Dermaroller/Dermabrasion While on Low Dose Accutane

asked 1 year ago by GRD
Latest answer by Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS
Question viewed 815 times
Tags: acne scars, combination, dermaroller

I've been getting dermaroller/dermabrasion procedures done by my dermatologist for acne scar treatments, but I tend to occasionally break out (a few here and there, cystic/nodular acne). My dermat recommended that I be on a low dose Accutane regimen for maintenance since my occasional breakouts are going to end up causing scars again while I still continue w/my dermaroller sessions. He says a very low dose of Accutane for maintenance won't really affect anything, is this true? Is it safe?

4 answers to Dermaroller/Dermabrasion While on Low Dose Accutane

Dermaroller/Dermabrasion while on Accutane a bad idea.

Though the risks may be "minimal" if you are having "only" a "mild" dermabrasion or dermaroller session, what if your "low dose" of Accutane ends up giving you hypertrophic or keloidal scarring? If the dose of Accutane is so "very low" that it "won't really affect anything," then why use it? It must be anticipated to have a (beneficial) effect on your acne, so why might it not have a (bad) effect on your healing? Sorry about... more

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS
Minneapolis Plastic Surgeon

Accutane is generally a contraindication to any resurfacing

Accutane is generally a contraindication to any resurfacing. However derma rolling is a form of fractionated type of resurfacing which may not have as significant risks. This would be highly dependent on your surgeons experience. There are other ways to control your acne including hormonal control, antibiotics, chemical peels, directed skin care.

Philip Young, MD
Bellevue Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dermabrasion or dermaroller and Accutane

Typically speaking any resurfacing procedure should be avoided during or after accutane treatment for a period of 6 months.The concern is delayed healing with possible scarring. However, if your dermatologist has vast experience wtih this technique, this may be a protocol that they have perfected.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon