Isotretinoin is a prescription medication that treats severe acne. Isotretinoin is considered the most effective treatment for acne that doesn't respond to other treatments.
Isotoretinoin
Savior of acne treatment
Recommended for
- Acne that doesn’t improve with standard treatments
- Those seeking a fundamental solution to acne
- Widespread acne on the face or body
- Concerns about excess oil or clogged pores
What is Isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin is an oral vitamin A derivative recommended for severe acne cases or those unresponsive to other treatments. It works by suppressing sebum production, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin cell turnover, effectively addressing acne at its root.
Often referred to as the “last resort” for acne treatment, isotretinoin provides long-term acne improvement and prevents recurrence even after completing therapy.
At our clinic, we use AKNETRENT for isotretinoin treatment.
Effects of Isotretinoin
1. Sebum Suppression
・Shrinks sebaceous glands and reduces sebum production to prevent acne formation.
・Dryness is a common side effect, requiring consistent moisturizing. Symptoms often ease after the first month as the skin adapts.
2. Promotes Skin Turnover
・Speeds up skin cell renewal to clear acne.
・Initial side effects may include peeling skin and temporary acne flares, but these subside as the skin adjusts, reducing new acne over time.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
・Prevents sebum oxidation, which causes skin damage, redness, and inflammation.
・Reduces comedone formation and prevents their oxidation, improving clogged pores and overall skin quality.
Treatment Timeline
1. Before Treatment:
A consultation and blood tests are conducted to confirm suitability. Treatment typically lasts 6 months per course.
2. Initial Days:
Isotretinoin takes about a week to show effects, with minimal changes in the first few days.
3. First 30 Days:
Sebum suppression begins, causing dryness and peeling, especially on the lips and skin. Temporary acne worsening or increased blackheads may occur, indicating the medication is working. Use sunscreen and moisturizers to manage symptoms.
4. 30–60 Days:
Skin adapts to faster turnover, acne decreases, and side effects become less severe. Dosage adjustments may be made if acne persists.
5. After 60 Days:
The treatment stabilizes, focusing on preventing new acne formation.
6. At 180 Days:
Treatment is completed, with most patients experiencing significant improvement.
Post-Treatment Progress
After completing isotretinoin therapy, most patients experience long-term acne prevention. A 3-month observation period ensures sustained results.
For the 20–30% who experience recurrence, a second course may be recommended after a 3-month break, often leading to even greater improvements.
Side Effects and Precautions
| Teratogenicity | ・Women: Strict contraception is required from 1 month before starting to 6 months after completing treatment. ・Men: Contraception is recommended during treatment and for 1 month post-treatment. |
| Dryness | ・Dry skin, peeling lips, nasal dryness, nosebleeds, and eye discomfort. |
| Hair and Scalp Issues | ・Increased dandruff and temporary hair loss may occur, especially in the first 1–2 months. |
| Epiphyseal Closure | ・Not suitable for patients under 15 years old or those still growing. |
| Blood Abnormalities | ・Rare reports of liver dysfunction, high cholesterol/triglycerides, and anemia. Regular blood tests are recommended during treatment. |
| Mental Health | ・Depression is a rare potential side effect. If symptoms arise, consult your doctor immediately. |
| Other Rare Side Effects | ・Muscle pain, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, and, in rare cases, severe conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. |
| Donation Restrictions | ・Blood donation is prohibited during treatment and for 1 month afterward. |
| Treatment Guidelines During Therapy | ・Skincare: Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers to manage dryness. ・Sun Protection: Always apply sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight. ・Hydration: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. ・Alcohol: Minimize alcohol consumption to reduce liver strain. |
| Who Cannot Undergo Treatment? | ・Patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis ・Those taking tetracycline antibiotics ・Individuals with allergies to parabens, soy, or peanuts ・Patients with liver dysfunction, high cholesterol, or mental health conditions ・Those on steroids or vitamin A supplements ・Patients who have recently undergone LASIK/ICL surgery (within 3 months) |
Price list (tax included)
- 10mg for 30 days
- ¥8,800
- 20mg for 30 days
- ¥12,800
- 30mg for 30 days
- ¥19,800
- 40mg for 30 days
- ¥24,800
An additional blood test fee of ¥2,200 (including tax) is required for prescriptions at the initial visit, after 1 month, and after 4 months.
