Isotretinoin and Dry Skin: What Users Say (Page 3)

• Anonymous
• May 23, 2010

For Acne "I am 17 years old, and I have been going to a dermatologist for 3 years. I have tried almost every other type of medication they offered before finally going on Accutane. My acne was moderate, but it never showed signs of clearing, and my dermatologist said that going on Accutane would most likely be my only solution to clear skin. I have been on Accutane now for 5 and a half months, and I am done with the 6-month treatment in about 10 days. Going on this medicine was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. My skin is totally clear, and I haven't had a breakout in months. It has made me so much more confident, and now I don't feel pressured to wear makeup all the time to cover my acne. Side effects I have include dry skin and chapped lips."

• Izb...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 1, 2015

For Acne "I have had acne ever since I was 10 and suffered really badly. My back was covered in spots to the point where it hurt to lean against anything. I had spots all over my face and on my chest. I am on my fourth month of Roaccutane, and my face is clear other than two small spots, my back is clear, and so is my chest. I have had a few side effects such as dry skin, dry lips, and my body ached. Those side effects I can deal with, however, my mood swings are bad. I will be really happy for a couple of days, and then I will have a few days where I am down and crying a lot. The medication has helped me find a new confidence in myself. I don't feel embarrassed to go out anymore, and I can even not wear makeup when I go out. It is definitely worth it!!"

• Sea...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 28, 2017

For Acne "I suffered from mild/persistent acne, which only got worse when I started college due to the anxiety and stress. The breakouts became more frequent as the years went by, so I decided to see a dermatologist. I was first prescribed a treatment of facial cleansers, which worked for a while, but my acne eventually came back. Then my dermatologist decided to put me on Claravis (Accutane). The first 2 months were hell, due to the extremely dry/sensitive skin. I suffered cuts daily and shaving became torture, I almost quit on the treatment. However, I turned a corner around the start of month 3 and haven't looked back. My treatment lasted 5 months, and since ending it in October 2016, my skin has been completely clear."

• For...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• October 18, 2014

For Acne "I loved Accutane. I have taken it twice. It seemed to work for me for 5 years each time. I got the dry skin. I used baby washcloths and Neutrogena oil-free, fragrance-free moisturizer. After the first few weeks, it got better, though. Best acne medicine on the market! By far!"

• Iro...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 24, 2016

For Acne "I, like everyone, suffered from acne for the longest time. My face was so gross it hindered my self-confidence and faith in myself. Like everyone, I tried a million creams and pills and washes, none worked, and a lot made my acne worse. Accutane is the nuclear option. It cuts off all moisture to your face, and your face basically presses the reset button and figures out that sending all that oil isn't a good idea. Of course, that means your lips are chapped, your face is dry, and you'll probably get nosebleeds. To me, that was more than worth it. If you think there are other routes to stop your face from looking like a pizza, try those, but if you've tried everything and are ready to nuke your face and try again, Accutane worked."

• Lai...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 25, 2019

For Acne "I started getting acne when I was 13 when I first got my period. At first, it wasn't that bad, I would have whiteheads that wouldn't come back after I popped them. Then it started to get bad when I was 15 to the point where it would leave dark marks (hyperpigmentation). I used Cetaphil, which burned my skin and made my acne worse. So, we went to the dermatologist and decided that it would be best to go on Accutane. I'm 3 months in now, and my skin looks good. Before, I would get these deep pimples that would be very painful and leave huge marks. But there are side effects that you should be aware of, which are nosebleeds, possibly depression, dry eyes, and dry skin. And the monthly pregnancy test (if you're a woman) and blood tests. To moisturize your skin, I would recommend CeraVe facial cleanser (it has hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin), Isdin micellar solution, Vanicream lite lotion, and round cotton pads."

• Hai...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 25, 2016

For Acne "I've been suffering from acne from the age of 12. Ever since, I've been so insecure. At the age of 13, I started putting foundation to cover it up. It was really bad. Accutane/Roaccutane saved my life and my confidence in many ways. I'm 14. I've been on this medication for 3 months now. I've seen a lot of change in my skin. Really happy with my results. I really recommend Roaccutane. I started off with 20 mg, then 30, then 40. My side effects were nosebleed, dry lips, dry face, back pain, headaches, and joint pain, but it's definitely worth it. I took a before and after pic, and in these 3 months, I've seen a lot of difference, and now I can go out in public without makeup! I've tried everything and nothing worked except for Roaccutane."

• All...
• October 7, 2014

For Acne "Best decision of my life! My acne since I've had in fourth grade is gone, and I feel so much happier. My confidence has increased massively, and I am no longer depressed. The medicine did make me drowsy, ill-tempered, dry skin, and horrendous breakouts. But overall, this medicine has worked wonders for me and is completely worth it!"

• CDH...
• November 7, 2014

For Acne "I suffered a severe form of acne from around 15, and after being prescribed countless forms of antibiotics over the years (which had little or no effect), it was seriously affecting my self-confidence and social life. My GP then decided to prescribe me for a 6-month course of Accutane, starting at 20 mg/day. At first (months 1-2), the improvements were small, the only effects being dry skin and lips. But then, there started to be gradual improvements from months 3-4 when I was taking 40 mg/day. In months 5-6, my dosage was increased to 60 and 80 mg/day respectively, and the improvements were incredible. I can honestly say this medication has changed my life and would recommend it to anybody considering it!"

• jes...
• February 7, 2017

For Acne "Very good results, although I had terribly dry, red skin. Face moisturizer really helped! The medicine did its job, and I only took about 5 months of Accutane, which left me with clear skin. I get a clogged pore or a small pimple every now and then, but overall, great medicine! Really does wonders."

• eri...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• August 29, 2018

For Acne "I went on Accutane after trying a multitude of antibiotics and topicals such as Differin, doxycycline, some other cycline, and much more. I was a little hesitant to try Accutane, as my cousin who took it had bad side effects, and I personally have a history of mental health issues. However, taking Accutane is one of the best decisions I ever made. I did not have severe cystic acne, but my moderate acne with cystic on my chin was progressively getting worse and I decided to finally go for it. As an 18-year-old, I researched it and decided to try it. I definitely experienced dry skin and lips, as well as an allergic reaction type rash on my arms, which ended up being dermatitis. This was about the only negative side effect that I had, and overall the rash was 100 times worth it for the results I got. I have been off Accutane for about 3 to 5 months now, and I have not had a major breakout since. 10/10 would recommend!!"

• Anonymous
• May 1, 2009

For Acne "Loved this. Took it about a year ago, and it took about two months to really show results, and you only have to take it for about 6 months. I had acne on my face and back, which all cleared up. One side effect, though, was extreme dryness, which I dealt with. I also suffered from depression halfway through the treatment, which I dealt with as well. This was all a year ago. About 5 months ago, I had severe acne again as I began working in a greasy environment, so I was a mess again. I'm back on the pills, and it's working wonderfully. I'm halfway through and now have mild depression, but it's not so bad. The only thing I worry about is when I get off this if I'll break out again badly. Also, most people don't ever have to do a second round of this."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 27, 2017

For Acne "I was on Accutane my senior year of high school. When I was first recommended for Accutane, I was not happy. But having just finished it after six months, I can confidently say that it was the best decision I've ever made. Sure, the dry skin was a bit of a pain sometimes, and I had days when I was insecure, but in my mind, it was either a little dry skin or a ton of acne. Accutane worked for me within the first week. My face cleared up almost immediately. I have been off the drug for about a month now, and my skin has never looked better. For any high schooler considering Accutane, take it from me (an 18-year-old girl), it is definitely worth it."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 21, 2016

For Acne "My experience with Accutane was amazing! I have always had acne and have tried everything over the counter, but nothing worked. I did have some side effects including extremely dry lips, as well as pretty bad joint and muscle pain. My skin was also dry too, including my scalp. But I loved it because I could go without washing my hair for a week! It was great. These side effects sucked while going through them, but absolutely worth it for the results! After a few months of finishing, my lips, scalp, and skin were no longer as dry as they were while on the medication. My skin is definitely not as oily as it was before I started! I have no regrets about taking this med, and I would absolutely recommend Accutane to others!"

• Acc...
• August 13, 2015

For Acne "Please take time to read this. Accutane was 100% effective for me, but you really have to be prepared for it. I took Accutane for 8 months-40 mg, then 20 mg, then 10 mg. The reason I am mentioning this is that I noticed that people start at very high doses. So if you are worried (and I recommend), take it slow and start at a lower dose. Accutane has a lot of side effects (the severity depends on numerous factors, including dosage). My side effects included mood swings and dry skin (especially lips). I used to cry over the smallest things ever, and I got sad very easily. It got better with time, but please be well prepared. You really have to make priorities and ask yourself if it is worth it and if you are able to handle it. I chose Accutane :)"

• ren...
• December 18, 2013

For Acne "I have probably been off of Accutane for a good six months or so now, and I have to say it is a life changer and definitely worth your time and money! As a girl, it was tough and frustrating having to get pregnancy tests, blood work, and all of the appointments every month, along with the online portion, but it is SO worth it! I went to my doctor for a year struggling with acne before he put me on this medicine. I was upset he didn't do it sooner! Yes, there may be some side effects, the only side effects I encountered were dry lips, dry face, and very sensitive skin. I have a fair skin tone as it is, so during the summer, I could barely walk outside without needing to use sunscreen. But I recommend this product to anyone in need of it!"

• Bri...
• July 21, 2016

For Acne "I want to start by saying I have battled with acne for years and tried basically everything money could buy - pills to creams, going to specialist doctors, derms, beauty bars, etc. I went off the pill at 27 and thought my acne was done but had the worst flare-up ever. Tried spironolactone, which helped a tiny bit with oil, but it was still so bad. Cysts under the skin, blackheads, acne on my back or chest, it was so embarrassing. I am going on my third month of Accutane, and it's been a miracle, I feel like I could cry. My skin is clear/smooth, and people tell me I'm glowing. I still have scars all over that will need to heal, and my skin can get hella dry - well, everything gets dry because you are super dehydrated, but it is definitely WORTH IT."

• Anonymous
• November 21, 2014

For Acne "Best thing I've ever done! I started getting acne when I was 7, took Accutane when I was 11, and my entire face cleared up within 9 months, longer than expected, but I don't get any acne besides when I'm menstruating, and they're very minor. Only side effects were very dry skin, lips, and mood swings. I recommend it."

• Sec...
• November 20, 2013

For Acne "Before starting Accutane, I read through reviews online, and I got to say... most of them scared the poo out of me. Intense side effects and bad reviews. But let me tell you, I have been on 40 mg for 2 months once a day, then 40 mg twice a day for another 2 months, and it is a miracle. My face has cleared up so much; I am so grateful for this medicine. Yes, there are side effects; my lips have never been this chapped in my life, my skin is very dry, and I've had a minimum of 12 nosebleeds (pre-Accutane - never had one before in my life). I do have a month or maybe two to three left on it, my nurse said, but I believe it is all worth it. I have never experienced any horrible body aches or any of the other horror stories. Stick with it till the end!!"

• lov...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• October 3, 2015

For Acne "I love Accutane! I'm starting my 7th and final month now (started on 10 mg a day, moved to 20, now on 40 for the rest of my treatment). I was scared to try the drug because there was so much negativity about it on the internet, but I was so desperate to get rid of my acne and blackheads. My skin was so oily, and my acne was leaving scars all over my face. The only side effect I got was really dry lips. I went through so much chapstick, and the skin on my face got a little dry occasionally. I found drinking a lot of water a day stops all those side effects, though. I highly recommend. The only minor problem I had was in my 2nd month on Accutane, I got mono, which was so weird. But it could be a coincidence. No clue. Either way, I love Accutane."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 1, 2017

For Acne "I was so scared to take Accutane due to all of the experiences with initial breakouts and dry lips/skin. I've just begun my third month and could not be happier. After the first month, I had stopped getting active acne, and from then on, my skin has just been post-inflammatory acne scars that get less red day by day. My skin is nowhere near perfect, but the difference between what it is now and what it was pre-Accutane is EXTRAORDINARY. I thankfully experienced no initial breakout. In fact, after just a week, my skin had started clearing. My skin has not been dry at all- I've had no problems with dry lips or dry skin (I do apply Aquaphor generously throughout the day and moisturize twice a day). My treatment is Absorbica 40mg daily."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 7, 2016

For Acne "I am extremely satisfied with this medication. I took it for 5 months, and at my peak, I was prescribed 40 mg twice a day. It took about 3.5 months to start noticing results. I have now been off it for 3 weeks, and wow! My skin is 100% clear. I've had acne since I was a teen, and after failing other options such as antibiotics, I was placed on Claravis. You will have chapped lips. I had to apply Aquaphor (really good chapstick) every 15 minutes. Other side effects I had were nosebleeds, dry skin, eczema, rashes on my hands and arms, very sore muscles, sore chest, and any scrapes I got took absolutely forever to heal. I felt sluggish, sort of like I had the flu for 5 months. However, having clear skin was definitely worth it!"

• Acc...
• September 12, 2016

For Acne "I actually miss taking Accutane. I finally decided to take it after years of bad cystic acne and nothing else working. It took about a month to start working, but I was only on 20 mg a day. It was a Godsend. Despite being on such a low dose of it (I think the average is 40 mg a day), Accutane worked wonders. The only side effects I had were dry lips and dry skin, both of which were worse in the winter (Thanks, Chicago). Since going off it, I get little pimples again and my oily skin and hair came back. I wish I was still on Accutane because it was nice not having oily skin, lol."

• bel...
• July 31, 2014

For Acne "I've been on this medication for just over 2 months now, taking 40 mg a day. When I started on a low dose, the first 3 weeks I experienced severe dry skin, lips, and especially my nose and under my eyes even. The first 5 weeks my skin broke out worse. And from the beginning, I started getting severe back pain. Now in week 9, my skin has settled down and is a tiny bit better, but all my blackheads have disappeared. My skin is still drier than usual, but it's actually improved, and my lips are fine as long as I apply Vaseline 2-3 times a day. The only significant side effect I still have is my back and bone/joint pain. So far, I'm very happy with what I've achieved (the blackheads) and expect things to keep improving."

• hs1...
• June 6, 2017

For Acne "I took Accutane for about 6 months, in the 5th month, I noticed significant changes to my skin. By the end of the 6th month, my face was completely clear, and I was only left with scarring. It has been 3 and a half years since I have taken Accutane. I can say with certainty that it was the best decision I made for my skin, even my scarring has almost disappeared. After my acne cleared up, I was more confident and didn't even feel the need to wear any makeup like I did prior to this medication. The only bad side effect I got from this drug was extremely dry/chapped lips and skin, to the point where my lips would bleed from dryness. I would suggest putting a heavy moisturizer and chapstick on every day."