Isotretinoin is the only medication known to cure acne, so it is often recommended by dermatologists for patients with cystic acne. I had stubborn late 20s acne that was leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so I decided to do a course of isotretinoin to clear up my skin. The drug can lead to intense dryness, so I’m sharing with you the products I used to keep my skin hydrated while completing the course.
Lips:
Laniege lip products are the absolute BEST. This is not sponsored at all, but seriously, you have to try their products. My lips got very dry while on isotretinoin, so I used the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask at night and the Laneige Lip Glowy Balm during the day. I alternated between Vaseline or Aquaphor throughout the day as well.
Face:
My skin got dry while on the medication, but definitely not as bad as my lips.
I washed with Cerave Hydrating Cleanser morning and night.
I used Glossier Rich moisturizing cream during the day underneath a SPF (I like Josie Marans SPF if you need extra hydration).
At night, I used Vichy Vitamin C ampoules before moisturizer which were actually life changing for my skin. Everytime I use one of these ampoules (a full ampoule lasts me a few days), I got compliments on how glowy my skin was! I put La Roche-Posay AP+ Balm on top of the vitamin c serum for extra moisture.
Nose:
I put a glob of vaseline or aquaphor in my nostrils every night to keep the mucous membranes from drying out. Patients on isotretinoin have a higher rate of MRSA in their nares because of this dryness, so adding moisture there helps combat this and bloody noses.
Hair:
Because isotretinoin can cause hair thinning/loss, I use minoxidil 5% solution in my scalp at night to keep my locks thick and long! I had to stop my Nutrafol hair supplement because it contains vitamin A.
Hands:
Neutrogena Norwegian Hand Formula: I would use this at least twice a day to prevent my hands from becoming really dry.
Body:
Aveeno Stress Relief moisturizer and body wash kept my skin hydrated! I always apply moisturizer onto damp skin right out of the shower.
Hope this helps!
xo, G
