Bad skin really getting me down

LegacyUser

Hi guys

I know this isn't a medical forum so mods please feel free to move if this is inappropriate...

I'm a 24 year old girl and have struggled on and off with acne since I was about 18 years old. Took an antibiotic for a few years during college, my skin was fine during that time. However, I became immune to that and lo and behold, a few years later the problem raises its head again.
Now it's back with a vengeance. It's hormonal acne from what I can gather and the lower part of my face is just a mess, all along the sides of my cheeks, around my mouth and jawline. The annoying thing is, the rest of my skin is perfect and if I put my hands over my mouth, you'd not know there's a problem at all...
I just can't seem to get rid of these damn spots. Went to the doc again last week and he gave me a week-long antibiotic to reduce redness, which hasn't worked, and a 6 month prescription for dianette.
I tried dianette a few years back but immediately came off it when my face literally exploded after a few weeks...however doctor is convinced this was the pill beginning to work and I should have stuck it out.
After doing a bit of online research Ive discovered that a diet/weight loss is virtually impossible while taking birth control, especially dianette, and this is a dealbreaker for me as I've been steadily losing weight for six months now and still have a few stone to go.

So now I am considering stopping it, but I just don't know what to do about the acne. I am at my wits end. I don't want to be stopping and starting antiobiotics for the next ten years, I really want to get to the root of this problem, it's starting to affect my confidence bigtime.

Has anyone been through hormonal adult acne and come out the other end? What helped? What should I do, aside from going back to the doctor and starting another course of antibiotics?

LegacyUser

Hi,

My boyfriend is going through the same thing as you at the moment, he had problems with acne since he was a teenager and he was off and on all sorts of tablets, the only ones which he found really good and cleared them up completely is Roaccutine (think thats how you spell it) and he swears by the stuff, now there is a few serious side effects, depression is one of them but he was fine, also if you werent keen on takin them tablets ( look them up on google cos they have had a lot of media hype) but instead of these, you could try Vitamin A which is a derivative of Roaccutine and it supposed to work wonders also!

i know its tough and must make you feel really self conscious but most of the time, you see it as alot worse than what other people would.

Good luck!

LegacyUser

please, please, please don't use roaccutane. i overdosed on paracetamol while on it. please see a dermatologist to get it sorted out once and for all. ask your gp to refer you.
hope you feel better soon!

LegacyUser

Thanks a mill for the reply.

I've heard about roaccutane, mentioned it to the GP last week but he said only a dermatologist can prescribe it and it's for severe and persistent acne that has resisted everything else, not the mention the serious side effects.
Mine is localised to my chin, mouth and lower cheek but it looks terrible and GP said because it was clearly hormonal, the pill should do the trick.
I just never realised the full implications of being on dianette - EG weight, moods, etc until I have filled the prescription and did a bit of research into it. Granted the internet isn't the best place to go rooting for medical facts, but I've worked so hard to get the weight off and am just not prepared to jeopardise that...
I think I'm going to have to get to a dermatologist at this stage.

Thanks again

mood

Get referred to a dermatologist. There are laser treatments available and he/she might be able to advise you about these and other options.

Unregistered

Unregistered wrote: »

Hi,

My boyfriend is going through the same thing as you at the moment, he had problems with acne since he was a teenager and he was off and on all sorts of tablets, the only ones which he found really good and cleared them up completely is Roaccutine (think thats how you spell it) and he swears by the stuff, now there is a few serious side effects, depression is one of them but he was fine, also if you werent keen on takin them tablets ( look them up on google cos they have had a lot of media hype) but instead of these, you could try Vitamin A which is a derivative of Roaccutine and it supposed to work wonders also!

i know its tough and must make you feel really self conscious but most of the time, you see it as alot worse than what other people would.

Good luck!

roaccutaine is best thing i've ever taken.. very dry lips for a few months, like rock solid and peeling but it cleared my entire back and face. sitting on a chair used to be sore like. only wish i'd taken it sooner.

it's quite difficult to get onto though since you need blood tests taken and that but def go for it. i'm going to go on it again for a bit next year because i still have a few now and then on my face and i want my skin clear before i go travelling.

LegacyUser

OK two things.

First up, the info about losing weight while on birth control is wrong.
Apart from a very small minority of women (and I mean small) the pill does NOT make you put on weight. It can increase some women's appetite, so all you need to do is be aware if you're eating more than you used to.
The weight issue is down to nutrition and exercise, and you can control that.
Without wanting to sound like a bitch, lots of women blame the pill for weight issues when 99% of the time they are just not eating properly and exercising. Plenty of women claim coming OFF the pill makes them put on weight... go figure!

Second, go to a dermatologist. I suffered for years with acne, was also on Dianette for a time which did work well but I had to come off it for other reasons. Finally went to a dermatologist and got it sorted. Should have done that years ago.

rustynutz

Deleted User wrote: »

roaccutaine is best thing i've ever taken.. very dry lips for a few months, like rock solid and peeling but it cleared my entire back and face. sitting on a chair used to be sore like. only wish i'd taken it sooner.

it's quite difficult to get onto though since you need blood tests taken and that but def go for it. i'm going to go on it again for a bit next year because i still have a few now and then on my face and i want my skin clear before i go travelling.

I was on Roaccutaine too for very severe acne,was the only thing that cured it,wish I had taken it sooner,wasted 5 years of my life suffering low confidence - and I'm a guy,I know it's probably worse for girls.I know there are possible side affects,deppresion etc. but I weighed up the odds -maybe another 10 years feeling I looked like freddy crooger(you always think it looks worse to other people than it actually does by the way) or accept the very slight risk I might suffer side affects(you are closely monitered by a dermotoligist while on it),I ended up on it 3 times and apart from dry skin & lips, severe tiredness and loss of appetite didn't suffer too badly and it got rid of the acne!It's an option if all else fails.

LegacyUser

Thanks to all for the advice.

I think I am just so confused by the conflicting information flying at me left right and centre, and so weary of nothing working, or temporary results and then inevitable flare-ups, that it's really getting me down. I dread the mornings because of the amount of time and effort I have to spend covering up and concealing the spots with makeup, which I'm sure is making the problem worse.

I've been hopping from GP to GP the last few years what with varying college GPs and then different doctors once I left college, so I feel like each GP treats my skin problem in a standardized way rather than taking a look at it on an individual, personal basis. It seems to be antibiotics as the first port of call, and when I say I don't want to go there again, the pill is the next option.

I'm not so much worried about gaining weight on birth control as at this point I am very good at controlling my diet and getting regular exercise; it's more the not-losing that I am worried about. I've no proof that it's detrimental to my efforts yet as I've only just started taking the dianette, and I know I should be patient and give it a go, but I just don't want to get too far into my prescription and then have to come off it if this does become a problem.

This skin issue is just really upsetting me now. I've dealt with it for so long and whereas I once was able to deal with it in a clinical way, now I am getting a bit depressed about it and I am permanently conscious of it.

I have booked an appointment with the GP for Monday and am going to ask for a referral to a dermatologist. Does anyone know how long it typically takes to get seen after you've been referred?

Thanks again

LegacyUser

badskin wrote: »

I feel like each GP treats my skin problem in a standardized way rather than taking a look at it on an individual, personal basis. It seems to be antibiotics as the first port of call, and when I say I don't want to go there again, the pill is the next option.

I've no proof that it's detrimental to my efforts yet as I've only just started taking the dianette, and I know I should be patient and give it a go, but I just don't want to get too far into my prescription and then have to come off it if this does become a problem.

I feel for you, I really do. I've been there myself but you aren't going to get a personalised solution for acne. Even from a dermatologist, they see patients every day and will suggest and prescribe for you what they suggest and prescribe to their other patients.
A dermatologist may also suggest the pill to you too. I know it's a pain but you're going to have to stick with a treatment for a few months to see if it works. Stopping and starting is not going to work, in fact it will screw with your hormones even more.

badskin wrote: »

I have booked an appointment with the GP for Monday and am going to ask for a referral to a dermatologist. Does anyone know how long it typically takes to get seen after you've been referred?

I'm not sure because I went to a private consultant. Actually I think the reason I went private was because the waiting list to see a derm was so long.
If you can afford it, I can recommend Rosemary Coleman in the Blackrock Clinic.

Seoige

I had bad acne for years and went to a dermatologist. After trying most antibiotics and antibiotic creams (which didn't work for me) the dermatologist prescribed Roaccutane. It worked. It's not a decision I took lightly given the negative stuff I'd read. For me the acne was getting me so down that I had to try it. Think about it carefully but don't write it off...Good Luck!!

Terpsichore

I can recommend Wendy Lynch, Dermatologist at the Blackrock Clinic.

Have you also thought about consulting an Allergologist/Immunologist?
Try to avoid wheat and dairy for 10 days only and see if your skin gets slightly better.

I would also think of seeing a dietician, as your weight seems to be an issue. It might be all related.

Good luck OP! It's not an easy one. Don't forget to drink plenty of water to help flush toxins out of your system.

username4321

As far as I know, you have to take the pill while on Roaccutane and sign a contract saying you will not try and get pregnant because of the birth defects/lawsuits etc.. So that would not solve your weight issue.

Im on a anti-biotic called Minox (used to be called Minocyclin) was this the one u tried in college?
Its brilliant, I have to take it twice a day but it's worth it.

I ran out of a pack the other day and was without it for just 3 days.
Going into the chemist 2 pick up the prescription my face was full of spots. All around my chin and mouth Also in between my eyebrows seems to be a problem for me. Skin has cleared up after 3 days of being back on it again.

Roaccutane is tbh too strong for me and sounds like it would be for you too (that is, if Dr. isn't recommending it).

Btw, the topical hydrogen peroxide gels/creams are alright but they are a pain !

OP if your Doc isn't being helpful maybe you could go to someone else?
Or try a dermatologist?
Good luck!

biddywiddy

Hi OP,

About this time last year I was in the same position as you. My skin flared up every so often, then calmed down and then flared again. Dianette was doing a great job at keeping it from getting really bad, but the spots I got (around my jawline mostly) were sore and impossible to hide. Makeup used to just kinda sit of them, not convering them up at all. It was really getting me down. I had been suffering with this since I was about 16. I am now 27.

Eventually I just decided enough was enough. I was 26 (at the time). I shouldn't have spots! I don't deserve them (a bit dramatic maybe). I got an appointment with a GP in Oct of last year, she put me on Minocin and referred me to a dermatologist. I said that I was willing to go private, but it still took 3 months to get my appointment (1st week in January). The Minocin cleared things up a bit, but they aren't a cure. They just control the levels of sebum being produced. So as soon as you stop taking them, things should just go back to normal (sebum-central).

The dermatologist recommended Roaccutane. She explained the risks, and possible side effects. The list of side effects is long and scary. I had to get blood tests done before I could start and had to sign a document to say that I would use another form of contraception (along with dianette) while on the drug. Every 4 weeks, I had to get my blood tested again and get a pregnacy test before the dermatologist would write another prescription. The dose varied from low at the start to higher as time progressed. The dosage is calculated using your weight. In total I was on Roaccutane for 4 months. It dried out my skin completely, I am now an expert in lip balms and for a while, on the highest dose, I bruised and grazed easily and felt quite lethargic. But now my skin is flawless. My friends say that it actually looks a different colour. I don't know myself now that I'm not constantly worried about my skin or afraid of talking to people because they would have to look at my horrible spotty face.

I appreciate that Roaccutane is not for everyone. Another part of my monthly visits to the dermatologist was to assess my frame of mind. Roaccutance can cause/aggrevate depression, and some people can feel very low while on it. Personally, I felt great because day by day (apart from a breakout in the first couple of weeks), I could literally see my skin getting clearer. When you see the dermatologist, they should explain all these things to you so you can decide for yourself if this is the best course of action for you.

Another downside to the whole process is the cost. It is expensive. Thanks to the drug payment scheme, you should only have to pay €90 per month for the medication. But the visits to the dermatologist are expensive, as are getting your blood and pregnancy tests done, so if you do go down this route, prepare yourself for that. I am in college so I got my tests done for free in the Uni Health Centre. It was great to knock some costs off the list this way. This is just another point to consider.

If you need any more info, or have any questions, feel free to pm me.

dgk

Hi
same as me until i came accross a salon in cavan that stock glycolic products, not expensive in the long term and they really work. I was on eryetromicin and a few other antibiotics, never cured it. Then one weekend i was at a hen in cavan and went to get my makeup done. The girl there was brillant ,loads of experience, knew what she was talking about.Because i dont live near cavan, I get them to post out the wash and night treatment to me, the salon name is the beauty rooms, number 0494332800, definately worth a go.
d

LegacyUser

Thanks guys for all your advice and for recounting your experiences, it really has been a huge help.

Senelra all of that was especially helpful and now I'm sort of less scared about what will be the probable course of action for me...

Went to the GP today and basically told him everything I have written here. I now have a referral to Dr Nicholas Walsh in Blackrock and got an appointment for the middle of November.

Doc suggested roaccutane as the next step and obviously I'll have to see what the dermatologist says, but to be honest, I'm ready to bite the bullet. I have a similar 'enough is enough' attitude to a previous poster here and have read / heard about the many many side effects, but if I get the green light, I'm more than ready for it.

Doctor said it was going to be expensive, and given my first appointment is going to cost me 200 yo yos alone, I don't doubt it, but money well spent if it puts an end to this misery.

Thanks again and I'll try to keep you updated, hopefully with a happy ending! x

biddywiddy

Do keep us posted OP. I will be interested to hear how you get on.

Best of luck

s

greengirl31

I can see there are a good few posts here already so you might already have your answer but here;s my 2p worth ..
I'm 32 not and have suffered cronic acne since i was about 14 ... when I was 17 I was put on roaccutaine (only for about 3/4 nonths)by a dermatoligist and it worked a treat - i know there can be very sever side effects but you are very closely monitored when you'r on it. Anyway, everything was going fine till my early 20's when it flared up again. It turned out I had polysistic ovaries and that was what was causing it ... I was on the pill and antibiotics for a while and it cleared up again for a couple of years. When it flared up again I decided not to go down the medical route and started using more expensive face creams and this did the trick. then again a couple of years ago after I had mu first child it flared up worse than it had in years .. This time I went for a dermalogicia facial and got products recommended. these worked wonders and I've been acne free for 18 months now with no medication - even the pill.
Speak to your doc and get him/her to fix this - there are treatments out there so you don't have to suffer with this ..
One final thing, i find my acne flares up when I'm stressed or emotional - is this a factor for you ??
Best of luck

LegacyUser

badskin wrote: »

Thanks guys for all your advice and for recounting your experiences, it really has been a huge help.

Senelra all of that was especially helpful and now I'm sort of less scared about what will be the probable course of action for me...

Went to the GP today and basically told him everything I have written here. I now have a referral to Dr Nicholas Walsh in Blackrock and got an appointment for the middle of November.

Doc suggested roaccutane as the next step and obviously I'll have to see what the dermatologist says, but to be honest, I'm ready to bite the bullet. I have a similar 'enough is enough' attitude to a previous poster here and have read / heard about the many many side effects, but if I get the green light, I'm more than ready for it.

Doctor said it was going to be expensive, and given my first appointment is going to cost me 200 yo yos alone, I don't doubt it, but money well spent if it puts an end to this misery.

Thanks again and I'll try to keep you updated, hopefully with a happy ending! x

Just a wee post to say that I went on roaccutane roughly this time last year. I was worried as I had heard so many negative stories about side effects etc. I got pretty dry skin and lips, and achy joints but that was it! It was one of the best decisions I ever made and my confidence has been on a high every since.

Make sure you get your prescriptions through the drugs payment scheme - means you wont pay over 100 euro per month. Also, its worth reading the roaccutane forums on acne.org.

Good luck!

RATM

badskin wrote: »

Thanks to all for the advice.



I have booked an appointment with the GP for Monday and am going to ask for a referral to a dermatologist. Does anyone know how long it typically takes to get seen after you've been referred?

Thanks again

OP I had bad acne a few years back and took roaccutane for it. The treatment took about 6 months and it fully cleared it up although there is some scarring left on my back but nothing major.

My advice is to ring the secretaries of the Consultant Dermatoligists and ask how long is their list. Most only hold a few clinics in public a week. Im not sure where in the country you are but if in Dublin Id highly recommend a consultant dermadologist called Prof.Alan Irvine who works out of St.James Hospital. He is very considerate and will explain all your options. If his list isnt too long you can ask your GP to be referred to him specifically- just say you've had a recommedation for him.

In any case they'll have to do blood tests to see what exactly is the problem and it may take a couple of visits before you get talking about prescriptions.

It can be a long process (9 months from start to finish in my case) but it is worth it in the end. The feeling of relief after finally having cleared up the problem and it staying away was well worth it.

Hope it goes well for you

LegacyUser

I went on dianette years ago and it cleared my skin. I did not out on weight at all. Recently I changed to yasmine, which is also good for acne, it is actually a diruetic so you may loose a little weight!

Glad to read about so many other people getting use out of Roaccutaine.. Every single other thing I was on was a waste of time and my hopes were constantly being dashed when they did nothing.

lizzyvera

Hi,
I've had acne since I was 11 and I'm 22 now!
Go to a dermatologist and meanwhile try the skin regime on this site www.acne.org. It's basically cetaphil to cleanse, benzoyl peroxide and a plain moisturiser. The site has loads of good tips.

It probably won't clear your skin completely but it definitely makes it look less red and angry.

Roaccutane worked a bit for me, I had to stop early because of the side effects. You need to try other things first before you're allowed to go on it. I also didn't put on weight with Dianette0- are you sure it was real fat and not just water retention?

Best of luck!

joeybloggs

lizzyvera wrote: »

Hi,
try the skin regime on this site www.acne.org.

I use this, works wonders for me. Fully recommend it. You could start it now, even with your prescription. Have to keep to the syetem rigoursly do, no slacking. But I find it very effective.

Best of luck anyhow OP!!

LegacyUser

Hi OP, I also have adult acne - which has recently been diagnosed as a symptom of Polycystic Ovaries - it is worth checking this out too before you start Roaccutane. My solution is to take the pill and Yasmin works best for me - it is very very good.

LegacyUser

Hi OP, I feel your pain.. acne is a nightmare! I've been on Roaccutane twice. The first time I was on it it did wonders for the acne on my face (I had really bad spots on my forhead), and the second time I went on it (about 5 years later) it cleared all the spots on my back and they've never come back. I didn't find the side effects bad at all.. a bit of dryness (but it meant I could wash my hair every other day which was nice!)

Last year I got spots around the jawline that I'd never had before. I went on Yasmin and swear by it (as do all of my friends on it too!). I had no side effects (no weight gain at all and my moods were better!) I stayed on it for 7 months and it cleared my skin right up and I went off it a couple months ago and my skin's still fine.

I've heard bad things about Dianette too (not sure why docs keep prescribing it!) Maybe ask for Yasmin and see how that goes. Then if you need something stronger you could try Roaccutane.

Best of luck!!

gavney

Hey, as someone who's been there, I really recommend you check out acne.org

I had bad skin for about 5 years. I went on antibiotics for about a year and they did a great job, but you're not supposed to use them permanently.

I tried a few other things which didn't work, but then came across acne.org

It's a really safe method, which seems to work for pretty much everyone

THE CRUCIAL MATTER IS FOLLOWING THE DIRECTIONS IN THE VIDEO PRECISELY.

I discovered that I was actually washing my face and rubbing lotions in all the wrong ways. THE METHOD OF APPLICATION IS AS IMPORTANT AS THE APPLICATION ITSELF.

I really think that acne.org will help you.

modest_marie

Hi

I broke out with Adult acne 4/5 years ago.

I went on Dianette and it worked wonders for about three years. I never put on weight, in fact maybe I lost a few lbs.

The Dianette seemed to stop working also could have been triggured by stressful time. But I am now on Yasmin (neither gained nor put on weight), and I find it good. although if I stop taking the pill in the morning my skin would flare up.

I have an appointment with a Dermatologist in Dec. Because although the Pill will control the acne it is not curing it.

Maybe give the Pill a go again? My Doctor took blood tests too from me to see if I have hormonal imbalance. Maybe you could get tested. If it is still bothering you get an appointment with a dermatologist.

I am 28, and I know how these things get you down, but you have to keep trying. chin up...

LegacyUser

Hi guys

Seeing as this thread has been bumped recently, I thought I'd give a little update!

After meeting with the dermatologist I now have a prescription for roaccutane, which I hope to start next week.

The derm was actually quite clinical in his approach, there was very little hmming and hawing and he immediately asked if I would be willing to take a dose of roaccutane when I told him about my experience with acne. He said I'll be on it about six months or so and the dosage will increase as the months go by. I'm starting on 20mg per day and taking Yasmin contraceptive as well.

He described all the side effects and that I more than likely wouldn't be able to wear my contacts (which I wear daily) while on them, so I'm waiting until after I get glasses before I start.

I have another app with the derm in the middle of January, where he'll probably increase my dosage.

I'm so ready for this medication! My skin hasn't gotten much better since I last posted and I pretty much avoid any mirrors when I'm not wearing make up as it just depresses me. I can't even imagine what it's like to leave the house without makeup at this stage, so that's something I'm looking forward to!

Anyway I will post again on my progress as the weeks go by, for anyone that's interested. Thanks again to all for the advice and for making this option seem less scary...I think I'll be worth it in the end! xx

Seonad

Skin issues wrote: »

If you can afford it, I can recommend Rosemary Coleman in the Blackrock Clinic.

It can be very difficult to get an appointment with her. Dr. Cal Condon has an office next door and is as good in my opinion:)

Soraya

I also have a acne issue, hormonal and on the same area of my face. My advise to you is to stick with Dianette. Dianette has changed my life, I wish I have started a lot earlier. I had to stop because I was trying to conceive, but I will go back when I can.

For how you feel, just try to see yourself past your skin. Don't focus all of your attention there. Keep your hands out of your face, get a ring or a necklace that you can fiddle with instead of with your face.

Keep your spirit up!

Elba101

Hey op,

I struggled with bad skin in the past. Thankfully at 23 it seems to have settled. I was on Dianette and after ballooning, i went on to Yasmin instead (lower dosage but also good for skin).

One thing i would definitly reccommend is rose-hip oil. It'll heal scars and can calm redness. You can get it from Holland and Barret for about €15/20. The dermalogica skin care range is great as well as Dr houska (may be spelt wrong!) and they do a make up range as well which for people who suffer from acne. It can be a bit pricey but it really works.

Also, instead of a doc you could try a homeopathic doctor. I went to a clinic 'breath of fresh air' and she stocked me up on herb tonics and i swear, it made a world of a difference to my skin!!! Actually, thats the best advice i have. Go to a homeopathic doc.

biddywiddy

badskin wrote: »

After meeting with the dermatologist I now have a prescription for roaccutane, which I hope to start next week.

Hi OP,

Thanks for the update and, again, good luck with it. I did have a "oh no, what if this is the end of life as I know it??" dramatic moment before I took the first Roaccutane pill, but then I just took it and got on with it. Just always be aware of how you are feeling on it. Ask some of your friends to keep an eye on you too, just to be sure. I always took the daily dose just before bed (and when the daily dose went up, I took about one third in the morning and the remaining two thirds before bed). I read in a few places online that this can be a way to avoid some of the blues, as you sleep through them. No idea if there's anything to that, but that's what I did! It was also just a nice routine that made sure I didn't forget to take it. Of course, if your derm recommended something else, go with that.

Do keep us updated on your progress!

s

galwaydude

Be careful with roccuatane. Your acne will get worse before it gets better. Drink plenty of water and if you feel down talk to someone. You will have monthly appointments with your skin specialist to check your liver. This may sound trivial but try not to touch your skin while on the treatment as it can cause scarring. Your life is not over just because you have bad skin. I was on the stuff twice over a 4 year period. I must have spent thousands on every little cure out there from lazer light to derma brazion.

I struggled alot for the last 15 years with my skin and it affected me alot and changed who i was. Please believe me that noone cares what your skin looks like. There is a product here in the states called Proactiv. I took it for a while and it does seem to work. Its a formula wash.

The best advice i can give you is keep talking to someone be it a friend or a family member if it is really bothering you. Acne is indeed a terrible thing but by no means should be life changing. I made that mistake and paid dearly. I wish you all the best.

SATSUMA

Hi OP,

I had acne when I was younger and got roaccutane which worked wonders, no side effects at all. However, my acne came back about ten years later and I am struggling again. The dermatologist wont give me roaccutane because i cant take the pill because i get really bad migraines. Im now on differin cream which is basically like the cream version of roaccutane. It's not working either but it's always good to try the topical treatments first. I dont know what the next step is, i've tried most other treatments, i'll just have to wait for my review in January.

Good luck,

RATM

Glad you got back to us OP and glad you got around to a dermatologist.

Don't forget that Roaccutane sometimes can make the acne worse before it gets better and also that it takes a good few months to really kick in before results can be expected.

Also expect a lot of dry lips, some balm will help for this.

Best of luck with it OP, I hope it all goes well for u

Ainekav

My brother used roaccutane, we had to make him stay on it because he was so frustrated at the dry red skin he got as a result. However, he persevered, and has now completely smooth skin (unlike me). Its definitely worth it, but be careful if you start to feel down.

winking weber

badskin wrote: »

Hi guys

Seeing as this thread has been bumped recently, I thought I'd give a little update!

After meeting with the dermatologist I now have a prescription for roaccutane, which I hope to start next week.

The derm was actually quite clinical in his approach, there was very little hmming and hawing and he immediately asked if I would be willing to take a dose of roaccutane when I told him about my experience with acne. He said I'll be on it about six months or so and the dosage will increase as the months go by. I'm starting on 20mg per day and taking Yasmin contraceptive as well.

He described all the side effects and that I more than likely wouldn't be able to wear my contacts (which I wear daily) while on them, so I'm waiting until after I get glasses before I start.

I have another app with the derm in the middle of January, where he'll probably increase my dosage.

I'm so ready for this medication! My skin hasn't gotten much better since I last posted and I pretty much avoid any mirrors when I'm not wearing make up as it just depresses me. I can't even imagine what it's like to leave the house without makeup at this stage, so that's something I'm looking forward to!

Anyway I will post again on my progress as the weeks go by, for anyone that's interested. Thanks again to all for the advice and for making this option seem less scary...I think I'll be worth it in the end! xx

do keep us posted I'm at the end of a four month course and have to meet the dermatologist next week to decide whether I need a fifth. Its mostly cleared up except for one small stubborn patch on my chin, which I put down to putting my hand there when I'm asleep.

I had no appreciable side effects except dry lips and muscle pain.

misspiggy40

Hi guys. Well done to all who took action early. I cannot believe that I am 40 and only this very day was with the dermatologist getting my roacutane script. Had a few fair enough years between 25 and 35 but almost as bad as ever early this year. Have been on Minosin for a few months which cleared up my face but not my back/chest. Can't wait to see how I get on....Let it be said that it has boosted my confidence no end even with the Minosin results. On a bad day I found it hard to make eye contact...even at my age!!!! Will let you know how I go too. Good
luck all.

LegacyUser

Well, I'm about two weeks into my first month of roaccutane and so far no severe side effects. My lips are constantly a little dry, eyes a bit dry and it's a little uncomfortable but nothing serious. Skin is also quite dry - my forehead was peeling a little a few days ago and the dryness is making me sort of itchy, but again nothing that I can't live with.

I had a slight headache for the first week of it and now it comes and goes during the day. My mood is actually better than usual, but I think that's mainly the excitement about something that could actually clear my skin for once and for all than anything else!

Derm said that there won't be any visible difference in my face for at least two months and it may get worse before it gets better. It definitely hasn't disimproved, but maybe two weeks isn't a good barometer to measure these things. I don't really expect any difference this side of Christmas, but it's a minimum of six months I'll be on it so I'm not bothered about that. The one thing that will be hard is not drinking over the festive period...that will be weird!

Anyway good luck Misspiggy40 with your prescription and I'll be interested to hear how things are progressing for you.

And thanks again to all for the advice...watch this space!! xx

McCABE1

hey OP, please keep us posted on your progress, am thinking of going on it myself and would love to get regular updates, its a scary drug but prob worth it in the end! Best of luck !

LegacyUser

Hi guys

Just dragging this thread out of the wilderness for a quick update!

I've been on 20mg of Roaccutane once a day for nearly two months now and had my second derm appointment today.

There's been a definite improvement with my acne. It's by no means clear and I find that I'm still developing spots, but their pattern has changed now - instead of getting clusters, it's just isolated spots that I'm getting that generally fade within a week or so.
The clusters of acne that have been on my lower cheeks and chin have really faded and it's just these isolated spots that I am now dealing with. A few of these are cystic and the dermatologist (sorry to be graphic!!) stuck a needle in them today to clear them.

He has increased my dosage and I'll be starting on 40mg from tomorrow. I have to say I am a little bit anxious about the symptoms becoming more severe. So far it's been grand - absolutely no mood swings or anything (aside from the usual PMS!) which is a massive relief, but extremely dry skin to the point where it gets itchy and uncomfortable, really really dry lips, dry eyes, and I find I sometimes get a headache a few hours after I've taken my pill for the day.

However derm assured me that if it becomes too much I can ease back and take 40mg one day, 20mg the next...hopefully it won't come to that. He says that basically I will be on 40mg for the next two months, then 60mg for the final two months and hopefully that will do the job and rid me of acne forever!

The symptoms are a small price to pay in that regard. One of the best things about all this is that I am not nearly as insecure as I was two months ago. I even came into work without makeup yesterday and don't put it on when it's not needed anymore, going for a walk etc...the increase in my confidence is immeasurable.

Another downside to this though is the cost - it is NOT cheap. Derm appointments are 200 euros each, then 60 euros for the blood tests and pregnancy tests, then the prescription itself which doesn't come cheap. The 20mg was working out at about 70 euros a month but now that it's 40mg, I'm expecting that to double.
Oh well. Food and shelter are overrated, right??!

Anyway, will do another update in 2 months for those of you who are interested!! xx

biddywiddy

Hi OP,

Great to hear an update on your progress. Your symptoms may get a little worse as you up the dose, but I found that any changes settled down over a few weeks.

My eyes were also very dry at the beginning (I got some eye drops in Boots to help with it as I sit in front of a computer all day) but after 3 - 4 weeks, I didn't notice it any more. The dry lips aren't going to go away though, so make sure you stock up on good lip balms (blistex, elizabeth arden, neutrogena etc). Don't be caught without some, especially with the crazy cold weather we've had lately.

70mg was the highest dose I was on and it was too high. I bruised like a peach and my hands were covered in cuts just after a regular day. So I only stayed on it for a week.

Are you on the drug payment scheme? I don't know what the requirements are for it but be sure to ask when you are getting your next prescription. That scheme capped the cost of the meds at €100 per month for me (it may have gone up now), which was a great saving when you consider how expensive it can get on the high dose. I remember picking up a full Boots carrier bag of meds when I had the 70mg prescription. I had to take 3 x 20mg and 2 x 5mg a day, which was alot of boxes for a month!

Anyway, keep us posted!

Bonito

Op I find this works. Stop shaving. If you don't like not shaving then buy one of the electric razors that leave a certain amount of stubble. I myself bought one of the small narrow womens razor that leaves a small stubble but with the hairs stil there so my pores can't be clogged by oils or irritated by razor burn.

Hope it helps you out because it worked wonders for me.

Sorry Op just copped you're female! Red faced isn't the word for me right now lol

LegacyUser

I was in exactly the same position as you OP. I had acne on and off since I was a teenager. It wasnt nearly as a bad as what a lot of people go through, but it was persistent and really got me down. My whole face wasnt covered, but it was bad enough to really dent my confidence.

I was prescribed minocin which didnt really do anything.

I then tried the regime on www.acne.org (definitely worth checking out. Forums there are full of support and advice) which did actually help quite a lot, but didnt clear it up for good.

I eventually asked to be referred to a dermatologist and asked to be put on roaccutane. I was put on a 4 month course and was quite nervous as I had read about all the possible side effects. I got extremely dry lips, bit of joint pain and tiredness but my skin completely cleared up by about the 3rd month. Ive been completely clear for 8 months now so would definitely recommend giving it a go.

LegacyUser

Ha ha. Thanks Bonito, but I'm a lady so I won't be lifting a razor to my face any time soon! (I hope...!!)

magneticimpulse

My GP gave me some standard Acne pills to start off with and they did nothing so he wrote a letter to the Dermatologist in the Mater Hospital...as far as I know I was waiting about 6 months to visit him (similar situation when i lived in the UK). They told me i had 10/10 scale of bad Acne and the worse case they had seen. I had to go on Dianette for a few months and other pills which didnt work. Then I signed the contract to continue taking Dianette and stating I wouldnt get pregnant while taking Roaccutane.

If I ever have children and they have severe Acne like I had, I would definitely recommend going on Roaccutane. They explained the side effects and said I might feel down or suicide and to go for monthly blood tests in the hospital. To be honest my acne was so bad, that Roaccutane worked wonders after about 4 months taking it. I was over the moon and all my friends notice the difference. My skin had gone from 10/10 acne to 0/10 acne in 6 months. It was a life saver. However the acne came back and I did go on a course of Roaccutane a futher 2 times. It was expensive in Ireland and I set up a special tax thing...which means you only pay €50 or so max per month for prescription drugs (might be €80 now). Whereas in the UK it was completely free which was wonderful as its normally about €400 a month I think if you dont get any financial help from the Government.


I have just stopped Dianette and using Yasmine now. I still get a few spots but nothing compared to when I was 19. As for weight issue, stop blaming the pill...just go out and exercise and have a balance diet. My advice, is if the pills from the GP are not working and if your acne is that serious, go to dermatologist and they will prescribe you other medication and if they feel the need maybe Roaccutane.

Edit: Hi Just read to the end of the thread and saw that you have gone to dermatologist and are now on Roaccutane. I never had to do pregnacy test in past, but I was still a virgin when I started taking the roaccutane, so thats might be why. I also never paid to see dermatologist, but then I went through public system. You should get onto the drug payment scheme. I didnt notice any more side effects after 2 months...in fact the dryness kinda eased off but nothing got more severe...just had to use alot more Liquid lip balm. As for moods...yep my moods changed alright...i was so happy all the time!! I was so happy that finally something was actually working and before I was too shy to talk to any guys...now the hottest guys were coming up to ask me for a date. Note it might not clear your Acne forever!! You might feel the need to go back on it in 3 or 4 years. When I moved to UK, at 21 my ex boyfriend there said I had really bad acne...which hurt as it wasnt that bad in my eyes compared to what it was like before Roaccutane. Again i went on it again and afterwords I got a incredible gorgeous looking boyfriend (so I felt really great when my ex saw him after that comment). Roaccutane is wonderful, it changed my life and gave me my confidence back. Nobody should have to suffer from acne. Unfortunately other people judge you because of your skin..like it or not and Roaccutane is the wonder cure for it.

LegacyUser

Hi again

Just thought I'd stop by for another update!

I'm now about three months into my treatment, having completed two months on 20mg and one month on 40mg. I have another month of 40mg and then two months of 60mg to go and then I'm finished.

Aside from the odd spot around my chin and a bit of light scarring along my cheeks which were full of acne for years, my acne has pretty much cleared up at this stage :-)
Derm says the remaining three months should sort out the scarring and I should be completely blemish free by the end of it.

When you're staring at your face every day, it's hard to tell the difference, but my family/friends are all amazed at the improvement and I've had several makeup free days in work over the past few weeks...something that was an absolute no-go area for years!
I'm not nearly as insecure and really enjoying not feeling the need to hide my face behind my hands anymore!

However, it has come at a cost...it aint an easy drug! My skin, hair and eyes have completely dried out. If I forget to moisturise in the evening/morning, I get cuts on my face and my hands cut easily too. I'm also bruising like a peach. My eyes are red, bloodshot and uncomfortably dry most of the time (especially waking in the morning) and at the moment I seem to be developing a stye in my right eye - I'm off to the optician to get a new prescription for glasses at the weekend, as my old glasses are not the right prescription and I've been relying on my contacts a bit too much. Definitely not advisable.
The headaches are not as bad now, although I do still get them from time to time. I haven't noticed any significant mood changes though, which was the main worry I had. I have low days, but I'd attribute that more to the physical side effects, which can be tough-going, than anything else.

I'm dying to get off this drug, but the results are really fantastic. I can't wait to see how my skin is in three months' time!

And I can't wait to head out and have a drink for the first time in 6 months at the end of it all!
xx

LegacyUser

I've started this so I may as well continue! Here's a quick update for those who are interested...

I had my third derm appointment this morning, after nearly four months on roaccutane. First two on 20mg a day and next two on 40mgs...and I've been upped to 60 mg a day for the next two months.

My skin is amazing, really, just unbelieveable. It's smoother than it has been in years. I'm getting comments from family and friends about it all the time and I'm still revelling in wearing a makeup-less face when I'm out and about - I haven't been able to do that without being crippled by insecurity for years!

At this stage I don't have a single active spot on my face, it's just very vague scars on my cheeks, which seem to be clearing by the day.
However, in the past week I have developed an acne cyst on my left cheek just below my eye, which is slightly troubling me as I've never had one before. It started off as a tender red bump and I actually thought I must have bumped into something in my sleep or something and gotten a mark...had no idea it was a cyst. The derm drained it and gave it a steroid shot this morning so hopefully it will be gone in a few days. I'm going to assume it's part of the 'purging' process with the treatment, as the rest of my face is fantastic.

In terms of side effects...I'm sort of used to them now, although the dryness can be very unpleasant. I can't go ANYWHERE without my lip balm (for anyone on roaccutane I would recommend Carmex for the dry lips...it really moisurises and relieves the dryness) or eye drops and if I don't moisturise intensively twice a day my skin starts flaking. I can't seem to drink enough water...I am permanently dehydrated. I get the odd headache here and there, but that's about the severity of the symptoms. My moods are stable...if anything they are up a bit more because of the pleasant surprise when I catch my reflection in the mirror!

It looks like I'll be two months on 60 mg and derm said I might do another two months on 60 mg just to make sure I've gotten the most out of the drug. To be honest, because of the dryness and having to be tee-total (though good for my liver and pocket!!) I am dying to be finished with the treatment, but at the same time slightly scared at the thought of the acne returning. I'm just not used to having pore-less skin!! I talked to the doc about that today and he said in 95 percent of cases it doesn't come back, and those are good odds so fingers crossed.

Anyway, thanks to everyone who gave me the courage to start this treatment...I can honestly say it has changed my life, and I'm only halfway through! I hope these updates can give someone reading this and who is thinking about roaccutane the same push that I needed! xx

greengirl31

Hey there ... I like to get your updates cause it reminds me of how that treatment worked for me ...
I was put on Roacutane when I was 17 for severe acne ... I had several acne cysts and shoking scaring on my back and face ... That was 16 years ago (gulp- where did that time go to) and I haven't looked back. I find the only time It flares up now is when I'm under sever pressure or stress and I get breakouts on my jawline and neck - a good skin care routine will help this for you in the future. I still get a spot or 2 around the time of the month but apart from that I can't complain.
I know alot of people are suspicious of this treatment and perhaps we are just some of the lucky ones but I'm delighted to hear it's all gone so well for you .. Long may it last :-)

Moylaragh

The only thing I have found to work is a face wash called dermalogica.

I had severe acne and now have scars. I only wished I had of found it sooner.