Will my acne get worse if I only have mild occasional breakouts?

Question

My derm wants to put me on Accutane. I don’t have bad acne, just occasional hormonal breakouts. Unfortunately they haven’t responded to anything including antibiotics and topicals so as a last resort he wants to prescribe me Accutane. I’m worried since my acne isn’t bad, not nearly cystic just stubborn few pimples I’ve had on my face for a few months, will accutane make my zits worse since I don’t have terrible acne which accutane is typically prescribed for?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Acne requires a combination approach to get long-term improvement. I recommend a combination of Cosmelan, salt facials, peels, lasers, microneedling with PRP, blue light, radiofrequency and isotretinoin. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is not uncommon to have initial breakouts when starting any type of acne treatment, including Accutane. In some cases, breakouts may persist for a few months, however, in other cases, some patients don't get any breakouts. One cannot predict who will breakout and who will not. I highly recommend you consult with your dermatologist regarding your questions and concerns about Accutane treatment. Take care and good luck.

Will my acne get worse if I only have mild occasional breakouts?

Answers (2)