Acne relapse is occurring & very painful, should I go again for Accutane? (Photos)

Dear patient, Unfortunately if you have not responded to a proper doage of accutane (60mg may be too low for your weight) or the proper time (did you take it for 5-6 months regularly?) you may not rspond to a third round. I recommend that you see your doctor to have your hormone levels checked. If your hormones are irregular you may benefit from pilld to regulate your hormone. I hope this was helpful. Dr R.

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

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out with your concern. I understand how frustrating and painful it can be to experience an acne relapse, especially after undergoing two rounds of Accutane (isotretinoin).

Accutane is a powerful medication often used for severe or persistent acne, and it can be highly effective. However, its use, particularly multiple courses, should be carefully considered and monitored by a dermatologist. Here are a few considerations:

Evaluation by a Dermatologist: Before considering another round of Accutane, it's crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. They can assess your current skin condition, review your medical history, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Alternative Treatments: Sometimes, other treatment options may be effective in managing acne relapses. These can include topical or oral medications, hormonal treatments (for some individuals), or even laser and light therapies. Your dermatologist can guide you on the best alternatives based on your specific case.

Lifestyle and Skincare: Alongside medical treatments, maintaining a proper skincare routine and making lifestyle adjustments (such as diet and stress management) can sometimes help in managing acne.

Risks and Side Effects: Accutane has potential side effects, and another course should not be taken lightly. Discussing these risks with your dermatologist is essential to make an informed decision.

In conclusion, while Accutane can be a solution for severe acne, it's important to have a detailed discussion with a dermatologist about your symptoms and concerns. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks and explore other possible treatments.

If you are located near Coral Gables, FL, and would like to schedule a consultation, please feel free to contact my office:

Dr. Anna Chacon, MD
Dermatology
135 Madeira Avenue
Coral Gables, FL, 33134
Phone: 305-902-5733
Fax: 305-203-4549

Wishing you the best in your treatment journey.