Accutane Treatment & Lasers | Dermatologist Guidelines

Prior to formal revisions, Accutane or isotretinoin was contraindicated if undergoing lasers, microneedling, deep peels & energy devices. This was based upon case reports of skin scars secondary to argon lasers & mechanical wire dermabrasion in the 80s & 90s
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Skin Science: Accutane #oratane #roaccutane - #isotretinoin increases skin fragility, delays wound healing, & has effects on #collagen synthesis. Keloid formation has been reported following certain procedures, & hence the blanket cover on all procedures over the past 4 decades
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Revisions: JAMA 2017 revisions & other evidence based publications revised recommendations with evidence based medicine in mind. Obviously recommendations are worded as ‘no increased risk’ not no risk. Excluded procedures include wire or mechanical dermabrasion. This is different from #microdermabrasion. Fully ablative lasers are also not advised
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Caveat: I, along with most other #dermatologist are still mindful of the side effects of #accutane & may modify the dose & timings based upon individual side effects & relevant history such as a personal or family history of #keloid scars, location of scars, density of lasers-energy based devices, considerations with staph carriage & many more. Be guided by your dermatologist as to suitable procedures & timings
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Dr Davin Lim
@drdavinlim @cliniccutis
Brisbane
#Accutane #acnetreatment #dermatologist