Accutane side effects?

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Hi, I’ve been struggling with moderate acne for the past 4 years. I’ve tried every topical cream, antibiotics, vegan diet, dairy-free, sugar-free and all the skincare products but nothing seems to work/has minimal impact. I am SO sick and tired of my skin. It’s affecting my everyday life and it stops me from going out because I can barely look in the mirror. I honestly don’t know what else to try. Accutane is something I’ve read up on and my doctor has suggested it as a last resort. I am a huge hypochondriac and have severe health anxiety so am very wary if medications. At this point, I’m so miserable and willing to try anything but I’m afraid of the effects. I also have a fear of needles and faint at the sight of blood so not looking forward to getting my blood taken regularly. Are the side effects worth it? Would really appreciate any input from someone who has struggled with acne or has ever been on Accutane. Thanks :smile:

Reply 1

Anonymous #1

Original post by thankful-shrimp

Hi, I’ve been struggling with moderate acne for the past 4 years. I’ve tried every topical cream, antibiotics, vegan diet, dairy-free, sugar-free and all the skincare products but nothing seems to work/has minimal impact. I am SO sick and tired of my skin. It’s affecting my everyday life and it stops me from going out because I can barely look in the mirror. I honestly don’t know what else to try. Accutane is something I’ve read up on and my doctor has suggested it as a last resort. I am a huge hypochondriac and have severe health anxiety so am very wary if medications. At this point, I’m so miserable and willing to try anything but I’m afraid of the effects. I also have a fear of needles and faint at the sight of blood so not looking forward to getting my blood taken regularly. Are the side effects worth it? Would really appreciate any input from someone who has struggled with acne or has ever been on Accutane. Thanks :smile:

Your GP will monitor your health whilst you are on Accutane, which is really important:

•

Regular blood test.

•

No alcohol whilst taking meds and 1 month after you stop.

•

Stay away from sun.

But it works and clears up acne.

Reply 2

Anonymous #2

Original post by thankful-shrimp

Hi, I’ve been struggling with moderate acne for the past 4 years. I’ve tried every topical cream, antibiotics, vegan diet, dairy-free, sugar-free and all the skincare products but nothing seems to work/has minimal impact. I am SO sick and tired of my skin. It’s affecting my everyday life and it stops me from going out because I can barely look in the mirror. I honestly don’t know what else to try. Accutane is something I’ve read up on and my doctor has suggested it as a last resort. I am a huge hypochondriac and have severe health anxiety so am very wary if medications. At this point, I’m so miserable and willing to try anything but I’m afraid of the effects. I also have a fear of needles and faint at the sight of blood so not looking forward to getting my blood taken regularly. Are the side effects worth it? Would really appreciate any input from someone who has struggled with acne or has ever been on Accutane. Thanks :smile:

I had severe and paintul cystic acne on my cheeks and forehead. Accutane is the only thing that worked for me and it was incredibly effective. 5-6 years later my acne has never come back, and i only get the occasional pimple once every few months. No side effects while on it other than the usual lip/skin dryness. if you do decide to start it, like the other poster said, avoid alcohol (i did drink occasionally while on it though) and if going outside always always apply sunscreen (SPF 50 and PA++++ rating)

bear in mind. if Accutane works it will permanently make your skin drier, as to get rid of the acne and prevent it from coming back it causes your skin to produce much less sebum. my skin got a bit rougher and a bit more dull compared to before I was on it, but for me my acne was so severe it was worth it just for my face to not be in constant pain. Accutane also carries a risk of some more severe side effects so be sure to read up on those. so for moderate acne i personally think accutane is overkill.

i know you said you tried topicals. but have you looked into topical tretinoin cream/gel? it is also a prescription treatment chemically related to accutane (accutane = isotretinoin) and is also good for fighting acne, but it has a lower risk of side effects and (being a topical retinol) also improves skin texture and evenness rather than potentially worsening it as Accutane might.

Reply 3

aamina.hs

10

Original post by thankful-shrimp

Hi, I’ve been struggling with moderate acne for the past 4 years. I’ve tried every topical cream, antibiotics, vegan diet, dairy-free, sugar-free and all the skincare products but nothing seems to work/has minimal impact. I am SO sick and tired of my skin. It’s affecting my everyday life and it stops me from going out because I can barely look in the mirror. I honestly don’t know what else to try. Accutane is something I’ve read up on and my doctor has suggested it as a last resort. I am a huge hypochondriac and have severe health anxiety so am very wary if medications. At this point, I’m so miserable and willing to try anything but I’m afraid of the effects. I also have a fear of needles and faint at the sight of blood so not looking forward to getting my blood taken regularly. Are the side effects worth it? Would really appreciate any input from someone who has struggled with acne or has ever been on Accutane. Thanks :smile:

Hello! i used to have moderate consistent acne too and it turned out it was from a moisturiser i had been using religiously as well as some makeup. Turns out i was allergic to silicones! Maybe have a look at things u might be applying before going on accutane as a last last resort (assuming u do)? Wishing u all the best <3

Accutane side effects?

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