What is accutane / isotretinoin?
Oral retinoid for severe acne — often dramatically clears skin over 4–6 months.
What is accutane / isotretinoin?
Oral retinoid for severe acne — often dramatically clears skin over 4–6 months.
Also known as
- isotretinoin
- roaccutane
Quick facts
70%
of patients clear long-term after one course
120–150 mg/kg
cumulative dose target for durable clearance
5–6 months
typical course length
Common reasons people choose this procedure
Approaches and motivations vary by surgeon and patient anatomy. Compare techniques and real outcomes on the main Accutane / Isotretinoin page.
Alternatives
Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene)
First-line for mild-moderate acne. Long-term mainstay; less aggressive than isotretinoin but slower clearing.
Spironolactone (women)
Oral anti-androgen — excellent for hormonal/jawline acne in women. Requires potassium monitoring.
Oral antibiotics + benzoyl peroxide
Standard moderate-acne treatment. Antibiotic resistance limits long-term use.
Hormonal birth control (OCPs)
FDA-approved estrogen-containing pills can dramatically improve hormonal acne in women.