Can Accutane cause permanent dry lips?

Question

I have been off of accutane for 8 months now and my lips are still severely dry. I used to never ever have dry lips prior to taking accutane but now they get so dry that they will crack and bleed. I was told that the dry lips symptoms would go away once I stopped taking accutane but there has been no improvement in my lips. Is there a chance that whatever natural mechanisms that used to keep my lips normally moisturized will never recover because of the accutane?

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Accutane works by slowing down your skin's oil production. In return, this might cause dry lips. It's essential to keep the lips highly moisturized with proper lip care (see link below). I would suggest seeing your physician and discussing any other possible side effects you may be experiencing. Best, Dr. Emer

Shehla Ebrahim, MD · Answer

Accutane is washed out of your system within 30 days of stopping it
So your dry lips have nothing to do with it and no it’s not possible that accutane has caused permanent damage to your lips 
A good emollient with sun protection is important 
Good luck!

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Can Accutane cause permanent dry lips?

Answers (3)

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