Stop Facials when I Start with Isotretinoin?

Question

I have regular facials at a beauty salon (every 2-3 weeks). Should I stop having facials once I start taking Isotretinoin? Thank you for your help!

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hold off on anything invasive during your treatment with Isotretinoin, (Accutane). Scarring or discoloration may occur. That being said, talk to your doctor about taking care of your skin during and after the treatment regimen.

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

There are facials, and then there are facials...

	You can continue to have facials while using Isotretinoin but it is very important that your Aesthetician is informed of this to make the appropriate changes in your treatments.  

	Having a soothing, hydrating mini facial can help to ease the dryness and irritation common with Isotretinoin.  Your Aesthetician should refrain from using any type of exfoliation (scrubs, enzymes) and performing extractions.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Permanent scarring may occur with invasive procedures during isotretinoin therapy. However, it is important to maintain healthy and non-clogged pores during your treatment to avoid complications. Speak to your physician about a physician supervised facial without severe mechanical or chemical exfoliation.

Robert W. Sheffield, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. The guidelines on undergoing facials with isotretinoin are disputed, as different types of facials can involve a variety of products and procedures. Some authorities recommend to stop getting facials altogether during the time period of treatment, and even for a couple of months after the completion of treatment course. There is some relaxation in the other treatment guidelines as not all facials involve the same procedures. Cautious extraction of lesions of acne in the hands of an expert specialist are safer. Avoid doing facials at spas and malls. I would recommend you to consult your doctor, have a personalized evaluation, and discuss your treatment options and complications related to them.I hope this helps.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

I definitely discourage facials, peels, microdermabrasion and laser while on isotretinoin. I would say 3 months after your isotretinoin, you're fine to return to facials.

Dina D. Strachan, MD · Answer

Not all facials are the same. Careful, professional extraction of acne lesions can be helpful to patients on Accutane. It's safest to work with an aesthetician in a dermatologist's office who is familiar with the effects of the drug on the skin. Avoid spas and malls. Of course, consult your doctor.

Craig Crippen, MD · Answer

on how aggressive these "facials" are to your skin.

	isotretinoin is already very drying for the skin and makes your skin much more sensitive as a result.  adding a facial on top of that will only potentially cause more irritation to  your skin.

	i would say a very mild facial should be fine, but nothing aggressive and certainly nothing that will remove a significant amount of skin from the stratum corneum.

Channing R. Barnett, MD · Answer

I recommend you refrain from getting facials during your course of isotretinoin treatment as well as for several months afterward. Permanent scarring or discoloration of the skin can occur with treatments including facials, waxing, acne surgery, electrolysis, and laser hair removal, during isotretinoin therapy. Speak to your dermatologist about physician-recommended and/or physician-supervised in-office treatments that can be done during isotretinoin therapy to maintain healthy skin.

Jessica J. Krant, MD, MPH · Answer

Yes, 100% you should stop getting facials during your course of treatment, and for a few months afterwards just to be sure. 
Also no facial waxing, comedone extraction, or plucking. Nothing traumatic to the skin. There is increased risk for scarring.

Stop Facials when I Start with Isotretinoin?

Answers (9)

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