I started Accutane 4 and 1/2 months ago and it isn’t working, help! What am I doing wrong?

Question

I started Accutane in November, and my skin became worse (around January) than it was before I started. Now, it is slightly better but still painful and not close to being clear at all. I assumed that it was just taking some time, but now that I’m almost done with 5 months (out of 6) my skin would be better. I take it everyday with food and fat, so I don’t know what I’m doing wrong? Help, all I want is clear skin!

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.In my experience, breakouts can still occur up until the final month of Accutane therapy. With that being said, efficacy also depends on the dose you are taking because Accutane is a weight based therapy. Also, some brands of isotretinoin (Accutane) needs to be taken with a high calorie and high fat meal for maximum absorption. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to have your skin evaluated and to discuss appropriate treatment options. Take care and good luck.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

My assumption is that your'e on a low dose. The key to Accutane is a full course which is between 8000-16000mg total cumulative dose. So you add up the daily amount you are taking and it must fall into that target range. If you aren't seeing the improvement then you're going to need to be on the medication longer. It's not a time thing, it's a dose specific thing. "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."

I started Accutane 4 and 1/2 months ago and it isn’t working, help! What am I doing wrong?

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I started Accutane 4 and 1/2 months ago and it isn’t working, help! What am I doing wrong?

Answers (3)

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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.