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Daily Chemical Exfoliation While on Accutane?
asked 1 year ago by lappinit in Tokyo
Latest answer by Dina D. Strachan, MD
Question viewed 444 times
Tags: acne, combination, exfoliation, safety
I have very oily skin with enlarged pores, blackheads, and moderate acne. I currently control the acne and blackheads with an antibacterial facewash (containing Triclosan), twice-daily application of a 2% BHA exfoliant (pH 3.2-3.6) and nightly application of 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide. I am considering undergoing a course of low dose Accutane (0.15mg/kg/day) to reduce oil production and control my acne. Is continued usage of my BHA permissable for general exfoliation purposes?
3 answers to Daily Chemical Exfoliation While on Accutane?
+1
When on Accutane your skin is exfolaiting
Accutane, isotretinoin, is a retinoid. Retinoids are powerful exfoliating agents. When you are on Accutane, there will be no need to use any other exfoliating agent. In fact, the use of other agents may cause irriation. If you are on a low dose, it may be tolerable, but definately discuss this with your treating dermatologist. Also, reconsider the daily triclosan wash. Although there is no definitive human data at the moment, there are some...
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Dina D. Strachan, MD
New York Dermatologist
New York Dermatologist
+1
Exfoliation while on low dose Accutane
I want to address your use of triclosan as an antibacterial wash first. Triclosan is a photosensitizing agent, so it will make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. In addition there are animal studies that show that it may have some effects on the endocrine system as well. I would not recommend using triclosan as a cleanser whether you take Accutane or not. Accutane also makes your skin more sun sensitive.
Generally, I don't recommend exfoliation while on...
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+1
That low dose should make gentle exfoliation safe
I always recommend you discuss these types of issues with your treating dermatologist, but in general, this low dose of Accutane should make gentle exfoliation with salicylic acid safe.
