I wanted to document this as a journal entry to refer back to in the future for myself. Hopefully, it provides some insight or helps anyone who might have similar situation. Please do ask questions and I will be glad to answer them when I do check in from time to time.

Background

• Male, early 30s
• This is my second round of Accutane (the first was in my 20s at a much higher dose for about four months, but I had to stop due to severe side effects).

Currently, Im in my second month of a low-dose Accutane regimen (10mg). I decided to pursue this treatment again as an adult because of persistent, mild acne that hasnt fully resolved. While its less severe than what I dealt with before completing my first course, its still been bothersome.

During my first course, the side effects were intensemost notably, a year-long backache even after stopping the medication. That said, the treatment cleared up most of my acne at the time. Now, in my 30s, Ive noticed the return of persistent acne, which prompted me to try a low dose after hearing positive results. In my country, doses higher than 20mg arent prescribed.

So far, the results have been excellent. I experienced a brief purge early on into week 3/4?, but it didnt last long, and most of my acne is already gone.

Current Side Effects

• Dry lips: Started during the first week.
• Mild joint pain: Im managing this by supplementing with fish oil (which is already helping), glucosamine, and a multivitamin that excludes Vitamin A.

Results So Far
Im thrilled with the progress. Even with my naturally very oily skin, this low dose has normalized it to what I would consider "normal skin." After my first course, my oiliness returned to its original state, but this time around, the results feel more sustainable. You could literally use my face oil as cooking oil, that's how oily it was.

Treatment Plan
I plan to continue the 10mg dosage for a total of six months (five more months to go).

Acne Scar Revision
Ive decided to take the risk of undergoing acne scar revision during my treatment. Over the next seven months, Ill undergo a combination of procedures, including subcision, CO2 lasers, fillers, and more, to address my severe acne scars (rolling and other types). Ill document this as well to provide some anecdotal evidence for others.

Ill be sure to update this journal for anyone who might find it helpful.