The Best Skincare for Accutane and Roaccutane Users Recommended by a Dermatologist (2024)

If you’re struggling with acne, chances are you’ve thought about trying Roaccutane. Although changing your diet, getting more sleep, and tailoring your skincare routine might encourage a subtle shift in your skin, really bad acne often needs specific medical attention.

Many people out there recommend Roaccutane (generic name isotretinoin), yet there are those who vow never to go near it. While the wonder pill can ease off the miserable pressure that acne induces, it’s a powerful drug that can come with a set of serious isotretinoin side effects.

This anti-inflammatory oral drug shrinks the sebaceous glands that cause acne and reduces the bacteria that live on the skin. But with dry skin almost inevitable, unhealthy hair loss a possibility, dramatic mood swings hanging in the balance, and endless doctor appointments on the cards, the big question is:

Is Roaccutane Really Worth It?

To answer all your burning Roaccutane questions, we called in an expert. Dr Shyamalar Gunatheesan is a top dermatologist at Fairfield and Clifton Hill Dermatology in Fitzroy North, Victoria, Australia. She knows a thing or two about the Accutane regimen and what products to use while on Accutane (aka Roaccutane).

What is Roaccutane, and What are its Side Effects When it Comes to Your Skin?

‘Roaccutane is isotretinoin (13-cis retinoic acid), which is a vitamin A derivative. The liver naturally makes small quantities of isotretinoin from vitamin A, but the drug we prescribe is made synthetically and in higher doses.

‘It is a very effective agent for the control of acne and in the induction of long term remissions. As dermatologists, we use it in a variety of other conditions such as rosacea, folliculitis, and seborrhea (oily skin).’

Can Accutane Cause Eczema?

While it’s unclear whether Roaccutane will cause eczema, it can irritate existing dry skin and change how your skin reacts. ‘We tend to use low doses like 10 mg for a longer time like 6 to 9 months, as opposed to higher doses for shorter bursts of time,’ says Dr Gunatheesan. ‘This minimises the side effects of isotretinoin, which tend to be dose-dependent.’

Does Roaccutane Affect Hair?

Roaccutane is the most common acne medication on the market, but that’s not to say it doesn’t come without challenges. If you’re on a high dose of isotretinoin, you could experience hair loss or thinning hair—which, let’s face it, can be a nightmare! Before you panic, there are a few things you can do to help yourself.

When on Accutane, it’s crucial that you nourish your body the best way you can. Roaccutane can cause a vitamin B deficiency, so it’s time to start taking an extra daily supplement. Lucky for you, vitamin B can also be found in avocado, which means you can eat as much avo and poached egg on toast as you fancy!

Roaccutane treatment is also a good time to reduce stress and let your body relax. We know: it’s hard to switch off! But why not treat yourself to a new mindfulness app to help slow your days down and ward off stress?

It’s always a good idea to protect yourself from the sun. Roaccutane will dry your hair out, so invest in some new hats and headscarves to stay covered and confident.

How Does Roaccutane Affect Your Hair?

· Isotretinoin, the main ingredient in Roaccutane, is a synthetic form of vitamin A that helps suppress oil, or sebum, production in the skin to reduce acne.

· While this helps with reducing acne, sebum does have a role in keeping the skin and hair healthy:

• It protects the skin from some of the damage caused by external factors, like UV, heat and cold

• It protects the skin from dehydration

• maintains the suppleness of skin and hair

· Healthy hair starts with a healthy, supple scalp (skin). One of most common side effects of supressed sebum production is severely dehydrated skin, lips and dry brittle hair that breaks easily.

· Sebum consists of a number of organic acids that maintain the pH of the skin between 3 and 5. Intact skin not only prevents entry of pathogens and chemicals but also inhibits the growth of most pathogenic bacteria due to its low pH.

· Roaccutane may affect the body in ways that could contribute to hair thinning or hair loss as well. For example, Roaccutane may affect the hair shafts and follicles themselves. Most of the time, any hair loss is temporary, and the thin hair should start to thicken again with time. However, some people may notice a permanent change in their hair after taking isotretinoin.

Do Roaccutane and Alcohol Mix?

While it might seem dramatic, it’s probably best to steer clear of alcohol when on Roaccutane. Mixing the two can cause liver toxicity, which could wreak havoc in your body and create some dangerous side effects.

And What are the Isotretinoin Side Effects?

‘Side effects generally relate to dryness of the skin, mucous membranes, eyes, and scalp. The commonest side effects will be dry lips and photosensitivity (increased tendency to sunburns).’

‘It is best to avoid hair removal lasers, microdermabrasion, and tattooing whilst on Roaccutane and for 4 to 6 months post-treatment. Shaving and waxing can be undertaken very judiciously. Other areas sometimes prone to dryness include the nasal passages, eyes, genitals, and nails, the last of which can become brittle. I also warn my patients that there could be an initial, temporary flaring of their acne.’

What Products are Best to Use When on Roaccutane?

Whether you’re about to embark on a Roaccutane journey or you’re about to come off Roaccutane, it’s well worth investing in an Accutane skin care regimen. From hair care on Roaccutane to the best lip treatment for Accutane users, Dr Gunatheesan has helped us put together the best tips for Accutane users. Get ready to start your new dermatologist skin care routine for dry skin …

The good news is that once you start taking Apotecari Crowning Glory 1 month Supply, you begin to relieve these symptoms. The dermatologist-recommended combination is backed by science and packed full of nutrients. The potent, plant-based blend features anti-inflammatories and premium vitamins, which will boost the appearance of your hair and help get it back to its shiniest, loveliest best. Take for 90 days to maximise your results. And consult with your healthcare professional prior to taking if you’re on Roaccutane.

What makes Crowning Glory the Best Choice for Someone Currently on Roaccutane?

· Caring for the skin and hair during Roaccutane treatment is especially important

· Some general hair care tips include:

• keeping the hair nourished

• nurturing the scalp to avoid excessive dryness

• avoiding harsh processes such as drying, curling, or blow-drying the hair with very hot styling tools

· Made with plant-based Omega oils, Crowning Glory is a 2-pill/day dose of targeted nutrition to for optimum scalp health and consequent hair health

· It can be taken 2-4 hours after your Roaccutane dose with the ok of your healthcare professional

· In particular, the omega-3 containing Crowning Glory is good to keep skin hydrated, addressing dryness of the lips, nose, and eyes

· While the scalp is kept nourished, the hair is able to be nourished, reducing dryness, brittleness and breakage and promoting healthy hair, from within

· Crowning Glory’s strong anti-inflammatory actions also helps the health of the skin

If you’re suffering from acne, redness, or any inflammation, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser 200ml takes the gentlest approach, keeping your skin healthy and balanced. The milky texture is cooling and soothing on the skin, making it a great option as part of a Roaccutane skin care routine. Use this cleanser safely morning and night to softly wash the face. Rinse with lukewarm water to maximise the fresh, clean feeling. Always pat the skin instead of rubbing it dry after washing, to prevent worsening any irritation.

This extraordinarily soft mineral water clouds your face (and body) with the finest mist of hydration. It’s ideal to use throughout the day to protect and refresh. La Roche-Posay’s dermatological spa patients are actually encouraged to drink the spring water directly from the source! La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water - 100ml is of the utmost quality and will help soothe skin irritated by Accutane. Spray 2 to 3 times on the face and pat away any excess very gently. Use as often as you like throughout the day to feel the benefits.

Also great if you’re looking to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum helps plump the look of the skin. Suitable for all skin types, this serum can be applied morning and night on freshly cleansed face and neck. Follow up with a creamy moisturiser to lock in the love.

Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream 40ml has a long-lasting, hydrating approach, working hard to smooth and soften skin that’s been affected by the drying effects of Roaccutane. To gently calm your skin, apply the cream morning and night after cleansing and toning. If you’re suffering from extreme dryness, apply during the day to keep your skin’s moisture levels high. Use all over the face and neck to see the supple results.

The Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF 30 contains nourishing, natural ingredients like Castor Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil and Jojoba Oil. This easy to apply formula is perfect for everyday, adding comfort and suppleness to your lips. The most important element of this lip balm is it’s high UVA/UVB protection, which is important when you are undergoing Roaccutane. Plus, it easily fits in your pocket so you can reapply anytime, anywhere.

Penetrating the skin without creating an oily texture, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ is fragrance-free, which makes it a good SPF* choice for sensitive skin. This broad spectrum sunscreen with an invisible finish also helps to prevent pigmentation. Apply and reapply as directed.

<br>*SPF is only one part of sun protection! Always seek shade, and wear sunnies, a hat and protective clothing. Use sufficient sunscreen for all unprotected areas and reapply sunscreen as directed. Frequent re-application or use in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection. Always read the label. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided.

<br>

Starting a Roaccutane skin care regime can seem daunting. But as long as you’re following the advice of a healthcare professional and taking care of yourself, you should soon reap rewards. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, and keep your skin moisturised to prevent it from drying or cracking. And when times get rough, just remember: Roaccutane will clear up your acne for good! Which, after all you’ve been through, is the reward you deserve.

Now, let's recap! What are the Best Skincare for Accutane and Roaccutane Users Recommended by a Dermatologist?

• Apotecari Crowning Glory 1 month Supply

• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser 200ml

• La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water - 100ml

• La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum

• Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream 40ml

• Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF 30

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+