Anyone that’s ever suffered from acne knows how much of a burden it can be. Not wanting to leave the house, feeling like the acne is all anyone sees, and having to cover it with what feels like gobs of makeup just to feel normal. For those who are lucky enough not to suffer from acne, it can be hard to understand why it is such a big deal. But this is your face we’re talking about, your self-confidence.
As soon as I entered middle school, I started getting acne just like a lot of other people, and it continued through my teen years. Countless dermatologist visits, and even more visits to the pharmacy to pick up the newest cream, face wash, or antibiotic that my doctor prescribed to keep my acne at bay. By the time I was 21, I had been on the same regimen for a few years and was feeling like my skin was not as clear as it could be. I decided to see a new dermatologist and she gave me a new routine to follow. Things were looking better until December of 2015 when my acne took a nosedive. My acne was the worst it has been in ten years, and I had no idea why. I rushed back to the dermatologist and she adjusted my prescriptions, but it was during that visit that she brought up the “A” word. The last resort treatment for those who suffer from acne: Accutane. When my acne was still not improving, but in fact getting worse, I made another appointment to find out more information about Accutane, its risks and how I could start.
For those that are unfamiliar with the drug, Accutane came around in the 80’s as a treatment to severe acne, but unfortunately, it comes with some very serious possible side effects including liver damage, depression, birth defects if you become pregnant during treatment, joint pain, dry skin, and can cause Crohn’s disease to emerge if you’re already susceptible to the disease. Despite the risks, I decided to start the treatment. After over ten years of using different prescription medications, I wanted to just be done and feel confident again. I was also concerned that if I did not take this drastic measure that I would always have acne. Because of the serious risks, I was required to get monthly blood tests to make sure I was not pregnant, monitor my liver function as well as cholesterol levels. I also met with my dermatologist monthly to go over the results and discuss any concerns and side effects.
With only one more month to go in this six month journey, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, and I could not be happier with the results. During the first month or so I experienced a pretty bad “purge period” where the drug basically pushes all of the gunk and bacteria out of your skin in the form of new pimples to clear your pores. By the middle of month two I was seeing great results, and it has only gotten better from there. I have been very lucky that the only side effects I have experienced are dry lips, skin and eyes, as well as skin sensitivity to sunlight.
For anyone that suffers from acne and has exhausted all other options, I would definitely encourage you to talk to a dermatologist to see if you are a candidate for Accutane. For those that are seriously considering it, I’ve put together a list of my top five must have products to help you get through the long six months.
1. Aquaphor
For the inevitable dry, cracked lips.
This saved me! Always have something for your lips wherever you go.
2. Cetaphil
A great nighttime moisturizer that’s thick, creamy, and really locks in your skin's natural moisture.
3. Vitamin E
This was recommended by my dermatologist as a way to help combat dry skin.
4. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Skin Cleanser
I have super sensitive skin and this is a great cleanser that’s gentle, but also very effective at getting rid of makeup and oil.
5. Sunscreen, Suncreen, Suncreen!
It’s so important even if you’re not on Accutane. For daily use, I use a moisturizer with SPF 15 in it underneath my foundation, which also acts as a protective barrier from the sun!
Maybe she’s born with it, Maybe it’s Accutane!
