Question

Can I have laser treatments while I'm taking Accutane?

I am taking Accutane 40 mg twice a week. Can I have facial laser treatments?

This dose was prescribed by my Dermatologist and it has helped to control my adult acne. This low dose has not caused me any side effects. I wish to have Thermage and/or Sciton laser procedures done and want to ensure that I will not have any complications with these procedures.

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Asked by: zola
Edmonton, Alberta Canada

Answers (2)

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1
September 14, 2008

No laser treatment while on Accutane

Brenda Dintiman, MD
Brenda Dintiman, MD
Board Certified
Dermatologist

Accutane and laser treatments are not compatible since it can put you at increased risk for scarring or difficulty healing from the laser treatments.

I think you would have to stop the accutane for 6 months before considering any laser treatments.

Good luck with your treatment.

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2
August 24, 2008

No laser during Accutane treatments

Mary Lupo, MD
Mary Lupo, MD
Board Certified
Dermatologist
Answer by Mary Lupo, MD

It is wonderful news that your acne is under control with low dose Accutane therapy, but even though you are not having side effects, that does not mean that other Accutane effects are not possible. Oral retinoids like Accutane have a direct effect on the sebaceous glands and result in slower healing of skin wounds like burns. Lasers cause controlled injuries to induce a biological healing response and resulting cosmetic improvement, and they require normal healing responses of the skin. Accutane slows these responses, so no laser or peel until 6-12 months post Accutane. Your dermatologist can explain laser differences and which ones that you can do and when. Good luck!

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