Top-recommended skincare items for Accutane users, as advised by industry professionals
Accutane, a powerful acne treatment, is known for causing dryness and sensitivity in the skin. To help combat these side effects, dermatologists recommend a gentle, non-comedogenic skincare routine focused on hydration and protection.
One such product is the Eczema Honey Soothing Scalp Oil, which can be applied one to three drops onto the fingers, worked into the scalp and styled as needed, or used as a pre-shampoo treatment by applying it to the scalp for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing out. The oil, with key ingredients like tea tree leaf oil, lavender oil, olive and jojoba oil, aloe vera juice, vitamin E, is recommended for those struggling with scalp conditions like eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis, but also helps alleviate Accutane-related dryness.
For the face, Clinique's Dramatically Different Face Moisturizing Gel is a popular choice, although no key ingredients are provided. The formula of the Clinique Moisturizing Gel is free of any harsh ingredients like fragrance, acids or exfoliants, making it more suited for those with oily skin or combination skin types.
When it comes to dry, cracked lips, Dr. Dan's Cortibalm is highly recommended by friends who have been on Accutane. The balm, with key ingredients beeswax, petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and hydrocortisone, is one of the favorite lip balms for those on Accutane due to its ability to hydrate and heal cracked, dry lips.
Hydrating the body is just as important as the face and scalp. It's recommended to seek soothing, hydrating products for the entire body, including cleansers, serums, moisturizers, lip balms, scalp serums, and hand and foot creams.
Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment is recommended as a best lip balm, with key ingredients including shea butter, chamomile essence, vitamin C, vitamin E, and panthenol. For the body, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion is recommended as a best overall product.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream is recommended as a best moisturizer for very dry skin, with key ingredients including colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and allantoin. For the eyes, the Curology Hydro+ Eye Gel, Hydrating Under Eye Cream, with key ingredients hyaluronic acid, peptides, caffeine, and green-tea extract, is recommended for dry skin around the eyes, particularly for those on Accutane.
Kiehl's Since 1851 Ultra Pure Hyaluronic Acid 1.5% Serum is recommended as a best serum, with the key ingredient being hyaluronic acid. Look for products that include a variety of moisturizers like humectants, occlusives, and emollients to ensure optimal hydration.
Experts recommend focusing on skin care ingredients that support hydration and barrier repair when using products alongside Accutane. Avoid harsh formulas including those with acids, retinol, and fragrances, as they can aggravate skin sensitivity and increase dryness.
Lastly, broad-spectrum mineral sunscreens with at least SPF 30 to 50, preferably zinc-based, are crucial for protecting highly photosensitive skin from UV damage. Recommended options are Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 or 50, Cetaphil Sun Mineral Sunscreens, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face SPF 50, and similar mineral formulations that are gentle and non-comedogenic.
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen is recommended as a best tinted sunscreen, with key ingredients including zinc oxide, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants.
By following this guide, Accutane users can maintain skin barrier integrity, reduce irritation, and protect against sun sensitivity associated with Accutane therapy.
- The Eczema Honey Soothing Scalp Oil, with key ingredients like tea tree leaf oil, lavender oil, and vitamin E, is recommended for those struggling with scalp conditions like eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis and also helps alleviate Accutane-related dryness.
- Experts advise Accutane users to avoid harsh formulas including those with acids, retinol, and fragrances, as they can aggravate skin sensitivity and increase dryness, and instead focus on skin care ingredients that support hydration and barrier repair.
