Day 59

The tiny bumps are still lingering... I hope they don't become full-blown zits. The zit on my left cheek is still a scab. And there's still a nasty looking zit on my back.

Other than that... I can't believe tomorrow is day 60. It's oddly exciting to go see my derm since it signifies the end of another month on Accutane. Even more exciting to be entering month three, the "magical" month for many. Even though I'd say this stuff has been pretty magical already since it has basically cleared me since early in the course.

 

Wooo day 60! It's crazy how fast this course goes by.

I'm glad that you haven't had any bad breakouts. I hope that the rest of your course continues to go smoothly, too.

Day 60

I met with my dermatologist today. I went there straight from work, so I had makeup on because I didn't have time to go home and wash my face. I brought a makeup remover cloth with me though. I took my makeup off before I went into his office and accidentally wiped the scab off my left cheek, which caused that damn zit to start spewing blood. Okay, it wasn't that bad, but it wouldn't stop bleeding! Lovely.

My cholesterol is still high. Then again, I didn't do much to lower it before my test. I'm really not eating terribly, so my guess is it's just the medicine making my cholesterol go up. I think he said it's a bit higher this time than it was last time, but he still doesn't seem concerned. He didn't mention my triglycerides or my platelets. I didn't even think to ask. I guess everything was fine.

He told me my skin looks great and he doesn't think I even need to be on the drug for four months. He said he could have me stop after this third month, but I told him I wasn't okay with that. He knows about the cumulative dose. He just doesn't think it's necessary. But when I told him that everything I read online said you're less likely for your acne to come back if you reach a cumulative dose (and that I'd reach mine by doing a six month course), he said he wants to do whatever makes me happy and we'll discuss how long my course will be when I come back in a month.

He also told me he doesn't have many acne patients, but that all of them are on Accutane. Sounds like he's not hesitant to put people on this stuff...

I just answered my iPledge questions, so hopefully I can get my prescription (or half of it because of my damn pharmacy) later tonight because I'll need it tomorrow. I asked the girl in my derm's office who handled the iPledge stuff when the seven day window to pick up your prescription starts, but she really wasn't sure. Last month my seven day window happened to start on the day I had my blood drawn, but that was a Saturday. This month my window started on Wednesday (the day after I had blood work). She said he's going to call iPledge and find out. I just worry because my pharmacy never has the entire prescription ready the same day. But she told me I should ask them to order it and have in stock since I'll be taking it for a while.

I hope those bumps just dry out and fall off! It would suck to get full blown zits! You have been doing so good since starting! Back zits ahhh they suck don't they? I can't say I miss getting those.

 

I hope that month 3 is the "magic month" for you! I hope for lots of fading and that damn cheek scab goes away! I have 2 in between my eyes that are just lingering. I go in on Monday to start a new month! Exciting stuff! That means one month closer to my old lips coming back!!

 

Fortunately, the little bumps don't seem to be doing anything. Definitely a good thing! I do have a small zit on my left cheekbone though.

Oh jeez... Zits in between the eyes are the absolute WORST. I hope they go away soon! Good luck at your appointment on Monday!

Definitely can't wait for normal lips!

Wooo day 60! It's crazy how fast this course goes by.

 

I'm glad that you haven't had any bad breakouts. I hope that the rest of your course continues to go smoothly, too.

 

It is crazy! Glad it's going by fast though!

And thanks! Hope you're doing well!

Hi Everyone-

Glad to hear you are all well

Rachel I love your shoes¦ I hope you do keep running. Hopefully you will only feel "regular" workout soreness. I just read all of your updates- I would want to keep taking the course until you reach your cumulative dose too. I'm not going through this crap just to have to go through it again! I hope this is your magical month and your stubborn bump finally "dies" for good!

Gina- tell us how you like your new "budget" friendly face cream. I just shelled out the $$ and got more Sheer Transformation cream. I cannot wait until the day where I 1) wash my face and 2) put on my face cream. THAT'S ALL! Instead of the annoying steps now with all my topicals.

Body&Soul- I look forward to following your progress. I hope you don't get an IB. This is my biggest fear right now. I heard if you start on only 20mg the first 2 weeks, it decreases your chancese. I also read some Drs will out patience on an antibiotic the first month (not one in the "cycline" family of course). Who knows¦ I'll talk to my Dr when I go in.

Right now I'm on the "face roller coaster" from he**!! Last week I had a ginormous bump by my chin. It was terrible for 3 days- but went away rather quickly. I then had multiple small (but manageable) bumps until I wake up today with another monster up by my nose. Seriously?? I'm on Solodyne until I start my course and it isn't doing squat. I guess this reminds me that this is the correct decision.

I bought all my supplements/ vitamins and have started taking them now. Hopefully they will help with all the symptoms.

Talk to you all soon xo

Day 60

I met with my dermatologist today. I went there straight from work, so I had makeup on because I didn't have time to go home and wash my face. I brought a makeup remover cloth with me though. I took my makeup off before I went into his office and accidentally wiped the scab off my left cheek, which caused that damn zit to start spewing blood. Okay, it wasn't that bad, but it wouldn't stop bleeding! Lovely.

My cholesterol is still high. Then again, I didn't do much to lower it before my test. I'm really not eating terribly, so my guess is it's just the medicine making my cholesterol go up. I think he said it's a bit higher this time than it was last time, but he still doesn't seem concerned. He didn't mention my triglycerides or my platelets. I didn't even think to ask. I guess everything was fine.

He told me my skin looks great and he doesn't think I even need to be on the drug for four months. He said he could have me stop after this third month, but I told him I wasn't okay with that. He knows about the cumulative dose. He just doesn't think it's necessary. But when I told him that everything I read online said you're less likely for your acne to come back if you reach a cumulative dose (and that I'd reach mine by doing a six month course), he said he wants to do whatever makes me happy and we'll discuss how long my course will be when I come back in a month.

He also told me he doesn't have many acne patients, but that all of them are on Accutane. Sounds like he's not hesitant to put people on this stuff...

I just answered my iPledge questions, so hopefully I can get my prescription (or half of it because of my damn pharmacy) later tonight because I'll need it tomorrow. I asked the girl in my derm's office who handled the iPledge stuff when the seven day window to pick up your prescription starts, but she really wasn't sure. Last month my seven day window happened to start on the day I had my blood drawn, but that was a Saturday. This month my window started on Wednesday (the day after I had blood work). She said he's going to call iPledge and find out. I just worry because my pharmacy never has the entire prescription ready the same day. But she told me I should ask them to order it and have in stock since I'll be taking it for a while.

 

Yay for sticking up for yourself and going with your instincts! My derm ONLY treats people based on the cumulative dose, so I'm super confused as to why he would want to take someone off so soon. I'm at the end of month 2 and my skin is clear overall, except for 2 lingering cysts, but they shrink everyday. You just never know what could happen if you pulled someone off early, you know? No wait, I don't want to know! hehe

My derm told me that the 7 day window only happens after they receive my blood work AND I have my appointment. My derm says she enters in the information herself. I think it's a legal issue, because the derm has to agree in the iPledge system which 2 forms of birth control you're using, which then allows you to take the stupid iPledge test and say what birth control methods you are using. Maaaaybe if it's a nurse, it's okay, but I thought it was always the doctor. They don't want to get sued, you know?

The lab wouldn't have anything to do with opening up the 7 day window, only the doc. That's my understanding.

We're half way there!!!

Hi Everyone-

Glad to hear you are all well

Rachel I love your shoes¦ I hope you do keep running. Hopefully you will only feel "regular" workout soreness. I just read all of your updates- I would want to keep taking the course until you reach your cumulative dose too. I'm not going through this crap just to have to go through it again! I hope this is your magical month and your stubborn bump finally "dies" for good!

Gina- tell us how you like your new "budget" friendly face cream. I just shelled out the $$ and got more Sheer Transformation cream. I cannot wait until the day where I 1) wash my face and 2) put on my face cream. THAT'S ALL! Instead of the annoying steps now with all my topicals.

Body&Soul- I look forward to following your progress. I hope you don't get an IB. This is my biggest fear right now. I heard if you start on only 20mg the first 2 weeks, it decreases your chancese. I also read some Drs will out patience on an antibiotic the first month (not one in the "cycline" family of course). Who knows¦ I'll talk to my Dr when I go in.

Right now I'm on the "face roller coaster" from he**!! Last week I had a ginormous bump by my chin. It was terrible for 3 days- but went away rather quickly. I then had multiple small (but manageable) bumps until I wake up today with another monster up by my nose. Seriously?? I'm on Solodyne until I start my course and it isn't doing squat. I guess this reminds me that this is the correct decision.

I bought all my supplements/ vitamins and have started taking them now. Hopefully they will help with all the symptoms.

Talk to you all soon xo

 

It is definitely the right decision, and I experienced the same thing with antibiotics and creams. It was constantly a roller coaster. I even had to stop talking about it to people, "Oh it's better today! Oh, it's terrible today!" because it was making me depressed. Yes, your acne might get a bit worse at first with accutane, but it will dry everything out and your skin will peel, forcing the acne to be washed away. It's fantastic!

As for the Burts Bees Sensitive Skin Night Cream, it sucked after 2 uses! It was actually drying and then I re-read the ingredients list and it had alcohol denat. and zinc in it, both of which are drying. I would put it on and it would feel good for a while, but then I felt like I had one of those drying sunscreens on, do you know what i meant? Yeck! I'm back on my routine of expensive moisturizers, but they make and look me feel good! In the AM I use a small amount of REN Osmotic Day Cream, then I put on a layer of the Josie Maran spf 40, which contains argan oil. It is a BEAUTIFUL sunscreen!!!! Best physical one I've ever used. Not chalky and gross. It illuminates, too. Then I finish with mineral powder, which is no longer peeling as badly since I started layering in the AM. If I want a more done-up look, I'll do tinted moisturizer over the sunscreen. Usually, all of that stuff would make me greasy, but essentially, my skin is so dry, that I have to layer products in order for it to just look "normal." In the PM I use the REN again alone.

It's amazing not using burning chemicals and other crap anymore. I love it! Can't wait to see how your Sheer Transformation works out for you.

It is definitely the right decision, and I experienced the same thing with antibiotics and creams. It was constantly a roller coaster. I even had to stop talking about it to people, "Oh it's better today! Oh, it's terrible today!" because it was making me depressed. Yes, your acne might get a bit worse at first with accutane, but it will dry everything out and your skin will peel, forcing the acne to be washed away. It's fantastic!

As for the Burts Bees Sensitive Skin Night Cream, it sucked after 2 uses! It was actually drying and then I re-read the ingredients list and it had alcohol denat. and zinc in it, both of which are drying. I would put it on and it would feel good for a while, but then I felt like I had one of those drying sunscreens on, do you know what i meant? Yeck! I'm back on my routine of expensive moisturizers, but they make and look me feel good! In the AM I use a small amount of REN Osmotic Day Cream, then I put on a layer of the Josie Maran spf 40, which contains argan oil. It is a BEAUTIFUL sunscreen!!!! Best physical one I've ever used. Not chalky and gross. It illuminates, too. Then I finish with mineral powder, which is no longer peeling as badly since I started layering in the AM. If I want a more done-up look, I'll do tinted moisturizer over the sunscreen. Usually, all of that stuff would make me greasy, but essentially, my skin is so dry, that I have to layer products in order for it to just look "normal." In the PM I use the REN again alone.

It's amazing not using burning chemicals and other crap anymore. I love it! Can't wait to see how your Sheer Transformation works out for you.

 

Haha about not talking to people about it. I'm constantly doing that and trying not to. It's annoying to everyone!!! (Including me!) I'm just praying this cyst goes down by tomorrow (I've been on my weekend and work tomorrow¦) AAAAAGH!

Sorry your cream didn't work out for you!! I'm sure this other cream will work for me because it has in the past. I'm using it now and spot treating the big spots. Oh well- I guess it's worth the $$ if it's working (at least right now).

Now I just need those pills!!

So glad your skin is looking amazing 🙂 It really does affect confidence. I've always been a confident social person- and not so much lately. I know this doesn't define my- but I'm ready to enjoy being social again!

Hi Rachel!! Wow, day 60, that's so awesome. Today is day 76 for me. Sometimes I feel like it's going fast and sometimes I feel like it's going slow. It's so weird how all the derms do everything differently. My derm is very efficient with ipledge and appointments. My seven day window doesn't start until my perscription is filled which is usually the next day after my derm appointment. My derm puts in all the ipledge info before I even leave the office and then I go home and do my part and in the meantime the pharmacy recieves the perscription and they fill it once I do my part. I usually have two or three days of pills left when I go for my appointment. I get my bloodwork done a week before my appointment. I'm stressing about my cholesterol and blood sugar levels but I really can't do much more than I'm already doing. I am upping my fish oil for this next week but it's probably too late - I get my blood drawn on Thursday. As long as I can stay on the meds I'm not too worried.

I hope that stupid cheek zit starts healing faster for you! I hate the scabbing, peeling, bleeding cycle! Hopefully once that heals those days will be over for you!

Day 61

The zit on my left cheekbone has gotten bigger. And a teeny tiny zit popped up along my hairline on the right side of my face. What a way to start month three, huh?

I pulled something in my arm yesterday evening. I didn't even do anything! It's really been bugging me, so I've spent the day being lazy around the house. I took two Aleve, but that didn't help at all.

I picked up my prescription last night. My pharmacy had an issue with iPledge and said my iPledge information wouldn't "go through." They were supposed to try it again and give me a call, but they never did. I had to pick up my birth control prescription anyway, so I stopped in and they tried again, and sure enough it worked... They must have been trying to fill my prescription at the same time I was answering my questions because they called to tell me there was an issue around the same time. Unfortunately, they only had one box of pills in stock. So, I picked up 10 pills and I have to go back on Monday to get the rest. Fortunately, it'll be okay because my seven day window ends Tuesday.

Sick of iPledge.

Hi Everyone-

 

Glad to hear you are all well

 

Rachel I love your shoes¦ I hope you do keep running. Hopefully you will only feel "regular" workout soreness. I just read all of your updates- I would want to keep taking the course until you reach your cumulative dose too. I'm not going through this crap just to have to go through it again! I hope this is your magical month and your stubborn bump finally "dies" for good!

 

Gina- tell us how you like your new "budget" friendly face cream. I just shelled out the $$ and got more Sheer Transformation cream. I cannot wait until the day where I 1) wash my face and 2) put on my face cream. THAT'S ALL! Instead of the annoying steps now with all my topicals.

 

Body&Soul- I look forward to following your progress. I hope you don't get an IB. This is my biggest fear right now. I heard if you start on only 20mg the first 2 weeks, it decreases your chancese. I also read some Drs will out patience on an antibiotic the first month (not one in the "cycline" family of course). Who knows¦ I'll talk to my Dr when I go in.

 

Right now I'm on the "face roller coaster" from he**!! Last week I had a ginormous bump by my chin. It was terrible for 3 days- but went away rather quickly. I then had multiple small (but manageable) bumps until I wake up today with another monster up by my nose. Seriously?? I'm on Solodyne until I start my course and it isn't doing squat. I guess this reminds me that this is the correct decision.

 

I bought all my supplements/ vitamins and have started taking them now. Hopefully they will help with all the symptoms.

 

Talk to you all soon xo

 

The shoes are SO comfy! I haven't started running yet just because I don't want to completely kill myself. Lol. I have been going for walks every evening though, so I'll ease into running. And thanks! I hope this is my magic month, too!

Sorry to hear about all the breakouts on Solodyn! If it makes you feel any better... I was on doxycycline before Accutane. My skin definitely purged while I was on it. I kind of wonder if doxy is why I didn't had a terrible initial breakout on Accutane.

Yay for sticking up for yourself and going with your instincts! My derm ONLY treats people based on the cumulative dose, so I'm super confused as to why he would want to take someone off so soon. I'm at the end of month 2 and my skin is clear overall, except for 2 lingering cysts, but they shrink everyday. You just never know what could happen if you pulled someone off early, you know? No wait, I don't want to know! hehe

 

My derm told me that the 7 day window only happens after they receive my blood work AND I have my appointment. My derm says she enters in the information herself. I think it's a legal issue, because the derm has to agree in the iPledge system which 2 forms of birth control you're using, which then allows you to take the stupid iPledge test and say what birth control methods you are using. Maaaaybe if it's a nurse, it's okay, but I thought it was always the doctor. They don't want to get sued, you know?

 

The lab wouldn't have anything to do with opening up the 7 day window, only the doc. That's my understanding.

 

We're half way there!!!

 

My derm has done four months with a lot of people without them reaching a cumulative dose and they've all been fine. Plus, he pointed out that a lot of people just do things differently. I'm just glad he'll be willing to let me stay on this for six months.

I really can't figure out when my seven day window starts. My window always starts before my derm appointment happens, which makes no sense whatsoever. I think I'm going to contact iPledge myself and figure it out because with the way my pharmacy is, I never know if I'll get my prescription in time. My derm has absolutely nothing to do with iPledge. There's a nurse or whatever she is that handles it.

Hi Rachel!! Wow, day 60, that's so awesome. Today is day 76 for me. Sometimes I feel like it's going fast and sometimes I feel like it's going slow. It's so weird how all the derms do everything differently. My derm is very efficient with ipledge and appointments. My seven day window doesn't start until my perscription is filled which is usually the next day after my derm appointment. My derm puts in all the ipledge info before I even leave the office and then I go home and do my part and in the meantime the pharmacy recieves the perscription and they fill it once I do my part. I usually have two or three days of pills left when I go for my appointment. I get my bloodwork done a week before my appointment. I'm stressing about my cholesterol and blood sugar levels but I really can't do much more than I'm already doing. I am upping my fish oil for this next week but it's probably too late - I get my blood drawn on Thursday. As long as I can stay on the meds I'm not too worried.

 

I hope that stupid cheek zit starts healing faster for you! I hate the scabbing, peeling, bleeding cycle! Hopefully once that heals those days will be over for you!

 

I really don't understand this seven day window... Clearly there's something crazy with mine because, like I mentioned to Gina above, mine started before I even had my derm appointment.

I've managed to have all of my appointments scheduled on the day I take my last two pills for the month. And the girl in my derm's office that handles the iPledge stuff usually confirms everything before I leave. She just didn't do it last month. Ugh. I really need to figure out when the hell my window starts.

Good luck with your blood work! I hope it goes well!! I hate worrying about cholesterol and whatnot every month!

And thank you! The scabbing, bleeding, scabbing, bleeding cycle is annoying, isn't it?!

I just read this on the iPledge website:

Confirmation in the system by the doctor means that the pregnancy test results have been entered and your doctor has confirmed having a discussion with you. This action creates the 7 -day prescription window. The 7-day prescription window is the duration of time that you are allowed to fill and pick up this prescription if you have successfully completed the three steps.

So, there's something really wrong with my seven-day window. My window ALWAYS starts before I even see my derm. Last month by seven-day window started on a Saturday, but I saw my derm the following Wednesday. This month my window started on a Wednesday, but I saw my derm on Friday. And my derm's office has always confirmed my pregnancy test results either the day I'm there or the day after. I don't know why my window always starts before that... Something isn't right.

Yeah, I seriously thought I even read that in their dumb packet, that the dumb iPledge rule (can I call it dumb one more time, please?) that your doctor is in charge of entering in your negative pregnancy test! Do you think it is too unreasonable to ask your doctor's office to do it on the day of your appointment? Or do you not like that? You should let them know that they are short cutting your window and that it is causing you difficulty at the pharmacy. Only 10 pills? Have you tried going to any of the other iPledge certified pharmacies in your area? You can do a search online and go to different locations. I make sure to go to a location that is both certified and very busy in terms of turn around, so they always seem to have it.

Yay for night walks! I used to be really into those, but now I go to the gym in the morning because something always ends up getting in my way as the day progresses.

Hope you get more pills soon. Ridonk.

Day 61

The zit on my left cheekbone has gotten bigger. And a teeny tiny zit popped up along my hairline on the right side of my face. What a way to start month three, huh?

I pulled something in my arm yesterday evening. I didn't even do anything! It's really been bugging me, so I've spent the day being lazy around the house. I took two Aleve, but that didn't help at all.

I picked up my prescription last night. My pharmacy had an issue with iPledge and said my iPledge information wouldn't "go through." They were supposed to try it again and give me a call, but they never did. I had to pick up my birth control prescription anyway, so I stopped in and they tried again, and sure enough it worked... They must have been trying to fill my prescription at the same time I was answering my questions because they called to tell me there was an issue around the same time. Unfortunately, they only had one box of pills in stock. So, I picked up 10 pills and I have to go back on Monday to get the rest. Fortunately, it'll be okay because my seven day window ends Tuesday.

Sick of iPledge.

Hi Everyone-

Glad to hear you are all well

Rachel I love your shoes¦ I hope you do keep running. Hopefully you will only feel "regular" workout soreness. I just read all of your updates- I would want to keep taking the course until you reach your cumulative dose too. I'm not going through this crap just to have to go through it again! I hope this is your magical month and your stubborn bump finally "dies" for good!

Gina- tell us how you like your new "budget" friendly face cream. I just shelled out the $$ and got more Sheer Transformation cream. I cannot wait until the day where I 1) wash my face and 2) put on my face cream. THAT'S ALL! Instead of the annoying steps now with all my topicals.

Body&Soul- I look forward to following your progress. I hope you don't get an IB. This is my biggest fear right now. I heard if you start on only 20mg the first 2 weeks, it decreases your chancese. I also read some Drs will out patience on an antibiotic the first month (not one in the "cycline" family of course). Who knows¦ I'll talk to my Dr when I go in.

Right now I'm on the "face roller coaster" from he**!! Last week I had a ginormous bump by my chin. It was terrible for 3 days- but went away rather quickly. I then had multiple small (but manageable) bumps until I wake up today with another monster up by my nose. Seriously?? I'm on Solodyne until I start my course and it isn't doing squat. I guess this reminds me that this is the correct decision.

I bought all my supplements/ vitamins and have started taking them now. Hopefully they will help with all the symptoms.

Talk to you all soon xo

 

The shoes are SO comfy! I haven't started running yet just because I don't want to completely kill myself. Lol. I have been going for walks every evening though, so I'll ease into running. And thanks! I hope this is my magic month, too!

Sorry to hear about all the breakouts on Solodyn! If it makes you feel any better... I was on doxycycline before Accutane. My skin definitely purged while I was on it. I kind of wonder if doxy is why I didn't had a terrible initial breakout on Accutane.

Yay for sticking up for yourself and going with your instincts! My derm ONLY treats people based on the cumulative dose, so I'm super confused as to why he would want to take someone off so soon. I'm at the end of month 2 and my skin is clear overall, except for 2 lingering cysts, but they shrink everyday. You just never know what could happen if you pulled someone off early, you know? No wait, I don't want to know! hehe

My derm told me that the 7 day window only happens after they receive my blood work AND I have my appointment. My derm says she enters in the information herself. I think it's a legal issue, because the derm has to agree in the iPledge system which 2 forms of birth control you're using, which then allows you to take the stupid iPledge test and say what birth control methods you are using. Maaaaybe if it's a nurse, it's okay, but I thought it was always the doctor. They don't want to get sued, you know?

The lab wouldn't have anything to do with opening up the 7 day window, only the doc. That's my understanding.

We're half way there!!!

 

My derm has done four months with a lot of people without them reaching a cumulative dose and they've all been fine. Plus, he pointed out that a lot of people just do things differently. I'm just glad he'll be willing to let me stay on this for six months.

I really can't figure out when my seven day window starts. My window always starts before my derm appointment happens, which makes no sense whatsoever. I think I'm going to contact iPledge myself and figure it out because with the way my pharmacy is, I never know if I'll get my prescription in time. My derm has absolutely nothing to do with iPledge. There's a nurse or whatever she is that handles it.

Hi Rachel!! Wow, day 60, that's so awesome. Today is day 76 for me. Sometimes I feel like it's going fast and sometimes I feel like it's going slow. It's so weird how all the derms do everything differently. My derm is very efficient with ipledge and appointments. My seven day window doesn't start until my perscription is filled which is usually the next day after my derm appointment. My derm puts in all the ipledge info before I even leave the office and then I go home and do my part and in the meantime the pharmacy recieves the perscription and they fill it once I do my part. I usually have two or three days of pills left when I go for my appointment. I get my bloodwork done a week before my appointment. I'm stressing about my cholesterol and blood sugar levels but I really can't do much more than I'm already doing. I am upping my fish oil for this next week but it's probably too late - I get my blood drawn on Thursday. As long as I can stay on the meds I'm not too worried.

I hope that stupid cheek zit starts healing faster for you! I hate the scabbing, peeling, bleeding cycle! Hopefully once that heals those days will be over for you!

 

I really don't understand this seven day window... Clearly there's something crazy with mine because, like I mentioned to Gina above, mine started before I even had my derm appointment.

I've managed to have all of my appointments scheduled on the day I take my last two pills for the month. And the girl in my derm's office that handles the iPledge stuff usually confirms everything before I leave. She just didn't do it last month. Ugh. I really need to figure out when the hell my window starts.

Good luck with your blood work! I hope it goes well!! I hate worrying about cholesterol and whatnot every month!

And thank you! The scabbing, bleeding, scabbing, bleeding cycle is annoying, isn't it?!

 

I had a little blip last month too with the pharmacy calling me to tell me they couldn't confirm me but it was because I hadn't done my part yet. They were being uber efficient and got to the computer before I did. It's all been pretty smooth for me so far but I really hate the ipledge - it's very, very inefficient!

I had a little blip last month too with the pharmacy calling me to tell me they couldn't confirm me but it was because I hadn't done my part yet. They were being uber efficient and got to the computer before I did. It's all been pretty smooth for me so far but I really hate the ipledge - it's very, very inefficient!

 

I had that same blip last month as well! The Pharmacy called me before I even got home from the dermatologist. Like we need you to go on the computer and fill out the iPledge stuff otherwise we can't fill your prescription. I was like Whoa I just left my appointment. Give me 10 mins to get home and I can do it. I would rather have my problem than yours Rachel, that really sucks that your window keeps getting messed up! I hope you are able to figure something out. It would be a bummer to have something screwed up and your not able to get your medication or something!!

I'll have to say that I feel like I've gotten lucky with the iPledge thing, even though I'm only in my first month. Some way, somehow, my Derm made a mistake when entering me into the iPledge system and long story short, I've been entered in as someone who "cannot become pregnant", therefore...I do not have to do the questions every month. I will, of course, still have the pregnancy tests and visits to the derm each month . And of course I'll use two forms of birth control. But it sounds like I've thwarted an annoying process!

Rachel, I hope your derm and pharmacy can get your iPledge window straight!

I'll have to say that I feel like I've gotten lucky with the iPledge thing, even though I'm only in my first month. Some way, somehow, my Derm made a mistake when entering me into the iPledge system and long story short, I've been entered in as someone who "cannot become pregnant", therefore...I do not have to do the questions every month. I will, of course, still have the pregnancy tests and visits to the derm each month . And of course I'll use two forms of birth control. But it sounds like I've thwarted an annoying process!

Rachel, I hope your derm and pharmacy can get your iPledge window straight!

 

Wow that is crazy! What a big mistake to make. lol. I wish I was entered in like that. The iPledge is a pain in the butt. Its like 6th grade sexual health class all over again. Yes Yes Yes I know that if my boyfriend only has 1 condom that means we can only have sex once. Not even to mention the pain in the butt it is making sure the information gets from the dermatologist office to iPledge on time plus you answer the questions and iPledge has to get it to your pharmacy on time. In my opinion all that information changes hands a few too many times for no errors to happen. My issue with iPledge is they lock me out of the system 3 out of the 4 times I have used the website. Thus needing to call iPledge and deal with those people for 20 minutes each time. At least they are nice though.

Wth, what kind of derm is that. You only had 3 zits and some red marks and he suggest Accutane? A Drug that has side effect and is bad for you.

I saw your pictures at the first page and it was mild. You would be better off going plant-based diet and clear up. Not only that it helps with that, but you get lots of benefits.

Oh well, good luck.

Yeah, I seriously thought I even read that in their dumb packet, that the dumb iPledge rule (can I call it dumb one more time, please?) that your doctor is in charge of entering in your negative pregnancy test! Do you think it is too unreasonable to ask your doctor's office to do it on the day of your appointment? Or do you not like that? You should let them know that they are short cutting your window and that it is causing you difficulty at the pharmacy. Only 10 pills? Have you tried going to any of the other iPledge certified pharmacies in your area? You can do a search online and go to different locations. I make sure to go to a location that is both certified and very busy in terms of turn around, so they always seem to have it.

Yay for night walks! I used to be really into those, but now I go to the gym in the morning because something always ends up getting in my way as the day progresses.

Hope you get more pills soon. Ridonk.

 

The first appointment and this past appointment everything was confirmed the day I saw my derm. Last month it was confirmed the next day. My derm's office doesn't seem to be doing anything to shorten my window... I don't know what it is... I think I'm going to have to call iPledge or something to figure out what's going on.

I haven't looked into any other pharmacies only because the one I go to is the only one that has my insurance information on file. Plus, it's probably one of the busiest pharmacies in my area. I just don't think Accutane is very common where I live. I'll probably ask them to order it so it'll be in stock every month.

I had a little blip last month too with the pharmacy calling me to tell me they couldn't confirm me but it was because I hadn't done my part yet. They were being uber efficient and got to the computer before I did. It's all been pretty smooth for me so far but I really hate the ipledge - it's very, very inefficient!

 

I had that same blip last month as well! The Pharmacy called me before I even got home from the dermatologist. Like we need you to go on the computer and fill out the iPledge stuff otherwise we can't fill your prescription. I was like Whoa I just left my appointment. Give me 10 mins to get home and I can do it. I would rather have my problem than yours Rachel, that really sucks that your window keeps getting messed up! I hope you are able to figure something out. It would be a bummer to have something screwed up and your not able to get your medication or something!!

 

I hope so! Having to go through the whole pregnancy test, derm meeting, etc. process AGAIN would be annoying. It's bad enough doing it every month.

I'll have to say that I feel like I've gotten lucky with the iPledge thing, even though I'm only in my first month. Some way, somehow, my Derm made a mistake when entering me into the iPledge system and long story short, I've been entered in as someone who "cannot become pregnant", therefore...I do not have to do the questions every month. I will, of course, still have the pregnancy tests and visits to the derm each month . And of course I'll use two forms of birth control. But it sounds like I've thwarted an annoying process!

Rachel, I hope your derm and pharmacy can get your iPledge window straight!

 

You are definitely lucky! I really don't mind answering the stupid questions. It's not much of a hassle in my opinion. I just hate the seven-day window part.

Wth, what kind of derm is that. You only had 3 zits and some red marks and he suggest Accutane? A Drug that has side effect and is bad for you.

I saw your pictures at the first page and it was mild. You would be better off going plant-based diet and clear up. Not only that it helps with that, but you get lots of benefits.

Oh well, good luck.

 

I'm pretty sure I said in the beginning of my log that I knew my acne was only mild to moderate. Trust me, I know my acne is not bad at all and it's nowhere near what many people deal with. And I'm grateful for that. It has been worse than what you saw in those photos. I was happy to get things under control with Retin-A Micro these last few years, but when that stopped working, nothing I put on my face helped. I was shocked when my derm suggested Accutane. It wasn't until I did research and found out that Accutane can be prescribed for someone with mild to moderate acne if it's persistent and not responding to anything else, which is what mine was.

Accutane might be risky considering all of the side effects, but I'm happy with my decision to take it. I haven't had any severe side effects and I feel great.

I go in tomorrow lets hope that all goes well with my iPledge and things go smoothly.

Wth, what kind of derm is that. You only had 3 zits and some red marks and he suggest Accutane? A Drug that has side effect and is bad for you.

I saw your pictures at the first page and it was mild. You would be better off going plant-based diet and clear up. Not only that it helps with that, but you get lots of benefits.

Oh well, good luck.

 

I'm pretty sure I said in the beginning of my log that I knew my acne was only mild to moderate. Trust me, I know my acne is not bad at all and it's nowhere near what many people deal with. And I'm grateful for that. It has been worse than what you saw in those photos. I was happy to get things under control with Retin-A Micro these last few years, but when that stopped working, nothing I put on my face helped. I was shocked when my derm suggested Accutane. It wasn't until I did research and found out that Accutane can be prescribed for someone with mild to moderate acne if it's persistent and not responding to anything else, which is what mine was.

Accutane might be risky considering all of the side effects, but I'm happy with my decision to take it. I haven't had any severe side effects and I feel great.

 

I agree with you Rachel. I think it is important that you are happy with your decision with your to take the medication. Also I'm glad that you are feeling great! You know that you made a decision that you are comfortable with and that you did your research. Mild but persistent acne is a valid reason to be put on the medication. Don't let anyone make you feel like it was a bad decision to go on the medication. Plus I am pretty sure that all RX meds have side effects to some degree. I was put on a antibiotic and had 10 times worse side effects than what accutane side effects have been for me. You know and trust your derm and know his qualifications 🙂 Only you know what your skin has been through in the past.

Day 62

Well, the good news is the zit on my left cheekbone is pretty flat now. It still looks angry and red though! Lol.

I agree with you Rachel. I think it is important that you are happy with your decision with your to take the medication. Also I'm glad that you are feeling great! You know that you made a decision that you are comfortable with and that you did your research. Mild but persistent acne is a valid reason to be put on the medication. Don't let anyone make you feel like it was a bad decision to go on the medication. Plus I am pretty sure that all RX meds have side effects to some degree. I was put on a antibiotic and had 10 times worse side effects than what accutane side effects have been for me. You know and trust your derm and know his qualifications Only you know what your skin has been through in the past.

 

Exactly. To be honest, I don't care what anyone says. I knew when I posted pictures there would be people who didn't think I needed Accutane because my skin wasn't bad. I know why I'm taking this stuff. I knew what I was getting into when I made the decision. I researched this stuff every single day for an entire month before I popped that first pill. I firmly believe that as long as I'm aware of the side effects and I'm open with my dermatologist if something doesn't seem right, then I'll be fine. So far, Accutane has been worth it to me!

And I completely agree with you about other meds! There are so many other medications out there that have equally as bad side effects as Accutane. It's just a matter of deciding whether it's worth the risk.

Good luck tomorrow! Hope things go smoothly with iPledge! I hope you're doing well. I'll check in with all of you ladies tomorrow.

Wth, what kind of derm is that. You only had 3 zits and some red marks and he suggest Accutane? A Drug that has side effect and is bad for you.

I saw your pictures at the first page and it was mild. You would be better off going plant-based diet and clear up. Not only that it helps with that, but you get lots of benefits.

Oh well, good luck.

 

I'm pretty sure I said in the beginning of my log that I knew my acne was only mild to moderate. Trust me, I know my acne is not bad at all and it's nowhere near what many people deal with. And I'm grateful for that. It has been worse than what you saw in those photos. I was happy to get things under control with Retin-A Micro these last few years, but when that stopped working, nothing I put on my face helped. I was shocked when my derm suggested Accutane. It wasn't until I did research and found out that Accutane can be prescribed for someone with mild to moderate acne if it's persistent and not responding to anything else, which is what mine was.

Accutane might be risky considering all of the side effects, but I'm happy with my decision to take it. I haven't had any severe side effects and I feel great.

 

Rachel,

Only you know yourself and your body well enough to make an informed decision about taking Accutane. You have obviously done that and it's working for you. I think there are probably some people who take the decision lightly and don't care for themselves properly while on the drug, but by reading your log, it's obvious that you're not one of those! Congrats on your informed decision and your positive progress!

~bodyandsoul

Yeah, I seriously thought I even read that in their dumb packet, that the dumb iPledge rule (can I call it dumb one more time, please?) that your doctor is in charge of entering in your negative pregnancy test! Do you think it is too unreasonable to ask your doctor's office to do it on the day of your appointment? Or do you not like that? You should let them know that they are short cutting your window and that it is causing you difficulty at the pharmacy. Only 10 pills? Have you tried going to any of the other iPledge certified pharmacies in your area? You can do a search online and go to different locations. I make sure to go to a location that is both certified and very busy in terms of turn around, so they always seem to have it.

Yay for night walks! I used to be really into those, but now I go to the gym in the morning because something always ends up getting in my way as the day progresses.

Hope you get more pills soon. Ridonk.

 

The first appointment and this past appointment everything was confirmed the day I saw my derm. Last month it was confirmed the next day. My derm's office doesn't seem to be doing anything to shorten my window... I don't know what it is... I think I'm going to have to call iPledge or something to figure out what's going on.

I haven't looked into any other pharmacies only because the one I go to is the only one that has my insurance information on file. Plus, it's probably one of the busiest pharmacies in my area. I just don't think Accutane is very common where I live. I'll probably ask them to order it so it'll be in stock every month.

I had a little blip last month too with the pharmacy calling me to tell me they couldn't confirm me but it was because I hadn't done my part yet. They were being uber efficient and got to the computer before I did. It's all been pretty smooth for me so far but I really hate the ipledge - it's very, very inefficient!

 

I had that same blip last month as well! The Pharmacy called me before I even got home from the dermatologist. Like we need you to go on the computer and fill out the iPledge stuff otherwise we can't fill your prescription. I was like Whoa I just left my appointment. Give me 10 mins to get home and I can do it. I would rather have my problem than yours Rachel, that really sucks that your window keeps getting messed up! I hope you are able to figure something out. It would be a bummer to have something screwed up and your not able to get your medication or something!!

 

I hope so! Having to go through the whole pregnancy test, derm meeting, etc. process AGAIN would be annoying. It's bad enough doing it every month.

I'll have to say that I feel like I've gotten lucky with the iPledge thing, even though I'm only in my first month. Some way, somehow, my Derm made a mistake when entering me into the iPledge system and long story short, I've been entered in as someone who "cannot become pregnant", therefore...I do not have to do the questions every month. I will, of course, still have the pregnancy tests and visits to the derm each month . And of course I'll use two forms of birth control. But it sounds like I've thwarted an annoying process!

Rachel, I hope your derm and pharmacy can get your iPledge window straight!

 

You are definitely lucky! I really don't mind answering the stupid questions. It's not much of a hassle in my opinion. I just hate the seven-day window part.

Wth, what kind of derm is that. You only had 3 zits and some red marks and he suggest Accutane? A Drug that has side effect and is bad for you.

I saw your pictures at the first page and it was mild. You would be better off going plant-based diet and clear up. Not only that it helps with that, but you get lots of benefits.

Oh well, good luck.

 

I'm pretty sure I said in the beginning of my log that I knew my acne was only mild to moderate. Trust me, I know my acne is not bad at all and it's nowhere near what many people deal with. And I'm grateful for that. It has been worse than what you saw in those photos. I was happy to get things under control with Retin-A Micro these last few years, but when that stopped working, nothing I put on my face helped. I was shocked when my derm suggested Accutane. It wasn't until I did research and found out that Accutane can be prescribed for someone with mild to moderate acne if it's persistent and not responding to anything else, which is what mine was.

Accutane might be risky considering all of the side effects, but I'm happy with my decision to take it. I haven't had any severe side effects and I feel great.

 

Well, as long as it worked for you with no side effects Accutane would be my last choice if my skin ever get worse. So far, I'm a vegan raw 100% which is working pretty well, but I still breakout.. grrr. It never stops.

Wth, what kind of derm is that. You only had 3 zits and some red marks and he suggest Accutane? A Drug that has side effect and is bad for you.

I saw your pictures at the first page and it was mild. You would be better off going plant-based diet and clear up. Not only that it helps with that, but you get lots of benefits.

Oh well, good luck.

 

I'm pretty sure I said in the beginning of my log that I knew my acne was only mild to moderate. Trust me, I know my acne is not bad at all and it's nowhere near what many people deal with. And I'm grateful for that. It has been worse than what you saw in those photos. I was happy to get things under control with Retin-A Micro these last few years, but when that stopped working, nothing I put on my face helped. I was shocked when my derm suggested Accutane. It wasn't until I did research and found out that Accutane can be prescribed for someone with mild to moderate acne if it's persistent and not responding to anything else, which is what mine was.

Accutane might be risky considering all of the side effects, but I'm happy with my decision to take it. I haven't had any severe side effects and I feel great.

 

I agree with you Rachel. I think it is important that you are happy with your decision with your to take the medication. Also I'm glad that you are feeling great! You know that you made a decision that you are comfortable with and that you did your research. Mild but persistent acne is a valid reason to be put on the medication. Don't let anyone make you feel like it was a bad decision to go on the medication. Plus I am pretty sure that all RX meds have side effects to some degree. I was put on a antibiotic and had 10 times worse side effects than what accutane side effects have been for me. You know and trust your derm and know his qualifications Only you know what your skin has been through in the past.

 

Yeah, people can make their own decision. People would take any risks to cure acne once and for all, but they aren't paying attention to their health, etc.

I will never take drugs internally. ^^ It is just me. As long as she happy,^^

Day 70

Sorry for the absence over the last week. There really hasn't been much going on with my skin and it's pretty pointless to post constant updates saying things are the same.

I'm just over a week into month three and I haven't seen any good changes since my last dermatologist appointment. On July 13th, I met with my derm and that day I developed a new zit on my left cheek. It's still there. It's taking forever to heal, as is the other zit that's been on my left cheek for well over a month. It's still going through its cycle of scabbing and bleeding. A week ago a zit developed below my lip on the left side.

I guess the red marks on my cheeks and chin have faded a little since starting my course, but they're still pretty prominent to me, so I don't notice a difference.

And that's about it. Honestly, I'm just at a point where I'm sick of waiting for things to heal, especially the zit/scab on my cheek. It's been lingering so damn long that it's absolutely ridiculous. Oh well. One day it'll be gone...

I have my cousin's wedding to go to the second week in August and since I'm designing her programs, I'll be handing them out to the guests as they arrive. I'm keeping my fingers crossed things look better by then.

Hey Rachel!

Things will look better! I'm getting married on August 18, so I understand about the stress of wanting to look your best. Think about how nervous your cousin is going to feel. Holy crap...even though my skin is relatively clear, I have so many dark spots and redness, that it's embarrassing cause I want to look my best.

I can't remember asking, but do you have any favorite tinted moisturizers that have pretty good coverage?? I like them better than foundation, and am trying to wear one for my wedding.

Sorry you still have those pesky zits lingering! Have you tried putting a dot of a topical on the exact spot that they are to help "motivate" them to go away?

I got my Cure Aqua Gel and I'm in love!!! It's really awesome stuff! I've always been one to exfoliate- and those little beads can really tear up your face! This stuff really is amazing and I'm sure it will help me get through my course! Thanks for the recommendation.

I know you have a few really annoying spots but for the most part it sounds like things are going pretty smoothly for you. The past few days for me I have been almost 100% clear (I normally have one cyst after another) the Solodyn must actually be doing it's job. Fingers crossed I can stay clear(er!) until I start the medication on August 7th and then keep on this path.

Here's sending love and wishes your way that your spots finally give up and you feel like the amazing girl you are at your cousins wedding!

Hi Rachel....My fellow redhead

I just wanted to pop in and let you know that I have been reading your log and it's helping me so much. I am 16 and will be starting accutane in about a week and a half. I'm scared shitless, I'm not gonna lie. I have gotten so many good tips from you and all you're fellow 'posters' (ginanutrition, kaydon, beautifuldisasters, tiger, supernatualfanatic....). THANK YOU ALL! I read as much as I possibly can but I'm not sure I will ever be prepared for what awaits me. When it's all said and done, I hope we all get what we deserve. A life without freakin' acne which is just an enormouse distraction and annoying as hell!!! I celebrate your successes and feel for your setbacks. Hang in there and I wish you the best!

-Celia

Oh hey, one more thing. You all were talking about tinted moisturizers and bb creams and I just wanted to give my 2 cents worth. I absolutely love Boscia BB cream. I'm not one to wear heavy foundation (I think sometimes trying too hard to cover acne makes it look worse) but the Boscia is so nice with pretty darn good coverage.

Hey Rachel!

Things will look better! I'm getting married on August 18, so I understand about the stress of wanting to look your best. Think about how nervous your cousin is going to feel. Holy crap...even though my skin is relatively clear, I have so many dark spots and redness, that it's embarrassing cause I want to look my best.

I can't remember asking, but do you have any favorite tinted moisturizers that have pretty good coverage?? I like them better than foundation, and am trying to wear one for my wedding.

 

The spots and redness are the worst, aren't they? I hate trying to cover up red marks in the morning. Can't wait till we don't have to do that anymore!!

Luckily for my cousin, she always looks amazing. She is rather accident prone though and sprained her foot right before her college graduation a few years ago. She had to get pushed across the stage in a wheelchair. Lol! Then before her bridal shower last month she sprained the same foot! So, I'm keeping my fingers crossed she'll be accident-free before the wedding! 😛

I haven't found a tinted moisturizer that I really like actually. I haven't been wearing foundation or anything for a while now. The only tinted moisturizers I've tried are Laura Mercier's and one by NARS. Laura Mercier's made me break out and the color turned darker during the day when I'd wear it. The NARS tinted moisturizer just didn't come in a shade that was light enough. I can't remember if it made me break out though. It looked great on my skin though! Just wish they had the right shade!

Definitely try going by Sephora and getting a bunch of samples!

Sorry you still have those pesky zits lingering! Have you tried putting a dot of a topical on the exact spot that they are to help "motivate" them to go away?

I got my Cure Aqua Gel and I'm in love!!! It's really awesome stuff! I've always been one to exfoliate- and those little beads can really tear up your face! This stuff really is amazing and I'm sure it will help me get through my course! Thanks for the recommendation.

I know you have a few really annoying spots but for the most part it sounds like things are going pretty smoothly for you. The past few days for me I have been almost 100% clear (I normally have one cyst after another)¦ the Solodyn must actually be doing it's job. Fingers crossed I can stay clear(er!) until I start the medication on August 7th and then keep on this path.

Here's sending love and wishes your way that your spots finally give up and you feel like the amazing girl you are at your cousins wedding!

 

I actually had been using a spot treatment on them. It just never helped! 🙁 Fortunately, they seem to be smaller these past two days. I guess posting on here gave me some good luck. 😛

Glad the Cure gel works for you! It's amazing, isn't it? I love using it on my lips since Accutane dries them out.

I've definitely had a pretty easy course, which I'm very grateful for. I'm glad to hear you're clearing up too! Are you definitely going to take Accutane even if Solodyn clears up your skin? I don't remember if I ever took Solodyn. If you do still take Accutane, maybe you'll get lucky and won't have an IB. I really wonder if the reason I didn't have a bad IB was because I took doxycycline right before Accutane, which definitely made my skin purge a bit.

And thank you! 🙂

Hi Rachel....My fellow redhead

I just wanted to pop in and let you know that I have been reading your log and it's helping me so much. I am 16 and will be starting accutane in about a week and a half. I'm scared shitless, I'm not gonna lie. I have gotten so many good tips from you and all you're fellow 'posters' (ginanutrition, kaydon, beautifuldisasters, tiger, supernatualfanatic....). THANK YOU ALL! I read as much as I possibly can but I'm not sure I will ever be prepared for what awaits me. When it's all said and done, I hope we all get what we deserve. A life without freakin' acne which is just an enormouse distraction and annoying as hell!!! I celebrate your successes and feel for your setbacks. Hang in there and I wish you the best!

-Celia

Oh hey, one more thing. You all were talking about tinted moisturizers and bb creams and I just wanted to give my 2 cents worth. I absolutely love Boscia BB cream. I'm not one to wear heavy foundation (I think sometimes trying too hard to cover acne makes it look worse) but the Boscia is so nice with pretty darn good coverage.

 

Another redhead! Yay! 😀

I'm so glad my log has helped you! The day my dermatologist mentioned Accutane I started researching it. I was terrified because of all the possible side effects. But then again, I also read that negative experiences thread over on the Accutane board. That would scare anyone! I learned to stay out of there because I firmly believe a lot of those people are experiencing things unrelated to Accutane. Instead, I prepared myself my reading as many logs as possible. It really is a great way to prepare yourself for what's coming. My course has been nothing like I expected it to be. I expected Accutane to be so much worse. I really have been lucky though.

Thank you for the well wishes. And I wish you the best of luck on your course! I hope you'll keep a log to keep us updated. I'd love to read about your progress once you've started!

And thanks for the recommendation. I haven't tried any BB creams yet, but I'll definitely have to check out Boscia's!