Accutane for Acne Treatment

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting nearly 50 million people in the United States. It can be unsightly and painful, often making individuals feel self-conscious about their appearance. Additionally, acne scarring can be more difficult and costly to treat than the acne itself. Fortunately, Accutane (oral Isotretinoin) offers a permanent solution for severe acne and persistent breakouts. FDA-approved, safe, and effective, Accutane treats all types of acne, including cystic and hormonal acne. Dr. Michele Green in NYC was among the first dermatologists to prescribe Accutane to her patients, aiming to eliminate all forms of stubborn acne permanently.

Accutane is a safe, FDA-approved treatment for the permanent treatment of recalcitrant acne. It is an oral form of vitamin A that reduces oil production, shrinks sebaceous glands, increases skin cell turnover, and inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause acne on the skin’s surface. Treatment is typically a 20-week course with monthly follow-up visits and bloodwork to assess progress, adjust dosing, and manage potential side effects. After completing the course, 95% of patients experience no new breakouts or pimples. Accutane is an excellent treatment option for individuals with severe cystic acne or acne that does not respond to other topical or oral medications. If you’re interested in achieving permanent, acne-free skin with Accutane, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist who provides innovative treatments for acne and scarring to some of the world’s most discerning individuals. With over 25 years of dermatology experience, she believes Accutane is essential for treating acne and preventing scarring. Dr. Green takes the time to understand her patients’ unique concerns, needs, and goals, delivering remarkable, long-lasting results. She is regularly recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times as one of New York’s top dermatologists for her dedication and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to develop a personalized acne treatment plan tailored to your skin type, tone, and condition, resulting in clear, smooth, healthy, and beautiful skin.

What is Accutane?

Accutane (Isotretinoin) is a powerful oral medication used to treat moderate to severe acne vulgaris that has not responded to other treatments, including topical and oral antibiotics, topical tretinoin, and over-the-counter products such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. In the past, Accutane was considered a last-resort option when all other treatments failed. Today, it is often prescribed for all types and severities of acne, helping prevent future breakouts and scarring. Accutane was the first brand-name formulation of oral Isotretinoin for the treatment of acne. Although it is no longer available on the market, the Accutane name has become the generic term for any isotretinoin formulation. Current brand names for oral Isotretinoin include Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, and Zenatane, which can be obtained only with a prescription from a board-certified dermatologist.

23 year old woman treated for acne with Accutane – 3 months

How does Accutane work for acne?

The exact mechanism of Accutane is not fully understood. However, it is believed to trigger apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in the sebaceous glands. This process promotes skin healing and helps prevent the formation of new acne lesions. In addition to inducing apoptosis, Accutane reduces sebum production and has antimicrobial effects against certain acne-causing bacteria. It also increases skin cell turnover, reducing the likelihood that dead skin cells will form comedones, such as blackheads and whiteheads. These combined mechanisms work together to provide a more lasting “cure” for all kinds of acne, including severe cystic acne.

How should I take Accutane?

When using Accutane, it is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your board-certified dermatologist. The dosage of Accutane can vary significantly from person to person, as it is determined by factors such as body weight, the severity of the acne, and overall health. To optimize the medication’s absorption and effectiveness, it is advisable to take Accutane with a meal, preferably one that contains some fat, since the drug is fat-soluble. This means that consuming it with a meal can help improve the medication’s absorption in your body. Always be sure to communicate with your dermatologist about any side effects you experience or any concerns you may have during your treatment. Regular follow-up appointments may also be necessary to monitor your progress and adjust the dosage if needed. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure the best possible outcome from your Accutane treatment.

Benefits of Accutane

One of the most significant benefits of Accutane is its remarkable effectiveness in clearing acne, often resulting in long-lasting improvements. This medication is specifically designed to treat severe acne that has not responded to other treatments, such as topical creams or antibiotics. By significantly reducing the size and activity of sebaceous glands, Accutane decreases oil production, which is a primary contributor to acne formation. Additionally, Accutane not only helps achieve clearer skin but also helps prevent future acne scarring. Many individuals suffering from persistent acne are at risk of developing scars, which can have lasting effects on their skin’s appearance and their self-esteem. By effectively managing acne at its source, Accutane reduces the likelihood of scarring and promotes healthier skin in the long run. Ultimately, many board-certified dermatologists consider Accutane to be one of the best options available for a potential cure for acne, offering hope to those who have struggled with this condition for years. Its transformative effects can lead to significant improvements in both skin texture and overall confidence.

What types of acne does Accutane treat?

Accutane is highly effective for all types of acne and is the most successful option for severe cases. Initially used only for severe cystic and nodular acne, its use has since expanded to address stubborn forms of acne that do not respond well to other acne medications. Accutane targets multiple causes of acne, including clogged pores, acne-causing bacteria, excess oil production, and skin inflammation. These qualities make Accutane a powerful treatment for all types of acne. To determine whether you are a good candidate for Accutane, scheduling a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, can help you achieve clearer skin.

What is the iPLEDGE Program?

The iPLEDGE Program was created by the FDA in 2005 to regulate all FDA-approved prescriptions for Isotretinoin. iPLEDGE is a centralized system that helps doctors, pharmacists, and patients manage medications to prevent birth defects and ensure proper monitoring and prescribing of Isotretinoin. All patients must be registered and confirmed in the program before they can obtain their Isotretinoin prescription.

Women of childbearing age who participate in the iPLEDGE program to take Isotretinoin for acne treatment must have two documented negative pregnancy tests before the medication can be prescribed. They must also sign an agreement to use two forms of contraception or abstain from sexual activity during the course of treatment. Birth control pills are an excellent primary method of pregnancy prevention. The combination birth control pill is recommended over the mini-pill because it contains both estrogen and progesterone. Hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs, vaginal rings, male vasectomies, and contraceptive implants are also effective primary contraceptive methods. All women must have a negative pregnancy test each month to continue receiving their Isotretinoin prescription.

How to take Accutane with a NYC dermatologist

The first step in taking Accutane is to schedule a consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private office in New York City. During the consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical history, prior acne treatments, and current acne breakouts and skin concerns to determine whether Accutane is the right medication for you. The review will include any hormonal changes and family history of acne or other skin conditions. It’s also important to discuss any history of diabetes, obesity, mental health issues, liver disease, bone loss conditions such as osteoporosis, and eating disorders such as anorexia. Dr. Green will order a comprehensive metabolic profile and other blood tests, including hormonal tests, to evaluate liver function, hormonal irregularities, or anemia.

Patients must enroll in the iPLEDGE program to receive their medication from the pharmacy. Women must have two negative pregnancy tests before starting treatment. Additionally, women should use two forms of birth control (such as birth control pills and male latex condoms) or avoid sexual intercourse during treatment. Patients are also advised to stop taking herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort while on Accutane, as these may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.

Accutane dosing is based on weight and typically ranges from 1 to 2 milligrams per kilogram per day. Depending on the dose, Accutane should be taken once or twice daily with food to ensure optimal absorption. During treatment, monthly visits and blood tests are necessary to monitor for side effects, including liver enzyme levels, white blood cell (WBC) counts, and red blood cell (RBC) counts. Women must also have monthly negative pregnancy tests via blood testing. Because Accutane is regulated through the government’s iPLEDGE program, all blood test results and birth control methods must be documented and updated monthly in the system before the prescription can be issued. The total course of Accutane usually lasts about twenty weeks; however, patients may need an additional month of treatment if breakouts persist after twenty weeks. Over 95% of patients respond well to Accutane and experience no further breakouts after completing the course.

Male treated for acne with Accutane 

Are there known drug interactions with Accutane treatment?

Tetracycline antibiotics, such as Doxycycline and Minocycline, should not be taken while on Isotretinoin (Accutane) because they can increase the risk of benign intracranial hypertension. Symptoms of this condition include headaches behind the eyes, ringing in the ears, and vision problems. It is also important to stop taking phenytoin (Dilantin) while on Isotretinoin, as it can lead to bone loss and weakening. Carefully read and follow your Accutane medication guide for safety. If you have any questions about drug interactions with Isotretinoin, contact a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC.

Does Accutane have pregnancy risks?

Severe congenital disabilities can occur with Accutane usage during pregnancy, including:

• Hearing and visual impairment
• Missing or malformed earlobes
• Brain function abnormalities
• Facial dysmorphisms, such as small or missing eyes or a cleft palate
• Congenital heart defects
• Hydrocephalus (fluid and pressure buildup on the brain)

Any patient who can become pregnant must use two effective forms of birth control during treatment or commit to abstinence. A pregnancy test will be performed one month before starting treatment and at each subsequent Accutane visit. Patients must also avoid becoming pregnant for at least one month after stopping Accutane. Additionally, it is also advised not to breastfeed while taking Accutane, as it may pass into the breast milk.

Does Accutane have any side effects?

Side effects from isotretinoin treatment vary among individuals. Typically, the severity of side effects is associated with dosage: individuals on lower doses experience fewer side effects than those on higher doses. Because Accutane decreases sebum production, which can lead to dryness, the most common side effects include:

• Dry skin
• Dry mouth
• Chapped lips
• Nosebleeds (resulting from dry nasal passages)
• Dry eyes (especially in contact lens wearers)

Other common side effects of Isotretinoin use include joint pain, muscle pain or aches, temporary hair thinning, skin irritation, and headaches. Patients should consult with Dr. Green whenever side effects occur for proper management. Any side effects or allergic reactions, such as hives, should be reported promptly to Dr. Green for optimal management and treatment.

What are the less common side effects of Accutane that can occur?

Some individuals have reported serious digestive and intestinal side effects while taking Accutane. Researchers have yet to establish a link between Accutane and gastrointestinal side effects. However, it is important to let your provider know if you are experiencing any gastrointestinal symptoms, including but not limited to: liver problems such as hepatitis; Crohn’s disease; inflammatory bowel disease; ulcerative colitis; pancreatitis; jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin); increased cholesterol, triglyceride, or blood sugar levels; rectal bleeding; and diarrhea.

Some patients have also reported mental health side effects from Accutane use. No causal relationship has been established between Accutane use and mental health problems. However, it is important to consult with your doctor and stop taking Accutane immediately if you experience symptoms such as depression, mood changes, increased anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and psychosis.

Rare but serious side effects can also occur, including:

• Benign cranial hypertension (increased pressure in the brain)
• Blurred vision
• Decreased night vision
• Nausea
• Seizures
• Stroke

It is important to consult with your healthcare provider as soon as any of these side effects occur.

17 year old treated for acne with Accutane

How to manage Accutane side effects

The main side effects of Accutane include increased dryness. Patients can use a rich moisturizer on the face and body to keep the skin hydrated during treatment. If severe dryness or eczema occurs, Dr. Green may recommend a short course of a topical steroid. Patients with dry lips should use a hydrating emollient, such as Aquaphor, throughout the day to minimize chapping. Patients who wear contact lenses can use saline drops to moisten the eyes or switch to glasses during treatment to reduce irritation. Patients who experience nosebleeds due to dryness can use over-the-counter nasal saline sprays or gels. Patients experiencing mild joint pain or muscle aches can use over-the-counter Aleve or Aspirin for relief.

What skincare should be used while taking Accutane?

Because dryness is the most common side effect of Accutane, skincare should be pared down to gentle, moisturizing products that do not worsen skin irritation. Typical acne-fighting ingredients such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide should be avoided, as they can be too irritating for those on Accutane. Dr. Green’s proprietary skincare line, MGSKINLABS, offers a range of gentle products that patients can safely use during Accutane treatment. When you consult with Dr. Green for your Accutane treatment, she will also devise a skincare regimen to keep your skin hydrated and help you achieve the best results.

Using a gentle cleanser twice daily without vigorous scrubbing is generally recommended for Accutane users. The Gentle Cleanser from MGSKINLABS is ideal for daily use and gentle enough for very dry, sensitive skin, which many might experience while taking Accutane. In addition, using a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential, as Accutane reduces sebum production. While excess sebum often causes acne, reduced sebum during Accutane treatment can lead to dry, flaky, and cracked skin. MGSKINLABS’ Ultimately Sheer Hydrating Lotion is specifically formulated for sensitive, acne-prone skin, making it a great choice for patients on Accutane. The lotion is enriched with aloe and rose water, leaving the skin soft and hydrated without greasy residue.

Using a broad-spectrum SPF while on Accutane is crucial to your skincare routine. Accutane increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, and sun exposure during treatment can lead to severe sunburn. Patients should use a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Dr. Green often recommends a two-step sunscreen approach, applying both a chemical and a physical sunscreen for maximum protection. Chemical sunscreens convert UV rays into heat, while physical sunscreens create a protective barrier on the skin. The Hydrating SPF 50 from MGSKINLABS is a gentle physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide to protect the skin and hyaluronic acid to keep it hydrated. To ensure effective coverage, apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 90 minutes or after swimming, excessive sweating, or towel drying.

What procedures should you avoid on Accutane?

Because Accutane delays wound healing, cosmetic procedures such as dermabrasion, skin resurfacing or exfoliation, plastic surgery, chemical peels, laser treatments for acne scars or tattoo removal, laser hair removal, and waxing should be avoided. Tanning beds should also be avoided because treatment increases skin photosensitivity. Botox and dermal filler injections, such as those with Restylane, Sculptra, or Juvederm, are considered safe for patients while they are on Accutane. Patients must wait at least 6 months after completing Accutane therapy before undergoing resurfacing or radiofrequency (RF) laser treatments, such as Vivace and eMatrix, because the effects of Accutane can persist in the body after stopping the medication. For more aggressive lasers, such as a CO2 laser, it is recommended to wait at least 1 year after finishing Accutane.

How long does Accutane take to work?

Most patients notice improvements in their acne within one to two months of starting treatment. Throughout treatment, the Accutane dose is gradually increased to prevent new breakouts and to ensure that pimples do not return after completing the course. Patients will continue to see improvements in their skin as each month passes.

How long do you take Accutane for?

Typically, a 20-week (5-month) course of Accutane is necessary to eliminate acne breakouts. If patients still have breakouts after 20 weeks, Dr. Green may keep them on Accutane for an additional month to ensure full clearance. For many patients, Accutane provides permanent acne clearance. In fewer than 5% of cases where acne returns after taking Accutane, a second course may be needed, usually lasting another 5 to 6 months. If a second course is necessary, it cannot start until at least two months after the first. Some healthcare professionals might prescribe a low-dose, low-frequency regimen of Accutane as an “off-label” treatment, meaning the FDA has not reviewed the risks of taking Accutane at a low dose over a long period. As a result, long-term, low-dose use of Isotretinoin is generally not recommended.

Can Accutane permanently clear acne?

Yes! Accutane is the only permanent solution for moderate to severe acne or acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments. The oral medication takes about 20 weeks to clear breakouts on the face and body and to prevent acne scarring. Most patients achieve complete acne clearance after one course of Accutane; however, those who experience breakouts after finishing Accutane can take another short course to eliminate acne for good.

For permanent clearance of acne breakouts, it is essential to follow the proper Accutane dosage guidelines. The recommended dosage of Accutane is 1 to 2 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, taken daily. When patients receive a dose that is too low or subtherapeutic, there’s an increased risk of acne returning after the course ends. Studies also show that younger patients are more likely to relapse than older patients. If acne returns, patients can see their healthcare provider for another round of Accutane.

Is Accutane safe?

Yes, Accutane is a safe and effective treatment for severe and recalcitrant acne. It is FDA-approved, and its safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in numerous clinical studies and trials. Studies show that Accutane is safe at full dosage for patients with conditions such as Crohn’s disease, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, spina bifida, and ulcerative colitis. Patients with chronic renal failure, those undergoing renal dialysis, those receiving immunosuppressive therapy, those with manic-depressive psychosis, those with motor neuron disease, and those with multiple sclerosis are unlikely to experience adverse effects related to their condition from Accutane. However, it is unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it can cause serious congenital disabilities and developmental issues in babies. Because of this, the FDA requires women who can get pregnant to take a monthly pregnancy test while using Accutane. The medication should also be avoided by patients taking certain drugs, such as tetracycline antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline) and phenytoin, due to potentially dangerous interactions. Additionally, alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment.

Because Accutane is a complex medication with many side effects, it should not be taken without the medical advice of a board-certified physician, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. An experienced dermatologist must carefully monitor you for potential adverse effects and determine the correct dosage to prevent serious health issues. During your initial consultation with Dr. Green, be sure to disclose any relevant medical history to confirm you’re a good candidate for Accutane treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Accutane:

How long has Accutane been used for acne?

Isotretinoin was recognized as an effective treatment for severe acne in the 1970s. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Accutane in 1982 for severe, resistant nodular acne that does not respond to standard therapies. Although Roche discontinued the brand-name Accutane in 2009 due to declining market share, generic versions of Isotretinoin are still commonly prescribed today, underscoring that Isotretinoin has been used to treat acne for over 43 years.

What brands of Isotretinoin are currently available?

Although Isotretinoin is often called Accutane, the brand name Accutane is no longer available in the United States. As of 2017, the available brand names for Isotretinoin in the U.S. include Zoretanin, Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, Sotret, and Zenatane. Isotretinoin is an oral medication that can be prescribed and monitored only by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who has been prescribing it for over twenty years and consistently achieves excellent results.

Accutane vs antibiotics for acne, which is better?

Accutane and antibiotics are two treatments that can effectively reduce acne breakouts. Antibiotics eliminate acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. Topical antibiotics, such as Erythromycin and Clindamycin, are often prescribed for mild to moderate acne. Oral antibiotics, such as Doxycycline and Minocycline, may be prescribed when acne does not respond to topical treatments. However, oral antibiotics should not be taken long-term. Additionally, while topical and oral antibiotics are highly effective for treating acne, they do not cure it, and breakouts often return once the medication is discontinued.

Accutane is an oral medication that works to eliminate acne breakouts. It is an oral form of Isotretinoin that reduces sebum production, decreases inflammation, kills certain acne-causing bacteria, and promotes skin cell turnover. Unlike antibiotic treatment, Accutane treatment is permanent after a short 20-week course. Many providers initially treat acne with topical or oral antibiotics. If acne is severe or does not respond well to treatment, providers may turn to Accutane for full clearance.

Can Accutane clear cystic acne?

Yes! Accutane is highly effective for severe acne, including cystic and nodular acne. These two types of inflammatory acne lesions lie deep under the skin and do not respond well to topical treatments. While oral antibiotics can help reduce breakouts, they often do not completely clear cystic acne lesions. Accutane is a great option for cystic acne, as it can permanently eliminate breakouts in as little as 20 weeks. Patients with cystic acne often require higher doses of Accutane than those with more moderate acne. Additionally, if full clearance is not achieved after 20 weeks, an additional month of Accutane may be necessary. When you have your Accutane treatment with Dr. Green, she will adjust your Accutane dosage each month and assess your response to the treatment to help you permanently get rid of your severe acne.

What is the right dosage of Accutane for acne?

According to multiple studies, the therapeutic dose of Accutane is 1 to 2 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For instance, if a patient weighs 60 kilograms, their Accutane dosage should be between 60 mg and 120 mg per day. Patients often start at a low dose of Accutane during the first month of treatment to assess the patient’s response to the medication and any side effects experienced. The Accutane dose is then increased over visits until it reaches a therapeutic level that clears acne breakouts. Patients who receive Accutane doses under 1 mg per day per kilogram of body weight are considered to be treated subtherapeutically. While these patients may notice improvement while on Accutane, the treatment will likely not be permanent, and acne breakouts will occur soon after discontinuation. When undergoing Accutane treatment, it is important to consult with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green in NYC to ensure you are receiving a therapeutic dose of Accutane.

When to see a dermatologist while on Accutane

Patients on Accutane must have monthly visits with their dermatologist to obtain their prescription. During the visit, the dermatologist will physically assess the skin and review any side effects to track treatment progress and adjust the Accutane dose. Bloodwork will also be taken to assess liver function and test for pregnancy in women who are able to become pregnant. Dermatologists must confirm patients in the iPLEDGE system each month before prescribing the medication, attesting that they have consulted with the patient regarding their Accutane treatment and that they are in possession of a negative pregnancy test if the patient is able to become pregnant.

Why am I getting acne after completing Accutane?

Acne can sometimes recur after completing treatment, even with a strong, effective medication like Accutane. This recurrence may be due to factors such as genetics, the severity of the original acne, the body’s response to the medication, and subtherapeutic Accutane dosing. The recommended dose for Accutane patients is at least 1 mg/kg of body weight, but increasing it to 2 mg/kg can be more effective at clearing acne and preventing its return. While an acne relapse can be frustrating, acne usually does not return to the same level as before treatment with Accutane. If you experience breakouts after finishing Accutane, talk to your dermatologist about additional topical treatments or a possible second course of Accutane.

Can you drink alcohol on Accutane?

It is not advisable to drink alcohol while on Accutane because the medication is processed in the liver. Consuming alcohol can elevate your liver enzymes, which could harm your liver. One possible side effect of drinking alcohol during Accutane treatment is liver damage. Monthly blood tests are used to monitor for side effects, including those affecting liver function.

Can Accutane cause hair loss?

Hair thinning and hair loss are uncommon side effects that can occur in some individuals taking Accutane. These effects occur partly because Accutane reduces the size of sebaceous glands in the skin, leading to dry, brittle hair that is more likely to break. However, deep conditioners and gentle shampoos can help minimize this type of hair breakage. Hair loss from Accutane is usually temporary and resolves after treatment is completed. If your hair takes longer to grow back after finishing your Accutane course, inform Dr. Green. Topical treatments such as minoxidil (Rogaine), oral supplements such as Nutrafol, oral medications such as Propecia, Minoxidil, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone, and procedures such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections may help speed up hair regrowth. Dr. Green can evaluate your hair health and recommend the best treatment plan for you.

Does Accutane have liver side effects?

Yes, Accutane can affect the liver and elevate liver enzymes. Patients should avoid drinking alcohol while on Accutane to prevent liver damage. Additionally, because Accutane is a vitamin A drug metabolized in the liver, taking additional vitamin A supplements, including multivitamins, protein powders, and protein shakes, can elevate liver enzymes. Patients should avoid any additional vitamin A supplementation while on Accutane. At each Accutane visit, bloodwork will be performed to assess liver enzyme levels and liver function. If liver enzymes are elevated, Dr. Green will recommend discontinuing Accutane for a short period to allow levels to normalize.

Does Accutane cause dry skin?

Yes, dry skin is the most common side effect of Accutane treatment. Accutane works by killing cells in sebaceous glands, reducing sebum production, and eliminating acne. However, reduced sebum production can leave the skin dry. Using a rich, gentle moisturizer is essential to keep the skin hydrated during treatment. Patients should be especially diligent about moisturizing daily while taking Accutane in the winter, as low humidity and cold temperatures can worsen dryness.

Does Accutane stunt growth?

Yes, it has been noted that Accutane can stunt growth by prematurely closing the growth plates. Typically, Accutane is not prescribed to anyone under 12 years of age. Teenagers considering Accutane should be evaluated by their pediatrician to confirm they have finished growing before beginning treatment.

Can Accutane cause depression?

Some patients have reported that Accutane use has worsened mental health side effects, including depression and mood swings. However, clinical studies show no direct link between depression and Accutane. Because acne often leads to insecurity and depression, many patients experience improved mood while on Accutane as their skin clears. If you have a history of depression or develop depressive episodes while taking Accutane, it is important to discuss this with Dr. Green.

Does Accutane prevent acne scars?

Yes! Acne scars develop from inflammation associated with acne lesions, causing permanent damage to the underlying skin tissue. The skin’s natural healing process depends on producing new collagen, which helps form a firm, smooth foundation. When collagen production is insufficient, atrophic acne scars form, characterized by depressions or indentations in the skin. Conversely, when too much collagen is produced, hypertrophic or keloid scars develop, marked by raised, growth-like scars. Cystic acne is especially likely to cause scars because it tends to be more inflamed than other types of acne. Accutane can help prevent the formation of acne scars by reducing inflammation in cystic acne breakouts. However, Accutane generally cannot significantly improve existing scars, which typically require treatment with various cosmetic procedures at Dr. Green’s private dermatology practice. Once your acne clears, Dr. Green will collaborate with you to create a personalized acne scar treatment plan.

32 year old treated with Accutane – 6 months

Is Accutane worth it?

Yes! Most patients who have taken Accutane regret only one thing: not starting it sooner! Dealing with acne can be exhausting, with numerous over-the-counter products, topical treatments, and oral antibiotics prescribed by a doctor yielding little success. For many, acne leads to self-esteem issues and even depression. It is estimated that one in every five people with acne will develop scars, which can be even more difficult to treat than the breakouts themselves. Therefore, starting Accutane as early as possible is highly recommended to treat breakouts and reduce the risk of permanent scars. Over 95% of patients experience full clearance of their acne after a short 20-week course, making it an incredibly easy treatment option for patients with stubborn or severe acne. Patients who experience acne after Accutane do not experience it at the same severity, and many need topical treatments or a second course of treatment for full clearance. Patients love Accutane treatment for its ability to permanently clear acne, and most, if not all, report that treatment was absolutely worth it.

How do I get started with Accutane for acne treatment today?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting 1 in 5 people worldwide. Although common, active breakouts and the scars they leave can, for many, lead to self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Fortunately, Accutane is a highly effective treatment that has helped many people permanently clear breakouts and achieve smooth, healthy skin in as little as 20 weeks. While oral Isotretinoin was once reserved for severe cystic acne, it is now recommended as a safe and effective option for all types of breakouts. If you’re dealing with persistent breakouts that don’t respond to topical or oral medications, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green in New York City to see if Accutane is right for you.

Dr. Green is an internationally renowned dermatologist with over 25 years of experience helping patients worldwide, including offering Accutane for acne treatment. Recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, The New York Times, and New York Magazine, she is consistently rated among New York City’s top dermatologists for her dedication and expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach, tailoring each treatment plan with a blend of in-office procedures, specially formulated skincare products, and necessary prescription medications to address individual skin concerns and meet aesthetic goals. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and begin your personalized acne treatment with isotretinoin capsules, call the NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today.