I've had acne for about 10 years but didn't seek help from a dermatologist until I was about 19. Back then I had moderate acne, mostly on my face. I was initially given topical stuff, duac, tretinoin cream, etc. which sucked. The acne did clear up, but some still lingered and my doctor added an oral antibiotic. Things were going well and I was essentially acne-free other than some stubborn blackheads on my nose.

About six months ago, I lost my health insurance and so was unable to get my prescriptions. So since then I've solely been using over-the-counter stuff. 10% BP on my face and just a 2% salicylic acid wash on my body. Surprisingly, my face looks great. I get occasional breakouts but we're talking maybe 2 or 3 active whiteheads.

My chest, shoulders, and back are a different story. I've never seen my skin look this bad. I'm not sure if it's cystic, nodular, etc. (no distinction has ever been made), but it is definitely severe this time around. I just got my insurance back and was prescribed Myorisan 40mg. We are shooting for 6 month cycle and I will eventually be bumped up to 60mg.

I'm honestly kind of terrified. I'm a rational person, but some of the long-term effects people have reported are pretty scary. I'm concerned that my dermatologist is overreacting as my skin has essentially been untreated for months. But at the same time I don't want to go through the hassle of applying topicals every day with little idea of what the exit strategy might be.

This is the end of my fourth day taking Myorisan. I'm not sure what to think so far. I've been having slight headaches and minor aches and pains since yesterday. My skin isn't any drier than it was before, but I moisturize meticulously with Cetaphil Daily Advance. It's expensive but worth it. I'll never use anything else. My lips felt very very slightly chapped this morning but I put Aquaphor on them and they're fine. Hopefully it stays this way.