Will Accutane Help With Blackheads?

• If you’re struggling with blackheads, you may be wondering if Accutane is right for you. 

• While Accutane can be an effective treatment for severe acne, it’s not the right choice for everyone. 

• In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential benefits and risks of using Accutane for blackheads to help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.

What is Accutane?

• Accutane is a ring-like molecule that is structurally similar to Vitamin A. Its major mode of action is to reduce the number of the oil-producing sebaceous glands in the skin to nearly unnoticeable levels, preventing acne-causing oil secretion, blockage, and inflammation. 

• There are no sebaceous glands, hence there is no acne. We can, however, eliminate sebaceous glands from the skin, therefore Accutane or isotretinoin are the next best options

• There are two indications for using this medication, which is considered the gold standard in the treatment of acne.

• The first indication is acne with cystic scarring.

• The second indication is acne which is resistant to all other conventional treatments.

Accutane's mechanism of action

• Accutane works by addressing the underlying causes of acne. Acne develops when your skin pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, allowing skin germs to thrive and eventually leading to an inflammatory reaction and the characteristic "zit" or comedon.

• Accutane treats acne by diminishing the oil glands (sebaceous glands), preventing clogged pores, slowing the growth of skin germs, and having anti-inflammatory properties. Accutane lowers oil (sebum) production during therapy.

• The majority of patients continue medication until their acne clears; however, some people experience acne relapses and require a second round of Accutane.

Accutane and Blackheads

• Blackheads are a type of acne that forms when your pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The oil and cells oxidize and turn black, hence the name “blackhead.” Blackheads are not caused by dirt, and squeezing or scrubbing at them can actually make them worse.

• Accutane should not be used to treat blackheads if you do not have significant breakouts.

• If you simply have minor blackheads around your nose and face, you should try home remedies or OTP creams to remove them or see your facialist for professional treatment.

• If you’re looking to reduce blackheads, avoid oil-based skin care products, humid environments, tight clothes, and skin products that contain alcohol.

• If you decide to use Accutane to treat blackheads, be aware of side effects.

How Long Will Accutane Take to Remove Blackheads?

• Accutane treatment normally lasts 4-6 months, but how long it takes to see results depends on how your body reacts to it. However, each patient may react differently to the treatment.

• After a few weeks on Accutane, you should start seeing some results. 

• Also, if you first start taking it, your blackheads or acne can worsen before they improve.

• There is no such thing as a universal dose or timetable. It is determined by your body, your dermatologist's suggested dosing, your weight, the severity of your blackheads or acne, and how effectively your body responds to isotretinoin.

Conclusion

• If you have any other questions about Accutane or blackheads, feel free to leave them in the comments below. 

• And be sure to check back soon for more articles on all things skincare!