A very common side effect of acne treatment with isotretinoin is dry lips. Nearly all patients experience drier skin and chapped lips. This can be managed with good moisturizers and lip balm. Therefore, use a good lip balm that provides a lot of moisture every hour if needed. By using lip balm regularly and as needed, you will be able to keep the dryness under control. It can also be beneficial to use an extra rich repairing substance on your lips at night, such as Purelan, which can be purchased at the pharmacy. It is important to keep this product on your bedside table to ensure nightly use.
Some patients get dry mucous membranes, such as dry nasal mucous membranes, which can lead to a tendency to nosebleeds. This can be prevented by regularly applying petroleum jelly or nasal oil.
The skin becomes more easily sunburned during treatment with isotretinoin, and it is crucial to be extra careful in the sun, especially when directly exposed. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid tanning and the use of sunbeds during the treatment.
You should buy sunscreens specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Such sunscreens have a thin consistency, often light and gel-based, with a lower fat content. There are also day creams with sun protection factor (SPF) that can be nice to use during the summer months. Other sun protection measures, such as wearing a sun hat, covering clothing, and using a parasol, are also important if you need to stay out in the sun. Sun protection helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in those undergoing acne treatment.
It is important to remove makeup and foundation every evening. Use a mild cleanser. Isotretinoin inhibits sebum production, so your skin produces less oil. The oily layer you previously felt on your forehead disappears, and your hair doesn't get as greasy. Therefore, it is not as important to use a toner with salicylic acid. Salicylic acid can also sting for some during acne treatment. If you tolerate a toner with salicylic acid while using isotretinoin, you can continue to use it. After finishing the treatment, it is recommended to continue using a toner with salicylic acid every morning and evening—ideally for many years.
If you don't feel the need for a moisturizer, you can skip using it. If you become dry from isotretinoin, it can be helpful to apply a day cream every morning.
There are creams that only provide moisture and creams that have active ingredients against acne. If you have sensitive skin, we recommend only using a cream with moisturizing effects, as active ingredients can cause further irritation. If you tend to get eczema, you should apply a light cream frequently rather than using a heavy moisturizer. You can use hydrocortisone or another cortisone cream if you become very red, but be aware that cortisone creams can worsen acne. Therefore, it is important to use these only in the areas where you need them. The important thing with any creams you use is that they are not too greasy and worsen your acne. They should be "non-comedogenic."
You should choose makeup and products that do not worsen acne on your face and skin where you easily get pimples. Be critical of what you buy and read the ingredients list of the products you purchase. Creams and foundations should not be too oily and greasy but more thin or gel-based. Many people get more acne from using a lot of makeup, so the best is to use as little as possible if you easily get acne. Reduce the use of makeup as the effect of isotretinoin becomes apparent. Ask for advice at the pharmacy in choosing the right skincare products.
