Acne scarring appearing more visible on Accutane.

Question

I have been in accutane for about 2 months now for severe cystic acne I recently developed in my cheeks and jawline. This has left scarring and I'm not seeing improvement, but I've also noticed that the years old scarring on my forehead is also appearing much deeper and worse. Is this something that is common while taking accutane that resolves after treatment is complete?

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

George C. Skandamis, MD, FAAD · Answer

Accutane usually takes a few months to complete the full coarse and have your acne under control. Then you can begin to address the scarring that has taken place from your acne.   Give it time as you are probably noticing the scars now that much of the acne has cleared.  You will be left with discoloration that will fade over the next year burn are not permanent scars.   After accutane, microneedling or even fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing can be used to help treat the remaining scarring.

Acne scarring appearing more visible on Accutane.

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