How to treat fresh red and depressed acne scar on cheek? While on nimegen(accutane) 10mg, 3 times a week. (photo)

Question

22 years old asian - I think I've got atrophic/depressed acne scaring. I had acne cyst at the same area (cheek) reoccurring 3 times which resulted in a deep depression on my right cheek (like a big oval dot). Its seems pretty deep and the redness (PIH) has yet to fade away after 5 months. Are there any lasers/ipl/peels/filler/subcision treatments that can be done safely while on accutane to treat the redness and scar effectively? If so, will it be difficult to fix that depress scar? Its affecting my confidence.

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

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. A side effect of Accutane is highly sensitive skin and an increase risk of scarring when the skin is traumatized or injured either for medical or cosmetic purposes. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid any injury/trauma to the skin such as tattoos, piercings, or cosmetic procedures (waxing, dermaplaning, dermabrasions, Dermarolling, chemical peels, and lasers). I generally recommend my patients to wait at least 6 months after stopping Accutane before having any cosmetic procedures done to the skin. I highly recommend you consult with your prescribing physician regarding your questions and concerns. Good luck and take care.

How to treat fresh red and depressed acne scar on cheek? While on nimegen(accutane) 10mg, 3 times a week. (photo)

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How to treat fresh red and depressed acne scar on cheek? While on nimegen(accutane) 10mg, 3 times a week. (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.