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Day 48
The good: My electricity returned at 8:30 p.m. Nearly 48 hours without electricity was not fun. Yeah, it was nice to crash at my grandma's, but you start to miss your own bed! Lol. Now on to Accutane matters... The spot on my left cheek seems to be looking better. It's a little flaky and there's a scab, but it's not too bad. The rash on my right forearm and the rash and the cut on my left forearm are going away. The blurry vision I was complaining about isn't noticeable today. Perhaps it is just dryness? With all the commotion this weekend, I never got a chance to look for drops or something.
The bad: My collarbone rash is back and damn does it itch. While Accutane gives everyone else zits, it gives me rashes. But you know what? I'll take the small rashes over a nasty zit any day.
Lol. If only I could stop scratching...
Holy crap! 48 hours with electricity is just too long. I remember freaking out when mine was off for 24 hours last year when a hurricane hit where I live.
I feel like my vision is blurry sometimes, too. I hope it's just dryness. I never put drops in my eyes, so that could be why, haha.
I'd take a rash over zits as well! 😛
Glad your power is back on! That must have been terrible! I know what you mean about missing your own bed and stuff. Although it is nice that you were able to stay over at her place 
I am having vision issues sometimes too, blurry or it feels like maybe my vision has gotten worse or something, but then it goes back to normal. I am out of my good eye drops, so I just have these generic artificial tears that aren't working well at all. It sucks, I need to go shopping and pick up a whole bunch of things... Ahhh money money money. Seems to be all I do on this medication is spend money on things to help combat the things the medication is causing. Oh well as long as it works!
Damn itchiness and rashes!! Have you put hydrocoritsone on the rashes at all? I have but I still need to moisturize all the time! Like 3 times a day everyday. Pain in the butt but I'll do what it takes!
Day 48
The good: My electricity returned at 8:30 p.m. Nearly 48 hours without electricity was not fun. Yeah, it was nice to crash at my grandma's, but you start to miss your own bed! Lol. Now on to Accutane matters... The spot on my left cheek seems to be looking better. It's a little flaky and there's a scab, but it's not too bad. The rash on my right forearm and the rash and the cut on my left forearm are going away. The blurry vision I was complaining about isn't noticeable today. Perhaps it is just dryness? With all the commotion this weekend, I never got a chance to look for drops or something.
The bad: My collarbone rash is back and damn does it itch. While Accutane gives everyone else zits, it gives me rashes. But you know what? I'll take the small rashes over a nasty zit any day.
Holy crap! 48 hours with electricity is just too long. I remember freaking out when mine was off for 24 hours last year when a hurricane hit where I live.
I feel like my vision is blurry sometimes, too. I hope it's just dryness. I never put drops in my eyes, so that could be why, haha.
I'd take a rash over zits as well!
Oh, the hurricane last August? That hit where I live too. Yet another time I didn't have power for two days! It's terrible, isn't it? Especially in this weather it's too hot to not have the AC on! I could never live in a time where people didn't have electricity. Nor could I ever be Amish.
Glad I'm not the only one with the blurriness! I was a little worried at first. I think I'll look into some drops and see if that helps.
Glad your power is back on! That must have been terrible! I know what you mean about missing your own bed and stuff. Although it is nice that you were able to stay over at her place
I am having vision issues sometimes too, blurry or it feels like maybe my vision has gotten worse or something, but then it goes back to normal. I am out of my good eye drops, so I just have these generic artificial tears that aren't working well at all. It sucks, I need to go shopping and pick up a whole bunch of things... Ahhh money money money. Seems to be all I do on this medication is spend money on things to help combat the things the medication is causing. Oh well as long as it works!
Damn itchiness and rashes!! Have you put hydrocoritsone on the rashes at all? I have but I still need to moisturize all the time! Like 3 times a day everyday. Pain in the butt but I'll do what it takes!
I think I notice it more now after a day of staring at my laptop. And right now my eyes do feel like they could be a little dry and things are just a tad blurry. I can read everything fine, it just it's 100% focused. Have the drops helped with the blurriness before? I think I'm going to go to the store tonight and look for something. I couldn't put drops in my eyes. It would bother me too much. 🙁 I don't even like water in my eyes! I know there is a mist you can spray with your eyes closed, so I'm hoping to find something like that.
It is costing a lot of money, isn't it? It makes me so glad the pills are only $5 a month though. But to think about all the moisturizers and Aquaphor, and whatever else we all buy... It's crazy. I'm certainly saving money in some areas though because I'm not tempted to try new face masks and scrubs!
Yep, I put one of the Cortizone creams on my rashes. It definitely helps when I use it. I just need to remember to use it regularly! And to start moisturizing. Three times a day would be a lot of moisturizing! And very time-consuming. Lol!
Day 49
The rashes are doing much better today, which is definitely good.
My eyes are actually feeling a bit dry though. It's not uncomfortable, but they do feel a little weird. If anyone has good eye drop/spray recommendations, let me know!
Hi Rachel! Long time no chat. 🙂 I feel bad for not following all your logs these past few weeks, but I've been on vacation and traveling a lot.
I will say that I also had a bad rash on my inner arms last week, and it's finally healing. It was really scary, and at first a bunch of tiny red bumps that only sort of went away with oral benadryl. I realized it wasn't an allergic reaction, but from my dosage increase 2 weeks ago. It has now turned into scaly plaques that are just lovely. I finally started putting Aquaphor on the rashes instead of just moisturizer, and that seems to work better. I tried hydrocortisone cream and didn't notice much of a difference. Just thought I would mention the Aquaphor, cause that stuff is uhmazing!
Miss you!
Hi Rachel! Long time no chat.
I will say that I also had a bad rash on my inner arms last week, and it's finally healing. It was really scary, and at first a bunch of tiny red bumps that only sort of went away with oral benadryl. I realized it wasn't an allergic reaction, but from my dosage increase 2 weeks ago. It has now turned into scaly plaques that are just lovely. I finally started putting Aquaphor on the rashes instead of just moisturizer, and that seems to work better. I tried hydrocortisone cream and didn't notice much of a difference. Just thought I would mention the Aquaphor, cause that stuff is uhmazing!
Miss you!
Gina! I've missed you! Hope you're doing well. I'm sure you've been having lots of fun traveling! 🙂
Your rash sounds just like mine. Mine started out as red bumps and then got all scaly feeling and flaky. It was so weird. It looks like they're clearing up, thankfully!!
Day 51
I've had a few tiny bumps pop up over the last couple days. Nothing to worry about though. It looks like some blackheads are surfacing on my nose.
I'm actually amazed how small the pores are around my nose. They're practically invisible. They haven't been like that since I used a Clarisonic.
Anyway! Happy 4th to those of you in the States! I'll catch up with you all tomorrow.
Happy 4th of July Rachel!
Hope you had a great 4th! I didn't realize we weren't that far apart from each other in terms of starting time. I can't wait to be finished with this stuff!
Rachel,
I've been enjoying reading your log and congrats on your progress! I will be coming back to visit as I start my own journey! If all goes according to plan, I'll pick up my prescription tomorrow! Please come visit my log anytime
~bodyandsoul
That's so exciting! I'm sure you can't wait to start! I'll definitely be stopping by your log. 🙂 Good luck!
Day 52
My eyebrows have been a little flaky from time to time. So weird! I think I'm gonna take the Cure gel to them and see if that helps. 
Well, I know it will!
And I had my second Accutane nosebleed today. That was fun! 
I'm just glad these things haven't happened often. And that they always happen when I'm at home.
I see my derm next Friday, so I'll get my blood work done on Tuesday. Anyone think I can magically lower my cholesterol by then? Pretty much every single day has been 100 for probably the past two weeks, but I think I'll try to go for walks in the evening and eat a bit better until then to see if that helps any. I know the blood work is only a few days away, so I don't expect much, but it can't hurt to try.
Hi everyone-
I finally joined this site and this is my first post. I'm 31 and having a horrible battle with (hormonal?) acne. I have never suffered from constant acne before (I did break out like a "normal" teenager- but nothing regular acne creams couldn't take care of. I would get the the occasional zit with my period- and the occasional stubborn cyst). I started getting these random little "oil" filled pimples in September¦ I changed my regiment and combated them pretty well at first. This only increased with each month. By March my face became absolutely terrible. My cheeks were covered (not my usual spot to breakout) and as soon as 4 would go away, 5 more would be on their way. At this point I think I have 4 active "ones" but my face is covered in red marks. Bleh!
I was using Retin-A micro during this whole process¦ I finally went to a derm and was put on Monodox and Epiduo. 8 weeks later I was still getting terrible breakouts (the week I went in for a follow up my left cheek had like 8 inflamed bumps). She switched me to Solodyn. I've been on it for a week- and think I might be seeing minimal results (but as I type I can feel a new large knot forming on my jawline).
She has allowed me to start the process toward Accutane- I had my first lab work done today¦ so I should be able to start in 30 days should I choose this is the right decision. It has been great reading what seems to be "normal" people's experiences (because as you know- there are many horror stories on the internet!!).
I am concerned about many of the side affects- I am in the sun and water all day plus am very physically active (for my job). My derm knows this and thinks if I keep up on the sunscreen (I am covered in Blue Lizard 50 at all times) I should be fine. I'm thinking if I start out combating the dry skin, dry lips, and take the extra supplements I might be ok.
Anyway- I'm happy everyone posting in this log seem to be doing so well. I think this might be the only answer for me. I'm tired of being 31, dreading going to work (just think about putting make-up on and then jumping in water all day!!! not fun to constantly be checking in the mirror!) and staying alone in my house on my weekends when I'm actually a very social gal!
I know you all understand¦ I'm just ready for all of this to be over!!! Talk to you all soon
xo Zodi
Hi everyone-
I finally joined this site and this is my first post. I'm 31 and having a horrible battle with (hormonal?) acne. I have never suffered from constant acne before (I did break out like a "normal" teenager- but nothing regular acne creams couldn't take care of. I would get the the occasional zit with my period- and the occasional stubborn cyst). I started getting these random little "oil" filled pimples in September¦ I changed my regiment and combated them pretty well at first. This only increased with each month. By March my face became absolutely terrible. My cheeks were covered (not my usual spot to breakout) and as soon as 4 would go away, 5 more would be on their way. At this point I think I have 4 active "ones" but my face is covered in red marks. Bleh!
I was using Retin-A micro during this whole process¦ I finally went to a derm and was put on Monodox and Epiduo. 8 weeks later I was still getting terrible breakouts (the week I went in for a follow up my left cheek had like 8 inflamed bumps). She switched me to Solodyn. I've been on it for a week- and think I might be seeing minimal results (but as I type I can feel a new large knot forming on my jawline).
She has allowed me to start the process toward Accutane- I had my first lab work done today¦ so I should be able to start in 30 days should I choose this is the right decision. It has been great reading what seems to be "normal" people's experiences (because as you know- there are many horror stories on the internet!!).
I am concerned about many of the side affects- I am in the sun and water all day plus am very physically active (for my job). My derm knows this and thinks if I keep up on the sunscreen (I am covered in Blue Lizard 50 at all times) I should be fine. I'm thinking if I start out combating the dry skin, dry lips, and take the extra supplements I might be ok.
Anyway- I'm happy everyone posting in this log seem to be doing so well. I think this might be the only answer for me. I'm tired of being 31, dreading going to work (just think about putting make-up on and then jumping in water all day!!! not fun to constantly be checking in the mirror!) and staying alone in my house on my weekends when I'm actually a very social gal!
I know you all understand¦ I'm just ready for all of this to be over!!! Talk to you all soon
xo Zodi
Hi, Zodi! Welcome to the forums!
Accutane certainly isn't the easiest journey, but it has worked wonders for many people, as you can see on this forum. When my derm first told me I should take Accutane, I was shocked. I thought it was only for severe acne, which I've never had. And it certainly didn't help that on that same day I went home and started researching the drug, only to stumble upon all the horror stories in the "Negative Experiences" thread on this site. Seriously, stay out of there! Yes, it's good to be educated on what could happen, but I don't believe all of those people are suffering from things caused by Accutane. And it's always good to remember that more people are going to write negative reviews than a positive one. Reading the logs here gave me peace of mind because I saw that a majority of people never went through any severe side effects. I think the best thing you can do over the next month is to read as many logs as you can in order to help you make your decision on whether or not you want to take Accutane. That's what I did. It can really prepare you for the potential side effects you might experience.
If it helps... I have very fair skin and I burn very, very, very easily. I spent the day at a theme park a couple weeks ago and only applied sunscreen to my face and arms. I had SPF 50 on my face, but I'm not sure what was on my arms. I was in the hot sun all day long and never reapplied sunscreen. I did get a minor burn on my back since I didn't put sunscreen there, but that's it. Now, everyone is different, so this might not be the case for you. However, if your derm knows you're in the sun a lot and thinks you'll be fine, I think it'll be okay. Just make sure to keep sunscreen on!
One last thing... Make sure you stock up on Aquaphor for your lips!
Day 52
My eyebrows have been a little flaky from time to time. So weird! I think I'm gonna take the Cure gel to them and see if that helps.
And I had my second Accutane nosebleed today. That was fun!
I see my derm next Friday, so I'll get my blood work done on Tuesday. Anyone think I can magically lower my cholesterol by then? Pretty much every single day has been 100 for probably the past two weeks, but I think I'll try to go for walks in the evening and eat a bit better until then to see if that helps any. I know the blood work is only a few days away, so I don't expect much, but it can't hurt to try.
Hi Rachel! I need to magically lower my cholesterol too, so I'll be reading to see if you get any great magic ideas. 🙂 My derm doesn't seem concerned yet and says I still have plenty of wiggle room but it freaks me out. I am already exercising and eating healthy and taking fish oil and it isn't doing crap. But she did say it will all go back to normal once I stop taking the medicine. It's really only my LDL that's bad, my triglycerides are fine and my HDL is really good but it's still nerve wracking.
I got my second nose bleed yesterday! I was so surprised because my nose hasn't really been that dry but like you it luckily happened at home and I went to town with the vaseline so hopefully that will help for a while. Good luck with your blood work!!
Day 52
My eyebrows have been a little flaky from time to time. So weird! I think I'm gonna take the Cure gel to them and see if that helps.
And I had my second Accutane nosebleed today. That was fun!
I see my derm next Friday, so I'll get my blood work done on Tuesday. Anyone think I can magically lower my cholesterol by then? Pretty much every single day has been 100 for probably the past two weeks, but I think I'll try to go for walks in the evening and eat a bit better until then to see if that helps any. I know the blood work is only a few days away, so I don't expect much, but it can't hurt to try.
I have my derm appointment next week, too!
I haven't had any nosebleeds - but my nose is SO dry and it's sore. :/
Hi everyone-
I finally joined this site and this is my first post. I'm 31 and having a horrible battle with (hormonal?) acne. I have never suffered from constant acne before (I did break out like a "normal" teenager- but nothing regular acne creams couldn't take care of. I would get the the occasional zit with my period- and the occasional stubborn cyst). I started getting these random little "oil" filled pimples in September¦ I changed my regiment and combated them pretty well at first. This only increased with each month. By March my face became absolutely terrible. My cheeks were covered (not my usual spot to breakout) and as soon as 4 would go away, 5 more would be on their way. At this point I think I have 4 active "ones" but my face is covered in red marks. Bleh!
I was using Retin-A micro during this whole process¦ I finally went to a derm and was put on Monodox and Epiduo. 8 weeks later I was still getting terrible breakouts (the week I went in for a follow up my left cheek had like 8 inflamed bumps). She switched me to Solodyn. I've been on it for a week- and think I might be seeing minimal results (but as I type I can feel a new large knot forming on my jawline).
She has allowed me to start the process toward Accutane- I had my first lab work done today¦ so I should be able to start in 30 days should I choose this is the right decision. It has been great reading what seems to be "normal" people's experiences (because as you know- there are many horror stories on the internet!!).
I am concerned about many of the side affects- I am in the sun and water all day plus am very physically active (for my job). My derm knows this and thinks if I keep up on the sunscreen (I am covered in Blue Lizard 50 at all times) I should be fine. I'm thinking if I start out combating the dry skin, dry lips, and take the extra supplements I might be ok.
Anyway- I'm happy everyone posting in this log seem to be doing so well. I think this might be the only answer for me. I'm tired of being 31, dreading going to work (just think about putting make-up on and then jumping in water all day!!! not fun to constantly be checking in the mirror!) and staying alone in my house on my weekends when I'm actually a very social gal!
I know you all understand¦ I'm just ready for all of this to be over!!! Talk to you all soon
xo Zodi
Hi Zodi! I'm Stacey and I'm in Florida too. 🙂 I don't have a log on the site but I keep up with all these girls and they've all been super supportive. I'm 48 and started accutane on April 30th and today is day 68 for me. I'v battled acne a little as a teen but it mostly hit me in my late 30s, turning cystic and stubborn in my 40s, tried everything and finally made the accutane decision because I'm not doing this into my 50s - acne in your 50s is ridiculous!
My piece of info for you would be about exercise. I am an exerciser (4-5 days a week), running and stregth training and I've been able to keep it up. I have had some back soreness but it got better. I have had a week here or there where I've had to take it easy because I've been more sore than usual but I can always get back to my usual routine. I am taking fish oil which is probably helping with my joints - they don't seem to bother me consistently, only when I hit it hard. I make sure to ice any areas that are bothering me and stretching helps too. You probably won't have any major problems since you already do exercise which means your body is used to it and you're strong. I haven't been out in the sun yet but so far it looks like everyone who is good about sunscreen doesn't have any problems.
Good luck! All these logs are very helpful and everyone is really supportive. 🙂
Hi Rachel! I need to magically lower my cholesterol too, so I'll be reading to see if you get any great magic ideas.
I got my second nose bleed yesterday! I was so surprised because my nose hasn't really been that dry but like you it luckily happened at home and I went to town with the vaseline so hopefully that will help for a while. Good luck with your blood work!!
Lol! Magic ideas! 😛
My derm wasn't concerned about my cholesterol yet either. I don't think it was super high, but I figured I'd try to lower it some anyway. My triglycerides were high too last time. I could never go on a diet or deprive myself of any food I want, so cutting out fats and sugars is just crazy to me. I'd rather try to exercise to lower my cholesterol than anything else. But I'll probably just try to eat a little healthier over the next few days and go for walks or bike rides around my neighborhood. Or probably play Zumba on my Wii because it's been 100 practically every day lately. And it'll be even hotter tomorrow! 🙁
Good thing it happened at home! I keep a pack of tissues with me just in case though!
And thank you! 🙂
I have my derm appointment next week, too!
I haven't had any nosebleeds - but my nose is SO dry and it's sore. :/
I love how we all end up seeing our derms around the same time. 😛
Fortunately, I've only had the two nosebleeds and they haven't been bad. Early in my course I just had dried blood in my nose, which was not fun! I'm not sure if it'll help you, but I bought a saline solution to spray in my nose when I had that problem because it's suppose to keep the nose moisturized. It definitely helped!
Thank you all for the welcome. My derm just called and said my lab was all good¦. so now the darn 30 day count down.
I have actually read every post in this log so I feel like I already know all of you
Tiger- yes I am very very active. I run 5 days and week and also do strength training. I'm hoping my joints won't be too bad!
I have a little shopping list I will be getting this month to help combat all the symptoms- so any opinions would be great! I am also single and (trying!) to date¦no one wants to date the girl with the bloody nose, cracked lips, or dry skin (but this might be better than the current state of my face!)
- Fish Oil
- Vitamin E
- Pill Box
- Eucerin Cream (I heard this was good for your face¦ any other suggestions to put on day and night?)
- Gentle Body wash
- Pure Shea Butter (hands!)
- Lip Balm¦ seems Jack Black is the favorite here
- Eye drops
- Vaeline
- Aquifer? I read a few reviews that said this was harsh¦ but I know I can't be using the ones with the beads during this treatment.
Any other suggestions??
Last question-
The day you all started your accutane- did you immediately start moisturizing¦ or did you keep using Epiduo/Retin A until the skin was clear? Or just spot treat?
Thank you Ladies¦ Have a great day!
xo Zodi
Thank you all for the welcome. My derm just called and said my lab was all good¦. so now the darn 30 day count down.
I have actually read every post in this log so I feel like I already know all of you
Tiger- yes I am very very active. I run 5 days and week and also do strength training. I'm hoping my joints won't be too bad!
I have a little shopping list I will be getting this month to help combat all the symptoms- so any opinions would be great! I am also single and (trying!) to date¦no one wants to date the girl with the bloody nose, cracked lips, or dry skin (but this might be better than the current state of my face!)
- Fish Oil
- Vitamin E
- Pill Box
- Eucerin Cream (I heard this was good for your face¦ any other suggestions to put on day and night?)
- Gentle Body wash
- Pure Shea Butter (hands!)
- Lip Balm¦ seems Jack Black is the favorite here
- Eye drops
- Vaeline
- Aquifer? I read a few reviews that said this was harsh¦ but I know I can't be using the ones with the beads during this treatment.
Any other suggestions??
Last question-
The day you all started your accutane- did you immediately start moisturizing¦ or did you keep using Epiduo/Retin A until the skin was clear? Or just spot treat?
Thank you Ladies¦ Have a great day!
xo Zodi
It definitely sounds like you'll be prepared!
I used the Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm in Vanilla and Lavender earlier in my course. It was fine back then because my lips hadn't dried out too much at that point. However, it just doesn't cut it now because it doesn't last long anymore. It did at first though. Now the only things I use on my lips are Aquaphor and Bag Balm. I also use Cure Natural Aqua Gel to exfoliate my lips (and the rest of my face) because it doesn't have any beads and it's super gentle. I've noticed a few people using it while on Accutane. I only use it when I have flaky spots on my lips and face though because it works wonders for getting the flakes off! I really think that's why my lips have stayed in really good shape throughout my course so far.
I haven't tried Eucerin on my face. My skin breaks out from pretty much anything and I'm always hesitant to try different products. I'm not even moisturizing at night on Accutane! If you aren't fond of the Eucerin moisturizers, you can try Cetaphil or CeraVe. They're popular amongst the Accutane crowd. I have the CeraVe Moisturizing CREAM since the lotion made me break out before, but I only use it to spot treat any dry patches.
A gentle body wash is a good idea too. I didn't think I would need one, but I switched to an Aveeno body wash because my skin got so itchy! It's the Aveeno Active Naturals Skin Relief Body Wash. The fragrance free one. Doesn't break me out and it has helped with the itching.
If your nose gets dry and you don't want to put Vaseline up there, try a saline solution. I had a lot of dried blood in my nose early in my course. Gross! A saline solution like Simply Saline will help keep it moisturized.
I was on Retin-A Micro, but I stopped using it long before I started Accutane because it wasn't working anymore. Most people stop using all of the prescription topicals during Accutane because they can be really harsh on the skin. If you want to treat any acne that pops up during your course, try Neosporin. I have also been using a 2% salicylic acid spot treatment though whenever something pops up, which has been fine. It hasn't irritated my skin at all. It's the Alba Botanica Natural ACNEdote Invisible Treatment Gel, if any was wondering.
Hi Rachel! I need to magically lower my cholesterol too, so I'll be reading to see if you get any great magic ideas.
I got my second nose bleed yesterday! I was so surprised because my nose hasn't really been that dry but like you it luckily happened at home and I went to town with the vaseline so hopefully that will help for a while. Good luck with your blood work!!
Lol! Magic ideas!
My derm wasn't concerned about my cholesterol yet either. I don't think it was super high, but I figured I'd try to lower it some anyway. My triglycerides were high too last time. I could never go on a diet or deprive myself of any food I want, so cutting out fats and sugars is just crazy to me. I'd rather try to exercise to lower my cholesterol than anything else. But I'll probably just try to eat a little healthier over the next few days and go for walks or bike rides around my neighborhood. Or probably play Zumba on my Wii because it's been 100 practically every day lately. And it'll be even hotter tomorrow!
Good thing it happened at home! I keep a pack of tissues with me just in case though!
And thank you!
I have my derm appointment next week, too!
I haven't had any nosebleeds - but my nose is SO dry and it's sore. :/
I love how we all end up seeing our derms around the same time.
Fortunately, I've only had the two nosebleeds and they haven't been bad. Early in my course I just had dried blood in my nose, which was not fun! I'm not sure if it'll help you, but I bought a saline solution to spray in my nose when I had that problem because it's suppose to keep the nose moisturized. It definitely helped!
Haha, it always ends up that way! 🙂
I've never had a nosebleed in my life, but they don't sound pleasant. I have the dried blood in my one nostril. I think I'm going to run to the Pharmacy this weekend to try and find something for my nose, because putting Aquaphor up there only makes me feel icky.
Hey Rachel! I don't moisturize at night on Accutane either, just cause I'm so nervous I'll break out
I feel like we're probably the only ones?? Lol. My skin doesn't feel dry though. I just get a few flaky patches, which I exfoliate and then they're fine. That's it. Weird!
Haha, it always ends up that way!
I've never had a nosebleed in my life, but they don't sound pleasant. I have the dried blood in my one nostril. I think I'm going to run to the Pharmacy this weekend to try and find something for my nose, because putting Aquaphor up there only makes me feel icky.
They aren't horrific, but they aren't fun. Not exactly an enjoyable to experience to have blood running out of your nose. Haha! I hope you find something that helps with the dryness! I couldn't stand the idea of putting Vaseline or Aquaphor inside my nose. The idea just seemed uncomfortable. That's why I went with the saline solution.
On 7/6/2012 at 9:19 PM, zodistarr said:Thank you all for the welcome. My derm just called and said my lab was all good¦. so now the darn 30 day count down.
I have actually read every post in this log so I feel like I already know all of you
Tiger- yes I am very very active. I run 5 days and week and also do strength training. I'm hoping my joints won't be too bad!
I have a little shopping list I will be getting this month to help combat all the symptoms- so any opinions would be great! I am also single and (trying!) to date¦no one wants to date the girl with the bloody nose, cracked lips, or dry skin (but this might be better than the current state of my face!)
- Fish Oil
- Vitamin E
- Pill Box
- Eucerin Cream (I heard this was good for your face¦ any other suggestions to put on day and night?)
- Gentle Body wash
- Pure Shea Butter (hands!)
- Lip Balm¦ seems Jack Black is the favorite here
- Eye drops
- Vaeline
- Aquifer? I read a few reviews that said this was harsh¦ but I know I can't be using the ones with the beads during this treatment.
Any other suggestions??
Last question-
The day you all started your accutane- did you immediately start moisturizing¦ or did you keep using Epiduo/Retin A until the skin was clear? Or just spot treat?
Thank you Ladies¦ Have a great day!
xo Zodi
I've never had a nosebleed in my life, either. I have had lots of unruly dried bloody boogers (ew, right?) and sometimes my nose feels sore. Is it a smallish amount of blood that comes out or are you guys bleeding for a few minutes? I'm just curious as to the extent of the nosebleeds.
Hi Zodi! So glad you're taking the plunge. I'm in your age bracket and passionate about exercise and nutrition...it sounds like you like to run, eh? 
Awesome...keep it up if you love it. The 30 day countdown sucked for me. I think mine was actually 36 or 38 until I actually got the medicine. Prepare for miscommunication between the doctors, pharmacy, and iPledge. Unless you're lucky and it all goes well.
I love your accutane survival list so far, but I have some suggestions that can save you money and unnecessary products.
Aquaphor! The BEST! Get the regular kind in the tube, not the small aquaphor lip stuff. That one blows.
Vitamin E is great, but it's a nutrient that works in synergy with other foods and nutrients, so it's usually best to get it from eating foods. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and works with Vitamin C, selenium, and B3 to protect your cells from damage. It's also fat-soluble which is why it's in almonds and other nuts and seeds. Vitamins from foods are also absorbed better in general. Here are some foods high in vitamin E which will help keep your skin moisturized and less prone to free radical damage: [Removed]
Unless your doctor says it's okay to take it. I just worry about toxicity when we're already stressing our bodies with the accutane, combined with what we're already getting in our diets.
I didn't buy eye drops until a few weeks into treatment, because I wasn't sure which ones to get. I ended up needing the moderate to severe gel drops by Genteal. So, you could wait and see how bad it is...then you won't buy something that doesn't suit your needs. Just a thought.
I stopped all topicals 2 weeks before starting to give my skin a rest. It was so inflamed, that it felt good to not use harsh retinoids and benzoyl peroxide. The inflammation was killing my face, so...I'm sure you can use your stuff up until treatment, but I would stop right when you start. I started drying out a week or two in...it happened fast for me.
Moisturizing in the AM and PM is a really good way to go, because then you'll prevent irritation and unnecessary dryness before it gets out of hand. It's interesting how some of the gals here don't moisturize at night, but I have to, or my face will literally peel and hurt to move. Plus, red marks seem to fade faster when I moisturize more. I think it allows for less irritated skin, which is healthier skin, which then regenerates faster. Just my theory though. 
As for moisturizers, people love Cerave. I use REN's moisturizer for dry skin because it's pure and doesn't contain mineral oil, which clogs my pores. As for drugstore stuff, I also liked Burts Bees moisturizer for sensitive skin with cotton extract. Josie Maran spf 40 is great for daytime, and so is Neutrogena spf 50 for sensitive skin. Otherwise, it's lots of trial and error with moisturizers. I tried A LOT to find one that I loved. The REN one sinks right in, smells like roses, and calms red skin. I love it! No greasiness either.
I hope at least some of this helps you.
