DAY 1

Okay so I just took my first amnesteem pill tonight.

Basic Stats:

- Female, 27 (shouldn't I be done with this acne crap)
- I took accutane back when I was 19 - it kept my acne manageable but over a year - 1/2 ago it started getting out of control.
-What I tried recently:
proactive
nature's cure
zenmed
dan's regmine (worked the best but didn't have time or money for body acne)
tons of over the counter medicine
minocycline
prescription BP
othra tri cyclen
retin a micro
AND now Accutane - well Amnesteem (my insurance won't cover an accutane prescription unless the generic didn't work for me - so I have to go through a generic first. I was really sad about that - but I'm okay with it now (b/c there is nothing else I can do about it - ha))

Skin -
Face - I have little red bumps and white heads pretty much everwhere! The minocycline I've been on limited all my big bumps - so I'm afraid that is going to come back before it get's better
Body - my back and chest are pretty clear right now as a result of the minocycline as well - my back was horrible before - cross fingers it doesn't come back now that I'm stopping it.



Well - I absolutely loved reading other people's journal so I will try to update as much as possible - good luck to all you trying to get your skin cleared -

hugs,
colee

I need a good luck for the cheerleaders on this site....anyone?

Good luck

thanks - that is what i needed!

GOOD LUCK What dosage are you on?

Oh thanks for reminding me I meant to put that in the first post.

I'm on 40mg for the first month and 60mg for the last five months.
I'm 130-140 pounds.

DAY 5

Skin:
Face - Okay still oily as ever but my lips have started to chap - so I'm hopeful that dry skin is in the future. Since I've stopped the minocycline and the retin a micro it seems oil has come at large - so hopefully the medicine will kick in soon. I'm still of course breaking out with a little increase in the development of pimples - but nothing huge yet...
Chest - broke out the first couple of days and is slowly getting better. I was pretty much clear on the chest while taking minocycline - so i think it was stopping this.


Side Effects:
chapped lips
back itches
etc.

Hi! I'm also 27, and am taking 40mg/day of Amnesteen. I'm 55 days into the treatment, and am just now noticing an improvement. The first week seemed great, and then I broke out a bunch. It's clearing up a lot now, no significant active pimples, and my lips are chapped all the time. Just letting you know it took awhile for the Amnesteen to build up in my system and start really working for me. I think that's pretty common from what I have heard and read, so expect results in about 60 days. Good luck!!
Side effects:
Increased cholesterol and blood pressure
Joint pain after exercise
Chapped lips
Dry scalp

thanks for responding, . A few questions - are you on 40mg the whole time. I guess i'm getting bumped to 60 after the first month. How bad was your acne to start with? When did you notice a difference in oil - i hate the oily skin.

DAY 11

Face - Slight improvement. However no "intial breakout" YET! I know it could easily still come - but I'm hoping it won't of course. .
Chest - keeps breaking out and then clearing a bit then breaking out. Again my chest was clear when I started but I think when I stopped the miniocycline to start accutane that it broke out from being off the minocycline (which I think is what cleared it in the first place).
Back/arms/etc - a few more on back, but nothing horrible, the weirdest thing is the BACK OF MY NECK broke out in about 10 good size pimples. They have gone down now- but so weird.

Side Effects:
chapped lips always
dry skin sometimes, but if I mostirize then it's oily for a day or two - so i'm alternating when I mositurize untill I get more dry.
neck pain - i've gotten neck pain that feels like sore muscles - weird.

That's it for now - good luck to those of you on this path.

Just want to wish you GOOD LUCK! on your course superstar.
I'm 3 weeks into Roaccutane/Accutane myself. Hope your lips hold together alright!

thanks it's always nice to hear from someone in your journal - makes you feel special. I've been reading your journal so I should have said hi in yours as well. .

Good luck, for me I never got an initial break out, everything just improved and got better and better.

DAY 18

So I've been meaning to update at least once a week - but I missed the two week mark. Okay so I understand the roller coaster accutane effect now. One day I can be like wow It's really improving and the next day (or even my night time) it looks pretty sad again. Also has anyone noticed that you look better in the morning then at evening (I wonder if it has something to do with taking the 40mg at night - next month I get upped to 60 [20 in the morning 40 at night])

Okay here we go:
SKIN:
Chest - My chest is getting better - if had broken out the first week - but seems to be improving a bit.
Back - nothing really new a few zits - but nothing bad yet - (again it was clear from the minocycline I took before accutane).
Arms - acne not bad - but my hands developed a bit of exima.
Face - Okay so nothing really bad yet. Breakouts - ya - but nothing more than before. I keep hoping it's getting better- but I can't really say for certain it has. One thing that has happened is all the millions of whiteheads have calmed down (though not all gone) but instead i'm getting more obvious pimpleds - not sure which is worse.

SIDE EFFECTS:
-Chapped lips
-somewhat dry eyes- My eye doctor told me it might get to the point I will have to wear glasses instead of contacts for the remainder - it's not there yet.
-on and off again dry skin - comes and goes

***Has anyone noticed a weird small bump sandpaper like feel rash thing. On my nose, my chin, my neck, and my chest I have these tiny bumps that you can barely see (barely see! - especially the ones on the neck and chest can't even see them) - but when I'm in the shower it feels so weird - is it my pores opening up??***

***Has anyone noticed a weird small bump sandpaper like feel rash thing. On my nose, my chin, my neck, and my chest I have these tiny bumps that you can barely see (barely see! - especially the ones on the neck and chest can't even see them) - but when I'm in the shower it feels so weird - is it my pores opening up??***
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Hi, sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. I am on 40mg/day everyday for now, I left a message with my doctor to maybe go up to 50mg/day for the last two months. I am about 65 days into treatment now, and although I still get an occasional big pimple, the rest of my skin is clearing up OK.
My skin is not at all oily anymore, my shiny forehead stopped being shiny about a month and half into the treatment. My acne wasn't terrible before I started, but it was constant and leaving scars. I would get some regular pimples, and a big horrible painful cystic acne thing at least once a month, and on my back as well. I've only had one on my back since I started the treatment, which is a nice change (except that it just happened last week).
I did get the weird little rash thing you were talking about, I used Aveeno's 1% hydrocortisone cream and it went away in a week or so. I have read that taking 400-800 IU of Vitamin E everyday helps reduce the side effects of Accutane, including rashes.
How are things going for you in your treatment?

oh that makes me feel better that the rash thing isn't just me - It's really weird it's not pimples, but when I look at each pore is raised. I'll have to try the vitamine e. Again my face seems to be improving then by night time I'm like oh wait no it still looks yucky. I have not had an intial yet though - at least I don't think so. I'm almost to three weeks (one day away) i'm hoping I pass the intial. Did you have an intital? and are yuou on a generic or brand?

I have not had an intial yet though - at least I don't think so. I'm almost to three weeks (one day away) i'm hoping I pass the intial. Did you have an intital? and are yuou on a generic or brand?
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I did break out pretty badly in the second month, and still get a few pretty big pimples now and then. The worst part almost seems to be the red marks they leave behind, it makes my skin look much worse than it actually is. I am taking Amnesteen. Something I noticed is that I am mostly breaking out where I had clogged pores before I started treatment, like on my chin and a couple spots on my cheeks. They weren't noticable unless you looked really close, just little whiteheads under the surface. It's like these are now coming to the surface as my skin is clearing up. The spots on my chin that broke out a lot and are now slowly healing look better than they did before, the skin is smoother and the clogged pores are going away. So I was thinking that is probably what causes the initial breakout, the clogged pores that were present before the treatment get pushed out to the surface, turn into pimples, and then pretty much clear up. What do you think?

oh i think you are completely right - I think it's cleans out your skin - so what needs to come out does. Did you clear a bit the first month? I'm actually noticing an improvement but fear it will all break out the second month. My rash thing I think is actually clogged pores pushing through - on my chin they are bumpy they come up a bit then dry off and fall off - I'm hoping it keeps going that way.

I did clear a bit in the first month, the parts of my face that weren't breaking out look really good! The skin is brighter and smoother. I am hoping that by the time I'm done, my whole face looks like that!
I'm having a difficult time finding products to use while on the Amnesteen. I'm looking for a facial moisturizer with at least SPF 15 that doesn't look greasy or cause breakouts. I'm trying a sample of Neutrogena's Healthy Defense SPF 30, but it sort of pills up and makes my face look sort of matted, if that makes sense. I'm curious to try Aveeno's SPF lotion, I love their regular lotion and have been using that for years. What are you using, or what has your doctor/dermatologist recommended?

My derm suggested cethraphil. Well at the least the cream for my arms (which are getting exemia b/c of all the acne medications i've been using). For my face I'm using Eucerin Daily Renewal lotion w/ 15 spf. I used it on Dan's regemine so I had some left over. It's okay but it tends to make my face red (which the tane does as well so the combo is scary). My face isn't super dry yet so I only apply the lotion in the morning so I don't have flakey skin in they day.

Today i did a brave thing I came to work - get this - w/out makeup. I'm still broken out - but enough improvement on my checks that I felt ok w/ the decision. (the small bumps, clogged prores, whatever are on my chin, nose, between my eyes, my neck, and chest.

I went and got that Aveeno Radiant Skin SPF 15 stuff, I liked the promise that it would help even out skin tone and brighten skin. I didn't notice any immediate results, but like all good things, I suppose that takes time. At least my face was only shiny from the sunscreen for a few minutes.
Congratulations on your big step going without makeup! I bring powder with me everywhere, but now that I'm not really shiny anymore it just looks chalky on me. I need another solution.
How many days into the treatment are you again? I'm at 69 days.

69 days - wow i'm super jealous - I'm only at 22 - 22 lousy days - ha. Actually it's gone pretty fast. So you are over two months- from what i've read the third month usually is the charm - so you should see wonderful things this month!

It has gone by really fast! My skin is "getting there", a few clogged pores and stuff coming out. I had a lot of clogged pores and whiteheads before I started, so I think that led to all the breaking out, like I mentioned before. But I can really notice a difference!
I guess if I can offer some warnings for you as the Amnesteen builds up in your system, they would be to wear a lot of sunblock, I am starting to turn pink even with SPF 30 on! But I live in Denver, so the elevation doesn't help I'm sure. Also, any cuts or scrapes (including squeezed or picked at pimples) take a million times longer to heal than usual. It's been hard to resist the urge to pick at my face, but the red marks last forever!! My scalp has gotten really dry too, and has started to look dandruff-y, so I am using dry scalp dandruff shampoo and that helps. I also have this Burt's Bees avocado hair repair stuff with a bunch of oils in it, that I rub into my scalp in the shower to help moisturize it before shampooing. Anything you find that helps you, please let me know! I'll continue to share my progress and discoveries with you!

DAY 25

Okay here is an update on my skin issues:

SKIN:
Chest - The breakout I got on my chest at the beginning is pretty much gone. It looks a lot better - I actually can wear v-neck type shirts at the moment. However when I'm in the shower I feel little (really little) bumps - like my pores are raised - I think clogged pores or my pores cleaning out.
Back - About the same - a few here and there but nothing to be sad about.
Arms - a few more bumps here and there (a huge one developed yesterday - but it's going down). The exema on my hands is better today- but I think it's b/c I'm having an oily day.
Face - Okay I can honestly say now that there has been overall improvement. If I would have written this update the end of last week I would have been even more positive but some things have popped up since then (ohhh the roller coaster of accutane), but my cheeks and forehead looks oh so much better. I use to have a million bumps on the forehead and now there are just a few. My cheeks cleared completely up last week but have a few bumps today. I'm still have issues w/ my chin up to my nose (and the surrounding areas). I only have one large pimple (right on the side of my nose - why is it always there - ha)but have some clogged pores and whiteheads. Anyway - I think overall there is improvement so I'm trying to hold on to that.

SIDE EFFECTS:
Lips- always chapped - always!
dry skin - but not really dry - as long as I moisturize in the morning I've been fine.
dry eyes
lower back pain - I actually exercised this last week (I've been so lazy) - and my back did hurt a little - but nothing huge.

I go for my one month update in two days. My next prescription is up to 60 (from 40). I'm excited for more dryness - I know I'm weird. I'm hoping that my initial (b/c I don't think I've had one yet - just normal breakouts) doesn't hit me w/ the increase - b/c I know it can.

I know I'm sad about the sun issue. A few of my really good (and super fun) friends are going to Hawii in the middle of August (which will almost be four months). I told them I just can't b/c I dont' want to go and be a hermit from the sun - though they understand they are just sad.

I actually have issues w/ the high elevantion as well - I live in Salt Lake City. And it just turned summer overnight - very hot!

Are you using Aquphor for your lips - it's great! So far since I'm not super dry I'm just using cetraphil to wash my face, and eucerin lotion to mositurize in the morning. When things get more dry I'm sure i'm going to have to use more products to control things.

Are you staying on 40 the whole time? Also did your derm. act like you shouldn't do the generic? Mine seemed a bit hesitant but my insurance will only cover the brand name if I've tried a generic and it failed.

So what are you stats (your probably already said this) such as dosage, etc. Also did your derm. act like you shouldn't do the generic? Mine seemed a bit hesitant but my insurance will only cover the brand name if I've tried a generic and it failed.
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Hi! My insurance won't cover anything but the generic, and I can't afford the brand name (unless I wanted to deplete my savings account!!). I'm seeing a regular physician, not a dermatologist. I don't think there could be enough of a difference between the brand name and the generic that it would be any less effective. I am taking 40mg/day right now, but I am asking to go up to 50 or 60mg/day for the last two months. My fourth month appointment is June 1. I weigh 110-ish pounds, so I feel like I should have a slightly higher dose than 40mg.
And honestly, I haven't been so dry that I'm uncomfortable. My lips are chapped all the time, but if I keep putting chapstick on them, they're OK. The corners have cracked a couple of times, but if I put Neosporin on the cracks they heal pretty quickly. I use Burt's Bees chapstick, and Kiss My Face chapstick with SPF when I'm outside. My eyes have been sort of dry, I wear contacts during the day. I have to take them out every night (I didn't use to have to do that, I have the kind you can wear straight for 30 days) and carry eyedrops with me, but I hope I won't have to wear my glasses!
I run for exercise, and always try to go as early as I can in the morning before the sun is too intense. I was planning on training for another half marathon for the end of this summer, but I get way too achy if I run for more than an hour or so. My back is sore most of the time after exercise, but my whole body gets sore if I exercise too long. So I decided to just hold off the long distance running until my treatment is over.
I went shopping for a cute sun hat to wear when I'm outside during the day this last weekend, but couldn't find any! I think it would help to have something covering my scalp and shading my face a bit.

Actually for 110 and think 40 sounds find - just from the charts I've seen. I weigh between 140-150 - and I'm on 40 for the first month and 60 for the rest of the time. I hear you on the glasses thing - I hate wearing glasses during the day - I feel like I didn't get ready ( just b/c that is usually when I wear my glasses the days I wake up and just leave).

I'm impressed w/ the half marathon. I'm so horrible about running. I have no endurance. Last year I was pretty good about going to the gym frequently (this year I've been a lazy ace - and you can tell in my rolly polly stomach - ha), but even when I was in shape I didn't run much - (eliptical or aerobics) - so I'm always impressed w/ runners.

I can't wait till I only have two months left - so how long is your course - 5 months? I think w/ my weight my dr could probably do 80 for 5 months instead of 60 for 6 but I'll just do what I'm told - ha.

I had seen a chart that suggested 50mg/day for 110 pounds, so that's why I thought I should incease my dosage. I also read somewhere that the higher doses end up being more effective in the long run, with fewer subsequent breakouts.
My glasses are obnoxious to wear, they sort of distort everything and it's hard to walk around in them. I know that sounds weird, but they do!
My insurance will only cover the generic for 5 months, so unless my doctor thinks I should go longer, I'll be on it for 5 months. I suppose I could have her write a prescription for double the dose for the last month, and then I would take it over two months, if that makes sense. We'll see what happens though! She wanted me to stop after the first month because my cholesterol went up so much, but I pleaded with her to let me stay on it and take a cholesterol lowering drug too. So now I joke that I'm taking a medication for a problem that 17-year-olds have (acne) AND a medication for a problem that 57-year-olds have (high cholesterol), and I'm 27. Ha ha.
Thank you, but I'm not an impressive runner, I don't run fast or anything. I didn't used to run, I always did ellipticals or walked, but finally got motivated to stick with it. I enjoy it most of the time, but sometimes it's really just miserable! Lately I've just been trying to stay consistent and haven't been putting in any good distances. But it took me a long time to get where I was when I ran the half marathon, and it would take me awhile to get back into that kind of shape!

Arg! I had been clear for about 3 or 4 days, and it was so nice! But this morning, I woke up with a pimple on my cheekbone. So obnoxious!! Today I am halfway through the treatment. I was hoping to be all clear by now! I guess I have read about people breaking out into their fourth month, but I was hoping that because my acne wasn't terribly awful before I started Amnesteen that I wouldn't have as many breakouts. The last couple of times I broke out was the week after my period, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed it doesn't happen again this time (that would be two weeks from now). How are things with you?

I hate random break outs!!!! My third week I didn't have really any big ones (i have lots of clogged pores and small [pin hole size] white heads) this week I got like four. they are starting to go down though - yay! What is weird - and glad you said something about it is it's the week after my period. I use to break out a few days before and while one my period - so while on it - my third week - i thought yay i'm not breaking out as much - then this last week it came. I've heard the third month is the charm - so if you are 2 1/2 - I bet you are just right around the corner from completely clear skin.

I went to the derm. yesterday. He called and I guess my red blood cell count is down. He said it could be a lot of factors so we will just watch it. I guess that is your energy - so no wonder I felt so tired! Also he upped my prescription to 60 (suggested to leave it at 40 - since after a month there is improvement but I asked to go to 60 - and he said either is reasonable for my weight and so he went to 60)

I used to break out the week BEFORE my period, and now it's the week AFTER. Weird. I am on a new bc pill, so maybe my skin is just getting used to the new hormone levels. I hope your RBC count improves. I had a big problem with my cholesterol, it went up to 274! The last time I went in for my refill the labwork came back better, thanks to the lovastatin.
I hope I'm right around the corner to clear skin! I have another big one on my chin that came up yesterday, and another on my back. That's almost the most depressing, it's summertime and I want to wear tank tops, and I still can't.
I posted a couple of articles on the message boards, one had some great information on Accutane. They suggest a cumulative dose of between 120-150mg/kg/body weight over the course of the treatment. So, to do some math:
body weight in pounds * 0.45 = kilograms. Multiply your current dose of mg/day by the number of days you are on your treatment, then divide by your weight in kg.
For example: I am taking 40mg/day for 150 days = 6000 mg total / 51 kg = 117 mg/kg of body weight. If I increased to 60 mg, then it would be 40mg/day for 90 days = 3600 mg, plus 60mg/day for 60 days = 3600mg, 7200mg/51 kg = 141 mg/kg.
Since I am only on the treatment for 150 days, I will have to increase my dose in order to reach the suggested minimum of 120 mg/kg. The paper said anything less than 120mg/kg has an increased risk of relapse, and anything greater than 150 mg/kg provides no added benefit.
Hopefully that makes sense! Check out my other posts, and you can download that article.

Hey, don't stress about the sun thing too much... I went to Aruba after three months on the tane... I had a GREAT time! I just sat in the shade while the other girls sat in the sun... I wore SPF 50 the whole time. There is always a shady spot to sit... go and enjoy yourself...

I'm on Day 125 (almost 18 weeks) and I'm 100% clear... no new acne for over a month!

2 weeks @ 20mgs, 1 and 1/2 month @ 40 mgs, 3 months @ 60 mgs... I weigh 123lbs

GOOD LUCK!

-Katie

Sorry I haven't written for a few days - I'm a bit sad about the skin - I will write a proper update though. Anywho - that is funny you wrote all this, b/c before I looked I searched sites to try to figure it out and it was in my own journal all along. My course is 180 days and with 40 the first month then 60 the rest I come to exactly 150. However my dr. said that the generic is about 80 percent what accutane has in it and not sure what the rest is. So 80 percent of it would equal 120. So I guess I'm between 120-150. I also read in my research that older patients don't usually go on as high of dosage (ex. closer to 120 than 150).

Hey mistakee - I have been following your journal for awhile and it's really helped - thanks - nice of you to write in mine. What SPF did you use. I went to the pool w/ my niece on sat and put on her baby sunblock and I don't know if it's b/c of that but my shoulders and upper arms ahve been breaking out since.

Day 33

Dosage Increase: 40 to 60 (to stay 60 for the next five months).
Derm Visit Results: Well I went last week (wed.) and he said "clear improvement." I least I got the word "clear" in some regards to my skin - ha. Also my red blood cell count is down. Not sure what the means, but we are going to "watch" it. How do you watch your red blood cells?

Skin
Chest: Not bad, the small sand paper bumps have gone down but I do have a couple tiny pimples here and there.
Back: I got a good sized pimple on the back over the weekend but it has gone down. Upper back a few whiteheads have formed.
Arms: HORRIBLE. My upper arms and shoulders have broke out in small and medium pimples - so weird! Might be from the increase dose, might be from the sun block I applied at the pool on Sat., and might be from the cetraphil cream I caked on my arms b/c I developed a nice eczema rash on my hands and arms. I'm still applying the cream but only to the hands and lower arms.

Face: I think it's time I divide the face updates since some areas are good and some not so much

Starting w/ good then to the bad:
Forehead - Pretty dang good. This a few months ago, was my worst area - small bumps everywhere. It's pretty slick clear right now - YAY (have to see good things).
cheeks (upper) - pretty good as well!
Nose - better, still blackheads and big pores but doesn't feel like sandpaper as much and a ton of crap has come out of it (from the skin and b/c of my allergies - ha).
Jaw line (lower cheeks) - my right side not bad, my left side is experience a small to medium bumps breakout - came up this weekend and still getting worse - hopefully it will stop soon.
Chin -OH MY POOR CHIN!!! - Where do I start - I can't remember when it was clear. Okay first to be positive a lot of the small sandpaper like pumps have gone, but instead I have an infestation of tumors (my word for cysts). I'm guessing they are cysts since I haven't had one in a while. They are big inflamed and won't pop - cyst? The problem is I kind of sort of played w/ them well I took off have my skin on my chin w/ one gentle squeeze. So right now I have five good sized zits/cysts and a two huge!!! scabs. Not so happy w/ myself !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well so here is my fear is this maybe the initial breakout coming - since I've avoided it so far. I hope it doesn't keep getting worse - I had a taste of good skin and now it's getting ripped from me (literally skin ripping off).

Anywho - any encouragement would be great.

My chin and jawline were the worst for me too. My chin is just starting to look normal again, and I still get a few random pimples on my jawline. I try and keep my phones clean, in case they are dirty and touching my face when I talk on them. I also change my pillowcases every couple of days so I'm not sleeping on grime. I have no idea if either of those things help at all.
I have also found that benzoyl peroxide seems to be the most effective spot treatment, I tried clindamycin lotion and retin-a as well. I have a 10% BP that I'm using once or twice a day now, I think I might try a 2.5% since I read it's just as effective as the 10%, with less drying.
I understand how discouraging it is to feel great about your skin, and then have it fall apart right in front of you. I feel so helpless sometimes!! I have been having nightmares that I wake up with huge cysts all over my face and the first thing I do when I wake up is touch my face all over to make sure it didn't actually happen. This has been such a test of patience for me, I had such high expectations of Accutane. I was ready the second I took my first pill to look in the mirror and have clear skin. It's so frustrating and saddening to still wake up and see new pimples forming, and the red marks the old ones have left behind.
I'm surprised your doctor said that about the generics, I am sure that the FDA has requirements about generics being equivalent to their brand name. The only thing that would be different are the inactive ingredients, which shouldn't affect the level of isotretinoin in the capsule. I'll ask my doctor about it tomorrow.
I go back for my fourth refill tomorrow morning, I faxed my doctor the article about accumulating to at least 120 mg/kg, so hopefully she will agree with me and increase my dosage. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Okay so right before I left work I work I replied and I closed the window before I sent it - such my luck...ha.

I know I hate the chin I got another bump today. It's got to stop sometime right?

I'm trying not to use any topicals on my face b/c the derm said to stop - but I might try 2.5 just on these tumors on my chin. I used it before I started going to the derm and found it effective on the spots.

I know it's such a roller coaster. On sunday my skin was pretty decent then two days later it's horrible!

Your nightmares made me teary. People just don't understand. My friends and families think I overeact but they just don't get the self-cousious feeling.

So are you not picking, popping, squeezing at all. I'm struggling w/ taht. I need to keep my hands off my face. It's at night - I don't do it in the morning - but at night right before I wash my face I have issues.

Good Luck!!!! at the derm. I think since you are informed he will up the dosage. I hope it goes the way you want it!

Hi!
I ordered the 2.5%, so I'll let you know how my skin reacts to it when I get it. The 10% is OK right now, but in the morning the spots I use it on get pretty dry.
The doctor agreed to increase my dosage to 60mg, so I will start taking 60mg/day next week when I finish my last pill pack.
I am also going to switch to a different kind of birth control pill starting this Sunday. I have tried literally almost every kind on the market, and have had different reactions to all of them. I'm taking one with a high dose of estrogen to help reduce the cramping I would get on my period, but it also has a higher dose of progesterone (which can act like testosterone), and can cause breakouts. I'm going to switch to Ortho Cyclen, which has the same amount of estrogen as Ortho Novum (the one I am currenly on), but a different kind of progesterone that doesn't act like testosterone, and shouldn't cause breakouts. My friend is taking that one and has beautiful skin. She also took Accutane when she was 17, and is the one who suggested I try it too. Are you taking bc pills too?
I love that we have this message board to write to people who really understand each other. It's nice to be able to share with someone who really gets it. I feel like any time I have something on my face that everyone can see it and thinks it's as disgusting and horrible as I do. Do your friends or family know you're taking it?
I have a really hard time not picking at my face too, it's almost obsessive. I've been a little better about it lately, mostly because the redness stays around for so long! The worst is trying not to squeeze the big ones. I try and keep my nails cut pretty short to minimize the damage they can do. Plus, my nails have gotten kind of soft and tear easily, it must be from the Accutane.
I can totally relate to the "tumors" on your chin, I had some monsters on my forehead the week I drove out to meet my boyfriend's parents. It was awful. I read somewhere that if you put a moist, hot washcloth on those big ones for 10 minutes, and then put some hydrocortisone cream on it and leave it on for an hour (I just rub it in and leave it on) that's supposed to help calm those down. It's worked for me about 50% of the time.
Oh, and I asked my doctor about the generics being only 80% as effective as Accutane, and she said that wasn't true. The FDA has strict requirements that the active ingredients in prescription drugs be the same in generics as the brand name. The only differences would be in the inactive ingredients, like the color of the dyes in the capsule, etc. So I don't think we need to worry that we're not getting as much from Amnesteen as we would from Accutane.

I was just reading through your journal and thought I would drop off a "hello".

Our situations sound very similar...you're farther along in your treatment than I am, though. I'm only on day 10. Argh, the torture!

My chin and jawline are also my worst areas...and I also have those weird, tiny bumps that you can feel but not see at all...

And I also agree that my skin looks worse at night than it does in the morning, and I'm also tempted to pick a lot more at night...

I found myself nodding a lot when I was reading your entries.

GOOD LUCK! To both of us.

lannemore:
YAY! that the derm agreed to the dosage. I hate going into an appointment knowing they might not agree. I did have to start a birth control. It's actually kind of funny b/c I'm a virgin and don't plan on having sex till marriage but the derm. wouldn't hear about (b/c of lawsuit issues) so I'm on orthra tri cyclen. It's makes me a bit sick the first few days of each pack but after that I'm fine.

I know I like to read people's stories here and I'm like ya that is exactly how I feel. My family and friends do know (well some of my friends - the closest ones). I didn't tell my boss or co-workers (I work for an appellate judge at the court of appeals - I'm an attorney, what do you do?), b/c I don't think they even take notice of things like that. Did you tell everyone?

I've made a new goal to try really hard to just wash my face and go to bed and not even look at it- b/c it's when i look at it that I start to pick. I'll keep you updated.

How long have you and your boyfriend been dating? His He pretty understanding. I was on accutane when I was 19- and my boyfriend at the time was great, made the whole process easier. I'm not dating anyone right now.

It's funny how different derms. say different things, but it makes me feel a lot better that yours said we are just as fine using the generic.

Thanks for replying in my journal - otherwise it would be pretty lonely -

MeganP: Thanks for writing - I didn't know if anyone besides me and Lannemoore were reading it. You are the first to say I'm "ahead of them." in time. It was actually nice to hear that I'm not a newbie anymore. Time does go fast though - honestly I feel like I just started and it's been almost five weeks. It will go fast for you. My chin had a lot of those tiny bumps and they have started to go down but in there place big big pimples - so I'm thinking most worked there way out and a few inflamed. Keep us updated!

okay so my arms are getting out of control. There are bumps all over from my elbow to my shoulder - is this normal?

Maybe the bc pills will help you with the hormonal aspect of acne. I guess it works by controling the amount of androgens in your system, which cause acne by increasing sebum production and increasing pore size. It would seem counterproductive to have excess androgens doing the opposite of what Accutane is supposed to do. So it makes sense to be taking bc pills. Plus, I have found that it eases the cramping and shortens the length of my period - both good things!!
I have been trying not to even look closely at my skin now when I wash my face, or I will find some little thing to pick at. I hope I can stick to it and keep my hands away from my face!
My boyfriend and I have been together almost 7 months now. We're going to get married someday, but we're not engaged yet. We won't live together until after we're married. I was in a 4 year relationship right before I met him, and he is so amazing! I never knew a relationship could be like this, he's so supportive and understanding. We're going to visit his younger brother in Manhattan tomorrow (I'm so excited!!!), so I might not be posting for a little while unless I can get internet access while I'm there. I'll be back next Thursday.
I didn't tell my coworkers, but some friends and my parents know I am taking it.
I am glad to have your journal to post in! It's nice to go through the process with someone else, especially someone my age with so many other similarities!
I'm not sure about your arms, I didn't have that happen. Have you showed it to your derm yet?

That is the only plus of the bc pill is that maybe it will add to the clearing, but my period actually went longer while on it (use to be 4 this last month 6), but it did help w/ cramping.

I hear you on picking I can wash my face and feel fine w/ it then i look in the mirror find one little bump and make a huge spot out of it - it's silly.

That's awesome that he is supportive. I think that makes a big difference in this process (as well as life). Manhattan - how fun! I was going to go to NY to visit a friend but put it off since it would have been right now (an I was worried my intial breakout would be horrific - which it's not great but not as bad as I pictured it might be - though cross fingers it's not coming out now). Some other friends of mine are going in December so I'm going to plan on doing that.

The arm thing just developed since Saturday - so I haven't told him. I'm going to give it a week and see if it works it's way through. I'm wondering if it is the sunblock I put on (took my niece to the pool on saturday). What sunblock do you use? I'm trying not to pick at it and just wear long sleeve or 3/4 sleeve so I won't see and and be tempted. Cross fingers it improves. The tumors on my chin/jawline have gone down in size but increased in number - not sure which is better.

I'm so happy you write in my journal it makes it a lot nicer to have a conversation then me talking to myself. (which I do at times, ha).

Is it itchy at all? Does it look like an allergic reaction? Hopefully it's just a normal reaction to the meds and will go away on its own. If not, then hopefully your derm will know right away how to deal with it when s/he sees it.

I know you didn't ask me, but...for sunblock, I just bought neutrogena's healthy defense for sensitive skin, SPF 30 (or maybe 45?) I haven't used it yet...and it was very expensive...the stuff better work well! What have you been using?

Have a great time in NYC, lannemore. I lived there for 9 years until I moved out to Jersey last year...

Hello! We're just waiting around for our ride to the airport this morning. I of course have a new pimple on my forehead, but hopefully it will calm down soon.
I use Aveeno Radiant Skin SPF 15 on my face, and on my body I use Banana Boat Sport SPF 30 - for when I'm running outdoors. I also use Kiss my Face SPF 30 sunblock for "face and neck" for when I'm running again, or for when my face will be exposed for ahwile. I have used the Kiss my Face stuff for awhile and I like it, it's not greasy and seems to work really well. The Aveeno stuff is nice, it actually does brighten my skin, but I wouldn't trust it to offer me much protection from the sun for anything too prolonged.
I bet if your rash is from the sunscreen you could go to Clinique or one of the department stores to get a body sunscreen for sensitive skin. I might end up doing that for when I go up to 60mg next week, start wearing SPF on any exposed skin. The Banana Boat stuff is great, but it's thick and waterprooof and I wouldn't want to wear it all the time.
I'd give the bc pills a couple cycles to see if it still makes your period longer, and then you can try another one with maybe more estrogen in it. I think that's what helps shorten it. Mine is usually around 4 days or less now, and it used to be at least 7 when I was on lower hormone pills.
Thanks guys, I will have a great time in New York! I'll try to post while I'm there!! If I can't, take care for the next few days! It's great to have you guys to write to.

Hey I hope your NY trip is going well!!! sounds like a lot of fun.
That is a good idea about getting some for sensitive skin. My skin usually doesn't react like to Sunscreen but it might be the accutane effect. I've been on the bc for 2 1/2 months. The first period on the pill was normal 4 day cycle, (mine is usually only 3 days normal w/ the fourth day really light) the second period on the pill lasted at least six days, i about a week away from the third - so maybe it will regulate.


As far as my arms though I thought the cethrapil cream might be the problem w/ my arms by not using it I started to get dry patches of skin (ya know small red patches) so I started putting the cream on and though my arms are still quite disgusting I think there is improvement - so I'm going to keep up w/ that - moisturize and let the accutane do the clearing.

I should update today - my offical update - but i just feel yucky (not really skin wise but just feel kind of ill) so I will do it tomorrow. All in all not much change except for a slight improvement on the arms and the upper back (that is said had some whiteheads forming).

Hey girl, I've been following your journal! I am so glad you are on your way to clear skin.

Continue to be positive. I know how hard it can be to look in the mirror each day, and say to yourself... "ok, put make up on, go to work, face the day." Sometimes, it's really hard for me, but I do it each day. And I am not on accutane- so at least you have an end in sight, ya know? In a few weeks, you will have glowing, beautiful skin.

You are going to be fine. Do you think you've experienced your intial yet? I remember in the prescription forum we were both scared of the initial breakout. If I end up on Accutane, I will be terrorfied of getting the initial. I just don't want to explode, ya know? I can handle a few here and there- but I don't want to get massive breakouts. How are your arms doing? Did you break out on your arms previously to taking accutane?? I get them on my arms on occasion, too and I hate it. I especially hate the really nasty ones that take forever to go away because you just want to wear a cute shirt and you cant. Gr!

I am going to the derm tonight at 745, so I will write in my journal about the appt.. Drop by on mine if you want, and I will continue to check in with you, too. Good luck with everything. If you ever need to vent, just let me know, ok? We are in this together, and acne is not going to ruin our lives anymore!

FrankieBgirl:

Hey frankie - wow thanks for reading my journal - you are so nice.

It's funny b/c that is what I have to do - i put the make up on then I say okay i still don't look great but I have to go to work and so I just try to pretend it's not all there.

How did the derm appt. go? I hope you can get accutane b/c you are right when I'm sad about my skin the light at the end keeps me going.

I had a horrible night last night - and your message picked me up, so thanks!
(horrible b/c I'm having issues w/ a friend not b/c of the skin - though it didn't help of course -ha)

I don't know about the initial. I've had breakouts but nothing worst than I've had before. I did have several on my chin this last week or so but it's gotten better. So it might have been the intial - but I'm not ruling out a future issue. I'm about six weeks so I'm hoping I missed the horrible of all horrible breakouts that people talk about it. Mostly I've just experience the up and downs w/ my skin. ONe day looking great the next like crap.

Ya, my arms erupted but seem to be going down - if what was on my arms had been on my face I would have died (so that might have been an initial - which I would prefer it on my arms than my face. I use to get occasional small breakouts and sometimes that one nasty one that you are talking about, but never what I experienced last week.

Hey sweetpea, How's it?

I'm pretty sure that most breakouts occur around the 3rd to 5th month.. So I don't want to say it too loud, but maybe you are 'in the clear'? *crosses fingers* We can only hope, and think positive.. and I'm sure you are over the hump anyway.

Well, it's very possible, also, that your intial was on your arms. I'm pretty sure the only reason you get an initial breakout is because there are clogged pores. So, if your face doesn't have many clogged pores.. there's nothing to turn into a zit... But your arms might have had alot..so that's where the bulk of breakouts was. Just a thought, ya know?

I do make up pretty damn good, so after I get my make up on- I'm usually ok... But! Within a few hours it starts to get icky..so then it poses a new problem. Pretty soon you won't even be worrying about make up.. You'll be like, Powder? For what? I'm oil free, baby!!

Well, I am just trying to have a positive attitude right now towards my skin. It honestly doesn't look too bad right now. The worst I have is 2 cysts on my chin, but they are able to be covered with make up... So as long as that can happen, I'm ok I guess. Even though I'd love to have make up free skin.. I don't think I ever will, even with Accutane.. I just feel better with make up. My skin right now looks fine without make up, except for the areas I have a breakout in.. Like my cheeks look ok, but my chin has the 2 cysts..so its like.. F-U Chin! Clear Up your act!!!!

Anyway girl.. Keep on truckin'. Clear skin is on it's way- and you'll do great with the accutane. Good luck with your treatment! I'll keep dropping in to see how youre doing!

FRANKIEBGIRL:

Did you mean 3rd to 5th "week" not "month"? I think you might have otherwise I'm not anywhere near the clear. Well I keep breaking out but ya I haven't got any monster breakout that I've read about and experience my first time on accutane (8=9 years ago). Today marks my sixth week mark so hopefully it will just continue to clear and stop breaking out.

I do think my arms had some horrible breakout occur. They have gotten better but are still bumby and have red marks. so Weird - but again would rather have it on my arms then my face.

I still have clogged pores and little tiny bumps under the surface on my face but they slowly are coming out and not really inflaming - excpet for the occasional one (such as those I had on my chin and now I have two on my cheek and an enormous one on the side of my nose).

I'm trying the same thing about my attitude - Lately I've really just tried to keep the light at the end of the tunnel in sight.

I would love to just be able to go w/out makeup or even just throw a little powder on and that's it - I hate foundation. I really want to try bare essentials - it just looks like it would be really light.

Anywho....Thanks for your support it means a lot - and I hope this new derm works out for you.

I didn't do an official update this week but I think pretty much explained a lot - so I will do one next week.

Hello! I'm back from NYC. I had so much fun! We did so much, on our feet all day and walked all over Manhattan. I started the trip with a big yucky zit on my forehead, but it cleared up after a couple of days. Then I was mostly good the rest of the time. I keep getting little pimples here and there where I can still see little clogged pores on my chin and forehead. Hopefully once all my stupid little clogged pores do their thing and turn into giant, hideous zits, and then clear up, I will be all good. How are things going for you? Are your arms doing better? Are your issues resolved with your friend? I'm glad a few more people are reading your journal and posting their experiences too.
Today I start 60mg/day for my last 60 days. I'm curious to see how my body handles it. My doctor said to take the 40mg in the morning and 20 at night, but I don't see how it could make any difference. I don't eat a very big breakfast, and would rather take the larger dose with a larger meal, so I will take the 40 at night instead.
Also, I wanted to recommend the "Kiss my Face SPF 30 for face and neck", I used it the whole time we were in New York and it worked great! We were literally outside all day everyday walking around, and I didn't get burned at all. I'm sure being at sea level helped a lot, since the sun at elevation is a lot more intense, but this is such a great lightweight non-greasy, non-stinky sunblock.

Yay - I'm glad you had fun, and glad the forehead blemish went away pretty quickly. I have got to get to NYC sometime in the near future. I'm hoping to go w/ some friends in December. I'm glad you went - I think it's good to get out and forgot about the whole skin thing whenever possible - don't you?

My arms have definitely gotten better. Are they back to normal - nope - but better nonetheless. I always fear saying that but I think there is enough noticeable improvement that it's okay to state. I just started putting cetraphil cream on them each night and morning (which I had done before the breakout so thought it might have contributed so I stopped but then started getting really dry patches so I decided to start up again). I still have small bumps, but have minimized, and the large bumps have gone down as well. Also b/c I put the cream on morning and night it's not the dry patches are gone. Hopefully it will continue to improve and not breakout again.

I noticed a difference from 40-60. Here is how:
-Lips - I use to be able to control them now sometimes they are chapped regardless of continual aquaphor usage.
-mouth a lot more dry - craving water all the time.
-little breakout right after i went to 60 - but not the "horrid initial yet," well except for the arms - ha.

However, my skin didn't get a ton more dry. To be honest I haven't experience (don't know if that is a bad thing) the dry super flaky skin on my face that everyone talks about (my arms however mind you had horrible dry patches here and there for the last six weeks - but not the face). I guess right at first my nose (outside- the inside gets really dry) got dry, but besides that. My skin had defiantly gotten less oily, but not the dry peeling skin. I moisturize (eucerin daily renewal) in the morning but nothing at night. (just washing w/ cetraphil morning and night).

Anyway - good luck w/ the 60 mg!!!! Oh and ya I take the 40 at night b/c my breakfast is really small as well.

I will have to try the kiss my face stuff - so you don't find it clogs pores? Where can you get it at?

Good to have ya back...

Hello!
I looked for the Kiss my Face stuff at the grocery store last night, and didn't see it there (King Soopers). I bought mine on drugstore.com, here's a link to a picture of it so you know what it looks like: http://www.kissmyface.com/Product/Kiss+My+...Care/1800200EA/
I haven't tried Aquafor yet, I looked at it in the store and noticed it was mostly just petroleum jelly, like Vaseline. What is it like? Is it creamy or greasy? Does it work better than regular Vaseline for chapped lips?
When the inside of my nose gets really dry, I dip a Q-tip in Vaseline and rub it on the inside of my nose. That helps a lot. My face hasn't peeled much, mostly just where pimples are healing, it will sort of flake off.
I recommend the 2.5% BP for spot treatment, I just got the Neutrogena On the Spot stuff and it cleared up some things on my chin pretty quickly. And it's definitely not as drying as the 10% I was using before.
I hope your arms calm down soon, that must be so annoying!!

Thanks for the link!

I love aquaphor! It has been a life saver. I never used just vaseline, but did use vaseline lip therapy (in the small tube), and there was no comparision to that and aquaphor. I carry around a pretty big tub of it. When I pull it out people laugh but they use it and love it. I had the girl that does my hair use it and she said she is addicted to vaseline but after using aquaphor she ]really liked it. It's greasy, not creamy. But if vaseline works, I bet they are pretty close.


The arms are annoying I'm just trying to stay positive that they will clear.

Question::

What food do you eat w/ your pill. I'm starting a diet next Monday so I'm worried about absorption.

Also I take it w/ my dinner but I take it w/ water. So w/ food but actually swallow it w/ water. Is that okay or are you suppose to take it w/ food and a fatty drink?

I will have to try the Aquafor, I can already tell my lips are chapping up again. It was nice to be in such a humid place when I was in New York, I didn't feel too dry at all! Too bad Denver is so dry.
I take my Accutane after I finish my meals. I take it with a full glass of water, I don't think it needs to be a fatty drink if you're taking it with food. I would take it with milk or something like that with a little bit of fat in it if you're eating a small meal, or a fat-free meal. My lunches are pretty lean, so I take it with my little breakfast (usually a Balance bar so there is some fat) and with dinner.
They say to take it with food because it inceases absorption, and because Accutane is Vitamin A which is fat-soluble, it will absorb better with something with fat in it. I don't know what, if any, the minimum amount of fat to eat with it is, but I wouldn't think it would have to be much. There are only 7g of fat in the Balance Bars I eat for breakfast, and I think it works OK with that.
Does that help at all?

Ya it does - I just want to make sure I'm getting the most out of this stuff - ya know

I understand! I feel like I have done so much research just to understand what's happening and how to make it more effective, etc.
I've been on the 60mg/day for 5 days now, and I feel more tired and achy and my head hurts more than usual. Did you find that at all when you increased your dose? I feel like I still have so much longer to go until I finish!
I posted some pictures in my gallery. I need to upload the picture of me during my initial breakout at the end of March, I have it on my computer at home. I hate looking at it, but you will see what a difference there is now.

I have been more tired -actually took friday and monday off of work b/c I just didn't feel well - a lot of it contributed to being so tired. Also I've been getting lower back pains the last few weeks. (but I have a bad back - so you never know). I actually get a really bad headache once every couple of weeks (but that has been going since my 40 dosage as well). Oh i havent' looked at your gallery - I need to.

I just looked at your gallery - that is great success. It is fun to put a face to the name as well.

I uploaded a few more pictures, I posted the one of me in St. Louis during my horrible initial breakout with the Amnesteen. It happened right before I drove out there to meet my boyfriend's parents, so I was really embarassed. Luckily I saw them again last night, so they can at least see that their future daughter-in-law doesn't always look like a troll.

How fun to see the improvement. I wish I would take more pics - but I hate pics of myself. So are you soon to be engaged? My skin is doing crazy thigns. Okay I guess not really crazy the parts taht don't have acne are smooth and nice - but then I have some problem areas - still mostly my chin. My forehead which has been smooth for awhile got a few small bumps and one not so small bumps - but seems to be going down. My chin I got a set of triplets which of course I had to pop (they became white while at work) - so now I'm sporting three scabs - i hate how tender my skin is. Anywho i'm hoping since I'm entering my eigth week things will just keep improving. My arms are a bit better but still not clear.

I still don't really like most pictures of myself either, I'm still really self-conscious about having them taken. I am not sure how soon to be engaged, probably within a couple of months. I'll tell everyone when it happens though!!
I have smooth and nice skin where it's not scabby or weird. I know what you mean about how tender your skin is, it seems like the smallest thing will turn into a big cut and take forever to heal. I still get some pimples in the same spots on my cheeks, it's like it hasn't gotten totally cleared out yet.
I'm glad your arms are doing better at least! I can't believe I still have over 50 days to go, I wish I was done!!

I wish I was done too! But at the same time afraid for when I'm done and the chance of it coming back. The parts of my skin w/ no pimples (cheeks and forehead) are smooth, which I love! But the parts w/ pimples is still breaking out (chin and jawline). I'm just going to keep hope up. I saw a lot of improvement the first month, this month has been more of a standstill. I go to my derm. in one week I hope this is a good week - you just never can tell.

I'm also worried about it coming back when I'm done. I still have dreams about waking up with cysts or something else on my face or back. How long have you been on the Amnesteen now? I'm at 100 days today. I had another one on my cheek last week, and a tiny one on my chin today. I am trying not to get too excited and think that maybe I'm finally done breaking out. I know I will be REALLY disappointed when I wake up and see a new pimple.
Have you noticed any difference with your hair at all? Mine is a lot drier and the texture feels different. It also seems like some of it is either falling out, or breaking off because I have all these little frizzy things. I don't know how to describe it.

Lan:
I hope you are done - Day 100 - that is great! You are down the homestretch. My hair is a little drier but nothing huge. I had super oily skin before so though my lips are raw my skin and hair as a whole aren't horribly dry just a lot of the oil is eliminated. So it is a different texture (and now I can go a day w/out washing it and not look like I soaked my hair in oil) but not necessarily dry.

My lips are cracked in the corners, it's really painful. I keep putting globs on Aquafor in the corners to help keep them from splitting open again.
But it's so hard not to smile, I just got engaged!!

oh wow congrats - and you will have nice clear skin for the wedding!!! That is so exciting when are you getting married.

Thanks! It's exciting, but it's also really overwhelming to think about planning a whole wedding! We're wanting to get married on January 15th, the Sunday on MLK Day weekend. The most stressful part is trying to include everyone we (and my mom) want to have there, but not break the bank. It's all so expensive!! All the stress is making me break out a little, and of course I can't stop picking at it. But I can definitely tell my skin is getting better everyday. I just hope it lasts!! I would hate to have to worry about breaking out before my wedding!! That would be the worst.

how fun though - even though stressful - to be planning your wedding. You probably have told me this but how long have you been together.

I hear you on picking my chin and jawline are still breaking out - even a bit worse, . Yesterday I broke out and popped and picked a few on my chin. Well I had my derm. appointment this morning ( i know not wise) I got the don't pic let accutane do it's job lecture, and it was deserved.

DAY 61 (8 WEEKS AND FIVE DAYS) - 2 month appt. w/ derm.

First of all I'm sorry I haven't formally updated for awhile. I've been a bit sad about my face and hoping it would get better so I could write a happy update just saying it was bad well it's still yucky so I thought I better just get this written, so I can look back and be happy.

Starting w/ Good to Bad:

Back/Chest - pretty clear I get a pimple here and there but nothing to be too sad over.
Neck - has been pretty clear but I'm sporting one good size pimple that developed yesterday - but unless it keeps breaking out - I think it will be clear again soon.

FACE:
Forehead, cheeks - pretty dang smooth. These areas are my favorite, b/c they are not only clearing but the texture is so much better.
Nose - still have blackheads - how long do these take to come out and have a clear nose???
Chin/ jaw line - Let's just say not pretty!!!!! I keep breaking out. Not just small bumps (which is mostly what is on my jaw line) but big ones on my chin. Yesterday it was like they had a party and invited all their friends - we are talking multiple pimples - .

Arms: - HORRIBLE. You know how I didn't know what happened on my arms. Well it's eczema. The doctor said today that I need to put cream on it morning and night and it will hopefully help (even though that is what I have been doing) but that I might have to deal w/ it while on accutane. It was so bad on Saturday night and Sunday - I was moving and he said that I probably sweat off and on which is like washing off and on and dries it out - not good.

Well that is my update. I'm going into my third month - which I hear good things happen. It's just sad b/c I looked worse (the dr. confirmed) at my 2 month than I did my 1 month. I hope this doesn't happen at my third month appt.

I had the same thing with my chin and jawline, that's still where I will get a pimple now and then. Sometimes obnoxiously on my forehead or cheek, but mostly on my chin or jawline. I still have blackheads on my nose too, I don't know what it takes to get rid of those! Maybe a facial? And my face was definitely worse at my second month check up, did you look at my gallery?
We've been together almost 8 months, which I know isn't a super long time, but we knew very early on that it was right. It's been fun to plan and think about the neat things we can do at the reception and shower, I'm just stressed about the cost right now. I am hoping not to wipe out my savings account and start my married life with only $20 left!

Oh that actually is good to hear that you had the same problems - b/c I've been a bit discouraged about it. I did so well the first month I was just hoping it would continue to get better.

I think 8 months is long enough. I think when you know you know. Sometimes it just hits ya. Congrats again - that is just exciting and exciting that you will have a clear face as well.

Thanks again!
I'm about 20 days into the higher dosage of Amnesteen (60mg/day instead of 40) and I am so tired all the time! My back hurts too, and my eyes are getting really dry. I can't wait to be done! I feel like my skin is much more sensitive, if I even touch my face it seems like I get a scrape that takes a long time to heal. How are you handling it?

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Thanks again!
I'm about 20 days into the higher dosage of Amnesteen (60mg/day instead of 40) and I am so tired all the time! My back hurts too, and my eyes are getting really dry. I can't wait to be done! I feel like my skin is much more sensitive, if I even touch my face it seems like I get a scrape that takes a long time to heal. How are you handling it?
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Not very well - HA! My biggest problem is the ezcema that exploded on my arms once I went to 60mg. I also am tired a lot and don't contribute it enough to accutane. I get the normal amount of sleep and still fel like I'm dragging. I know it sucks! Hopefully the higher dosage will make this devil stay away from us for good!

I'm hoping that part of the reason I've been so tired is that I'm on my period. Maybe when that's over with I will perk up a bit.
Yesterday I got two little pimples on my jawline, one on each side. Must be the period hormone thing, but they're almost gone already (yes, I picked at them). I'm nervous because I will have to skip a period by taking two packs of birth control pills in a row so that I am not on my period right before the wedding. I've done that before, but now I'm nervous that the hormones will make me break out again. I see the doctor again next Friday, so I'll ask her when she thinks I should do that.

Hi! How are things going for you? Did you have a nice 4th of July?
I went in for my last refill appointment this morning. I have a cyst thing on my cheek by my lip, so I asked the doctor for a cortisone injection. I've never had one before, and she's never GIVEN one before, so I'm curious to see what happens. Have you ever had one?
I'm disappointed that my skin isn't clearer by now, but it is so much better than when I first started. I hope it stays clear and that I don't wake up the morning of my wedding with a giant (or small) zit somewhere. I will be devastated!!!

Hi, I've been getting these shots WEEKLY for the past month and a half. They are a lifesaver and a big relief to get rid of the cysts fast (can take anytime from 3 hours to 2 days to subside) I would be scared to get it from a doc whose never given one before because there is a chance of a permanent atrophy (usually if one does atrophy, it'll 'pop' back up during the week, but I've read tht sometimes it can take up to 3 months to smooth out) Also, a derm tht does this regularly will know which angle to inject it at and so on. AND, the solution is usually diluted for acne cysts. The spots tht I've had done are redder/darker than the rest of my face.(temporary)
hope that helps!
CAT

The doctor must have diluted the solution too much, because it didn't really make a big difference in the cyst. I of course had to pick at it, when will I ever learn?! Hopefully she can refer me to a dermatologist who can take care of any more that might come up.

sorry about the cyst? how is it going?

Also sorry it's been awhile - I had to move two weeks ago and still just getting settled in.

Update on skin is that really nothing new. I'm still breaking out, but not horrible, anywhere from 2-6 pimples on my face at one time (middle to large ones - i get under the skin small ones still as well). But nothing too embarrassing that I won't hang out w/ friends over the skin which is nice. My arms are still petty rough, but I just put cream on them morning and night and wear 3/4 length shirts - ha. I have faith it will get better. I'm nearing my 3rd month mark and I've heard the third month is the month of great clearing....let's hope!!!!

That's about it from me- how you are all doing???

Hi! Moving is such a drag. My cyst is pretty much gone, just some redness and a little infection still. I don't think the cortisone injection did anything, I'm betting that's because my doctor had never done it before. I see a dermatologist in September (the soonest I could get in!!). I only have about 4 weeks left on Accutane. I'm still nervous the acne will come back, but hopefully not! My doctor offered me a 6th month of treatment, but my insurance won't cover beyond 5 months. I don't remember how much it costs, but I know it's over $400. It'd be worth it though, to keep from ever breaking out again! How long are you going to be on it?

I'm on it for six months. However, I hope my insurance covers it for six months - I didn't even think to ask. They didn't say it would only be five, so cross fingers. I only pay 5 dollars a month right now - for the generic. Which is amazing considering how much I was paying for over the product items. Yay that you are almost done. I'm just two weeks from my half way mark. I can't wait till I don't have any mark on my face - it will be bliss!

no pics to track improvement for us

I have some in my gallery.

no i'm sorry - I wish I did have pics, but when I started it I didn't want a camera near my face - I can post pics of me now - but I don't know if that will help.

okay so i just tried to add a pic and it didn't so much work - how do i go about doing that.

It took me several tries to get it to upload pictures, maybe try it again?
Otherwise, how are things going for you?

DAY 95

Okay so I know it's been forever since I've updated but that's b/c after the first six weeks of improvement I've been kind of a standstill. I'll have pretty clear days then get my normal chin breakout again. But here is a quick update as of right now. I'm really hoping now that I'm 3 months into it this month will be my total clearing month (cross fingers).

Body Acne:

Back : just occasional small ones on my upper back here and there but overall pretty good.

Chest - I got a little three pimple breakout last week, and then a single one the other day but it's cleared up again - which is nice. I do have scarring on my chest that my dermatologist likes to point out every time I go in - oh well.

Arms - GOOD NEWS! Well first it was bad news, my exemia got really bad on my arms, but it was right at the time of my appointment (last Monday) so he gave me a prescription and it has gotten a thousand times better - I actually wore a short sleeve shirt which I haven't done is quite sometime.

Neck - One or two here and there but for the most part clear

Face -

Forhead - clear
Cheeks - I got one or two a week or so ago - but they have cleared, but I do have a few tiny tiny cysts type bumps under one eye - barely noticeable but they bug me.
Chin/Jawline - Still having breakouts. Right now not horrible I have three small bumps and what looks like a few more emerging - but still I can't wait till it's just clear - will be so nice!!!!

Well that's it from me - how are you all doing (anyone that is reading this).

Hi!
I don't want to discourage you, but just so you don't feel like you're alone in this. I have less than a week left in my Accutane, and I still get little pimples here and there. I haven't been completely clear for more than a day or two at a time, but the difference between now and before I started is HUGE. My back has been clear for awhile now, and so has my chest and neck. The pimples I do get are generally either on my chin or on my cheeks, almost always in the same spot.
I'm glad to hear your excema is clearing up. I hope your face gets and stays clear!! I sure can't wait to be done, I am so tired of my arms itching and my lips being chapped and feeling so sore and tired all the time!! I am seeing a dermatologist a month after I finish to discuss either a maintenance program with the Accutane, taking a low dose a few times a week for 6 more months (ugh!!) or any other suggestions he has, like facial peels or lasers or something. Has your derm talked to you about anything like that?

Okay so has it been years since I've written - no but lots of months. Okay so I'm currently about six weeks post accutane. I was pretty dang clear the last two months (maybe a few tiny ones here and there). And was clear for three gloriosus weeks - then they started to come back the tiny bumps and whiteheads on my forehead. Which is actually kind of funny b/c that is what cleared up the fastest and now i'm getting bumps on the sides of my face. However my chin is clear - which is what took the longest to clear up. So anyway I'm using bp get on my forehead and that is maintaining those pimples. I'm trying not to panic. I'm at the time of the month (period) so I'm going to see if this week it clears back up - if not then I'm going to move up my post accutane check up (which is set for December 22) and beg to be put on Accutane again. I was on the generic the first time b/c my insurance requires you try that first so maybe this time I can get on the brad name. Anyway just a little discouraged

okay ive been amnesteem for a month now and ive have tried every chapstick on the market for my extremely chapped lips....



does anyone have any recommendations to a good working chapstick?