Help with Accutane side affects?

Question

I've only been on it for about two weeks, but I'm already experiencing some side effects that are making me very self-conscious, annoyed, and embarrassed. I just have a couple questions:

1- What is the very best thing to do for the chapped, peeling lips? I've heard Aquaphor works well, so that's what I'm using as of right now, but it's still not solving the problem; and they are getting worse and worse every day I continue taking the Accutane. Any suggestions?

2- I've been continuing my use of old topicals (Duac and Differin) every night after washing with Cetaphil. Should I stop using these? Will it just make it worse? I'm worried if I stop using them, my acne will become worse.

If you have any suggestions about anything else pertaining to Accutane, or it's side effects, feel free to tell me!

Thanks.

Answer 1

Noo, do NOT continue with the topicals!  You don't need them anymore, honestly.  Ask your dr to be sure but you are done with those!  No wonder you're so dry, poor thing!

As for chapped lips, the best thing you can do is take Chapstick with you EVERYWHERE, and use the Aquaphor as needed and then also slather them with Aquaphor at night.  You can use neosporin too if they crack and hurt, it will help heal them and moisturize them too.

Also you might want to carry a pocket mirror and a sample size tube of moisturizer with you.  sometimes you can get flakes and you might not even notice.  when i was on it, i had a job where i had to meet clients and things, so i would check my face out every now and then and dab moisturizer on the flakes.  it makes them go away, temporarily at least!

Drink plenty of water and dont miss any pills.  If you miss too many you might have to end up doing another regimen which is SUCH a pain.

Good luck!  it's a pain but when it's over you'll be glad you did it.  

:)  *hugs*