Can low-dose Accutane be used to refine skin texture in patients who don't have acne?

Question

I heard that low-dose Accutane may be useful for patients who don't have acne, but who do want to refine their skin. I don't have acne, nor do I have extremely large pores, but my skin is beginning to age and I would love to reduce the size of my pores (is that what Accutane does?) and prevent redness and sagging. Would this be a useful option to explore? Thank you!!

Lenore Sikorski, MD · Answer

Accutane (Isotretinoin) has been shown to reduce pore size and reduce oiliness. It also reduces inflammation that occurs as a result of inflammatory cystic acne. Halting this inflammation and redness in turn prevents further scarring from acne. However, if you don't have acne it won't necessarily reduce redness that you may have for other reasons. One very common side effect of using Accutane is photosensitivity, which actually can make you more pink/red from sun exposure. Accutane does not prevent sagging skin.While it is arguable that you may get some skin benefits from taking Accutane, the risks outweigh the benefits. Isotretinoin has potential to cause fetal deformity if you become pregnant while on it, liver damage, alteration of lipids that can cause  can pancreatitis, headaches, eczema, joint and muscle pain, dry eyes, hairloss, and it is associated with inflammatory bowel disease and depression. All patients that take Accutane are monitored closely and require monthly bloodwork and office visits while on it. I dont recommend using Accutane for skin rejuvenation as there are other good treatment options depending on what changes you are trying to achieve.

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

Accutane controls oil production. It is a derivative of Vitamin A. Retin-A is also a form of Vitamin A. So, yes, Accutane in very low doses can be used for things outside of acne. However, this can be difficult if you are of child-bearing potential, and I would not suggest using Accutane in this way if there is even a remote chance you want to or plan to get pregnant. If you just want something more simple that will help with aging skin, Retin-A is a good and simple solution. Sagging would be some form of treatment. Neither Accutane or Retin-A will help with that as it has to do with skin stretching and volume loss. "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."

Can low-dose Accutane be used to refine skin texture in patients who don't have acne?

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Can low-dose Accutane be used to refine skin texture in patients who don't have acne?

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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.