Accutane purging: How to avoid accutane purge
Have you wondered when you start Accutane, and after a few days, you notice your acne is worsening because of all these sudden breakouts and new pimples? That situation is referred to as an Accutane purge. Starting your journey on Accutane can be very challenging because your skin condition tends to get worse before it gets better.
Accutane purging can take a serious toll on someone's mental health and self-esteem who is already suffering from acne. However, if you start with the right approach, you can avoid or at least reduce the severity of the purge.
What is Accutane?
Isotretinoin is typically a vitamin A derivative retinoid prescription drug and comes in a capsule with a popular brand name of Accutane. It is mainly the last resort for those who have severe, painful, and deep cystic acne that does not respond to other treatments. It works by preventing the clogging of pores, shrinking the skin's oil glands, and reducing bacterial growth on the skin with some anti-inflammatory effects.
When does Accutane purging start?
Accutane purging usually starts within the first month of treatment. During this initial phase the skin goes through a flare-up of acne and breakouts, usually called an Accutane purging phase. This usually happens because the skin's cell turnover process is sped up, bringing all the clogged pores and trapped impurities to the surface to get rid of them.
Tips to Avoid or Reduce the Purge
The good news is that Accutane purging is a temporary phase. Still, it can be very depressing as it lasts for several weeks or months and can potentially damage the skin, causing permanent scars depending on the skin type and dosage. An Accutane purge cannot be entirely avoided, but you can significantly lower its severity and duration with several strategies.
Low Dosage at the Beginning
Starting with a low dose and increasing it over time can help minimize purging as it allows your skin to adjust over time, and the purging can be effectively controlled. Always Consult your dermatologist to determine the dosage according to your skin condition and requirements.
Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine
It is best to stay away from those fancy products that can be harsh on the skin, such as scrubbing masks, exfoliants, and topical retinoids when on Accutane can further exacerbate the Accutane purging, irritate the skin barrier, and cause more breakouts.
While on Accutane, it's crucial to stick to a gentle and simple skincare regimen, which can
include the following:
- Gentle hydrating facial cleanser
- Fragrance-free moisturizer
- Non-comedogenic Sunscreen
Avoid Picking at Your Skin.
It can be tempting for some people to pick at their face, but you should be mindful of the fact that picking at your skin, especially during the Accutane purging phase, may only increase the chances of skin problems, such as:
- Various kinds of scarring
- Increased redness and inflammation
- Spread of bacteria to other parts of the skin
- Prolonged healing duration
To avoid all these issues, avoid touching your face as much as possible and let it heal independently.
Patience and Consistency
It can be mentally and emotionally tough to deal with Accutane purging, but patience and consistency are key to achieving promising results. Soon after the purging phase ends, the skin starts to clear up, but this requires consistently sticking to your prescribed treatment plan by your dermatologist.
What to Expect After The Purging Phase
Many people are concerned about how and when they can see the results. The purging reduces once the skin adjusts to the medication, and the acne calms down. The effects result in clearer and smoother skin. After a few months of Accutane, you might see improvements in your skin, such as less sebum production, improved skin texture, and reduced breakouts.
Conclusion
Accutane purging can be challenging because someone who has severe acne is already suffering from low self-esteem and frustration. However, it is essential to know that it is a temporary phase of the treatment, and the skin eventually gets better. You should always Follow the guidelines of your dermatologist and never make any changes to your treatment plan without a consultation.
