I’m more than half way done with Accutane and acne is still reoccurring. What else can I do?

Question

I’m on my third almost 4th month of accutane. I had mild acne for a few years before starting accutane. (Male 170 lbs)I started on 30 mg twice a day, went up to 40 mg twice a day, now am alternating between 80 mg and 90mg. Was seeing little results for a week or two, but now having bad breakouts. I’ve been on prednisone twice. I don’t know if this is normal... I am beginning to lose hope. Please help

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

Hello and thank you for your question. Initially you may see worsening of acne, and also acne flares during treatment. By the end of the course, patients typically see improvement. I would recommend a consultation by a board certified dermatologist for continued evaluation of your skin and discussion of progress and treatment. Best of luck.

I’m more than half way done with Accutane and acne is still reoccurring. What else can I do?

Answers (2)