Will Acne Return if I Stop Taking Accutane?

In my experience and in studies, nearly 1/2 of patients do not have any significant return of acne after a proper course of Isotretinoin (Accutane).  The other 50% of patients eventually have some acne return, but rarely to the degree they had before.  About  1:20 patients eventually require another course of treatment.

To insure best results, a dosage goal of between 120-150mg/kg, given over 5-6 months, is most effective.  Be sure to be evaluated, and followed, by your Board Certified Dermatologist to obtain the best results for you.  It's a wonderful medicine!

Thank you for your question!There is a chance of your acne returning after you stop using Accutane, however, it depends on how long you were taking the medication for and if you were combining it with any other acne treatments.Acne requires a combination approach to get long-term improvement. I recommend a combination of Cosmelan, salt facials, peels, lasers, microneedling with PRP, blue light, radiofrequency and isotretinoin. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

The majority of patients who complete a course of Isotretinoin will be acne free but there are some who may need to repeat after a year if scarring cystic acne returns.  To reduce risk of treatment failure, a patient who completes the full course can use a topical retinoid for preventive maintenance. It is best to be under the supervision of a board certified dermatologist for the best results and safety.