Accutane or isotretinoin for the third time?

Question

I have taken a complete 2 courses of Accutane in the past 5 years , I still have some minor breakouts I'm thinking of taking it for the third time as it's the only thing that help my skin so far, will I take it for a 6-8 months (full dosage) like usually or just a couple of days a week ? Will it cure me completely this time? Please if you could explain the process in depth I'll really appreciate it

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  There is some literature supporting low dose accutane for maintenance, but it would have to be very carefully monitored.  If you are a female, it is absolutely mandatory that there is no risk of pregnancy any time while taking accutane.  Unfortunately there is no guaranteed cure for acne.  Many people do well with a combination of topicals and hormone management, in addition to medical aesthetic procedures such as laser treatment or microdermabrasion or microneedling, after their accutane course.  Please see a board certified dermatologist for help and they will be able to evaluate your skin in person and make some recommendations for you.  Best of luck!

Maria Bou-Sleiman, MD · Answer

Hello! First of all, I would recommend that you consult with a board certified dermatologist to assess the severity of your acne and choose whether to prescribe topical treatments and oral antibiotics versus a third course of accutane. Accutane is not a 100% cure for acne and relapses are seen especially in under treated cases ( there is a recommended cumulative dose according to your weight) or if there is an underlying hormonal problem causing your acne. Therefore, proper assessment is needed by a physician to decide the reason behind  your relapse and a treatment plan will follow accordingly.

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. At this time, there is no cure for acne, and thus it is difficult to say if the third round of taking isotretinoin would "cure" the acne. When start isotretinoin, it is usually taken daily for full course. If the breakouts are minor then there are other medications both oral and topical that can be effective for acne. In addition, there are lasers and other aesthetic procedures that can help with acne. I would recommend a consultation by a board certified dermatologist for evaluation of your skin and discussion of appropriate treatment. Best of luck.

Accutane or isotretinoin for the third time?

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Accutane or isotretinoin for the third time?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Accutane

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.