Oral Retinoid
Reviews
3.9
2786 Reviews
Oral Retinoid
Efficacy
87%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Use with EXTREME CAUTION: Causes severe birth defects and fetal death.
Oral Retinoid
Side Effects
High
Oral Retinoid
Acne.org’s Real World Take
The nuclear option. It works reliably and provides long-term remission of acne, and even severe acne, in about ⅔ of people who properly take an adequate dosage. However, it permanently and irreversibly changes the skin and the body forever and users may experience long-term side effects for the rest of their lives. It’ll nuke it, but there is no going back.
Oral Retinoid
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Isotretinoin (Accutane®)
Compare To Other Treatments
5
37.1%
4
33.4%
3
15.6%
2
7.4%
1
6.6%

Used Isotretinoin (Accutane®)? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
October 16, 2006

Pros:

Nothing really! Not for me anyways!

Cons:

Everything about it!

I was on Accutane for about 6 months before my doctor took me off it because it was not working at all! It helped at first, about the second month my skin became some what clear, so I was excited. Then the next month it all came back, but now I also had the dry skin, aching bones, nose bleeds etc. It never cleared after that! I was super disappointed since I paid almost $200 a month for the treatment (accutane, birth control etc). It was pretty much just a pain in the butt! I heard it works for most people, so I guess its trial and error! hehe
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October 15, 2006

Pros:

nothing

Cons:

everything

dont take it
October 13, 2006

Pros:

Completely clears acne. I had many one zit in the past year.

Cons:

Causes acne to get really bad at first. Side effects could be nasty... in my case they weren't much more then a nuisance. A little dryness and some rashes. Near the end I got a few nosebleeds. Went through alot of lip balm.

If you can stand feeling really ugly for a month or two, and you don't mind dealing with dryness... then do it. It's the closest thing to a cure. I'm very happy with it.
October 12, 2006

Pros:

Completely cleared my skin

Cons:

Dry skin, headaches

Took for 6 months. I didn't see any real improvement until my 4th month on it, but if only I could show you a before and after pictures, you would be amazed. The week I stopped my dry skin and headaches ceased and my skin was left clear and unblemished. Bottom line is simple, the side effects are a small price to pay for the amazing things this drug can do to your skin.
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October 11, 2006

Pros:

Dry Skin

Cons:

Headaches

I am 27 and have had cystic acne since the age of 12.My breakouts are not all over my face but a few nodules deep under my skin.Unfortunatly they swell and can be extreamly painful, some times so presistant they require surgery.When I was 18 I started seeing a dermatologist and he perscribed Azaelic cream, it did nothing.After 25 I noticed my skin starting to scar, that is when I foud a better dermatologist. After numerous topicals and perscriptions I started accutane treatment three weeks ago. Dry skin is the greatist thing ever. I am dealing with three cysts at the moment but I am not oily at all. I get all excited about using chap stick, a thing that would have broken me out big time in the past. I have been having headaches behind my eyes in the morning, but that is the only side effect so far, besides the peeling skin on my face ears and scalp,a little gross, but ok. Hopefully it works for me I am keeping my fingers crossed, and I guess my insurance covered it only $15.
October 7, 2006

Pros:

It worked for a few years

Cons:

hated the side effect -- peeling lips. And the acne came back after a few years

Sure this is the "big gun" of acne treatment. But my Dr. told me that about 50% of the people get acne again -- I did a few years later. Started slow, but came back as before. He suggested a higher dose (yikes!). I found that Paula's Choice products control my skin better, and after the mixed results with accutane, I prefer that route.
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October 5, 2006

Pros:

This truly is a crazy drug, it works wonders and you can automatically feel like your getting somewhere the moment you start taking the pill.
By my 3rd month my skin, although flaky and bleeding sometimes, was as clear as day! My confidence too.

Cons:

The bleeding of the mouth, the mood swings and emotional side of it
having to take birth control along with the accutane
the flaky skin everywhere, nose bleeds, muscle aches, and my acne came back 5 months later just the same as before.

If you want something to help, at least for a little while not caring about anything else do this. Its not cheap, its not fun, its a horrible drug for your body, but for a small period of time it does clear your skin.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.