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Thank you for your question. While Accutane is highly effective for treating persistent acne, some patients do need ongoing maintenance therapy after completing a course of treatment. I often recommend that my patients start either tretinoin (Retin A) or adapalene after Accutane in order to maintain their results. I would recommend that you follow-up with your board-certified dermatologist to discuss the best skincare regimen to help you maintain your results.
Accutane (aka isotretinoin is the generic name) was a phenomenal advancement in the management of acne and is the only FDA-approved medication known to substantially change the course of disease. Sadly, it is not a silver bullet, and according to clinical studies and in my experience, many people need some type of ongoing acne management after they complete Accutane. Adapalene is one very good option, especially if your remaining acne is mild or your skin is very sensitive. It does appear that the need for ongoing therapy (topical medications or oral drugs) relates to the duration and dose of Accutane prescribed. Whenever I discuss this medication in clinic with my patients, I like to discuss longterm goals and potential management plans for when Accutane is done.
Thank you for your question. Generally speaking, when prescribing Accutane, most dermatologists recommend reaching a particular cumulative dose based on a patient's weight to ensure the best changes of a durable response to treatment. That said, if your skin is not clear at the end of your c...
The dryness and redness secondary to isotretinoin usually resolves in 1-2 weeks after stopping the treatment. The redness from this medicine usually occurs just on the face and occasionally the arms and hands. If you have a more diffuse skin rash which does not fade in a week or two I would s...
Thank you for your question and photograph. A common side effect of Accutane is dry skin and mucous membranes. The dryness can be so severe, especially in those who have a history of eczema, that it leads to rashes. The side effects can also be based on the dose of Accutane you are taking. I h...
