Accutane is burning my face, is this normal? (Photo)

Question

Every time I get out of the shower and use my Ceraphil face moisturizer my face gets really red and hot, is this normal on Accutane?

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

Victoria A. Cirillo-Hyland, MD · Answer

Make sure your current moisturizer does not contain any additives which can be irritating like glycolic, salicylic or lactic acids.  Accutane makes your skin dry and thus, more sensitive to all topical treatments.  Pick a calming moisturizer like Eucerin for eczema or plain CeraVe cream with ceramides.  Be gentle with your skin...no scrubbing or rubbing....  Use physical sunscreens with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide for sun protection.  Stay away from chemical sunscreens which can be more irritating than physical sunscreens.

Accutane is burning my face, is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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