Should I start taking accutane?

Question

hello! i am a 14 yr old female, and i have had acne since i was about 12. my acne is moderate... i have had some flare ups which have resulted in my skin being covered with scars everywhere: my cheeks, chin, forehead, mouth area. in addition, my skin is very very oily, and my pores are bigger than normal. i have tried 2 acne medications and about 8 topical creams.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Estee Williams, MD · Answer

Accutane is generally a great treatment option for stubborn severe acne that has not responded to alternative treatments. If you are still getting breakouts and they are not getting better with other medicines, it may potentially be a good option. In a young person there are extra things to consider such as your pubertal status, whether you are still growing, and your whole medical history etc. Your parents will have to give consent.

Jerome Potozkin, MD · Answer

The brand name "Accutane" is no longer available.   However, the active ingredient isotretinoin is available under several different names.  From your description it sounds like you may be a candidate for isotretinoin.  Your best bet is to seek the consultation of a respected board certified dermatologist in your area who can fully evaluate your acne and review the risks and benefits of the medication.

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

Accutane is appropriate for your case as it's for moderate to severe acne, or acne that doesn't respond to other medications, like yours. You will need to find a dermatologist in your area who prescribes Accutane and works with the iPledge program. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Should I start taking accutane?

Answers (4)

More Accutane Questions

My son is 8 months post roaccutaine and has large patches of dry skin which appear stuck to his face. What are his options?

Is it dangerous to be on a lower-fat diet while taking accutane?

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Answers (4)

More Accutane Questions

My son is 8 months post roaccutaine and has large patches of dry skin which appear stuck to his face. What are his options?

Is it dangerous to be on a lower-fat diet while taking accutane?

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