I’ve recently started my second dose of Accutane. I am now 21 years old and the first time I was on Accutane I was 17. Needless to say, I have a lot of wisdom to share from being on it two times now. I knew how to better prepare my skin for the medication and was able to get ahead of the side effects that I knew were coming. Accutane will, without a doubt, dry out your skin, most likely to the point of flaking. It will also most likely chap your lips. These side effects are unavoidable because this is how the medication goes to work. For those of you who are on the medication now or are looking to start this medication (after consulting your doctor first of course), I suggest trying the products I mention below.
EXUVIANCE GENTLE CREAM CLEANSER
This AMAZING cleanser retails for $30. It leaves your skin feeling hydrated, with a moisturizing film (in a good way). I seriously can’t say enough good things about this product. No other cleanser leaves my skin feeling as hydrated and refreshed as it does when I’m on Accutane. This milky cleanser is a must.
CERAVE MOISTURIZING CREAM
This moisturizer came as a direct recommendation from my dermatologist on my first round of the medication and I have used it ever since. This whole tub is only $15 and literally lasts forever. It can be used all over your body and face for a non-greasy feeling fast absorbing moisturizer.
BIO-OIL SKINCARE OIL
For days that I am having a bad flare up of dry skin, I will mix this Bio-Oil into my CeraVe moisturizer. It does leave an oily residue because it’s an oil so I will use it at night when I don’t have to worry about going anywhere. You don’t need a lot at all, so I recommend getting the smallest size for $12.99. This oil is specifically for scars and dark spots, so it helps combat any acne scars as well as moisturizing.
HERO COSMETICS MIGHTY PATCH INVISIBLE + ACNE PATCHES
I still get acne flare ups especially since I’ve only been on Accutane for 2 months now. These Mighty Patches are EVERYTHING. I am not even kidding when I say I have never used a better acne treatment. You put these on at night and wake up and the acne is gone. For $10.99 you get 24 patches.
Accutane is a very tasking medication to go on. It requires a lot of monitoring and doctor visits. There are also very serious side effects other than dry skin. Be sure to do your research and talk to your doctor before considering this very serious option to treating your acne. Let me know if you have any questions by leaving a comment below. I’d be more than happy to answer them.
Tayler Renee May 