Melasma and Sun Spots After Accutane?

Question

I have now been off accutane for 2 years. I started to get dark brown spots on my neck and even some hidden areas of the body as soon as I stopped accutane.Also melasma on both sides of my faces after a year. I have had full body checked up for melasma (blood tests, hormonal tests etc) everything is normal. I know I have been left highly sun-sensitive as a side effect of this but when will this stop??? PLEASE HELP! I dont go outdoors, wear spf 60+ and have stopped wearing make-up.

Emily Altman, MD · Answer

Two factors that greatly affect melasma are hormones and sun exposure.  While it's true that Accutane does make you more sun sensitive, this photosensitivity only lasts a couple of months after finishing the course of Accutane.

	Also, melasma on the neck is pretty rare.  However other things like for example a common yeast infection of the skin, Tinea Versicolor, can affect the neck, chest and upper back areas and will also look like brown spreading spots on the skin.  It will also worsen with sun exposure, or in general heat and humidity.

	I recommend that you see your dermatologist to determine exactly what is going on with your skin.

Mary P. Lupo, MD · Answer

Accutane actually improves melasma in many patients. It certainly should not be blamed for melasma one year after discontinuation. As far as the dark spots on your body, I would suggest you be evaluated for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from possible contact dermatitis, irritant dermatitis, or eczema.

Timothy G. Rodgers, MD, FAAD · Answer

Almost all of the side effects from Accutane (isotretinoin) are temporary and occur only when taking the medication.  There is no evidence that Accutane would cause melasma.  You would not have been left sun-sensitive after completing Accutane.  Patients who are taking Accutane are usually advised to use sun protection and sunscreens because the medication will temporarily make the outer dead skin cell layer more compact, meaning sunlight will penetrate more easily, but this side effects goes away in just a few days or weeks after stopping the medication.  I would consult with a dermatologist to evaluate these brown spots and provide treatment recommendations.  Many other conditions or rashes could be responsible.  Best of luck!

Melasma and Sun Spots After Accutane?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Accutane

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Melasma and Sun Spots After Accutane?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Accutane

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.