Abi’s Roaccutane diary - Background

Posted in Abi's Roaccutane Diary by abi

abi: Abi’s Roaccutane diary - Background

June 26th, 2007

Hey everyone!

I’m Abi, I’m 20 years old and I have suffered with acne since I was twelve. At its worst it has covered my face, my back and my chest. In this background section I am going to mention a few of the products/tablets I have tried over the years and how effective they have been for me. I have currently just started a second course of Roaccutane and will be keeping a weekly diary of my progress. I hope this helps anybody considering Roaccutane.

My skin started to break out before I even started high school. I remember how self conscious I felt moving to a new school with a face full of spots. Nobody else my age had bad skin and I didn’t understand why it was happening to me. When I spoke to people I didn’t tend to look them in the eye and I’d cover my face with my hair. People used to make comments and after one particularly bad day where the girls in my form had targeted me, I asked my mum if we could go to the doctors. All the face washes I had been trying like Clearasil, Oxy and Clean and Clear had been no help so I decided it was time to try some tablets.

I was first prescribed Erythromycin, an antibiotic. I took this for about two years and it did nothing. I was also given some topical lotions such as Dalacin-t. This came in a funny roller ball and felt very sticky on my face. It also didn’t seem to help either. I went back to the doctors and they put me on another antibiotic called Tetracycline. After taking this for several months I also saw no improvement. I think at this time I began madly trying more over the counter products such as Salicylic Acid based ones and Benzoyl Peroxide. I remember the Benzoyl Peroxide (quinoderm) stung so badly when I put it on my face. From what I can recall, no over the counter product has ever been particularly effective at helping my acne. The doctor also gave me another cream called Differin - again this didnt help.

By the end of high school I was at the end of my tether. Another girl I knew who’s skin had got quite bad had taken a drug called Roacctuane (Accutane) and her skin was looking much better so I was keen to find out more. I asked my doctor and she said that the drug was very strong and was only prescribed by a dermatologist. We paid for our first appointment at a private hospital and I was told I would be allowed the drug. The dermatologist said he was going to start me on a low dose due to all the side effects (depression, muscle aches, nosebleeds, dry skin/lips). I started on 5mg a day. I got incredibly frustrated during the first month of my treatment as nothing much was happening as the dose was so low. I was eventually raised to 10mg and then 20mg and then I ended my course on 40mg. Through out the course the only products I had used were Simple face wash and Simple moisturiser. These were great because they were fragrance and colour free so they didn’t aggravate my increasingly sensitive skin. By the end of the course my skin was so much better. For the first time in years I didn’t feel hideously ugly and it was such a relief to be able to talk to people without hiding behind my hair. During the treatment my only side effects were dry skin (especially on the backs of my hands and tops of my arms) and very dry lips. My hair also went from being greasy to being very dry, I was used to having to wash it every day and it was quite a relief to not have to!

At this time I started university. It was great to be able to go away and feel confident about meeting new people. However after about 9 months of good skin, everything went down hill. I started to break out around my mouth. It wasn’t too bad to start with but as the months went on I started to really break out across my cheeks as well and my forehead. The spots on my chest also started to return. The only part of my body that stayed clear was my back. I had a really nice boyfriend and I felt so worried that he would go off me as my skin was starting to get bad. I started to avoid seeing him and when I did I found it very hard to look at him and felt uncomfortable when he looked at me.

I started to research on the internet and came across the N-lite laser treatment. I watched an interview with a girl who had had this treatment and I was desperate to try it myself as her skin looked so good. My fantastic parents knew how much my skin upset me and agreed I could have a consultation at the Private Clinic in Manchester. At the clinic I was told that the laser would kill the bacteria under my skin and also encourage the growth of collagen so my skin could heal. My parents agreed that I could have 3 laser sessions for £750. I also bought some of the Glycolic Acid products they recommended. These products irritated my face enormously so I didn’t use them. At the laser sessions I was given little metal goggles to wear to protect my eyes. The laser was then run all over my face, concentrating on the worst areas. The laser felt like a stinging sensation. After the sessions my face was bright red and blotchy and on one occasion I got little red bruises. They told me my skin would get worse before it got better. After my 3 treatments my face didn’t look better at all. I felt so bad because my parents had paid a lot of money and it hadn’t helped. I thought it might improve over time but even after a month after the treatments no improvement was evident.

At this point I went back to the doctors and they put me on the contraceptive pill Dianette. I had tried this tablet before and it had made me so emotional that I couldn’t take it. It had exactly the same effect on me this time. I was crying every day but I stuck it out in the hope it would help. I think my boyfriend thought I had gone crazy, I’d just be sitting with him and I’d just start crying for no reason. After 4 months I had not seen much improvement in my skin. I also tried microdermabrasion. I bought it off ebay, it was called Epidermx II. They had several promising looking before and after pictures but when I got the cream it smelt nice but that was about the only good thing about it. After a month of massaging this stuff into my face every night i realised it wasn’t doing anything, which sucked as it had cost £20. One thing I have tried that did seem to help a bit was tea-tree oil. I didn’t expect an oil to be able to help but it did calm break outs down. It also didnt aggravate my sensitive skin.

However, I was not happy and I decided I wanted Roacctuane back. I was worried I wouldn’t be allowed it as when I had asked about a second course previously the doctor had said “the dermatologist wouldn’t touch you with a barge pole, your skin isn’t bad enough yet”. But I didn’t want to wait around for my skin to get worse! I decided to go and see one of the nurses who had been seeing me since I was twelve. She said she thought it would be possible for me to take it again but I would obviously need to go and see the dermatologist.

I got an appointment and went to see him. He was encouraging me to try another strong antibiotic before I went back on Roacctuane but he could see I wasn’t keen. Antibiotics hadn’t helped me in the past and I couldn’t see why they would help me now. He agreed I could take Roacctuane again and start on 40mg a day this time as I hadn’t experienced any serious side effects last time. On the NHS I was going to have to wait 9 weeks for my prescription and my parents being fantastic again agreed I could get it privately, even thought it was going to be quite costly. I took my first 40mg on Monday 18th June 2007.

I will keep you informed as to how I’m getting on!

Tags: background

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176 responses to “Abi’s Roaccutane diary - Background”

zara

27th Jun, 07

Hi abi i have also just started my second course of roaccutane i started to get like big blood blister type boils over my face and behind my ears so my doctor refurred me back to dermatologist he agreed to start me on another coarse i started on 20th june and this time i am starting on 80mg a day my head is starting to itch real bad now and my lips are dry and i get that horrible gammy stuff in the corner of my mouth , my skin has got worse this first week and it looks like i have been on hoilday my face is a bit red the last time i was on it it was about 10 yrs ago i cant belive i am on it again at my age 38 but as long as it gets rid of it again what the hell i can cope with the itchy head and dry lips,i think i will have to get my nails acrliced again then i wont beable to itch my head so bad and make it sore(things we have to do lol). i used to work as a delivery driver to garages some day my skin was that bad i would just leave the paint and go before someone would see me i was so ashamed i hated my self some people just do not understand how acne affects you , just before christmas 2006 i had a really big cyst on my face i was really embarrest so i put a plaster over it and said i burnt myself with the straightners,i bet you use that one lol well i am off now if you wont to keep in touch feel free to email me back take care and hope your skin gets better soon zara x
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Abi

28th Jun, 07

Hey Zara, I have sent u an e-mail xxx
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Jim

18th Jul, 07

Hi Abi, Good luck with the second course. I feeel your pain and frustration. I completed my second course a few months ago. I usually notice that my acne returns about 3 months after finishing a course. I just have to be persistant! I think i will be having another course in a few months as i can feel them coming back. I hate it but im so pleased to have a had at least a few months without acne. Its amazing what it does for your confidence isn’t it?
Your story just touched me so i thought i would just say hi and tell you to keep going. If the side affects are not bad just keep taking the Roaccutane, its the only thing that has worked for me. I have done a 4 month and 5 month course on about 75mg a day. But its worth it.

Good luck Honey!!
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Emma

25th Jul, 07

Hi Abi
I totally understand where you are coming from! I have had acne on and off for 11 years and it has been so bad for the past year that i have stopped going out unless i have to. I sometimes cant face work if my skin is particulaly bad and often cant sleep cause i worry so much about it.
It is the worst thing to go through cause it holds you back so much, i have just made an appointment to see a dermatologist and am going to ask for roaccutane as both my brothers took it and now have clear skin.
Will keep you posted and good luck!!!
Emma xxx
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Bali

1st Aug, 07

hi Abi, reading your email brought tears to my eyes, and made me realise that my own daughter is not alone, she is also 20 and starting her second course of roaccutane this week. I am so shocked at the similaries between the treatements you have had and how effective or not these have been. Kiran my daughter was on roaccutane for nearly 7 months, after her skin was 95% clear for over 6 months, the the spots started re-appairing. Im just hoping the second course of this treatment helps cure it for good. Its extremely hard and emotionally draining coping with acne, and that’s for the patient as well as their parents! I can sympathise with your parents trying to do and help as much as they can, ive been there through the mill and the tears…i also hope your second course of treatment works….thanks for posting your story…keep in touch…
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Abi

2nd Aug, 07

Hey Bali,

I have sent you an e-mail xxxx
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sarah

4th Aug, 07

hey abi, im sarah and im 16 ive have acne since i was 8 and its been soo bad, im now starting on my third course of roaccutane at 40 mg, the highest ive been on is 25mg do u thnk the sideeffects will be worse? I’m a lil nervous about going on it again because my lips and skin got so dry last time but i think that this is my last chance of getting rid of it, the dermatologist said yesterday that she was going to try roaccutane one last time at a really high dose and maybe go higher.
I would be so glad if you could email me back or post a comment, thanks a lot your story has been so helpful!
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Lizzie

8th Aug, 07

Hey. abi I have looked at your story and its very much like mine! I was on roaccutane for a year 20mg 4years ago i really did not like it! it made my skin really dry and my mood had its ups and downs and my bloods went a bit mad! I had tried everything to stop my spots before i went on roaccutane and hope that this was going to be the answer. My spots did get better however in the last year they have become really bad again i went back to the Drs and they started me back on topical treatments and that did not work i have been back on antibiotic for 10weeks now and there is little change. I went back to the Dr last week and they said that i should go back on roaccutane so had refered back to my drem. I am a bit worried about going back on it as i had such a hard time the last time and just hope that it works this time as i really hate the way my skin is! I hope that it is not going to take to long to get the roaccutane my GP did not really give a me a time frame!
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sean

9th Aug, 07

hi Im sean and im 14 and I have had acne since i was 10 it has really affected my self confidence and i have put on weight not to mention the underlying psychological pain of the torment i get off the dullards at school. I have tried numerous antibiotics from my doctor and none of them have worked. I have been on roaccutane for three days now and my bones are sore in the morning and at night. infact i was woken with the pain half an hour ago and cant get back to sleep. I hope I can just rid myself of this curse sooner rather than later. Thank you your stories have been insperational.
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K

9th Aug, 07

Hey Abi and other readers,

I am 25 and have had acne for years. I thought before I was 22 that it was my fault as a large population in the world seems to wash their faces and stay away from the trouble I had. Beauty therapists, friends and elders (not my own) were quick to advise of product and the more I tried the worse it would get. I came to the conclusion I was better not washing my makeup off as it seemed to annoy my spots.

At 22 I plucked up the courage to tell the doctor something needed to be done (after they got really bad and a customer in a shop said in front of all my co-workers that my spots were horrible and I should try antibiotics off the doctor like her daughter did - boy did I cry about that). The antibiotics did shift it but after working silly shifts and not being able to take my tablets regularly for some time they stopped working and left me just feeling sick whilst doing so very little. This time the doctor reffered me to the dermatologiest.

He has recently put me on my first course of Roacc. I have spent so much on products now trying to reduce the effects I can read I have coming. Abi you are really helping me and I thank you for that. It is good to feel that we are not alone as so many people are so quick to judge us thinking they know better and that just makes me not want to leave the house.

Questions:

Emma please let me know the dose your brothers were on and if it worked first time?

Zara do you know if that is a common problem?

Everyone: Is it worth it? Do they ever stay away for years? Will I still have creaky bones after? Has your hair come out and it is bareable? Did it stay out?

I know I need to do this so I can leave the house, give presentations, feel more confident, join in sports again, etc. I have accepted all that can happen I am deeply upset with spots but I need to know what has happened after the course for you and others. Sounds like there is a big probablility that they will be back within the year.

: (

For others reading this please do not make our mistakes and buy counter products, they are really not worth it and cost a fortune. Always see the doctor and go back if the first treatment does not work.

_________Thank you all (from my heart) for sharing______________

K
xxx
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Caramel

12th Aug, 07

Hi,

Im a little bit scared. Im supposed to start roaccutane in a weeks time but the side effect are so scary.
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zara

14th Aug, 07

Hi K
well firstly yes i think it is worth taking roacc ,you will get very dry skin but make sure you put lots of cream on to try and keep it from drying out,i have not had creaky bones and my hair has not fallen out so i cant comment on that,i had bad skin and after the first coarse of roacc ( 10 yrs ago ) i am on it again but this time i was getting a thew bad spots no were near what it was like before , but you will feel so much better about your self when the tablets kick in give it a month and you will deffo see a big change ,hope this helps take care and keep your chin up
luv zara xxx
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Abi

14th Aug, 07

Hey Caramel, iv added you to my msn if you want to talk about the side effects you are concerned about
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Beck

15th Aug, 07

Hi Abi,
Really interesting to read your diary. I’m just entering my 3rd week of roaccutane (aged 22, 30mg) and fortunately have experienced no side effects apart from very dry lips which seem slightly swollen. Was just wondering if you had experienced lip swelling at all? Good luck with everything!
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Abi

19th Aug, 07

Hey Beck!

I guess my lips did appear a little swollen to start with as I think they were agitated by the dryness lol. I wouldn’t worry about it unless the swelling becomes more severe. How is your skin looking??

xxx
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Beck

21st Aug, 07

Hi again Abi,

Thanks for your reply! My skin isn’t showing too much improvement yet but it has only been 3 weeks to the day that I started treatment. I can’t wait to see benefits tbh as I am so sick of having acne, especially on my back!! People don’t realise how much it can affect you, especially when it gets to the point that you can’t even wear the clothes you want to because your skin looks so bad!! People don’t expect you to get spots on your back. I went to the dermatologists today and she has doubled my dose to 60mg as I seem to be tolerating it so well. I suspect that I will start getting the dry skin on 60mg! I’m not too worried about the lip swelling now as it seems to have gone away and the dematologist didn’t seem concerned.

Glad to read you are still doing well anyway!!

Beck x
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mary

4th Sep, 07

hey im 18 i started having achne from 14 which prevented me from wearing strap tops as my back would shoe so any time i was at a disco or a sunny day i would wear a jacket when it was really warm at times and people used to say why dont you take your jacket off. Anyways i was on roactane on 2004 after trying antibiotics and wasting money on loads of expensive creams which didnt work and then it came back after about 8 months which really upset me as i thought i had finally got rid of the spots on my chest face and back . I didnt like the thought of going on roactance again as its a really horrible tablet to be on because your skin and lips get so dry and itchy which makes you so irritable and paranoid and you cant lie in the sun and hardly any makeup will sit right on me si i tried not to socialise for the last two months of it or go out much. so i went on it again 2006 and it has cleared since but this past three months ive noticed mild achne coming back so i hopeing its just one of these things and itll clear up and not get any worse because suffering with bad skin effects my confidence and roactance is not an easy tablet to be on xxx
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Vas

4th Sep, 07

Hi all!

I am currently on my 3rd months course. I was started on 60mg/day and this months course (3rd month) has been reduced by a 1/3 to 40mg/day as I was experiencing dry eyes/conjunctivitis and quite severe dry lips. Skin has been dry but nothing to complain of.

I’m 23, male and had pretty much the same story as Abi described in detail above. My skin is clear with just the odd small spot every now and again however there is redness with is a little embarrasing. tea tree oil at night helps and just a word of advice- if any of you have severe dry lips, use a urea based cream 10% such as Eucerin and use a sun screen for lips.
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simon

10th Sep, 07

Hi Vas, just wandering, im 19 yr old male, been on accutane about 10 days now, i have recently been reading peoples experiences with accutane and the hair loss. Have you noticed hair loss when taking accutane, and has it been permanent? as much as i would like to get rid of my acne i am not sure if i would like to risk losing my hair, its really starting to get to me.

If anybody else could advice me that would be much appreciated.

Thank You
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Vas

10th Sep, 07

Hey Simon

If you have been on accutane/Roaccutane for just 10 days then the side affects shouldnt really manifest them selves THAT soon. As I said above Im currently on my 3rd month and have noticed minimal hair loss, but I have thick hair so im not too worried. Most people dont suffer with hairloss but those that do usually find the coverage returns when u finish your course. It did with my friend, he was on a much stronger dose to me. So I wouldnt worry too much, especialy at this early stage in your treatment.
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Angie

16th Sep, 07

Hi Abi. I’m so pleased I’ve found this website. I;ve suffered with acne since my teenage years but when I was 21 it got really bad. I tried everthing - Dianette, Dalacin T even herbal remedies but nothing worked. Eventually I was put on Roaccutane (this was 6 years ago) and it cleared my skin up.But after a couple of years I started to get the occassional break outs, nothing too bad but still annoying but the breakouts have been getting worse recently and I feel that my acne is slowly coming back. I went to the doctors the other day and she prescribed Duac once daily gel. Has anyone tried this and if they have is it any good? I thought it was just my bad luck that Roaccutane didn’t clear my skin for good so it is comforting to hear that other people are in the same boat. I’m terrified that my acne is getting worse and I’ll have to take Roaccutane again but hopefully it won’t come to that. Anyway I’d appreciate any commments anyone has about Duac gel.
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Suzie

17th Sep, 07

Hi am Suzie from kenya and have just completed my roaccutane treatment which lasted 6 months. The results are unbelievable. Not only do I have a clear skin with my acne and acne scars gone, but I experience no breakouts. I had serious uneven skin tone caused mainly by the scars and products that I had used before but now, its amazing. I experienced the usual side effects especiall the dry mouth and lips but my derma had precounseled me and advised i get a good lip gloss and he even prescribed a cream to help soften the lips should the situation get worse. I noted increased triglycerides and sometimes joint pains. Its been three months since I finished the dose and will get check next month just to compare my initial tests result and the current ones. Am now undergoing maintenance which involves peels, micros and a cream called prevage and renova which the derma is monitoring to see how I will fair on. It has been frustrating ofcourse when you read all the sad stories and one time I just shut my self off from what people said and concentrated on my treatment. My self esteem is throughly boosted, am happy and beautiful and hope for the best! good luck
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neel

19th Sep, 07

hi ABI….

I am neel. I am suffering for acne..and I tried so many brand product which cost highly but didn’t get any good result. Now I am fadeup and visited a doctor, he suggested me to take Roaccutane capsule 20mg. But i am bit confused to take this capsule, because of Side effect. I read the side effects of roaccutane. Today I find this blog and read your comments on Roaccutane. I need to discuss with you..:) Is it possible to talk with you.. can you please add me in your msn list… I ll be very thankfull to you then….
bye for now…take care…
thanks…
neel….
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Lorraine

23rd Sep, 07

I really hope it does the trick, I also understand what you are going through. After many years of so many different treatments I was finally prescribed roaccutane. I’ve been on it 11 days and I’ve decided to come off now. My head felt like it was on fire last night, my lips are dry as hell and I am supposed to be doubling the dose at the end of the first month. Last night I didn’t take my usual pill and I didn’t sleep a wink and still haven’t. I’m pretty sure it is the drug that is responsible. Also by 3am I was in a massive depression, crying uncontrollably even though I felt fine emotionally. This drug really isn’t for me, I feel as if by taking it I am taking my life into my own hands (it’s that bad). I wouldn’t go back on it if someone paid me even though I hate my acne I feel as if I’d top myself if I went on it again. It should not be on the market it’s far too dangerous. But it is a bit of a predicament I can understand because it does work for some. It’s so unfair that we must go through this turmoil. It’s sad because this was my only hope but I’d rather go on with this acne than feel the way that drug made me feel. I truly do hope it works for you though babe. Goodkuck
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natalie

25th Sep, 07

hi my names natalie been to the dermatolagist today and i am being prescribed rocutane but have to go for tests first but i have to be carefull with it and my parents are going to watch me as i am suicidal with it i had mild acne now its severe but they gave me 300 mg of trimethoprim to take 3 a day antibiotics and retin a cream i just hope it works anyone wana email me as id like to talk to people witth same as me as no one else i know has it nat15s@msn.com
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claire mckendry

29th Sep, 07

hiyah abi, how r u, hope yah acne is gettin better, em well am on dianette jus now, and av 2 go on it 4 3 months thn go bak 2 my doctor n get refered to the dermatologist to get the Roaccutane if there is no inprovement, which there hasnt bin, am soooo shy bout ma acne, and am always crying bout it, its got to the point ware am not going to skool cse of it, anyway am also putin a cream on called duac which isnt helpin just makin me iche, a just want to no if the Roaccutane dose work, or for just now u can tell me wot face wash or anything u think a can use, plz plz plz help me, a cant wait 2 get the Roaccutane, a just want 2 no if it is helpin u, anyway here from u l8a, and get bak 2 me wen u can, love
claire xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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Will

29th Sep, 07

Hi Claire, you can see Abi’s progress here (she is in week 14 now): http://reclaimyourskin.co.uk/category/abis-roaccutane-diary/

Good luck
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Abi

29th Sep, 07

Hi Claire,

I also went on dianette before Roaccutane and it didn’t help me much either. It made me very emotional as well.

It’s a pain you have to wait 3 months to see the derm again, but if they give you Roaccutane it will be worth it. My skin has improved enormously and I feel alot better.

I was the same as you. I never ever wanted to go to school, and when I did, I used to walk around with my hair over my face because I felt so self concious. It’s a horrible disease that can really give your self-confidence a battering.

Whilst you are waiting for Roaccutane, you could give tea tree oil a go, I used to find that quite helpful. Also, steer clear of really harsh products as in my opinion they just make things worse.

Let me know how things are going for you,

Abs
xXX
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Jordon

29th Sep, 07

Hi i came across this site as i googled Roaccutane! I am in the army and have been begging for something to help with my acne for years! I eventually went to a civilian doctors and have sine had a mixture of different tablets, lotions an potions for the past 3/4 years! Acne was never a big problem for me during my teens but whilst serving in Iraq at 19 i got a big break out which i assumed was from the long work hours, stress poor diet but it never went away and continued to get worse! I find my worse area is the top of my jaw line under my ears where i get red sore bumpy spots which never come to ‘a head’. I am working in Cyprus at the minute where i finaly got referred to a dermotologist who has perscribed roaccutane! Thing is i read about the sensitivity to sunlight and i am obviously workin out in the sun all day! I was wanderin if you would think that it would be better to keep hold of my tablets (i have the full percription ) And take them in December when i am out of the sun? Also i have been told i will need a blood test every month does any1 now what this is for? tHANK U xxxx
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Amy

29th Sep, 07

Hi Abi and everyone:

I am just like most of you guys, I have been having acne for around 7 years, I have cried and tried many products and antibiotics, nothing has helped me. I have totally lost my self-confident, I feel uncomfortable when talking with ppls face to face. I feel I am ugly I feel I wanna cry, seriously spots really let me down. I always ask myself why do you panish me in this way…..

I went to see dermatologist today and bought 10 weeks drugs, its Roaccutane 20mg, I will start to take one capsule each day for 4 weeks and take two capsules each day for 6 weeks, I am now waiting to have my first day of period and start taking them, however I am now very scared of the side effects.

I am very much worried now could you pls kindly advise.

Loads of love

Amy xxx
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Will

29th Sep, 07

Hi Jordon,

You need monthly blood tests to check your liver function is working correctly.

It might be better to wait till December (if you can wait that long) because your skin will be extremely sensitive to the sun, if not just use plenty of sun cream and you should be fine.

Good luck and let us know how you get on.

Will
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claire mckendry

30th Sep, 07

hi abi, thank you so much yah made me feel alot better lol, eh av herd of that tee tree oil before, but am not 2 sure ware to get it lol, and av looked it up on the internet and all different types of tee tree oil came up so i wasnt 2 sure wot kind to get, do u have any in mind thank you soo much, lots of luv

claire xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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claire mckendry

30th Sep, 07

oo and also forgot to say thanks to will for the site on abi’s progress thank you! xxxxxxxxxxxx
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rich

30th Sep, 07

hi amy,
youve jus tgot to remember that it will get better. im sure youve heard all sorts of crap about “you’ll grow out of it” (im still not sure what people expect me to take from that), “its not that bad” etc, but it will get better. the acne on my face has improved quite a lot after using retin-a cream for the last 7 months, its still not great but its better, but ive always found it helpful to google image search things like “severe acne” and compare it to yourself, because there are some BAD cases that can really help you realise that maybe its not as bad as you think. remember, if you are conscious of something in your appearance you will focus on it and notice it every time you look in the mirror, people might notice your acne, particularly if it is bad, but its unlikely that they notice it even half as much as you do. either way, it will get better.
hope ive been helpful x
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Jordon

1st Oct, 07

Hi will,
Thank u 4 that! Yeah its guna b real hard waitin till dec but i have patches on my arm from skin pigmentation (which is from goin in the sun wen told not to on another acne tablet!) I was warned that it will happen on my face and that if i suffered this from a weaker drug i wud almost certainly get it worse this time! I have all my tablets in my draw tho an its so hard not to take them now! But i figuered im sure i can wait 2 month to giv myself a better chance of finaly bein free!!!!

AMY
Do u need to start takin Roaccutan on the first day of your period?? Nothng about this was mentioned to me by my Dermatologist, doctor or the pharmacy!
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L

2nd Oct, 07

heyy people,i have just started a 4 month course of roaccutane which starts at 20mg and im sure i will be put on 40mg in the future as is stated on the prescription sheet (0.5mg per kg increased to 1mg per kg).Do you think i will be put on a higher dosage than this if my skin isnt responding??Also,i have now been taking roaccutane for a week and so far i havent experienced any side effects although i was fretting them before i started!I would be very grateful if anyone could inform me on when they are supposed to take effect??Also on the 20mg and 40mg,i would like to know if the side effects are strong or mild??Thankyou.
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L

2nd Oct, 07

Heyy Angie,i was put on the duac once daily gel whilst waiting for my referral to see a dermatologist.I must admit that for me it worked fantastically.Previously i was on the Dianette in conjucntion with the retin A as a topical application.Although the Retin A was quite beneficial i didnt see the full effects of it as the Dianette was completely ineffective for me and so my acne continued to erupt.When i was put on the Duac once daily,i noticed the next day that it was drying out the existing acne that i had.Within 2 weeks,my skin was significantly clearer.My whole experience of the NHS has also been positive for those worrying about dermatology waiting times.I got my appointment withing a month due to a cancellation,thank God!But otherwise my waiting time would have been 7 weeks which is still good.Hope that helps.x
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Amy

2nd Oct, 07

Hi Rich:

Thank you very much for getting back to me and also many thanks for all your advice and support, you ve been a gr8 helper I totally agree with you that ppl may see my acne not as bad as I thought so. I think maybe all the presure actually is from myself, however I am just sick of the spots, why they only grow on my face espeically on the check and fronthead where all the obvious places. You know acne really do let you down, ppl who dont have acne who will never understand how it feels like. I sometimes have more and sometimes get less, does stress matter? do you think weather also make acne worse? What do u think about make-up, shall I cover the spots or not? I am really glad I joined in this group, there are so many ppl to share with the same problem. I feel I finally found somewhere I can exress myself.

Take care and thank you again for all your support.

loads of love

Amy xxx
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Amy

2nd Oct, 07

Hi Jordon:

Hope you are well.

Yeah, my dermatologist told me to take Roaccutan on the first day of my period, i dunno why, do u suggest I should start taking them? I just cannot wait to see the results, I am so sick of acne……..

Take care

Amy xxx
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Ella

3rd Oct, 07

Hi Amy,
I’ve been wearing make up for years with no adverse effects. I use a foundation that is made of minerals, which doesn’t clog up the pores and feels light on the face. It’s called i.d bare escentuals and you can get it in England or the States or online. (The cheapest option is to buy from America).

Unfortunately it’s quite expensive, but i think it’s worth it because I don’t break out from it and it doesn’t hurt my skin. I’ve been experimenting with make up for years and the cheaper and more junky the make up, the more sore it felt……

A really good cover up is Estee Lauder. I feel it’s worth spending the extra pounds on the more expensive make up for the extra boost in self confidence when your skin is better covered up.
The best way though is to try out different cover ups and foundations and find what your skin doesn’t react to and covers up best. (Try buying samples from ebay)

Good luck experimenting!!!

E xx
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Ella

3rd Oct, 07

Hi Amy
oops!! missed out a bit!!
I started roaccutane last week. I’m 18 years old and have had acne 10 years, several of which it was moderate to severe. At 14/15 the hospital dermatologist told me my only hope was roaccutane and that my skin was never going to be better… I was traumatised as you can imagine. Seeing the list of side effects, I refused the drug and kept in refusing it up until now. i’m scared stiff but I just keep thinking 6 months and maybe it’ll all be over. I’m scared to get my hopes up only to be disappointed yet again (which is what has always happened in the best) but I think this time it really WILL work.
Hang in there! We’re all rooting for you! we’re all going through it together and we ALL definately know how you feel about waking up in the morning and dreading going out! Your not alone!
(I sound like a cheer leader lol )
Anyway have a great day!
E xx
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sophie

9th Oct, 07

Hey.

17, and have been on many anti-biotics and topical treatments. Being at the dermotoligist today, i was asked to start on roaccutane. But all the side effects have kind of put me off. Not sure wheter to go on it or not. This year ive been on Minox tabelts, Dianette tablets, Tetralysal tablets, Benzame Gel & retin-a. Nothing works!! Dinette was the worst, all it did was give me a constant 3 month breakout. How long was it, untill you saw the roaccutane working?
add on msn?

thanks
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fiona

24th Oct, 07

Hi..

This is a fantastic site and it’s great 2 meet other ppl who are goin through the same thing.. I have been on roacctuane for nearly 8 wks.. on 75mg now.. I am experiencing very dry lips, and sores in my nose.. Also i am still breaking out on my neck which is horrible!!.. I have tried various pills, lotions, and herbal remedies over the years which i see mentioned in other ppls comments… hopefully my skin will clear up .. best of luck 2 all of ye out there 2.. xx
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Abi

25th Oct, 07

Hey Fiona!

Good luck with your course!

75mg a day is a high dose, no wonder your lips are so dry, mine were almost unbearable on 40mg! Have u found a product to help combat the dryness? I swore by nipple cream lol!

Abs
xXx
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Karen

25th Oct, 07

Thanks Abi…great tip…I’m now 2 weeks in and my lips are very dry. Have been using the little tins of vaseline and chapstick but I will give the nipple cream a try!!

I did actually notice that reapplying the lip balm seemed to make my lips worse so I try to keep it to applying 3 times a day and that doesn’t make it as bad as when I was constantly reapplying.

xxx
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Abi

25th Oct, 07

Hey Karen,

Yeah def give the nipple cream a go! It’s not sticky like a lot of lip treatments and its really good for healing the sides of your mouth when they crack without making it sting. The best nipple cream I found was the one made by Avent
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Sarah

25th Oct, 07

Hi Abi…

Love to read your diary as it tells me what I am likely to expect in my 16 weeks! Start week 3 tomorrow and my dosage is 40mg. So far all I have experienced is very dry lips and a scaley nose and over night about 5 spots errupted some quite hard painful ones. What I wanted to ask you is wether you were able to exfoliate whilst on them I know it advises you not too but its nice to buff those flaky bits away.. lol. Just wanted some advice.

Thanks
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Abi

26th Oct, 07

Hey Sarah!

I decided against exfoliating (even though I was tempted!) because I was told it could cause scarring. I treated my skin exceptionally gently throughout the course just using “simple face wash” and “simple moisturiser”.

The flakes are incredibly annoying i know, especially when you want to apply make up. You could try “eumo base concentrated rehydration cream” on the most flaky areas. Put it on befrore you go to bed and when you wake up the flakes are normally gone
Glad my diary has helped and good luck with your course. Let me know how things go
Abs
xXx
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fiona

26th Oct, 07

Hi Abi..

Many thanks for getting back 2 me!!! Just checked what mg im on and it was 65mg and not 75mg!!!! Will look into getting that cream for my lips because as well as being very dry in the cold weather that’s just after coming in they are stinging me!!…

thanks for the tip and will update ye after the weekend cause i’ll be working all weekend :(…

fiona
xx
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Abi

29th Oct, 07

Hey Fiona,

How was your weekend?? How are your lips doing??

Abs
xXx
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Amber

29th Oct, 07

Hi All,
Olive Oil for lips is fab! It does sound odd, but my dad reccommended it, he’s very into alternative health, so I thought I’d give it a go. I’ve been rubbing it into my lips morning and night for a few days and my lips are not flaky at all! - Although still do get dry during the day, so I ‘m going to get those mini empty containers and carry it round with me. You have all got to try it!

Another one is Rosemary oil (mixed in almond oil) It’s great to help skin heal. But use it sparingly as it can dry the skin. Don’t use it more than once or twice a week. But this also really works for me so I thought I’d share my success.

Amber
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Amber

29th Oct, 07

Whoops just realised I better explain better. Rosemary oil is NOT for lips. It IS FOR the face ONLY. Just to be clear!
Amber
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fiona

29th Oct, 07

Hi Abi..

Am working in a factory and was working all weekend.. As you can imagine the air inside a factory is very dry so that didnt help my lips at all!!.. One of the girls gave me some elizabeth arden 8 hr rescue cream for them and omg what a difference!!! Am going in2 town 2moro 2 buy some..It made some difference to them:)… Am still getttin horrible red spots on my neck :(.. They look as if they are on the way out by taking so long 2 go:(…
Hope you are well and tank for gettn back 2 me..

fiona
xxxx
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nick

31st Oct, 07

hi everyone just found this site . wish i had found it 4 months ago, as today i have just finished a 4 months course of roaccutane
@75mg a day.and i have gone through all the side affects you all have. my back still looks like red bubble wrap but it a little better. a mate has told me that its when you stop taking it you start to get better is this true?because i dont wont to go back on them . nick 48yo male
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cheryl

1st Nov, 07

hi,
Vilantea?
Has anyone else tried Vilantae (available on line from derbyshire)this is a tablet which makes your body remove the excess oil in the way that it should be doing, without side effects. Myself and daughter have found it good after roacccutane and an excellent maintenance product once the main problem has been tackled it helps excess oil in a very effective way, tests have shown it to be the next effective treatment after roaccutane(their statistics) it may be the answer for people who still have a problem but not severe enough to suffer the side effect again. The web site is very informative. I feel the pain of everyone i want all the GPs in the Uk to read this site, does any one have any idea how to bring it to their attention, i am thinking about a mass letter but their may be a web site where they all talk does any one know a doctor and could ask them, i feel they do not understand the level of suffering and how the patient is unable to demand treatment because their self confidence has been torn away and they have this weird guilt feeling- we would all be demanding better treatments if we had a leg falling off etc!! Again all the best to everyone.
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rebecca mcgrath

2nd Nov, 07

hey abi, im looking forward to hearing how your skin is now…I have had acne since i was 15 (now 23) i have been on roaccutane and antibiotics for 6 months, although my skin does look slightly clearer i now have big hard red boils on my face, awful cracked lips….and suffering depression, i finish my course in 2 weeks and just dont know what my dermatolagist is going to suggest next! like you i have tried almost everything and am also currently on diannette and using a topical lotion, my spots just wont budge…i wish someone would look into why i have acne, what the cause is…then maybe they could help…its such a devastating thing to have..it rules your life..im fed up with constantly hiding my face, sites like this are great to remind us we are not alone.
good luck and keep us posted!!
becky x x x
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Abi

4th Nov, 07

Hello Rebecca,

I’m so sorry you are having a bad time at the moment. I know all about that.
I couldn’t even begin to count the amount of times I’ve sat and cried wishing that I had been blessed with clear skin. I would hate to watch the tv as I felt so jealous of the people on it, who didn’t have to wake up everyday and worry what was going on on their faces.

My second course of Roaccutane has luckily worked very well, you can see my full 16 week diary here:

http://reclaimyourskin.co.uk/category/abis-roaccutane-diary/

Sometimes people only start to see improvements once they have finished their course so there is still a possibilty your skin might improve. Perhaps they will suggest another course? I had to have 2 courses. I may even need a third if I relapse again.

I think its awful that so many of us have to suffer with this disease. People with clear skin don’t understand the anxiety and depression it causes. Please don’t give up hope that your skin will get better.

Let me know how things go for you,

Abi
xXx
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Emma

8th Nov, 07

Hi there

I went on roaccutane in 2004 and it managed to keep it at bay until now… it appears to be coming back again pretty badly on my chest, i’m hoping this is just a one off due to the change in weather and that it will clear up again, if not and if it gets worse i guess i will have to be refered back to my dermatologist and go through all the antibiotics again before they let me back on the stuff. It’s very unfair that we have to go through this, but at least we never take clear skin for granted when roaccutane does work be it only for a few months or a lifetime.
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Em

8th Nov, 07

Dianette made you emotional too? when they put me on it it made me completely loopy!
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Abi

8th Nov, 07

Hey Emma - When my acne came back I managed to bypass the whole antibiotics and useless creams and got the Roaccutane back straight away. I think that might have been because I said I was willing to go private though. They seemed more willing to put me on it a second time as well because my body had responded well to it the first time. Hopefully your chest will clear up soon though and you won’t need it
Hey Em - Yeah Dianette is crazzzy stuff. I’m still taking it now and I find myself crying all the time. I can’t even control it, tears just start running down my face!! I’m allowed off it in about a month when the Roaccutane is completely out of my system and I can’t wait to rid my body of it!
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alexa

12th Nov, 07

hi every one!!
i started having acne when i turn 16 but it wasn’t bad i tried proactive but i didn’t work, it was nothing to worry about my face wasn’t that bad but after i had my baby i took birthcontrol pills and i guess something happen to my hormones that i started having bad acne i was feeling so ugly , in a bad mood i felt so down so then i atrted takin roaccutane and my skin clear like a miracle for 3 months so i thought i didn’t need to keep taking it b/c i was always scare of the side effects but now after 3 years my skin is getting worst like never before and i tried using a lots of make-up to cover up i have to spend 2 hours trying to cover all my pimples and dark spots. i think i’m not going to have other option i guess i have to get roaccutane again hope it works and tjis time i’ll finish the treatment. good luck to everyone!
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Donia

13th Nov, 07

Hi Guys

I have read all your emails, and I understand all about the depression acne brings with it.

I have suffered from Acne for 13years and my GP has refused to refer me to a dermatologist. I have been able to purchase the drug over the counter for a very high price as the waiting list is too long. I have been reading all your stories and i am rather confused about the term ‘course’. Is that when the packet is finished? i am currently on my 2nd week and i have not had any sidse effects yet, should i expect some next week?

Please help!

Donia
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paul

13th Nov, 07

hi donia

course is just the length of treatment it can be 4 months or as little as two

as for the side affects theres no need to expect them as they may never happen, of course the dry skin and lips will, thats just they way that roaccutane works,

but as for the other side affects such as muscle ache or headaches it affects different people in different ways so you may not experience it and if you do it is completely manageable
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Ben

16th Nov, 07

Hi Abi,

I’ll be going on Roaccutane soon (pending ok liver tests!). I’m 24 and my skin’s been going downhill for the past few years, mainly on my face and back. I’ve tried erythromycin, retin-a, and benzoyl peroxide amongst others with no effect.

Got to say i’m a little worried about side potential effects (particularly hair loss!) but i’m going to give it a go.

Thanks for sharing your story Ben.
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Abi

16th Nov, 07

Hey Ben,

Try not to worry yourself too much about all the side effects. I have taken two courses of Roaccutane now and I still have a full head of hair
Also, the dry skin and lips are manageable once you find a good moisturiser and lip balm. Hopefully yout liver test will be fine and you will be on your way to clear skin in no time
Let me know how things go!

Abs
xXx
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Emma

16th Nov, 07

Hi Ben,

I too was worried about the side effects but really the only troublesome things have been really dry lips and a rash on my hands. There have been other minor things - a few headaches, sore gums and feeling a bit achey, but these haven’t really bothered me. I wish I’d pushed for a referral earlier as I’m also 24 and it’s horrible still getting spots at this age. People make judgements about you - that you eat rubbish, don’t look after your skin etc, when the irony is you probably take more care with these things than someone who’s never had spots. I hope your course goes well. Oh, and don’t let thoughts of an initial flare up scare you too much - it does happen but it’s manageable and nowhere near the horrific eruption you imagine it’s going to be! Take care.
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Richard

17th Nov, 07

Hi abi! Im john richard,i had pimples or acne since i was in elementary grade 4 to be exact… I was about 10 or 11. And now im 16 and still suffering acne. I started taking roaccutane for 6 or 7 months , but i decided to stop even my mom insists to continue it. I was very frustrated that my pimples will lessen but after a couple of weeks it returns and i had super dry lips and nose. Then my school mates even teased me regarding my very dry lips, eventhough im applying the proper lipcare. I have been immune to insults and criticisms of other people especially in school they would call me names like shotgun,pimp,dots and etc. I even came to the point of fighting with them. It really hurts not only physically but emotionally and socially.
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Abi

18th Nov, 07

Hello Richard,

I completely understand what you are saying. Being in school and having to deal with acne can be so appalling. I got called some horrible names too and everyday I would go home crying to my mum and she felt awful because she didn’t know what to do for me. I also avoided doing loads of things because I hated meeting new people.

I agree with your mum, you should persist with the Roaccutane. I think its awful that people made fun of your dry lips and nose, it makes me furious actually, people are so cruel. They have no idea what you are going through.

Did you find the roaccutane was helping when you were taking it? What mg were you taking a day? Did you decide to stop because of the dryness?

Abi
xxx
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Richard

18th Nov, 07

THANKS ABI FOR THE REPLY, I FIND ROACCUTANE WAS HELPING ME SOMEHOW DURING THE FIRST 3 MONTHS. I WAS TAKING 20 MG A DAY, WELL ONE OF MY REASON FOR STOPING MY MEDICATION WAS DRYNESS OF MY SKIN AND I ALSO FEAR THAT SOMETHING MIGHT HAPPEN TO MY LIVER
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Abi

18th Nov, 07

Hello Richard,

20mg a day is a low dose, maybe this time your doctor will raise you to a higher dose as you should then get results quicker
The dryness of your skin can’t really be avoided as that is just how the drug works, try to find some good products that suit your skin and it should help.

About the liver thing, when you were on Roaccutane did your dermatologist give you monthly blood tests? If so, they are there to show that your liver is still functioning correctly.
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Amanda

29th Nov, 07

This has been a really helpful site. My son, 12, is about to start on Roaccutane - blood test done today so as soon as we get the all clear he will start on the tablets. I am hoping the side effects will be minimal and have not gone into great detail with him on what to expect as thought it would make him very anxious, possibly unneccesarily. I will tell him about this website if he wants to share with others, but he is much younger than most using this site, plus he has mild learning difficulties, so don’t know how supportive it would be. Has anyone else had experience of using Roaccutane at such an early age? I am really hoping it will help him get rid of his acne and with minimal side effects.

Hope you don’t mind having an “oldie” using your blog!!
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julie

4th Dec, 07

hi just read all your stories and i have tears in my eyes im a lady of 40 who since maybe 10 had loads of spots, i hated my self at skool , i lost all my confidence, in fact i think it affects you big time, i hated them i felt ugly and worthless, i got loads of things from the doctor, which didnt help , i was to start roaccutane but before i started i fell preggers with my first child, amy who is 14 now i went on to have another kid ross who is 8 then i started the treatment 3yrs ago, it worked great i had dry lips and my hair got dry, but i found my bones ached, i only stayed on it for 3mnts and it was wow, i fin the course and wanted to start a family once again , so i waited to the stuff came out my system , i fell pregg right away and had a boy called callum who is 1year old, but i fell im getting a odd spot and i have alot of scarring around my chin and mouth where my spots were bad when younge, i would love to find something for that, i still have a bag of roaccutane since the last time and i no i shouldnt but im going to start them not telling my doctor ,thats how bad im feeling im very depressed with my skin, i no your ment to get your bloods cheacked but im going to just carry on taking them for a couple of months,
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salma

4th Dec, 07

hi please reply back to this email- i am 20 years old and have just started rouaccutane 20mg at the moment i have experinced no side effects but i think i may go for a higher dose. the acne doesnt really bother me its the scarring that its left all over my face i wont be able to get a treatment for my scarring until 6 months after i finsh my pills. i wanted to know does roaccutane help with red marks left from acne as well as acne? my face is covered withacne and the marks and scars i feel so embarassed to go out wothout any makeup at the moment i am really being bullied by friends and strangers people walk out of restuarants because i put them off their food - so i have decided to hide away from the outside world- has your acne left you with scars or is it just me on my own.
love salma
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Abi

4th Dec, 07

Hello Salma,

I’m so sorry to hear how your acne is affecting your life. It really can be so damaging to your confidence, but trust me, you are taking medication that should help alot.

I had bad skin for years before I took Roaccutane and I know how it feels to have people bully you. If your friends are teasing you about it, then they do not sound like the sort of people you should bother with. You need to surround yourself with people who support you.

My acne is now gone but I still have some red scarring - my dermatologist assures me it will fade though, it just takes time. At the moment I just use a good quality foundation and concealer which seems to cover the red marks quite effectively.

Hopefully the Roaccutane will successfully treat your acne and then given time the scars will fade. Please do not hide yourself away, you should never feel ashamed about having bad skin, it is not your fault.

You can write to me on here at any time throughout your treatment
Good luck with everything, hopefully things will start to get alot better for you in the near future,

Love Abi
xxx
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julie

4th Dec, 07

hi salma i understand were you coming from, but roaccutane is the best thing out there i think, i no when u read the side effects kind of puts you off, i really only had dry lips and my hair broke a bit, i suffer from arthrits so my joints bad anyway, but i felt my bones ached bad, but they way i kept thinking was this should be worth it, i felt this first month my skin got worse, but they said that could happen, do you feel yours has? my bf nos i still feel down although my skin100% better than it was i feel i have a lot of scaring as when i was younger the doc used to slit my face when i got bad boils??? so i have scars which i think look alot worse now,i no how you feel thou i was very down as a child and my daughter is 14 and i see her with few spots and i pray to god she not got my skin coz i dont want her to go throu what i did, it can knock you do so much. if you got anything to ask or want to no about it you can email juliejack8@aol.com and as the other person said they cant be your friends if there calling you names, i keep my fingers crossed that you get on well with it
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salma

5th Dec, 07

thanks julie and abi

its only been five days since i have started rouaccutane 20mg my lips are abit dry but i havent broken out and my greasy hair has turned really dry.
it feels reassuring to know that there is someone out there who understands me. i know that red marks left from acne take time to fade but my red marks have been on my face for over five years and they are not fading. i was wondering would rouaccutane help with the red marks on my face? i do cover my acne marks with make up but when i take all the make up off its very depressing and the indented scars i have got on my face i know can never be covered with any amount of make up. i stumbled on this website by mistake but now i feel so glad to have found people who are experiencing the same problems that i am. i’ve also broken up with my boyfriend because he wants to get married and to tell you the truth i can never see myself as a bride just feel so ugly.
love salma
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Abi

6th Dec, 07

Salma - please don’t end your relationship with your boyfriend due to your skin. If he wants to marry you then he clearly doesn’t care about your skin, and you need him by you to support you. It’s easy to push people away when you feel bad about yourself but it doesn’t help in the long run. After a few weeks on the Roaccutane when you start to see improvements I think you will feel so much better It does take a little time to kick in though, you have to be patient.

There are specific treatments used to treat scarring such as dermabrasion and chemical peels, however you will have to wait until your Roaccutane course is over before you can start considering those. I have not tried either myself so I cannot say how well they work, I would suggest asking your dermatologist about them.

Love Abs
xxx
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Helen

6th Dec, 07

Hey Salma. I think most of us here know how you feel, We all get low as acne does affect your confidence massively. However, unless you have any other valid reasons for ending things with your boyfriend then I would do everything in your power to get him back - I know it’s a cliche but good blokes are hard to find and trust me - if it wasn’t for my other half Steve (who I’ve been with for 6 and a half years) then I would probably be on anti-depressants right now. He’s been an absolute rock to me and as Abi says above - if he wants to marry you then the guy is a keeper! The red marks will fade in time. As Abi says I wouldn’t look into any sort of dermabrasion until the Roaccutane is well out of your system but there is one sort called “Crystal Clear” which I hear works wonders. It’s a technique where tiny grains are blown onto your skin to sort of “sand it down”. I know several people who have had it and they all rave about how good it is. It’s worth bearing in mind anyway. Hang in there Salma. xxx
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julie

6th Dec, 07

hi helen could you tell me more about that crystal clear ive had my treament fin now and im waiting on going to the hospital for my scars they get me down like salma, but hey salma i no were you are coming from im geting married in aug and i feel my scars are a problem, but helen right your bf loves you for who u are, i had a set back on tuesday night i was in tears over my skin and scaring and was telling me bf i want lovely sking for my wedding in case the pics are close up and he says i think your great the way you are and i told him ppl dont understand till there in that postion it gets me down that much sometimes i shut myself away from the outside work, but hang in there xxxxx
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Helen

6th Dec, 07

Juile - there’s a few links here on the Cyrstal Clear Dermabrasion. What you want to do is get in touch with some reputable beauty salons in your area and have a chat with them. Prices probably vary a little bit.

http://www.crystalclear.co.uk/treatments/Microdermabrasion/overview

http://www.skinandtonic.biz/face.htm

http://www.top2toe.net/prod021.htm

As for wedding pictures… My cousin - who also had a course of Roaccutane a couple of years back - got married two years ago and a few weeks before the wedding she had a break-out, mainly due to the stress of it all. God, she was in hysterics. But, the photographer was fabulous, he did a lot of the close ups in soft focus and she looked BEAUTIFUL in the pictures. In case you are worried just have a little chat with the photographer (if you’re having one) and I’m sure he/she will be happy to help. At the end of the day you’re getting married to the man you love and it’s gonna be a fantastic day. Any more queries just ask me, am always happy to help! Love, H. xxx
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salma

6th Dec, 07

thanks helen, abi and julie

i will wait until my rouaccutane treatment finishes before i start a treatment for my scarring. i have done quite aboit of research into treatments for acne scarring but the problem i am having is that treatments such as dermabrasion are not really suitable for people with an asian skin tone and to tell you both the truth i cant find any treatment that is. there are many treatments available for people with fairer skin tones which is quite disappointing for me. do you both know of any saccring treatments for asian skin?
also is it normal for my red marks to be on my face for over 5 years?
finally, can you recommend me a good foundation and concealor that is long lasting, doesnt look like im wearing a mask and oil free? i have tried everything and nothing seems to last on my greasy skin my face ends up shiny and the foundation clour changing.

thank you oth for replying
love salma
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salma

6th Dec, 07

hi julie

firstly, i know how you are feeling and i feel down because i really havent seen anyone up to this day with as much acne scars as me. to tell you the truth i dont think your acne scars will be worser then mine trust me. if your skin tone is light there are many treatments out there for you demabrasion is a good treatment if you go private it costs roughly three thousand pounds although this can vary depending on the amount of scarring a person has and you may need more than one treatment. i think you should go private because the waiting list under the nhs are quite long and you can only get an acne scarring treatment after you have stopped taking rouaccutane for atleast six months. email me for acne scarring advice and treatments i ahve got numbers and contact details that i can give you if you want to go private- my email address khansalma33@yahoo.com. my problem is that although i have alot of information on acne scarring treatments i cant find one that is suitable for asain skin tones like myself. so if you know of anyone please let me know. if your boyfriend has accepted you for who you are definetly marry him after all it takes a very special person who can accept you for whoever you are. with my boyfriend i love him but thats why i have left him i dont want people to poke fun of him because of me thats something i cant live with. people have done that in the past and when he introduces me to his friends they all act really shocked which is really embarassing because they make it so obvious infront of me.

love salma
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NG

6th Dec, 07

Hi Salma,

I know it is difficult to be remotely positive at the moment as you are feeling so down, but you can’t let it ruin your entire life.

It sounds like you have had these scars for some time and I think you have to remember that your boyfriend chose to be with you regardless of the scars. I know it sounds incredibly corney, but what really matters is what’s on the inside of a person not the outside. I know these words are really hard to believe when you don’t feel good about your skin and believe me most of the people here feel/or have felt like that, but remember your boyfriend seems one of the good guys and you need as many of those people on your side as you can. I don’t think he would of introduced you to his friends if he felt embarrassed to be with you. I think sometimes when you are really conscious about something, you think that everyone is looking at you in a strange way. Remember, nobody’s perfect!!!!!

Have you asked your derm about your options? I know you said you have asian skin, but there must be something out there that can help. I recently read that the singer Seal had some work done on his tribal scar on his cheeks so there must be something available for darker skin. Ask next time you go to see your derm.

Try to remain positive. You will get there in the end.

NG
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Helen

6th Dec, 07

Hiya Salma, if I were you I’d ring round a few beauty salons. It’s a good idea to ring quite a posh place like the salon in Harvey Nichols or even the beauty department in a store like Selfridges and ask their advice, that’s what I’d do. SOMEONE has to know! Good luck and let us know how you get on. Love Helen. xxx
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julie

6th Dec, 07

donia how did you get the drug over the counter? as i have some left and i am tempted to take them again but donia didnt they tell you that you need blood test all the time? so who wiil do your bloods?
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salma

16th Dec, 07

hi

i’ve been on the rouaccutane pill for roughly 12 days 20mg my skin is abit dry but apart from that i’m okay. does that mean that teh pill is not working on me?
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Abi

16th Dec, 07

Hello Salma,

The first signs of any dryness means your skin is starting to react to the Roaccutane so don’t fret! You have only been on it 12 days so far, and sometimes it can take up to 2 months to start seeing improvements, so don’t worry that it isn’t working just because nothing much is happening yet. Also, 20mg is quite a low dose so you aren’t likely to experience any really severe dryness.

Be patient and hopefully soon you will start to see your skin getting better
Abs
xxx
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Donia

17th Dec, 07

Hello everyone,

I have now been on roaccutane for 2months, but i am seeing no improvement. In fact my face went crystal clear within the 1st two weeks but i am finding that the condition has worsened. I now wake up with at least 2 new dimples, they look and feel very sore.

Is this common, it is depressing me greatly and i dont really know if this is normal.

Please help.

Donia x
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salma

22nd Dec, 07

hi donia

i was also told that rouaccutane can cause more acne but you have to continue with the tablets.
you probably have got spots now because you probably started on a low dose and then you probably movd to a higher dose. the higher the dose the more likely you will get more acne to begin with but with time it will calm down. dont worri it is normal trust me.
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Rose

22nd Dec, 07

Hi Donia,

Ive been on roacuttane for about 6 weeks now and my skin has been absolutly awful for all of that time, however in the last few days i have seen so much improvement! you just have to try and be patient-although its really difficult at times! within the first couple of days of taking the tablets i started getting more spots that were angrier and lumpier than i have ever had! it was so bad and quite an awful time for me as i was really self conscious of them! but i tried to take it as a sign that its the tablets working from the inside and feel so much better now! i know ive still got some way to go as i am still getting a fair few spots but youve got to consider the long term. I understand that it must be hard when it started to improve and then appeared to get worse, but stick with it, it will be worth it in the end!

Good luck with the rest of your course x
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Lisa

22nd Dec, 07

Hey everyone
Was very interested to read about peoples views on accutane.
Having just came off a course of accutane i just wanted to say that i cannot be more greatful that i have had the drug.
When i started taking it i broke out in even worse spots lasting a good few months and was pretty depressed but i stuck at it and it slowly improved!!
Acne made me very shy, lack confidence and feel ugly. I would avoid going out at its worst and avoid eye contact with other people.
I have suffered from acne since i was 12 and now 17 and acne free i could not be happier.. and its all thanks to accutane.
Good luck 2 every1 :]
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Abi

23rd Dec, 07

Hey Lisa,

Really glad it worked for you It’s completely cleared up my skin too, I’m still so shocked when I run my hands over my face to feel smooth skin. I’m finally able to talk to people without being worried that they are staring at my skin. It’s also nice to not have to pile my make-up on with a trowel anymore!

xxxxx
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Samy

1st Jan, 08

Hey everybody,

I’m 25, I had Rouaccutane when I was 18, and now the spots are back, I will see a Dermathologist next week, and I’m sure I will take again Rouaccutane, Can anyone tell me how much cost the drug, and where I can find It?

Many Thanks, and good luck to everyone
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Aaliyah

1st Jan, 08

i started getin acne wen i was 16 i tried minocycline antibiotics n they didnt help so i went on the pill dianette 4 a year and this didnt help either.. after this my doctor refered me 2 a dermatolgst.. i went on roaccutane for 4months my skin cleared up totally.. my skin was clear 4 about 5 months n then recently ive started getin acne the same as b4..in the same places n everything..! ive spoke to my doctor n shes told me 2 go back on roacc but i duno if i shud cz they side effects wer bad.. it made my hair fall out n it still is..i mean i dont wana go bold n then my acne duznt clear up either.lol sum1 help meee im 19 yrs old.. and thers dys wen i cant go uni coz im so embarassed…
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Jo

2nd Jan, 08

Hi Samy,
If your Dermotologist prescribes you Roaccutane, you will be able to get it from your GP or the pharmacy at your hospital. As it’s on prescription, it will be about Â£6.50 per prescription.

All the best,

Jo
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Claire

2nd Jan, 08

Hi Samy - roaccutane can only be prescribed by a derm and not a GP. I went private through my company BUPA scheme and paid 180 quid for 8 weeks supply. When i go back for my check up, i presume it will be around another 180 for the next 8 weeks worth…so it is pricey if you go private, but its def worth it! Good luck!
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Samy

2nd Jan, 08

Thanks for your answers, I’m actually going private, as my GP don’t want me to see a dermatologist and don’t want me to take Rouaccutane, I’m going to The London Dermatology Centre, the visit will cost 180, I just hope that if I will have a private prescription, I still can get Rouaccutane for 6.50?????
I will keep you updated, bye
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Abi

2nd Jan, 08

Hiya Samy,

The first time I had Roaccutane I got it on the NHS and it was Â£6.50 a time. However, I did have to wait a while before I got the tablets. The second time I took Roaccutane I didn’t want to wait so I paid to go private. My appointments with the dermatologist cost me Â£60 and my prescriptions cost me about Â£30 a month. The dermatologist actually estimated that the Roaccutane would be about Â£90 a month but for some reason it was cheaper.

xxx
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vicky

3rd Jan, 08

Hello Everyone,

I have just been reading all your posts and it is really getting me though this Im on week 4 of my course and am taking 20mg. I am really worried as absolutely nothing good has happened and im really not feeling positive about ro-accutane at all! The only thing thats happened is my skin as been worse than normal since day 1 of my treatment Its different than normal as my cheeks are all covered in white heads which i find impossible not to squeeze. Does anyone know how to help white heads? Also ive been getting these HUGE boil type things which have no head and feel like mountains.

Does anyone have any tips and is this normal not to have experienced anything good by a month?! Im really feeling down today. HELP!!

Happy New Year though everyone xxxx
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mark

9th Jan, 08

Hi guys,

Just wanted to know how long after treatment i could start to use the sauna at my gym, am on the 5/6 month of treatment on 70mg with about 3 weeks left and have suffered with a red /sunburn/olively brown/pale kinda face for a while now so am bit worried about useing the sauna/steam room
Any sugg/experinces?

Cheers guys
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Samy

10th Jan, 08

Hi Abi,
Thanks for your reply, I have been to a private as well (180) and I got Isotretinoin for 30 as well.
I hope that this time will be the last one..
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Eva

15th Jan, 08

hello everyone, I started getting severe acne at the age of twelve and still suffer badly from it at the age of 25, despite what many non sufferers think there is certainly no easy cure yet I constantly get nasty looks because they think its as simple as going to the doctor and a miracle cure will get rid of them in no time, but the reality is that many products simply don’t work (for me anyway) i’ve tried loads of products/treatments those prescribed by my doctor and also ones you simply buy in a chemist and none of them worked. As a result I have no self esteem, no job and detest having to even go out the front door. My doctor only recently referred me to a dermatologist but due to my depression it was agreed that Roaccutane(or accutane as its known in America) was not a good idea, i probably would jump off a cliff or something plus I already suffer from Tinnitus and very dry lips and the medication was likely to aggrevate them even more, surely there must be something out there that isn’t so strong that instead of tring to remove the symptom actually deals with the cause of acne instead, looking at the ingredient list of Roaccutane, in the leaflets I’d been given, I was deeply concerned especially that this drug is given to already vunerable people as young as thriteen years of age, i’m persisting on my journey for natural treatments to take, one is called Vilantae but not sure if it really does work as its quite expensive, but there you go, anyway good luck, I hope you are more fortunate than i’ve been!
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Zo

25th Jan, 08

Reading your stories has made me feel very much like I am not on my own.. I had my first course (and a half) of Roaccutane at 17 - did wonders for yrs but unfortunately things got worse with time. Now at the age of 25 I am 10wks into my 2nd course.. dry lips/skin/hair agreed, but to date no improvement of the spots. Feeling a little low, but hopeful. People dont realise how much acne affects your life. I met a rly nice guy a while ago and am very scared to let him get too close, imagine if he saw me without a full face of makeup on!! I know that sounds tremendously shallow but its true. I guess in some ways us girls are lucky we have makeup as a bit of a camoflague (although sometimes I wonder if that causes a bit of the problem?!) I have used oil-free non-comodegenic (whatever it is) products&Dermalogica for years, also paid Â£200 for accupuncture with NO improvement. I hope you all have lovely beautiful skin soon - its such a shame when something thats there to protect your body turns against you and makes you feel so sad. X X X
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Eva

26th Jan, 08

Unfortunately I can’t wear make-up, especially foundation as it makes my skin far worse so my acne is completely exposed and easily seen, I’ve tried Witch Hazel cover stick in the past but though it covers the redness you can still see the lumps/spots. The trouble is with Roaccutane is that it seems so cruel for it to intially give you clear skin only for the spots to return when you come off the drug, in many cases even worse and as the drug is so strong you can’t keep taking it forever, it seems that it can only temporarily challenge your hormones etc that cause spots but they return later, maybe days or months later but still it seems unfortunate to get ones hopes up only for them to return just as your confidence is returning. If only there was something natural you can take on a regular basis that will work without potentially being harmful to the body after prolonged use.
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Tricky

1st Feb, 08

Hi All,

Just to give you a very brief account of my experiences with this stuff.

I took it long before anyone had suggested that it may cause depression. It’s bound to affect people in different ways.

Depression, and flakes of skin as if I had been sunburned and peeling being a constant irritaion, but luckily the guys at work were pretty good, and I am one to give and take a joke so the peeling was fine.

The depression however, was another thing, days and days in my room curtains closed, to the point my parents were so worried they wanted to take me to a therapist but I refused. This really shook me up, and something in my head clicked, as I never realised myself i was that bad, and I managed to snap myself out of it, it just so happened this was at the end of my course, go figure!!

One thing that I can recommend for moisturising, believe me I have tried everything is Boots own make Skin Therpary, it may not work for you but it’s the only cream, over Dove and Simple, that doesn’t irritate my skin.

My skin, incidently cleared up after using Rocacctane but I couldn’t tell you on the dose. With me it has left me with permanently dry skin if I don’t moisterise, if I wash, even just with water, my skin becomes flaky and I have to apply cream stright after I get out the shower as my face tightens up and starts flaking, 20 years on!! (however I am always called BabyFace, so maybe it was a blessing in disguise!)

Try the Boots stuff, cheap and great, and just be aware of Rocacctanes side effects, short and long term.

Even if I had known the side effects I would have still taken it, but I would have been a lot more prepared, hopefully this will help you guys too!

Cheers
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hanna

3rd Feb, 08

hey
i started to get acne when i was about 12, im now 15, i havent had it for that long, but it still drives me mad. i decided to go to thwe doctor after having acne for about 1 year and she has given me numerous antibiotics, the first one started to work but then just stopped, right in the middle of my course, she then put me on cerazette, (contraceptive pill) but that hasnt helped. i went back to see her the other day and she has reffered me to the dermatologist and she said that i would most likely be put on roaccutane. i have fairly clear skin on one side of my face and on the other really blistery stubborn spots that have been there almost since i first got spots.

ive read everyone of these comments and im not sure whether or not to go on this drug because the side effcts dont sound too great plus my doctor said id need to have blood tests every two weeks , which isnt particularily good for me (i am petrified of needles)

i would aslo be right in the middle of my gcse exams while on the course if it was to be prescribed to me…

i really have no idea what i should do and noing all of you have gone through the same thing im just hoping someone cn tell me whether it really is worth it.. or if i should wait til after my exams finish

thanks and i hpe everyones skin gets better
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salma

5th Feb, 08

hi
this is my second time sending this email i’m still having a hardtime finding a good foundation which gives me good coverage, hides the red marks i have left from acne and is long lasting.
i have tried everything alot of expensie foundations but nothing seems to last any advice anybody?
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JoJo

5th Feb, 08

Salma,

Through the years, I have honestly tried every make-up brand, cheap and expensive, exclusive (from abroad) or common brands. I think i’ve settled on a good combo that seems to work ok on my skin type. Although, don’t feel as if you have to rush out purely on my recommendation as your skin type may be different??

I’m starting my second week of roaccutane and my skin is still fairly oily. Few dry patches on forehead.

Foundation I use is a combination of Maxfactor colour adapt and clinique superfit make-up (oil free and long lasting). For concealer, I swear by The Body Shop Concealer pencil. Gives me good coverage anyways.

Hope this helps
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charly

6th Feb, 08

hi there, ive been o roaccutane for two months now but am still getting spots, is this normal? shouldn’t my skin have cleared up by now? I’ve only got a following two months on it…??
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Abi

6th Feb, 08

Don’t worry yet Charly! I was getting a few spots even in the very late stages of my course. My skin has actually been at its best since I came off the Roaccutane
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lauren

21st Feb, 08

hello ive been suffering for 9 months and finally after going private im starting a cource of roaccutane im wishign its going to work as its beggineing to take its toll im feelin exremly cut off and unable to go to skool i miss my life and friends some of these stories give me a real confort to no its not just me i hate it when people say it dosent matter and noone cares because it does !
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lyns

23rd Feb, 08

I have just read ur diary Abi and it has been so inspiring, ur skin looks amazing.
Just wanted to query the Nov entry about having to wait till roac is out of ur sytem b4 coming off dianette? i am on it 2 and really want 2 come off it but tried many times b4 and get massive flare up. Fingers crossed the roac will stop that happening.
Keep us all posted on ur post treatment skin and thanks again for giving so many of us hope.

xx
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Abi

23rd Feb, 08

Hello Lyns,

Thanks for your lovely comments
I personally really hate being on dianette. It makes me really really emotional and weird and I literally couldn’t wait to stop taking it! However, I have tried other pills and they made my skin worse, microgynon gave me the worst break out ever.

I think that once you have taken the Roaccutane it will have done its magic and you will find you no longer need the dianette. I was worried I would break out when I came off it but it has been over 2 months and I’ve only had a couple of spots so hopefully it will be the same for you
Abi
xxxxxxxxx
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lyns

26th Feb, 08

Hi Abi,

Thank you so much for getting back to me.

So many times docs have taken me off dianette to see if ive ‘grown out of my acne’ - im 28!! Worst ever was so called wonder pill Yasmin. Made my skin horrendous within a wk and took 8 months for dianette to get under control after begging to go back on it.

Really hope roac has done its stuff and can come off dianette cos i turn into a witch for a wk of every month!!

xxxx
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julie

27th Feb, 08

hi im wondering if anyone on this site has had any laser treatment?i was on roacc 2years ago, got good results, but i now feel coz ive got no spots the scars look bad. i was at the hospital yest at the laser clinic for my first visit, they said they would give me the treatment which i thought YES, but once they told me about it and showed me pics i was like oh,,,,,i would go in to hospital and stay for 2days, i would have my face all coverd up with dressing then when they come of looks like you been burt in a fire was shocked at the pics, and for 4mnths i coudnt go out not even to hang washing in the back garden they said, i was like eh? they said no, i said i have 3kids and one younge baby i need to go to skools etc and i have no other help apart from my husband who couldnt take 4mnths of work, the girl that was working with the doctor said to me julie out of 5people we see only1 goes throu with the laser after they are told whats involved, she also said that i would be left with bad pigments in my skin and you dont get perfect the doctor told me also that no comestic surgery is permanent, the pictures i saw at the end of the 4mnths i could still see scars maybe not as much but were still there, he said i didnt have ice pick scars but wavy scars? i now feel bit down , im wondering has anyone had this leaser treatment and what the thought???????
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Sylvie

29th Feb, 08

My daughter has recently had 4 N Lite Laser sessions at a cost of Â£800. To be honest it hasn’t made any difference, but she has active acne and I read on the internet that it’s really intended for scarring rather than active. Hence she has just started Roaccutane 3 days ago, fingers crossed!!

I have been told to try Decleor Prolagene Gel for the scarring as it is supposed to be brilliant and is often recommended by Beauty Therapists, even for operation scars.

Worth a try, it’s a lot cheaper than the Laser!!
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Amos Teshuva

1st Mar, 08

hi Abi my name is Amos I am 17, read your story and was amazed how strong mentally you were about acne, compared to me who can’t cope even though I’ve olny had it for 7 months. I was put on roaccutane only 4 days ago and I am aware it gets better before it gets worse, I was wondering how long it takes till it starts to get better?

I also wondered even though my skin is very dry, my forehead where my acne is worst still is slightly oily, will I produce less oil over time because my sebum glands get smaller, or should I have no oil on my forehead straight away?
and final question I do sport and workout every day do you know if I will cause damage to my muscles if I continue this while on Roaccutane?
Thank you so much
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Abi

1st Mar, 08

Hello Amos,

Yes, there is a chance your skin will get worse before it gets better. I would say that I noticed my skin getting better after about a month and a half. I think it was at this point that I started to get less spots and the ones I had began to heal. Everybody reacts differently to the drug, some people find their skin getting better very quickly whereas others can find it takes the full length of the course.

About the dry skin - throughout your course as the Roaccutane builds up in your body your skin is likely to become drier and drier therefore if your forehead still feels a bit oily now it should dry out soon. You have only been on the drug 4 days so that is probably why you havn’t experienced a completely dry face yet.

Muscles - Roaccutane has been linked to causing muscle aches. I don’t think your muscles will be damanged by continuing to exercise, but they may hurt more afterwards or whilst you are exercising. The best idea probably is to continue to exercise but perhaps a little less than normal and nothing too vigorous and see how you feel. I would ask your dermatologist about this one if you are worried.

Hope this helps! And good luck with your treatment
xxxxxxxx
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Lisa

3rd Mar, 08

Hi everyone,
This site is brilliant, i’m not alone any more!!
I’m 28 and suffered from acne for the last 3 years, it was brought on by stress when i split up from my husband i developed cystic acne on my back it was no painfull and the scars are awfull, anyway, i visited by GP who refered me to a derm and I’ve been on roaccutane for 6 months now, I was hoping to come off them two months ago but it hadnt cleared up enough. I have all the typical side effects cracked lips, dry sensitive skin and really dry eyes, unfortunatelly my hair has also recently started to become thinner which is getting me down a fair bit, I am due to see my derm again in two weeks and was hoping i would be able to come off them (I havnt had any new cysts appear for a while now) but unfortunatelly I woke up yesterday with a new one which is really painfull, so it looks like i will be on them for a bit longer :-(.

Has anyone else out there had thinning hair because of Roaccutane? does it come back? is it ok to take hair vitamins whilst taking Roaccutane?

Thanks for everyones support
x
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Vas

4th Mar, 08

Hi Lisa

Sorry to hear about the split. Cystic acne is more stubborn that the more common types (acne vulgaris) which i suffered from for years. I was on roccutane over last summer and came off it in oct and have been practically spot/cyst free since then.

The only thing i can recommended for ur back is using neat tea tree oil (providing ur not sensitive-do a patch test first) mixed with pure aloe vera gel. this should help with reducing bacteria colonies and inflammation. Apply it regularly throughout the day.

As for the hair thinning, im not a derm but i did do a lot of reading around the subject when i was affected. I wouldn’t worry too much about hair loss. I lost a bit of hair during roaccutane treatment but people didnt notice, just me, as I noticed the hair in the shower tray.

Anyway hair loss usually resolves after treatment stops, so dont worry it should grow back. Its important u dont stress urself further. Its just a reaction from ur body coz its essentially being poisoned by the high dose of roaccutane.

And taking hair vitamins is fine BUT make sure there is no vitamin A in the pill as this can increase toxicity from the roccutane (roccutane is very similar in its chemical make up to vit A)

hope this helps and good luck x
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Paul

5th Mar, 08

Hi Everyone, I have just read a lot of the entries on here and some of them made me feel so sad.

I have suffered from acne since the age of 10 which has developed over the years from spots to cysts. I too have spent years with over the counter treatments and was willing to believe anything that was put in front of me.

Having finally been able to see a derm after years of asking (I finally refused to leave my doctors surgery until he referred me!!) i am starting on Roaccutane this month. The one thing i would say is try the Dermol 500 it doesnt stop the acne or cysts but it does ease the sensitive skin and takes some of the redness away from the problem areas.

I am 40 now and have also had failed relationships due to the acne, making excuses not to see someone because of acne or putting plasters on cysts and making excuses. I even ended up trying to cover them with make up from my sisters when i was younger.

Whilst the medical people try to treat the physical effects (ONly when you push them sometimes) for me the physcological effects will never leave me and have never been addressed. It is so hard to live a NORMAL life with this problem and not enough is done to help people.

I hope you all take comfort in the fact that you are not alone. This site and the people on it are amazing and i thank you all for giving me hope that one day i will be spot/cyst free.
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salma

13th Mar, 08

hi
i have just pruchased some really expensive mineral makeup to cover my acne scars but i feel ripped off its not lasting and covering as much as it claimed.

also, still on rouaccutane nose always running, hard to blow and i get nose bleeds at the wrong times- so embarassing

has anyone tried or heard aboutt fraxel 1500 for acne scars if so please let me know.
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Georgia

14th Mar, 08

Hi all,

It’s been quite interesting reading your blogs about this drug.

Back in June 2005 i was admitted to hospital with septecemia, i was in for a week. From June 2005 - September 2005 i was on anti biotics (not for my skin).

Touch wood, bad skin has never been a problem in my family… However! Since having been ill in 2005 my skin turned to pot.

For 2 years i was treated with topical and oral anti biotics- i’d stop them, and the little men would appear again on my back, face and neck.

After much research and deliberation on Roaccutane, i asked my GP for a referal to a dermatologist.

I have to admit, my skin wasn’t horrific, but when i had a break, boy did i have a break out.

The dermatologist agreed to the drug for me. I started my 4 month course in October 2007.

Dosage was 30mg for the first month, and 60mg there after.

Whilst i was taking it, I had a lot of low days, the best way to describe them would probably be bad PMT days (”beast days!”).
Yes, i got dry skin, dry lips, bleeding nose - all the common side effects… Very itchy skin due to the dryness.

However, the mood swings were awful, and the low days were rubbish. I had to work out when the best time was to take the pills. If i took them during the day, everyone would get the brunt of my moods (and they weren’t nice). I began taking them in the evening, and had a few violent dreams for the first few days.

Because of feeling low, i lost my appetite… Having lost my appetite has meant i’ve lost just over a stone (14lbs) in around 3 months.

Now i’ve lost the weight i’m terrified of putting it back on. I’m now just under 9stone (126lbs). I was seeing my consultant every 4 weeks, including having a pregnancy test and bloods done (for cholesterol, and liver). Routine.
I saw her in the 4th month, and she wanted to reduce my dosage because of the weight i’d lost. But i was just in the “catchment” weight of her deciding not to reduce it.

In 15 years, my dermatologist has never had to take anyone off the drug due to severe side effects. She is a truly amazing doctor and knows her stuff!

I’m now 4 weeks off the drug, and finished the Friday before my 21st birthday (18th Feb). Since coming off it the depression has really hit me… I’m at a all time low… And to give you an idea of my personality before taking the drug… I’m the spontaneous one amongst my friends, one of my nicknames is Chuckle, i’m always laughing and i’m a very bubbly person.

I’m not half that person anymore (rather at the moment)… Im trying desperately hard to be back to myself. I know the light will come on at the end of the tunnel soon, it just doesn’t feel like it.

The drug really is a wonder drug for acne… However, i really think it’s negatives out weigh it’s big plus point.

I appreciate people can go on it and have no problems (and i thought i’d be one of those people). But so far i have to say it’s been a high price to pay.

In my opinion i don’t think the drug should be stopped at a halt… Perhaps being weened off of it - reducing the dosage, rather than going into a “cold turkey” state. Which is how i feel at the moment with the depression.

I’ve always wondered how people can be depressed, and low… It’s just not in me - well it’s not… the drug is…

I hope this gives you another insight into Roaccutane. If you want to talk, i’m happy for people to reply.

My mum is also writing a report for my dermatologist.

Good luck to those considering, and well done those who have done it.
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Hannah

15th Mar, 08

Hi my name’s Hannah
Im 13 years old and have been suffering from acne since i was 10.

I tried absoloutely everything from the doctors until the point where he couldnt give me anything else, Because of this he refered me to a dermatologist.

Last week i went to the Dermatologist and they are going to prescribe me Roacutane.However im quite afraid about the side affects.

Do people think this medication works ?

Please write back to let me know.
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lyns

18th Mar, 08

Hi Hannah.

I can really sympathise with you because i have suffered with acne since i was your age (im 28 now) and im now in week 8 of roac an have had no awful side effects other than dry lips and wierd rash on hands.

My skin is the best its ever been and i would say go for it because had i been offered it at your age i wouldnt still be fighting acne 15 yrs later like i am now.

i can hardly think of an occasion- dates, weddings, nights out etc that i havent had to spend ages covering up spots and noticing that everyone else seems to have perfect skin. Now i dont even have to bother with concealer!

Really hope this helps. Good luck with whatever you decide to do and let us know how you get on.

xx
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Lisa

21st Mar, 08

Hi again everyone, thanks for your replys, this webpage has helped me out so much.

I was wondering what you would do about this: I’m off on holiday in June to Cyprus and I know you have to be really carefull in the sun when your on Roaccutane and i’ve already been on it for about 5months now!!! anyway, I’m really worried about it I know I will have to wear a high factor sun lotion but I also would love to get a little tan as I know it would make me feel so much better as i’m feeling so pale, do you think a factor 15 would be ok or does it really have to be a block?

Hope your all doing well.
Lisa
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Vas

21st Mar, 08

Hi Lisa!

When i was on Roaccutabe last summer i wore factor 30+ everyday (even tho we had a rubbish summer) and I have olive skin.

My advice is dotn take chances, if u have fair skin ur at a higher risk of developing sun damage and all the related problems. Roaccutane slows down skin cell turn over rate meaning ur skin is less protected and can get thinner partly due to the dryness.

Most sun blocks are greasy which for u shud be a good thing when suffering from dry skin.

I would use atleast factor 30-u can get non greasy ones from specialist skin shops (i got mine from Skin clinic)

Stay out of the sun-all the usual advice u have heard before really. Im sure ur keen to get a tan- i wud be too but its too soon and u have plenty of holidays in the future where u can bronze urself one treatment is over and ur skin returns to normal.

Good luck!

Vas
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Georgia

21st Mar, 08

Hi Lisa,

Some sun advice!!

I was on Roaccutane for 4 months, and came off last month.
I’m olive skinned, and a sun worshipper. In Jan i was in Florida working, and hated the thought of not being in the sun!!!
I was wearing factor 40 on my face, and advised to wear nothing less than 25/30 on the rest of me. And i’m OLIVE skinned, so i go very dark indeed in the sun!

You will catch some colour, but remember your feet… Mine burnt to a crisp, and blistered. I still have flip flop marks!!!

Be careful, and don’t sit in it during the hottest time of the day 12-3pm…!

Have a good holiday!
G
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lorraine

22nd Mar, 08

hi can you tell me if after 4 weeks any of you had better skin but then a rash very blotchy and itchy appeared being bank holiday i cant get to a doctor and dont know whether to stop taking it. My intial spots have gone but now i have a neck and jaw line full of red sore rash

thank you
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Georgia

22nd Mar, 08

My skin didn’t really clear until the 3rd month… And it was quite sore and sensitive.
Carry on taking it, and consult your doctor first thing Tuesday.
If you can email them, do that too.
Or if you’re really concerned, called NHS direct - they’ll be able to advise you…

Good luck with your treatment.
Gx
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lorraine

22nd Mar, 08

thanks georgia i rang nhs direct but they were only taking emergencies today as they were so busy. also i really need the consultant rather than the normal doc he will be used to seeing people on this medication i thought.
my skin has vanished but the redness is still there and now this rash appeared in an area i never had a problem before. just thought as it spread to my chest i think it a reaction to tablets
i think i may keep an eye on it see if it gets worst
thank you anyway
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Vas

22nd Mar, 08

Lorraine- dont worry, thats normal. It will get worse before it gets better.
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Georgia

22nd Mar, 08

Lorraine is certainly right, it will get worse before it gets better.

Remember, your skin is going be very sore, and dry. It changes the chemical balance in your skin.

Call your consultant on Tuesday.

For the dry skin while you’re on the drug i found Palmers Cocoa Butter to be amazing. Not too much, just dab it on… But it’s great!!

Let us know how you get on x
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Joane

17th Jun, 08

Hi everyone
Very interesting reading iv just been reffered to a derm and im un decided weather to take roaccutane or not. Like alot of people iv tried everything the only thing that really helped me was Yasmin contraceptive pill, but had to come off it as i had a suspected migraine i was then put on Cerazette but reading the side effects for that pill was acne, and this side effect is ruining my life i dont want to go out meet people and im really self concious of my face. I would try any thing but scared of all the side effects.
Im 36 and have had acne most of my adult life just want to look and feel normal not like a freak
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Abi

17th Jun, 08

Hello Joane,

The decision of whether or not to go on Roaccutane can be a tough one. It sounds like you have tried several treatments for your acne all of which have not been very helpful. In my opinion, the benefits of Roaccutane out-weigh the side effects. The dry lips and skin are irritating but can be controlled by good products. Roaccutane is the only treatment that has ever 100% cleared up my spots, meaning I have been able to leave my house without feeling at all self-concious, something I never thought id be able to do. If i were you i would go for it, as long as you are being monitoried regularly by a dermatologist you should be okay
Good luck!

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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Vas

18th Jun, 08

Hi Joane!

I agree with Abi. Nothing out there comes even close to delivering the efficacy of Roaccutane. Very very few people have problems with migraines or depression, and these symptoms usually resolve when treatment is stopped.

Most people Do get very dry skin and dry lips and as Abi has said, good products can help manage the dryness. I recommended a moisturiser with at least 10% urea such as EUCERINE cream from boots which was excellent for my cracked lips.

You will only be on Roaccutane for about four months and believe me its worth the inconvenience of dry skin/eyes! I Came off my 4 month course in oct last year, the dryness subsided after about 2 months almost completely and the redness/sensitivity cleared after about 3 months.

Now my skin is completely normal and i only get the odd white head, which is nothing compared with the angry red cyctci types i used to get. As bad as the side effects sounds I would take it again coz it works.

As long as u have ur derm regular appointments and good friends and family to support and monitor u- u will have no probs.

good luck!

Vas
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Dammy

19th Jun, 08

hi people.. just on my thirdcourse of roac…now.. im just praying they never return…
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Abi

19th Jun, 08

Dammy - I’m also on my third course and really hoping this is my last time!!!!!!!!!!

Good luck with it, and let me know how you get on
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Daniel

27th Jun, 08

Hi everyone,

Firstly i cannot thank everyone enough for posting their experiences and tips.

I finally decided to go see a dermatologist after seeing no further improvements in my skin using antibotics, stieva and natural medicine. I just got to the stage where i couldn’t stand walking around uni as i felt that everyone was thinking why does a 19 year old still have acne.

I was prescribed roaccutane and am in my first week of treatment. To date i have noticed any side affects given how early it is apart from my leg being a bit itchy and a small breakout on my back and face (which disappearded overnight) so im not convinced they were a result of the roaccutane.

A few quick Qs.
I’ve started of with 20mg tablets and my dermatologist doesnt want to see me for a further 8 weeks. This seems quite long considering most others seem to be upping there dosage after the first month. The only reason i can think of is that the derm said i was borderline to go on roaccutane.

Also should you still eliminate fatty foods, chips etc. completly from your diet. I know you cant drink alcohol but that should not be too dificult for me as im not a massive drinker anyway
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134 joane

11th Jul, 08

Hi everyone
thanks for all your encouragement and advice, i’ve been back to see dermatologist and today i have taken my first tablets so now just waiting to see what side effects i experience or not. I’ve started on 35mg for the first 4 weeks then i go back and he will double my dose. Will keep in formed of my progress. Any suggestions for a good face cream.
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Azy

22nd Jul, 08

HELLO HELLO HELLO! new name on the list
Im an 18 year old Male from materialistic London wer looks matter!!, currently at college, i only startd gettin spots wen i was 13 wen i used to tease one of my elder brothers about it (i wish i could take it back)

I found out about Roaccutane TODAY! (Bit late but better late then never i guess) seen sum good stuffs!

i was prescribed a sh*t gel called Duac by my GP, and alot others, non stayed consistant unfortunantly, i jus want to know wether going on Roaccutane would be the right step.. can some one, any1 please get back to me or add me on MSN for some advice because im at a stage wer i dont want to wait around and let them get to me.

Ive got an appointment with my GP 2morow 2 ask about Roaccutane so i can possibly get an app. with a dermatoligist.

and one ultimate question for everyone..

DOES ROACCUTANE WORK AND STAY CONSISTANT!!!!!!!!!!!

thank you all and hope 2 hear from you soon..

and Abi your diary was very intresting. hope 2 here 4rm you!
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Abi

23rd Jul, 08

Hiya Azy!

As far as acne treatments are concerned, in my opinion Roaccutane is the creme de la creme. Since my first course my skin has never been as bad as it was when i was in school. My skin has never stayed perfectly clear, but the spots that did come back have never been as severe. I have also never taken a very high dose because i’m quite petite, and I think if you take a higher dose you have more chance of staying clear for longer.

Let me know ur msn address if you wanna ask me anything else And good luck with your GP appointment!

Abs
xxxxxxxxxxx
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Azy

23rd Jul, 08

went to the GP 2day, a very good friend of the family and i told him i wanted it and he said ok lol i bookd my appoitment with the derm, but they took the Pis*

they said my appoitment has to be on october 13th!!!!!!

thats MONTHS away! stupid fool..

im rather not petite im actually 6 foot 2 so dus that mean im going 2 becum a Roaccutane druggy??
My email adress is sniper2002786@hotmail.com

THANKOOOOO
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Abi

24th Jul, 08

I have added you
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Andy

24th Jul, 08

Hey Azy,

Go f’rit. Although I’m at the start of my course, I wish I’d had Roacc much younger (i’m 23 now), feel like i’ve lost years of my social life to acne! Topical/oral drugs help, but are no where near to a cure.

I can imagine the wait is v long in London. I would go private if you can afford it.. much quicker: and you may be picked up along the way by the NHS half-way through ya course, so can stop paying.

Good Luck Matey :)x
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Azy

24th Jul, 08

Thanks Abi And Andy,

Andy thanks for your reply and i understand what your saying, hopefully if im able to go on it from october, then by my 19th birthday (in may) do you think it shall be gone??

I think im the youngest person on this im assuming that everyone else was abit late in finding out about Roaccutane..

lol
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Joane

24th Jul, 08

Hi everyone
This is my second week on Roaccutane and cant believe the improvement if there is anyone out there with doubts of this drug then dont its fantastic my skin is clearing up great only side effect is dry lips and my skin is alittle itchy but copeable
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Abi

25th Jul, 08

Hiya Joane,

Really glad your skin is clearing up, and so quickly as well!
xxxxxxxxx
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Haze

16th Oct, 08

Hello Everyone

I am so amazed of all the messages that have been sent in. At last I have people who know what it is like to have acne problems and at all ages.

I started getting acne when I was 20, I am now 39 and will be 40 in January. My doctor had always given me the usual ointments, which may have worked for a short time, but then the spots returned. Then I was put on various anti-biotics - none of which made any improvement. I only recently was referred to a dermatologist in June and then I had to wait another couple of months to get the next appointment to get the go ahead from the consultant to take Roaccutane . I have been on the treatment for 2 weeks, the usual side effects dry lips and my face is getting very dry, but other than that it has been ok. I found the Dermo 200 is good for your skin, it relieves the itch, you can either use it in the shower or the bath. I am hoping that on my 40th birthday my skin will be a lot clearer.

I hope I get some replies, be good to hear from some of you.

Haze
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Lol

24th Nov, 08

Hey,

I was just wondering, if you get Roaccutane prescribed from the dermatologist, then is it free or do you still have to pay huge amounts for it?

Thanks and all the best,
Ben
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karen

28th Nov, 08

hey everyone,just wondering if roac. clears blackheads as they are my main problem!also,does it cause scarring or help it?does acne generally come back,do most people tend to take more then one course?cheers!
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Nicole

3rd Jan, 09

Hi Abi

I was reading your blog and im in exactly the same position as you were. Im 16 and have been suffering from acne on my face, back and chest four about 4 years now. Nothing has worked for me and i have scars on all the areas mentioned. Im thinking of taking roaccutane as I’ve really had enough now. Sometimes i feel rele depresd as i cannot wear the clothes i want to as my scars and spots will be exposed, which is the worst, however the spots on my face arn’t too bad. I was jus wondering if you had any scars on your chest and back, and if they went while taking roaccutane, as its the scars that have the most effect on me, as sometimes my spots will go but the scars are always there. Ive tried micro dermabrasion and chemical peels which scarred my skin even more so im hoping that roaccutane will help with the scars aswel. Im glad to hear that roaccutane worked for you and hope you can reply as im in desperate need for help.

Thankz x
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Abi

3rd Jan, 09

Hiya Nicole,

It’s not fair getting acne so early is it. I remember being twelve and thinking “surely i’m too young for this yet!”. Moving up to high school and already having acne was horrible as everybody else had flawless skin, and i spent most of high school feeling incredibly self-concious and nervous.

I had acne covering my entire back which left some scarring and after my first course of Roaccutane, I have never had another spot there and to look at it now you would never know I had acne on my back.

I’m sorry to here that the micro-dermbrasion and chemical peels didn’t work for you. The laser treatment I had was useless and I actually ended up looking worse. Private clinics must con so much money out of people with acne as we are so desperate for clear skin we are wiling to shell out huge amounts of money in the hope it will be a cure.

If I were you I would give Roaccutane ago, discuss it with your doctor and start on a low dose to see how your body reacts to it. I always start on low doses then build it up. The dry skin is irritating but definetly manageable with good products
Let me know what you decide to do!

Abi
xxxxxxxxxx
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Charlie

26th Jan, 09

Hi Abi

My girlfriend is currently on Roaccutane and is finishing her course pretty soon. How did you find coming off the meds? Did you have any adverse affects or did your skin just stay clear?
Thanks a lot

Charlie
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Abi

26th Jan, 09

Hiya Charlie,

Basically, when i come off roaccutane i find that pretty soon the dry lips and skin subsides. However, my skin never goes back to being greasy like it was post-roaccutane which is always quite a relief!

I am currently on my third course of roaccutane as each of the other times after about 8 months i have started to get some spots again. If you want to see my progress through each of the courses it’s all written here:

http://reclaimyourskin.co.uk/author/Abi/

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Joanna

27th Jan, 09

Hi everyone,
I have been an acne sufferer since I was about 11, and after numerous lotions, creams and antibiotics I was referred for roaccutane when I was 14 and it completely cleared my skin up.
However, I am now 21 and for the past year or so my acne has started to flair up again. I’ve been on 3 lymacyline courses (each time I finish them my skin just goes bad again) before my doctor referred me to a dermatologist for roaccutane.
I’m really worried that I will not be allowed to take it again, or he will say my acne is not bad enough, but its been bad even when on the lymacycline. It seems like a lot of people on here have had 2 or more doses of roaccutane; are the side effects (dry skin etc) worse second time round, or did people find that their experiences were the same? As I was fine first time round I am hoping I will be allowed to take it again. After hearing horror stories about it I have been worried despite having taken it before!
It is nice to know that there are so many people who understand how awful acne can be, having had an absolutely awful time through high school because of it. All I can say to girls is find a good foundation or concealer for your skin, I could not live without my Clinique superbalanced make-up, if only I had discovered it when I was 14!
I am off to St. Thomas’s dermatology on Friday, hoping that I will get a positive result, I don’t want to leave without roaccutane!

Joanna
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omo

29th Jan, 09

hi everyone
i have been on roacc 4 almost 2 months, thou it’s really clearing my face but the dryness is causing my lip is too much…..does anyone know of a good product i can use to relief the excessive dryness?
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grace

4th Feb, 09

hi abi,
your story is really an inspiration to me. i will book an appointment with my gp tomorrow and hopefully she’ll refer me to a dermatologist. i am 29 and i’ve had serious acne since i was 17. its the same old story taking all kind of antibiotics and over the counter treatments but no show. the latest i have now is one dalacin thing that is doing absolutely nothing. people are cruel there is nosuch thing as don’t judge a book by its cover, people judge on your appearance. i’ll keep you posted to see how it goes.
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Abi

4th Feb, 09

Hiya Grace,

Yeah, i was given that Dalacin T thing, it came in a roller ball i had to roll all over my face and it didn’t help whatsoever. And i felt like an idiot applying it.

Doctors find it easiest to fob acne patients off with antibiotics and various useless creams, i hadn’t even heard of roaccutane until i was 17 and that was only by chance from someone at school, i think that many people suffer with acne for years without knowing about roacc.

I think once you explain to your GP how many treatments you have tried and that nothing has helped, she will have no option but to refer you to a derm.

And you’re right, people are judgemental, and it sucks!!!

Good luck with your GP, let me know if you get a referral,

xxxxxxxxxx
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Alexandra

6th Feb, 09

hello, am alex and i have suffered with acne since junior school. Because i have had it so long, since i was young (i am now nearly 19) it has never really bothered me and i am used to wearing make-up to cover them.
but lately, make-up hasnt worked covering them, and i am becoming more self conscious e.g. staying in friends houses and not wanting to take my make up off before bed, or being around boys.
For years i have been the doctors and had every kind of tablet, cream, antibotic, lotion, you name it ive proberly had it!

any way i finally got referred to the dermologialists and they automatically wanted to put me on roacctune. the problem was the side affects. my family and myself was very wary of what could happen as reading the leaflet it seems very scarey! after thinking for a few weeks, and realising this is problery the last chance ive got for some treatment actually working! i read all your posts (which were great help) and i decided to go ahead and take it.

I am currently only on 20mg a day and the doctor said next time i go back (in three weeks time) he will up it if it is working out succesful. i have been on roacctun, for jus over a week now and i am nocticing already that my skin seems less red, no other majour spots have formed and i am being opptimistic that hopefully it will work!

I jus thought ad right this, as alot of you helped me, so i thought i could right back!

i will keep you’s posted in the next few weeks to let you know the results and if i have had any side affects…of which i have had none yet! but my skin and face does feel abit ichy at times!

xoxo
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joane

8th Feb, 09

hi everyone
Just a quick up date and really positive, Ive finished my course of roaccutane just over a month ago and still have really clear skin just hope it stays that way. For all those people out there that are undecided if to take the drug or not from my experience go for it its well worth it to have clear skin. Thank you everyone x
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Abi

8th Feb, 09

Glad it’s worked for you Joane
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shona

28th Feb, 09

Hi,i was lucky enough to only have to go through one course and was over the moon with the results.The only problems im facing now,after being off the drug for a year and a half,is extremely sensitive skin,can only wash face and body with Aqueous cream,anything else touches my skin and i have an allergic reaction.My advice to first time users is stay out the sun!!!Had to endure serious pain and blisters after sitting in the sun for 15mins with factor 30 on,biggest mistake ever,I learned the hard way.
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Grace

28th Feb, 09

Hi,

I went to see a dermatologist two weeks ago and he suggested that i try roaccutane. Im really all for it. Im still waiting for an appointment for my blood test and I’m really getting impatient. Do you think i need to see my GP to speed things up.
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seb

1st Mar, 09

Hi, I’m Sebastian 19. I’m planning to take Roaccutane in a week’s time. Well perhaps like everyone I’m quite reluctant because of the side effects specially the psychological side effects it may cause. I was diagnosed a couple of year ago with clinical depression and the thought of it recurring really scares me. given my history, should i think the drug?

Does Roaccutane help in getting rid of keloidal scars? My chest is plagued with acne and some of them turned into keloid scars already. sigh I can’t even take off my shirt when I’m in the beach. T.T I’m worrying about the initial break out stage also. It might aggravate my chest condition which might result to more keloidal scars. or won’t it?

help!!! I’m banking all my hopes on this drug. I hope I can find myself company while going through the whole process…
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bridie

1st Mar, 09

i am taking roaccutane 40mg a day and dianette for the past 3 months. i take all my tablets in the morning and was wondering does it make a difference when you take them or if you take them together.
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shona

2nd Mar, 09

Try blisteze for dry lips,is mainly for cold sores but found it worked a treat when i was the drug.Was given a cream from Dermatologist called Nicam Gel 4%,have found that when put any spots/acne that starts to reappear it seems to really work unlike the Dalacin T i was given from my GP.Nicam Gel can also be prescribed by a doctor but for some reason wasnt mentioned for all the years I attended mine,wasnt until i visited the Dermatology Clinic that I was given it+its the only cream/gel ive ever had that seems to work.
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Moll

11th Mar, 09

Seb, you really really need to speak to your health professional about ALL your concerns, honey! Make sure you go and see them BEFORE you start taking the meds. Make sure you write down all of your questions as they occur to you and take the list with you. Don’t leave until you have all the answers and write the answers down whilst the doctor is sat in front of you.

You may feel like you are being a pain in the arse when you are there but having everything clear and straight in your mind before you start is half the battle.

This site is called ‘Reclaim Your Skin’. Go kick some acne butt! lololololololol

All the very very best to you
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Justin

13th Mar, 09

Abi, you’re a real superstar helping everyone out with their acne problems! You deserve a medal! I’m in the middle of my first (and hopefully only!) course of Roaccutane at the moment. My skin is now looking great tho I just hope it stays tht way! People without skin problems don’t realise how much it affects your life huh. It totally sucks. But hey, u jst have to stay positive! It’s the only way forward! How is your skin doing now anyway?

Justin x
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Abi

14th Mar, 09

Hiya Justin!

Thanks for your lovely comments!!!

My skin is doing brilliantly at the moment, i took my last tablet a few days ago, i’m just praying my skin actually remains clear this time or i’m going to be furious!!! I’m glad it’s working for you What dose you on???

xxxxxxxxxx
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Steve

26th Mar, 09

hey guys,
Im 21, today I saw the dermatologist after being referred by my GP. Have had acne since I was about 14, all this time presuming I would ‘grow out of it’, but nope its still here! I have been on all the mentioned antibiotics to no avail, and am hoping the roaccutane is going to help me out.

I’ve got to get my blood test sorted first, but should start my course within a few weeks. Obviously I’m aware of all the possibly side effects, but its great being able to read of everyone’s experiences, most of it being pretty reassuring. As with most others, the whole psychological aspect is the part im concerned about the most, but I’m generally sound of mind so not too worried.

Will keep you posted. Steve.
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Steve

7th May, 09

Hey all,
So it’s been a few weeks, since I last posted I’ve had my bloods done and returned, and have started my Roaccutane course. I’ve been started on 40mg a day (I weigh 100kgs, I guess 50mg might have been a bit too much to start with - going off the 0.5mg/1kg estimate). I’m a week into it, so far my lips have become rather dry, so am using a vaseline-type jelly the derm gave me. My face hasn’t changed much - a little less greasy, a couple of small whiteheads but was expecting an initial outbreak after reading other people’s experiences. Noticed today though, after having my shower the skin on my face is becoming drier - some came off while drying my face, again another sign that its working, but will have to wait to see results!
Steve.
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Tiffany

15th May, 09

Hi , Im 13 years old and i get bullied for having spots and they are really bad, it really depresing.When i talk to people i try to make eye contact but when i do i see them lookin round my face at my spots i feel really uncomftable. When i have to get up in front of my class and talk i feel really imbarrised and ugly. This drug your talking about could i go to my doctor and ask for a dermotologist and get this drug ? please right back ,
Tiffany
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flan

15th May, 09

Hi tiffany,

You are completely right, going to your GP and then asking for a referal to a dermatologist is the best route. Be prepared for possibly painful and “unsightly” side effects, however as you can see lots of people have had positive results after around 6months. I’m starting my 5th month now, and it has been up and down, but worth it i think.
Good luck! If you are on private health care your parents should have cover to pay for the trip to the dermatologist and the drug, if not you may have a longer wait for a non private dermatologist and pay for the drug. Seeing as you feel so down and it sounjds like more developped acne, I’m sure your parents will help you

xxxxx
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Rachel

4th Jun, 09

hey,
ive had bad skin since i was in year 5/6 and ive just started taking Roaccutane ive been taking it for about 12 days. my lips are really dry and im on a 35mg dose.. ive tryed all the antibiotics and dionntte over a year and nothing working so im hoping this will clear it up.. lots of people have said that they have had it come back i really hope that does not happen!!! i have still been getting a few break outs around my chin but im hoping this is just because i have only been on it for 12 days lol.
hope your skin has and does stay clear tho abi x
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Bethany

6th Jun, 09

hi im bethany im 15 yrs old and i have had acne from around 5 well i was getting the first of my eruptions around then and i was covered by 7 i have endured being tormented at school and would give anything to get rid of this awful skin my mum has a tendancy to zit me normal sessions last around 2 hours ( of pure agony ) and that obviosly hurts physically and mentally i have tried everything from pils to creams to gels you name it i have bought it so i was watching embarrising illnesses on youtube when acne appeared and roaccutane was mention and i thought i would do a little research i would like to try this so im going to visit my gp about a referral to a dermatologist considering he was up to sending me to one to have hormone treatment for it. lol xx gd luck to all with this wretched skin issue xx
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About Abi’s Diaries

Biographical Info
I'm Abi and I am a personal assistant to a young man who has autism. I am 22 and I have been battling with acne since I was 12. I have taken 3 courses of Roaccutane and my skin is currently clear, just praying it remains this way!!!

Posted in Abi's Roaccutane Diary by abi

abi: Abi’s Roaccutane diary - Background

176 responses to “Abi’s Roaccutane diary - Background”

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