What are these itchy spots on my forehead 3 months post from Accutane treatment? (photos)

Question

Hi, I am a 27 yo female. I have been on Accutane twice (2017- first round, 40mg 1 month, 60mg 2 months, 80mg 3 months. 2020- 40mg 1st month, 6mg 6 months). Both courses cleared my acne. I just finished the second course in July 2021 and recently I have developed these itchy, comedomal spots on my forehead. I have been using Salicylic acid + retinA since August 2021. What could it be? It started with one spot and in a week it spread. I feel very depressed and my Derm is no good.

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

​I suggest getting a formal evaluation with an expert for an up-close skin consultation. Acne requires a combination approach to get long-term improvement. I recommend a combination of Cosmelan, salt facials, peels, lasers, microneedling with PRP, blue light, radiofrequency, and isotretinoin.  Best, Dr. Emer​

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. It's difficult to evaluate your skin through this type of forum. The bumps could be comedonal acne, but an in-person evaluation needs to be done to confirm the diagnosis. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist, and a different one if you are not happy with your current provider. Take care and good luck.

What are these itchy spots on my forehead 3 months post from Accutane treatment? (photos)

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What are these itchy spots on my forehead 3 months post from Accutane treatment? (photos)

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.