Breakouts after 4 months post accutane

Question

I am 19 and I have been suffering from acne since I hit puberty. I went on Accutane for 6 months 40mg a day because I am small. My skin was clear for about 4 months, and recently i have started to get small comedones acne all over my forhead and nose. I wonder if its related to my menstrual cycle or if its just a sign that i will need a second round of treatment.

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

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

It could be either. It would be best to see your dermatologist for an evaluation. Even though you are small, 40mg for 6 months may not have been enough total mg for a long-term cure for your acne. You may have needed to be on a lower dosage for a longer amount of time. But it's best to see your derm and determine what's causing your acne at this point and if you need more Accutane, or something topical just to treat hormonal breakouts. "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."

Breakouts after 4 months post accutane

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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Breakouts after 4 months post accutane

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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