Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat severe acne or worsening acne that hasn’t responded to other forms of treatment. It is a derivative of vitamin A (retinoid) taken orally and is only prescribed by a physician when the patient has tried multiple types of acne treatments, including oral antibiotics and topical treatments like creams and cleansers. The main ingredient of Accutane, isotretinoin, works by increasing cell turnover and the shedding of dead skin cells, resulting in less build-up and pore-clogging. It also reduces oil gland size and production by up to 90%, which is why dry skin is one of the most common side effects of Accutane.

Here are some details about Accutane before and after, positive and negative effects, and ingredients or materials:

Before and After

• Accutane can take several months to work, and some people may experience an initial worsening of their acne before it improves.
• According to a Cosmopolitan article, some women who took Accutane reported significant improvements in their acne, while others did not see much of a change.
• The same article also includes before-and-after photos of women who took Accutane, showing significant improvements in their acne.

Positive Effects

• Accutane can be highly effective in treating severe acne that has not responded to other treatments.
• According to a dermatologist quoted in the Cosmopolitan article, Accutane can permanently shrink oil glands, making them less easily stimulated.
• Some people who take Accutane report improved self-confidence and quality of life due to the improvement in their acne.

Negative Effects

• Accutane can have a number of side effects, including dry skin, chapped lips, skin itchiness, increased sensitivity to sun exposure, and joint and muscle pain.
• Accutane can also cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy, so it is important for women of childbearing age to use effective contraception while taking the medication.
• Some people who take Accutane may experience depression or other mental health issues, although the link between Accutane and mental health is not fully understood.

Ingredients or Materials

• The active ingredient in Accutane is isotretinoin, which is a derivative of vitamin A.
• Accutane capsules may contain inactive ingredients such as soybean and parabens, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.