I've been on Accutane for nearly 2 months and my skin looks worse than ever.

Question

I have been on Accutane Claravis 40 Mg for nearly 2 months now since jan 4th. I have seen nothing but my skin just worsening, I get acne on parts of my face and neck that I haven't before, I get so many big whiteheads and they will stay there for weeks unless I pop them. I've experienced nose bleeds, dry lips, dry skin, and eye dryness. I'm growing highly pessimistic because there is not one slight sign of anything good. I don't know if there's something i'm doing wrong and if so what?

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

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and thank for your question. It is not uncommon to experience acne flares during the first few months of taking isotretinoin. And it sound like you are also experiencing other common side effect of isotretinoin, such as nose bleeds, dry skin, lips, and eyes. It is difficult to adequately assess your skin through this type of forum, and thus I recommend follow up with your board certified dermatologist for ongoing evaluation of your progress and discussion of appropriate treatment. Best of luck.

I've been on Accutane for nearly 2 months and my skin looks worse than ever.

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I've been on Accutane for nearly 2 months and my skin looks worse than ever.

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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.