Definitely do thorough research and figure out if you're willing to deal with whatever side effects that may come up. There are a lot of topics/stories on the board, as well as a section about Accutane on the site if you'd like to read up. Talk extensively with your derm, write down any questions or concerns you may have. I'd even look at youtube vlogs or stories as well.

What other methods have you tried in the past? - Personally a while back I felt I should have gone on Accutane but I was afraid of it, and didn't, and since then I'm finding a balance with my current routine, but it can be difficult but it's more managable. So I am glad I didn't take the chance. But I don't believe you can go in unsure when it comes to this, you have to be definite in your decision.

I hope you get responses from anyone who has been on Accutane.

So I've suffered from acne since I was 13 years old. Never too bad. Mild throughout my early high school years. Became more moderate when I was a senior.

I went off the college and it started to get a lot worse. I was experiencing a lot of depression at this time so I decided to drop out after having an over-the-top anxiety attack. Once I turned 18....boom all hell broke loose on my face. Literally just an eruption of redness and cysts.

I was always an outgoing, sweet, caring, funny girl who was unafraid to be herself. I'm 19 now and I can't look anyone in the eyes while having a conversation. I lost a lot of amazing people in my life due to my insecurities and I don't go out anymore because I'm so self-conscious. I haven't gone through a day without makeup in YEARS. I despise makeup, but I despise the thought of my naked face being exposed even more.

I talked to my dermatologist about Accutane earlier this year and, upon hearing about the potential side effects, I decided against it. It is now seven months later and I'm wishing I had gotten on it then. I am going to the dermatologist later this month to discuss it again and am planning on taking a chance on it. No drug can make my depression any worse than it already is.

And so I ask what are everyone's views on Accutane and should I take a chance on it? Keep in mind, my acne is very severe and very cystic. So it needs to be gone.

As the above poster stated, what have you tried? Accutane should not be a first resort as it does have some bad side effects. But if you have tried everything else:

diet changes

hormonal means

topicals

Accutane can help. Definitely do your research. Good Luck as no one should have to suffer with this.

After seven months of extensive, heavy-duty research, I've decided that I am definitely willing to put up with the side effects 100%.

So far I've tried every over the counter product known to man. I've tried bp products, salicylic acid products, even sulfur products. I've done diet changes and regular exercise. Three different birth control pills failed to help. I've also been prescribed adapalene and doxycycline (which gave me horrible digestive issues).

Will all of these treatments be enough for the dermatologist to allow me to take accutane?