My Seven Commandments of Accutane

One of the sole reasons I decided to move home was to begin the process of Accutane. I saw the opportunity to hibernate in the gloomy winter of Wisconsin, while bearing through the six month journey. I was afraid and embarrassed to tell people the real reason I am back home, but more recently, I am here to help those considering or living through the process. .

For those who do not know: Accutane (also known as Isotretinoin) is most commonly thought of as an acne remedy. While it can be, it is essentially a form of vitamin A, which reduces the amount of oil released by your skin’s oil glands. Accutane is typically a doctors or dermatologists last resort. Naturally, I have very oily skin, which produced a lot of underlying cystic acne. I tried topicals, antibiotics and many other highly recommended remedies. It was tiring to continuously see breakouts even after these treatments. After hearing good things about Accutane, I thought I would give it a shot.

I spent my first two months on 60mg pills per day, and moved to 80mg for months 3-5. While these may seem like incredibly high dosages to start out with, everyone’s case is different, and different bodies are able to handle prescriptions variously. While I am ~NOT~ a licensed professional in this field, I would love to share my seven commandments of my journey on Accutane so far.

1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

From your skin, to your hair, to your lips and even your eyes. . . everything will become dry! Start moisturizing like you are already dry, before the real dryness begins! Your hands and feet will need some extra T.L.C! My hair gradually became less oily. I went from washing it nearly everyday to about once or twice a week! It is important to use hair oils and leave-in conditioner to alleviate damage and breaking (especially if your a habitual hair-dyer). I also noticed my eyes became unusually dry, which would be a nightmare for someone who wears contacts. So, opt in for some moisturizing eyedrops.

2. Hydrate from the inside out

It is very easy to become dehydrated very fast on this prescription! This tip is easy peasy, drink water, drink water, forreals, drink lots of water!!!

3. Seriously…don’t pick

My WORST habit to break! Ask any of my friends. I have always had the mentality that it will go away faster if I pop it. THIS IS NOT THE CASE! On Accutane, your skin is much more fragile and will create a small zit into a large, red blemish.

4. Sunscreen is now your new BFF

Think of Accutane reversing your skin back to when you were a child. Remember when your parents lathered you in sunscreen? Hello, Deja Vu. Skin on Accutane is much more susceptible to sunlight and UV rays. My derm even recommended not taking the prescription during a week long beach vacation I had planned. In addition, face moisturizer with at least 30 SPF is your go to move! Lather up!

5. Alcohol is now your worst enemy

When I say I had ~the~ worst hangovers during undergrad, I look back on that as an understatement. While your doctor/derm will probably advise to not drink at all. . . it is near impossible to turn down a drink, especially after a long day or week. My advice, just be careful. Your body is more susceptible to alcoholic beverages, and you will be tipsy. . . fast. Make sure to drink lots of water before bed, or you might feel like a train hit you in the morning.

6. Join Peer Groups

This prescription can be very harsh, and there can be weird, yet serious side-effects. If it’s the late hours of the night and you’re dying to contact your doctor to see if the red, dry skin on the tops of your hands is normal. . . There are groups and pages online that have thousands who are on the journey with you, and have almost every answer for you. And the best part. . . Absolute zero judgement zone!

7. Take your doctors recommendations

All of our bodies are different. Some remedies work better with certain individuals. Your doc or derm knows your body, health history, and what may work best in your instance. Please, take all of their recommendations into consideration.

Accutane is a serious prescription and alters your body in so many ways! While most think they never thought I needed it, it was my last resort for a problem I spent too many years facing. Please reach out if you have any questions or want to talk about the process!

xoxo