Key Points
- Accutane is a powerful oral acne treatment that can permanently clear moderate to severe inflammatory acne by reducing oil production and inflammation.
- About 70% of users experience long-term or permanent acne clearance, especially with properly dosed, extended treatments.
- Combining Accutane with blue light therapy may enhance results and reduce mid-treatment flare-ups.
Isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane) stands as one of the most impactful skincare advancements of the past 50 years. For millions with persistent acne, proper administration of Accutane can be life-changing.
While most acne cases are mild and manageable with over-the-counter treatments, about 20% of acne sufferers ultimately require oral medication. For many, Accutane offers the most effective—or sometimes the only—long-term solution, as it works to normalize the sebaceous glands and, in many cases, permanently clear acne.
Accutane is particularly beneficial for those with moderate to severe inflammatory acne that doesn’t respond to topical products or oral antibiotics. It’s known by several names, including Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, Sotret, and Zenatane.
Here are five key things to know about Accutane:
1. Treatment Duration: Accutane is a prescription oral medication, typically taken for at least 20 weeks.
2. Mechanism: It reduces oil gland size, decreasing oil production, slowing bacteria growth, reducing inflammation, and halting acne activity.
3. Long-Term Benefits: Accutane is the only acne treatment with lasting benefits, often clearing skin permanently.
4. Effectiveness: About 70% of users achieve clear skin for life, while others may experience mild, usually less severe recurrence. A longer, low-dose treatment can offer a lasting “cure” with minimal side effects.
5. Enhanced Results: When combined with blue light acne phototherapy, Accutane has shown synergistic effects, reducing acne flare-ups during treatment.
If you believe Accutane could be right for you, consult your doctor.
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