Accutane

Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane, is a world changing oral medication for those who have severe acne. This includes large cysts, nodules, and papules. It has treated over 12 million people all over the world, changing their lives by relieving them of their acne that may have led to insecurities. However, this medication’s effectiveness can be excessive causing major side effects such as birth defects and mental health issues. 

Accutane reduces acne by first reducing the abundance of sebaceous glands causing the reduction in lower sebum production. Thus, as it reduces the sebum production there aren’t extra natural oils, which we create that would plug the pores, leading to acne. Alongside reducing the sebum production Accutane also prevents the pores from being clogged, inflammation being present, and reduces the bacteria. So in other words, Accutane is a cleaner that cleans and prevents oil/bacteria from becoming too much, which would lead to acne. 

Though this life-changing medication has led to positive effects in many, it can and has also caused negative effects. This includes dry skin, lips, eyes, nose, sensitive skin, skin peeling and joint/muscle pain. Not only does it cause these minor side effects, it also has major ones, which include birth defects, mental issues, liver damage, high cholesterol, and allergic reactions. Thus, it is recommended to get frequent check-ups when on Accutane, especially if you are pregnant. 

My name is Jonathon Ly and my life has been negatively affected by acne, as it caused me to become insecure, resulting in social anxiety and lack of social skills. However, after taking Accutane at the age of 14 my life was slowly changing. In the beginning my acne had gotten a bit worse and I had extremely dry lips. Dry lips were the only side-effect I had throughout my time taking this medication. Around 6 months later (which is the period in which Accutane should have made its full effect), my skin was completely clear, where my acne prone skin didn’t break out anymore. However, after getting off the medication my skin withdrew and I started to break out again, but it wasn’t as bad as before I took Accutane. Overall, Accutane cleared my skin and it helped me become more comfortable within myself, so I am thankful for Accutane. Also, I would like to recommend Accutane to any individual who suffered the same fate as myself, because it changed my life and I hope it can change theirs too.