30 mgs of accutane for 2.5 months - Why isn't it working?

Question

Am 29 yrs old and I had good skin previously. But since I took a birth pill my face has just flared up and become very greasy. Iam right now on 30 mgs of accutane ( am 53 kilos ) and it's been 2 and half months. Haven't seen any improvements. Rather there's more scarring and breakouts evryday.

Shalini Gupta, MD · Answer

I think you might need an increase in your dose.  Check with your doctor on that.  Sometimes you may need to be on an antibiotic along with the Accutane if the acne is severe.  Sometimes even an oral steroid may help for a short period of time when you start Accutane if the acne is very severe.  It can take 2-3 months to see an improvement from Accutane, but do check with your doctor on your next visit to make sure the dosing is where they want you.

Douglass W. Forsha, MD · Answer

Accutane is a Vitamin A derivative and works by minimizing the oil glands and can correct acne permanently.  The average cycle can be about 5 months.  Although some patients state that they see improvement right away, others state improvement around half way through.  Depending on how much you weight would also determine how many mgs would be recommended.  I would recommend consulting with your local dermatologist to see if they can increase the dosage.  Scaring can also be tricky.  In some patients, as the acne subsides, the scars can become more visible.  It is my opinion that this is due to the inflammation subsiding and you are now able to see your skin's true texture.  It is always our goal to correct acne before scaring occurs.  Once you have completed your recommended treatment plan with Accutane, I would recommend a laser treatment such as the Pearl to correct and minimize your scars.  I would wait a full year before having this treatment done to avoid opportunities for adverse side effects due to the skin being overly sensitive from the medication you are currently on. Best of luck!

30 mgs of accutane for 2.5 months - Why isn't it working?

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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30 mgs of accutane for 2.5 months - Why isn't it working?

Answers (2)

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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.