Are there any side effects from roaccutan, how effective is it and will it make skin lighten?

There are side effects for any and all medications. The side effects will depend on the strength of the medication you take. My patients take low doses and so the side effects are very minimal. Mostly they note dry lips and skin, and nose bleeds. It will not make your skin lighten. That is not a side effect. Accutane is the only true long-term cure for acne when it's taken in the right dosage and for the right amount of time. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot
be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."