Accutane V. Laser Hair Removal?

Question

Just finished a 6 mnth accutane treatment. It helped with the frequency and severity of my cystic acne. However, I still have small cysts on neck as well as "regular" pimples that have stuck around for a while. One doctor has suggested ingrown hairs as a possible cause. Others say some of problem might be ingrown hairs, but mostly genetics is causing the cysts. I know both treatments are lengthy, but accutane is far cheaper for me. Do you think a 2nd course of accutane would be more effective?

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. If it is due to ingrown hairs, try not shaving the affected areas and see if that improves it. The doctor can also prescribe a topical antibiotic that can be applied to the pimples to see if that can reduce the redness and inflammation. Accutane is more for treatment of cystic acne resistant to other treatment options and it will not resolve your skin if it is due to ingrown hairs, only laser hair removal will. Be certain to be under the supervision of a board certified dermatologist with expertise in acne for the most effective and safe treatment options. I hope this helps.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

In all actuality it's kind of important here to determine what's causing your "acne". If it is truly acne, then Accutane is your solution. If you have ingrown hairs or pseudofolliculitis of some kind, laser hair removal could be a viable option. But Accutane isn't going to be great if the follicles themselves are having the issues, and it's not acne. So, you and your physician(s) need to first determine what's going on, then find a solution for that diagnosis.

Accutane V. Laser Hair Removal?

Answers (2)