Isotretinoin is a vitamin-A derivatives which help with most of the causes of acne simultaneously. It reduces oil and sebum production by shrinking the oil producing glands, reduce and prevent clogged pores, reduces bacteria that cause acne and also has anti-inflammatory properties.

You will be advised to take the tablets until your skin condition clears and then for a further few months. Most courses last for four to six months depends on the dose you are taking and the response of to the treatment.

In most cases, the improvement will be noticeable after two to four weeks. Minority of cases, acne becomes worse for a couple of weeks before improvement occurs. Although the progress seems slow at the beginning, once it improves, it will be progressively improved throughout the course of treatment.

As isotretinoin shrinks the oil producing glands, the most common side effects are dryness of some places of the skin. Most commonly is dry lips and skin in general. Other possible side effects are nosebleed due to dry nostril, dry, watery or irritable eye (especially in those who wear contact lenses). These side effects are dose dependent. The range and severity of the side effects also depend on personal factors and the conditions being treated.

There are other known side effects of oral retinoids most of which are easily controllable. Our experienced doctor who specialised in acne treatments will evaluate whether you are suitable for the treatment and advised on dose, monitoring and other possible side effects.

Before any treatment for acne or acne scarring can commence, here at The London Cosmetic Clinic, we will request that you attend a no obligation consultation, skin analysis and medical history check, so that we can determine which treatments will be both suitable and safe for your individual skin concerns, lifestyle, and general health.