The odds aren't in your favor that you'll escape acne. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 85 percent of people experience acne at some point during their lives. It appears in various forms, such as pimples, cysts or nodules and plugged pores or blackheads and whiteheads. Your face, shoulders and back are most likely to suffer acne breakouts and scarring. Common treatments include topical medications, such as benzoyl peroxide and Retin-A, and antibiotics. such as tetracycline. However, the only remedy that's considered permanent is isotretinoin, known more commonly as Accutane.
Step 1
Consult a dermatologist. Isotretinoin is a potent drug that can cause severe side effects and is available only by prescription in the United States. Both you and the prescribing doctor must be registered with iPledge, a program set up to ensure that women do not become pregnant while taking the medication, or that pregnant women do not take it.
Step 2
Learn about all the side effects before deciding on this course of treatment. The most severe is birth defects. However, other common side effects include severe dryness of the skin, nose and eyes, nosebleeds, joint and muscle pain, hair thinning, rashes and sun sensitivity. In rare cases, isotretinoin may also cause depression or suicidal thoughts.
Step 3
Wash your face with a mild cleanser. Get advice from your doctor about other products that minimize the side effects of isotretinoin treatment. For instance, some skin care companies produce moisturizers that are effective against the skin dryness caused by isotretinoin treatment.
Step 4
Go for your blood tests as recommended by your doctor. Isotretinoin can also have other adverse reactions,such as elevating liver enzymes and raising your blood cholesterol levels. During the course of your treatment--usually about four to six months--make sure you stick to your testing schedule to protect your overall health.
Step 5
Reduce your intake of foods with saturated and trans fats to help keep your cholesterol levels in check.
Tips and Warnings
- Take isotretinoin as advised by your doctor. Be honest about any side effects you are experiencing and ask about what to do if you miss a dose. Apply a liberal amount of a broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you're going outdoors while on isotretinoin and avoid staying in the sun too long, advises the National Institutes of Health.
- Do not breastfeed when taking isotretinoin. Always use at least two forms of birth control if you're sexually active while taking isotretinoin. Get full details from your doctor about the symptoms that signal you should stop taking isotretinoin immediately. Symptoms include blurred vision, dizziness, fainting, hearing problems, numbness, seizures and vomiting.
Things You'll Need
- Isotretinoin
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