Since I contacted you in July the Doxycycle has had no impact at all…. in fact my skin is now worse than ever, all nodules and cysts… I am really upset right now…

So I am taking the plunge and am going to see a consultant dermatologist as soon as I can. I know the next few months are going to be really hard but I just hope that the doctor will at least let me try Roacc and that it works. Your website is so helpful so thank you for keeping it going…. having acne in your mid-forties is just no fun at all!

Rachel x

Hi Josie,
I am so pleased you took the time to message, and I am really pleased that this blog has helped you! My best tip is to always remember why you are doing this and that it will all be worth it. I found taking pictures really helpful, I know it’s not nice but you then have something to look back on especially on the bad days. Then you realise that it is actually getting better even if it doesn’t feel like it. I wish you all the best, do keep in touch x

I am just about to start taking accutane for my persistent acne, having already tried antibiotic and prescribed creams. Reading your blog has helped me understand what I will potentially face a lot more. I am prepared for what might happen over the next few months and that I must remind myself to stay positive!

Thank you so so much for the honest uploads, it is really nice to hear and see what others have experienced. Your story is amazing!

Josie x

Hi Sinead,
You’re absolutely right I must put up some more post Roaccutane pics!!! I keep meaning to!
I do think and feel my dreaded acne days are over and I never under estimate the process I went through to get here!
The relief is liberating, I NEVER thought my skin would be normal, and feel blessed that it is now, the journey was worth it xx

Hi Andrea,

Thank you so much for your response, its really put my mind at rest. I hope to be joining you in the no makeup club very soon.

So far my symptoms have been pretty textbook. Dry skin/lips, well actually peeling skin ( this morning it was like peeling wallpaper off my nose!) And occasionally I ache, especially if I’ve been sat too long ( a bit like a 90 year old!) Only thing that seems to really bother me is the redness as I mentioned before, I’ve figured that this is because although I’m starting to clear up (well getting there) the redness hides any improvement, in fact I’m looking more lobster-ish each passing day ha!

I’ve been using cetaphil cleanser and moisteriser which has worked really well so far, I started using carmex for my lips, personally I think this is better than Vaseline as it doesn’t absorb as quickly.

My dermatologist said my course will last between 4-5 months depending on progress. I’m not completely clear yet but better than I have been for years.

How long has it been since your course finished? Do you think the dreaded acne days are over for good?

It would be brilliant to see more post accutane pictures to spur me on, I’m sure other followers would agree.

Sinead xx

Hi Sinead,
Lovely to hear from you!
The redness is totally normal, I did get that too. You are right not to be concerned about it, the Roaccutane is doing it’s job. This side effect does go after the treatment is ended and makes way for your beautiful new skin. My make up ran out this week and I forgot to order a new bottle in time so had to go to work with no foundation on… actually liberating and couldn’t believe the day had come. Like you I had dreamed of this. My hubby even said to me I don’t know why you still put that on!! 🙂 (Note to self, must take some up to date photos for my fellow followers)
Have you had any other side effects?
Are you using any products to soothe the symptoms?
Have you been advised how long your treatment will be?

Lok forward to hearing more of your progress
Andrea xx

Hi Andrea,

Thank you so much for keeping such a detailed log of your accutane journey.

I am 25 years old and have suffered with cycstic acne for the past 4 years. I have just started my 2nd month of accutane and my dose has been upped to 55mg (from 25mg). So far they are working really well however, since my dose has been highered I have noticed extreme redness, in particular on my chin, nose and cheeks. I am just wondering if you experienced anything similar? Right now I am too happy that the acne is diminishing to become too concerned about the redness as this can be covered through the day with makeup I am however wondering if this redness is something I will have to deal with long after I have finished the accutane course as it is rather unsightly in itself and I long to be able to walk outnof the door makeup free!

I hope you receive this post as I would love your advice.

Kind regards,

Sinead (UK)

Xx

Hi Kate,
Welcome to my site and I wish you all the very best in your own journey x

I wasn’t given any advice one way or the other regarding my nutrition and diet whilst being on Roaccutane. However as a personal choice I decided to eat very healthily and cut out all ‘processed’ foods because I was scared of Roaccutane already increasing my cholesterol levels without me adding to it. I also stopped drinking alcohol whilst taking the medication as I was scared in the same way for my liver. Again a personal choice that actually did me some good. As a result of spending the best part of a year on this treatment I changed my eating habits, lost some extra weight and then spent the next year on a fitness plan.

Good luck and keep in touch x

Andrea

Hi Jo,

Thanks for your nice comments and I’m glad to hear that my blog is helping another fellow acne sufferer. My dermatologist also told me that I was ok to have the occasional drink while taking my medication but I chose not to. I felt this was right for me and would give the medication the best chance of success. My own personal worries were to look after my cholesterol levels and to keep my liver healthy throughout the process. I wish you well on your journey and feel free to keep in touch! Andrea xx