Accutane Cured Acne but Left Scars

The depressed ares are most likely due to the acne. Acne scars can be very distressing and effect how we feel in the presence of others.  I understand your frustration and would recommend that you look into either laser (such as Deep Fx/Active Fx) or non-laser treatment (needle subcision).  However, the most important thing to reduce scarring is prevention of further acne with a good skin care regimen.  Finally, for the scar redness, which can catch the eye, consider vascular lasers such as pulse dyed laser (more affordable than most other laser treatments).  Make sure prior to starting that you have been off accutane for 6 months to prevent further scarring from treatment.  I would recommend a consultation with a board certified dermatologist who has some training or expertise in lasers and/or scar treatment.  

Accutane is a go-to medication for patients with recalcitrant cystic acne. It can reduce pore size and also reduce sebum production in your skin, making it less oily; and in turn, dryer. Accutane can be used to control acne, but patients receiving the medication should be carefully monitored. In terms of skincare, always wear an appropriate sunscreen and reduce direct sun exposure. In my patients, I recommend a good ceramide moisturizer such as Elevase whenever they are on Accutane. This will keep the skin hydrated and reduce the oiliness of the skin that is associated with oil-based moisturizers.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

If you had not taken Accutane, it may be possible that you could have more scarring as you might continue to have more inflammatory lesions. Accutane can bring about abnormal wound healing from any concurrent surgery but by itself, it does not scar

There are many different options for acne scar revision but most physicians would reoommend waiting at least 6 months up to 2 years after completion of Accutane before trying any scar revision procedures. Brown pigmentation may be a secondary response to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Consider the use of Triluma or other skin bleaching preparations.

Textural scarring from nodulocystic acne is due to damage of collagen in the skin induced by longstanding inflammation.    Accutane merely re-educates the sebaceous glands to settle down and work more correctly.    Scarring is collateral damage from the primary acne process.I hope this is helpful.Steven L. Greene MD, Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle