Taken off Accutane but still have a few break outs. Will my acne come back?

Question

I️ weigh 160 lbs and was prescribed claravis for 6 months. My first month was 40 mg per day. Month 2-6 was 40 mg alternating with 80 mg every other day. I️ was just taken off the medication after 6 months but still have about 2-3 breakouts. Do you think my acne will come back?

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

Daniel Navi, MD, FAAD · Answer

You received an adequate total dose of Accutane based on your weight but in cases of ongoing breakouts most dermatologists generally continue Accutane for additional month or two (i.e. higher than the standard total weight-based dose) until all breakouts stop or goal total dose of 220 mg per kg is reached. If you only have a few breakouts after coming off Accutane starting a topical retinoid cream may be helpful in preventing those. Only time will tell if your acne will recur to its pre-Accutane severity. In those cases a second course of Accutane is generally very helpful in inducing remission. Consult with your dermatologist about treatment options at this stage. Good luck!

Taken off Accutane but still have a few break outs. Will my acne come back?

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