HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

On Isotrexin Gel For Acne. Not Getting Cured. Any Permanent Cure?

default
Posted on Wed, 2 Jan 2013
Question: I have been using isotrexin gel for five weeks but my acne has gotten worse, should I go for roaccuttane?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (2 hours later)
Hi, thanks for using health care magic

There are different factors which act together to cause acne.(1) proliferation of the skin cells resulting in blockage of the follicles in the skin (2) increased production of sebum which is a oily waxy substance made by certain glands in the skin (3)presence of a particular bacteria that is associated with acne (4) inflammation

Effective treatment requires that all of these aspects are addressed.

In terms of the topical retinoid creams like the one you are using: they have an anti inflammatory effect, break down the acne 'bumps' and reduce the increased numbers of skin cells, however treatment can be frustrating in the beginning. This is because worsening can actually occur in the first 2 to 4 weeks as there is loosening of the skin.By the second month there is usually significant improvement of the acne.

Your doctor may consider adding an antibiotic (oral or topical to treat the bacterial aspect of acne) because this has been shown to increase the speed of recovery.

Some persons use benzoyl peroxide in the mornings and the topical retinoids in the evenings.

You may want to consider waiting at least another 2-3 weeks because the worsening the you are seen is commonly seen.
An antibiotic may also help

I hope this is helpful to you, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
On Isotrexin Gel For Acne. Not Getting Cured. Any Permanent Cure?

Hi, thanks for using health care magic

There are different factors which act together to cause acne.(1) proliferation of the skin cells resulting in blockage of the follicles in the skin (2) increased production of sebum which is a oily waxy substance made by certain glands in the skin (3)presence of a particular bacteria that is associated with acne (4) inflammation

Effective treatment requires that all of these aspects are addressed.

In terms of the topical retinoid creams like the one you are using: they have an anti inflammatory effect, break down the acne 'bumps' and reduce the increased numbers of skin cells, however treatment can be frustrating in the beginning. This is because worsening can actually occur in the first 2 to 4 weeks as there is loosening of the skin.By the second month there is usually significant improvement of the acne.

Your doctor may consider adding an antibiotic (oral or topical to treat the bacterial aspect of acne) because this has been shown to increase the speed of recovery.

Some persons use benzoyl peroxide in the mornings and the topical retinoids in the evenings.

You may want to consider waiting at least another 2-3 weeks because the worsening the you are seen is commonly seen.
An antibiotic may also help

I hope this is helpful to you, feel free to ask any other questions