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Question

I had severe acne so my doctor prescribed me to Accutane. After six months of using it my face was completely clear. After I stopped using it I would continue to wash my face every morning and night and about five months later my face started to break out really bad again

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

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. I'm sorry to hear about your acne returning after taking Accutane. About one third of individuals who took Accutane will get acne again and may require multiple courses of therapy. There are a number of reasons why acne may return after therapy. With certain brands of isotretinoin, it must be taken with a fatty meal to maximize absorption because if taken on an empty stomach, you only absorb half the medication. Also, the drug is based on your weight and not how long you took the medication, so if you did not take the recommended amount based on your weight, then recurrence may occur. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to have your skin evaluated and to discuss treatment options that best suit your needs. Take care and good luck.

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