Post Accutane - Skin Looks Dehydrated

Question

I am 5 months post accutane and have dry skin on my face. It looks as if it needs to peel i.e. the outer layer looks dehydrated. It also has a slight brownish colour all over, maybe from sensitivity to the sun that I am even now still experiencing, but that has been improving. The skin especially around my temples, where the skin is thin, now has large pores and this weird grainy texture. I think that it might be from all the excessive peeling while on the meds. How can I improve this texture?

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

Tobi B. Richman-Steinhardt, MD · Answer

One of the ways in which isotretinoin (Accutane) works, is to decrease the size and production from the oil glands in your face......before, they were producing too much, and now they may be producing too little.  This will correct itself, but you need a very mild soap, and an excellent moisturizer on a daily basis....especially if you live in a dry climate.  And if you are still sun-sensitive, you must stay out of the sun.  I actually believe that to make the most of your acne-free face, and to stay as beautiful and as youthful as possible, your face should never be in the sun again....ever!

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I would suggest you return to your prescribing physician for a follow-up. Hopefully you are wearing good sunscreen every single day, and using a good moisturizer too, but most of the things are describing seem to be in opposition to what Accutane is supposed to do. Especially if you've already been off of it for 5 months.

Post Accutane - Skin Looks Dehydrated

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Post Accutane - Skin Looks Dehydrated

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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