treatment for both acne and the scarring that acne can cause.  Not only can accutane prevent acne scarring, but it can reverse some of the signs of damage caused by the painful nodules of severe acne.  While I would certainly beware of laser skin resurfacing in a patient with darker skin tones, chemical peels are an excellent method of slowly and gently correcting the scarring while causing collagen remodeling and smoothing the skin's surface. more

If you had not taken Accutane, it may be possible that you could have more scarring as you might continue to have more inflammatory lesions. Accutane can bring about abnormal wound healing from any concurrent surgery but by itself, it does not scar

Accutane is the most effective treatment for cystic acne.  Accutane is usually able to bring acne to a halt, but the acne itself is what causes scarring.  Fortunately,  there are good treatments for acne scarring such as laser resurfacing that can be done six months after stopping Accutane.

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 peeling procedures such as dermabrasion or chemical peels. However, there were some notable disasters as healing can be distorted after Accutane. With some of these experiences under our belt, we now know that patients s... more

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 use of Triluma or other skin bleaching preparations.

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 resulting from the disappearance of the acne with accutane treatment. It is possible that this was not noted until the overlying acne resolved. You can do laser resurfacing, or even... more

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 did not see the scars until the Accutane was finished. Perhaps the dermatologist who treats you can tell you more since they know your complete history. Good Luck.

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 before undergoing any cosmetic procedure to decrease the risk of scarring. Good luck.