Skin treatments while on Accutane?

Question

I saw a doctor recommending lasers, microneedling, and skincare like retinol and salicylic acid WHILE on Accutane. My dermatologists said we can't do those lasers or microneedling until AFTER Accutane because of how fragile the skin will be and for the same reason not to use retinol or salicylic acid while on treatment. Can someone confirm the right way? I want to do the best skin care and treatments possible for the 6 months I'm on Accutane which I'll be starting next week.

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

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

That is correct no treatments or RA for 4 to 6 months post Accutane.  Your Doc is right!

Best of luck!

Skin treatments while on Accutane?

Answers (2)