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

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

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.

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."