Isotretinoin, Dermatology FAQ

Managing Low-Dose Oral A-Retinoids: Safety and Side Effects

Oral isotretinoin dosage? Hello Doctor: I am currently taking a low dose of isotretinoin, 20 mg every other day. I plan to continue this for a while and then reduce the dosage further to about two 20 mg capsules per week, maintaining this until I turn 30. Is this acceptable? Addi...

Dr. Guo Fengsheng Reply:
Oral isotretinoin requires regular blood tests for monitoring and attention to side effects. It should not be taken independently and must be supervised by a dermatologist. Hair loss as a side effect is not common, so there is no need for concern.

Managing Acne: Alternatives to Oral Vitamin A and Hormonal Treatments

Acne Hello, Doctor: I have been taking oral isotretinoin for 3 years, and every time I stop the medication, my condition relapses! Therefore, I have been afraid to discontinue it. However, I am not seeing improvement while continuously taking it. 1. Is the reason for not improv...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: 1. Endocrine disorders are not very common in males. If you have concerns, it is advisable to consult an endocrinologist (a specialist in metabolic disorders within internal medicine). 2. After discontinuing oral medication, there should be a continuation of treatment with...

Understanding Acne Treatment: Is Oral Isotretinoin Right for You?

There are still a few questions? Doctor, after reading your response, I have a few more questions. I have been taking anti-inflammatory and steroid medications for about two months, and I have also been using topical isotretinoin (Accutane) for approximately three months, which h...

Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: For large painful lesions, local steroid injections can be used for treatment. For deep cystic acne that cannot be drained, oral isotretinoin can be taken, and chemical peels with alpha hydroxy acids can also be used to expedite the removal. Regarding lymph node pain, it i...

Best Sunscreens After Retinoid Use: A Guide for Your Skin

A acid sunscreen Tomorrow, I should be coming to your clinic. I'm still dealing with the same issue regarding pigmentation. I've been using the cream for a month, but I don't see much difference, and it's really frustrating. Also, could you recommend some suns...

Dr. Cai Changlin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, it is actually a common concern faced by every acne patient. Addressing patients' doubts and supporting them in their treatment is a fundamental responsibility of physicians, so please do not feel embarrassed. Once acne has caused indentations...

Concerns About Acne Treatment: When to Consult a Dermatologist?

About the skin? I would like to ask about my worsening chin condition. I've been taking isotretinoin for over three months, one pill daily, but I don't see any improvement. When I asked my friends, they said they thought my skin looked better before I started the medica...

Dr. Cai Changlin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, oral isotretinoin is currently the only medication that effectively inhibits the main mechanisms involved in acne formation, including sebaceous activity, keratin metabolism, inflammation, and Propionibacterium acnes. It is especially the first-lin...

Understanding Skin Health: A Guide to A-Retinoids and Treatment Progress

About the skin? I am currently using one capsule of retinoic acid daily and have started applying Silian ointment for about three months. When can I expect to see improvement, or is it still in the detoxification phase? It feels like the signs of improvement on my face are quite ...

Dr. Cai Changlin Reply:
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: The oral isotretinoin you are using is currently known in the medical field as the most effective last-line treatment for acne. However, even so, patients with cystic acne typically require a longer treatment dur...

Is It Safe to Continue A Acid Treatment with High Cholesterol?

A acid? Hello... I have a question. About a year ago, I suddenly started breaking out with acne. I have seen both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. Recently, I began treatment with isotretinoin as recommended by my doctor. I weigh 50 kg, and the doctor said I nee...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
The maximum oral dosage of vitamin A acid is 1 mg per kilogram of body weight, but in general clinical use, a daily dose of 20 mg to 40 mg is quite effective. It tends to increase triglyceride levels, so it's best to check them every 1 to 2 months for safety. In my personal ...

Understanding Skin Damage: Acne Breakouts from Overusing Face Masks

Skin injury I apologize for the inconvenience. I would like to ask about my skin condition. I usually get 2-3 pimples a week before my menstrual period, but ever since I started using face masks 2-3 times a day, sometimes even overnight, my face has broken out with a lot of pimpl...

Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, Xiao Pei: The best advice for you is to find a dermatologist you trust and consult with them. I apologize, but based on your written description, I cannot determine your specific condition. Answers found online can only speculate based on the description and experience pro...

Understanding Adult Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Solutions

Acne Hello, Dr. Jiang. Since I was discharged from the military, I've been experiencing sporadic acne breakouts. They would usually resolve in two to three days, but over time, the breakouts have increased significantly, and now my cheeks are constantly erupting with acne. S...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Acne is related to one's constitution, and factors such as lifestyle (like staying up late), diet, and stress can exacerbate the condition. For stubborn acne, the most effective medication currently is oral isotretinoin. You can apply to use this medication at a dermatology ...

Understanding Sweat Spots and Skin Issues: Causes and Treatments

Sweat spots and related issues? 1. How does tinea versicolor occur, and what are the treatment options? 2. Can isotretinoin gel (vitamin A acid) also improve blackheads? 3. Does a mosquito bite cause redness and swelling? Is it sufficient to apply ointment, or is it necessary...

Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Here are simple answers to your questions. 1. How does tinea versicolor occur and how is it treated? Tinea versicolor is a fungal skin infection that presents as red, slightly scaly rashes, typically located on the back and chest, and in some cases, on the arms. Due to t...

Understanding A Acid for Acne Treatment: Costs and Options Explained

A acid I want to take isotretinoin to treat acne. If I pay out of pocket, how much does one pill usually cost? Is the isotretinoin obtained from a hospital the same as that from a clinic?

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Oral vitamin A acid 10mg costs about 50 NTD per pill. You just need to find a place with a cheaper price. Wishing you peace, Jesus loves you.

Managing Seborrheic Dermatitis: Effective Treatments and Tips

Seborrheic dermatitis Hello, doctor. I have seborrheic dermatitis (mainly on my face) that has persisted for several years, and I have "almost" never had completely normal skin (except for one time when my doctor prescribed piprinhydrinate, tranexamic acid, and oral pre...

Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, seborrheic dermatitis is related to the amount of sebum secretion and is generally associated with irregular lifestyle habits, greasy diets, and high emotional stress. When there is excessive sebum, it can irritate the skin and cause inflammat...

Struggling with Acne: What Tests Can Identify the Root Cause?

Is there nothing even a doctor can do? Hello, doctor... I have been taking medication for my facial acne for almost 2 years now... the condition fluctuates between better and worse... I have already spent nearly 23,000 NTD on medical expenses... I want to take isotretinoin but I ...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
There is no medication that can completely eliminate acne; the resolution often depends on changes in one's body constitution, which typically occurs with age. Therefore, battling acne can take many years. Fortunately, most males experience a decrease in acne after the age o...

Managing Post-Laser Care: Redness, Sunscreen, and Rosacea Solutions

Red scars, sun protection, and rosacea concerns? Dr. Jiang... I accidentally came across this website, haha~ Happy New Year! Last Wednesday, I had laser treatment for spots at the clinic. You prescribed me an ointment and artificial skin... I would like to ask you, how long shoul...

Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, it is normal to experience some itching and redness after laser treatment. Some individuals may also have an itchy reaction to artificial skin; in such cases, you can switch to ointments or restorative skincare products. When taking isotretino...

Understanding the Hidden Causes of Acne: A Patient's Journey

Unable to identify the cause of acne? Hello, doctor... I have been taking medication for acne for over a year. Each time, the doctor says that the causes of acne could be due to hormonal imbalances, diet, emotions, climate, genetics, or chemical products. Since I am vegetarian, i...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
The fundamental cause of acne is often related to genetic factors. In certain situations, such as sleep patterns, hormonal changes, stress, and weather conditions, these factors can lead to the emergence or worsening of acne. If there are endocrine issues, you may also experience...

Common Skin Issues: Effects of Bleach, Acne Treatments, and More

Please ask about some skin issues! Bleach can cause various skin injuries, including chemical burns, irritation, and allergic reactions. It can lead to symptoms such as redness, itching, and peeling of the skin. As for non-granular exfoliants, they can be effective for treating ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: 1. Bleach can damage the skin's lipids and cause protein denaturation. 2. Exfoliating scrubs can be helpful for keratosis pilaris. 3. For acne, please consult a dermatologist, who will prescribe different medications based on the condition. 4. There are many causes fo...

Effective Acne Treatment: Oral Medications and Blackhead Removal Tips

Acne I wash my face about three times a day. I have seen a dermatologist who suggested I trim my hair, which I have done, and I am also applying acne medication (Benzoyl Peroxide Gel 1% and B.B. GEL 1%). However, I still have a lot of acne with little improvement. If I need to ta...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
The first-line oral medication for acne is tetracycline antibiotics. If the condition persists after one month of use, second-line treatments may be considered, including female hormones or oral retinoids. The use of retinoids requires prior approval from the National Health Insu...

Struggling with Acne: Effective Treatments and Doctor Visits Explained

Acne won't go away? Hello... I am very prone to acne... I have been seeing a doctor for over a year... I have spent nearly 20,000 NTD on consultation fees... I would like to ask if I can get a prescription for medication for half a month to a month like chronic diseases when...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: 1. A one-week supply of medication can be prescribed. 2. Oral isotretinoin is effective for acne, but it is covered by health insurance only for severe cases after a special application; otherwise, it must be paid out of pocket. 3. Acne injections? We need to know the ingr...

Persistent Acne: Seeking Solutions for Long-Term Skin Issues

Persistent acne Hello Dr. Hong, I have been struggling with acne for over 10 years. I have consistently seen doctors, and my lifestyle is quite normal; I do not consume sugary drinks or snacks. I have tried various treatments, including a combination of Western and Chinese medic...

Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello Iven: The acne treatment methods approved by the Department of Health have mostly been mentioned in your letter. My personal suggestion is to find a dermatologist you trust and collaborate with them over the long term, as this may be a better treatment approach for you at t...

Understanding Eccrine Nevus: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Concerns

Eccrine poroma I started noticing small raised lesions on the inner side of my arms, around my abdomen (near the navel), and under my eyes when I was about 22 years old, during my sophomore year in college. Initially, I didn't pay much attention to them, thinking they were j...

Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, office worker: I personally do not have any specific suggestions for you. I can only recommend that when your skin exhibits the described symptoms, you should promptly visit a public hospital under the Department of Health in your city or county and consult with a dermatol...

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