I finished 5 months of Accutane, but still have acne - should I continue?

Question

I first started this May and just stop this October. Starting from 10mg a day for a month, then 20mg a day for second, 30mg for next month, and last 2 months i took 40mg a day. Overall, my acne is improved much better from 10-20 active inflammatory acne to none in last 2 months of course. However, it is been a month since i stop. Some acne starting to comeback. 2-3 that I found, and also oily face too. The scar is the same maybe even noticeable than before. Should I continue? Btw, I am 60kg.

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

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​

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

It sounds like you may need to both have a higher dose and continue for a few more months.  There are some recent studies in the dermatology literature that show that we should continue treatment for 2 full months after the last active acne breakout, which means we tend to generally under-treat and cause people to have to take a second or third course.  I would work with your dermatologist to get you to a higher, more effective (but within a safe range) dose and continue treating until you are clear and beyond.  Please see an expert, and best of luck!

I finished 5 months of Accutane, but still have acne - should I continue?

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I finished 5 months of Accutane, but still have acne - should I continue?

Answers (3)

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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.