How can I help get rid of hyperpigmentation on my face while still on Accutane?

Question

I am currently on my second month of accutane and I am getting pigment scarring on my cheeks. I would just like to know if there is something I could use to help the healing process of the pigmentation on my face while still on accutane.

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

this can be treatd while on accutane with cosmelan or enlighten peels, we have people do this virtually with us with the proper post care. cosmelan 2, vivatia foam, phyto plus, is clinical proheal, and antge md + accelerator should be used when on accutane.  see emeragecosmetics.com we have a whole protocol for accutane skiincare (heliocare pills are a MUST!) we do free skincare consults daily too. Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  Bimontly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.  If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  The most important thing you can to to help the pigment improve is very strict sun protection, while you are on accutane, and even when you are finished with your treatment.  Sunscreens with SPF between 30-50 are helpful, and something with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide helps prevent the sun from stimulating your melanocytes, or pigment cells.  People taking accutane can be more sun sensitive, so be really careful with sun exposure, reapply your good quality sunscreens frequently, and wear a hat and sunglasses when you are out.  As far as products and procedures, light chemical peels can help keep pigment under control, and some people use a topical hydroquinone or skin brightener containing glycolic acid or azelaic acid.  Please see an expert, and best of luck!

How can I help get rid of hyperpigmentation on my face while still on Accutane?

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How can I help get rid of hyperpigmentation on my face while still on Accutane?

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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