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Many people who struggle with acne know the frustration of trying countless skincare products and making changes to their diet, only to see little or no improvement. Persistent breakouts, redness, and scarring can take a toll on your skin, confidence, and mental well-being. If this sounds familiar, you may wonder if there’s a more effective solution to help you achieve clear skin.
Isotretinoin (Accutane), a treatment for severe and stubborn acne, has transformed the lives of many who think they’ve tried everything. In this guide, we’ll explore Isotretinoin (Accutane), how it works, and how it can solve your acne struggles.
Accutane, generically known as isotretinoin, is a prescription-only oral medication derived from vitamin A. It’s classified as a retinoid and is for effectively treating severe acne.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) was developed to address the underlying causes of acne, acne that doesn’t respond to topical treatments or antibiotics. Its potency means it’s typically reserved for moderate to severe cases or for individuals prone to acne-related scarring.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) targets all four of the root causes of acne, making it one of the most effective treatments available. Here’s how it works:
This is a placeholder tab Sebum, the oil produced by the sebaceous glands, can mix with dead skin cells and bacteria, leading to clogged pores and acne formation. Accutane significantly reduces sebum production by shrinking these glands, creating a less favourable environment for acne development.
One of the hallmarks of acne is the accumulation of dead skin cells in pores. Isotretinoin (Accutane) accelerates the process of skin cell turnover, ensuring these cells shed more effectively and reducing the likelihood of clogged pores.
Acne-causing bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes (aka Propionibacterium acnes), thrive in oily environments. Isotretinoin (Accutane) suppresses bacterial proliferation by limiting sebum production and lowering the chance of inflamed breakouts.
Severe acne is often accompanied by redness, swelling, and discomfort. Isotretinoin (Accutane)’s anti-inflammatory properties help calm these symptoms, making existing lesions heal faster and new ones less likely to form.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) offers several significant benefits for individuals with acne-prone skin:
Unlike many treatments that require an ongoing application, Isotretinoin (Accutane) can deliver long-lasting or permanent results. Many patients experience clear skin even after stopping the medication.
One of the hallmarks of acne is the accumulation of dead skin cells in pores. Isotretinoin (AcSevere acne, predominantly cystic or nodular types, can leave permanent scars. Isotretinoin (Accutane) effectively controls breakouts and rapidly brings active acne under control, reducing the risk of developing permanent acne scars.
Clearer skin can lead to enhanced self-esteem and reduced anxiety or self-consciousness, particularly for individuals who have struggled with acne for years.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is the last line of defence e for individuals whose acne hasn’t responded to standard active acne treatments, such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or oral antibiotics.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) treatment is a prescription-only treatment and is indicated only under the following circumstances:
However, Isotretinoin (Accutane) acne treatment is not advisable for:
Step 1
A doctor will assess your medical history, evaluate your acne, and discuss your treatment goals. If Isotretinoin (Accutane) is deemed suitable, they’ll guide you through the following steps.
Step 2
Blood tests are necessary to evaluate liver function, lipid levels, and other parameters. Women must undergo a pregnancy test before starting and throughout treatment.
Step 3
Isotretinoin (Accutane) has potential side effects and risks, so you must give signed consent to acknowledge your understanding.
Step 4
Your doctor will recommend the appropriate dosage based on your weight, acne severity, and individual response.
Step 5
Regular follow-ups are crucial for monitoring progress, addressing side effects, and making any necessary adjustments to dosage.
Accutane is a potent medication with potential adverse effects, so strict precautions must be observed:
If Isotretinoin (Accutane) acne treatment isn’t suitable for you due to health reasons, personal preferences, or concerns about side effects, several alternative treatments are available to manage acne effectively.
The Hydrafacial is much more than a facial, using the patented Hydrafacial MD Elite system to perform medical-grade hydradermabrasion. A 30-minute three-step protocol cleanses, extracts, and then nourishes the skin with proprietary antioxidant-rich serums.
Medications like doxycycline help control bacterial growth and inflammation in moderate to severe acne cases. These are often combined with topical treatments for better results.
Women with hormonal acne may benefit from oral contraceptives or anti-androgens like spironolactone, which regulate hormone levels and reduce oil production.
Forever Clear BBL HERO uses broad-band light therapy to eliminate acne bacteria, reduce inflammation and fade acne marks, with results seen within 3-4 treatments. PicoSure Laser effectively treats post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
Experienced skin care doctors know that acne treatments can be challenging and need to be personalised to the patient, taking into account medical history, skin condition and personal goals. Starting treatment with isotretinoin (Accutane) is a significant decision and will be discussed in detail during the consultation.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is an effective treatment for severe acne, but it requires commitment, careful monitoring, and adherence to medical advice. If you’re considering Accutane, consult a doctor to discuss your options.
At Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa, we provide customised acne treatment plans in Singapore, including Isotretinoin (Accutane) therapy. Our experienced doctors ensure you receive comprehensive care, from initial evaluation to post-treatment monitoring. Shared decision-making is important to individualise acne care based on the potential treatment benefits and risks, acne severity and patient preferences.
Book an appointment for Accutane treatment.
A course of Isotretinoin (Accutane) lasts for 3-6 months, with regular reviews during treatment. Infrequently, patients may experience a relapse of severe acne after stopping treatment and require a second course of treatment
No. There is no evidence linking Isotretinoin (Accutane) to infertility. However, women should avoid pregnancy during the treatment cycle and for at least one month after stopping Accutane due to its teratogenic effects.
For individuals with severe or persistent acne, Isotretinoin (Accutane) is often worth it. The long-term benefits, such as clearer skin and reduced scarring, outweigh the temporary side effects for many patients.
It’s normal to experience an initial breakout or persistent acne during the first few months of Isotretinoin (Accutane) treatment. This typically improves as the medication continues to reduce oil production and inflammation.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is not suitable for:
