What should I do when I use accutane?

Question

i'm still new on accutane. like 5days already. what kind of moisturizer should i use. is cetaphil okay ? and i used vaseline for lip balm

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Doctors often refer to the dryness that occurs with isotretinoin and retinoids like Retin-A as the retinoid reaction. Although normal, the dryness can lead to a feeling of discomfort that can ultimately compromise your compliance. Retinoid reaction includes:
DrynessRednessItchingBurningDiscomfortIn my office in Beverly Hills, I prescribe Accutane quite a bit for cystic acne and inflammatory scarring. Patients are advised to moisturize frequently with a non-oily moisturizer such as Elevase Moisture Booster, which we use in our office. Applied liberally on the face, the ceramides are soothing and relieve discomfort when possible. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Accutane can cause significant skin irritation and dryness, so gentle moisturizers are an excellent idea.  Plain Vaseline or Aquaphor ointment are excellent options for the lips.  Cetaphil or CeraVe lotion are nice, basic moisturizers for the face as well.  Try to avoid using any heavy moisturizers on your face, as these may clog your pores and exacerbate your acne - look for products that are non-comedogenic.  Best of luck!

John G. Roth, MD · Answer

Cetaphil is good.  The important thing is not necessarily which moisturizer you use but that you apply frequently.   Vaseline is fine for the lips.  It is also very important to use a sunscreen daily.

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