Acne Treatments :: Accutane vs. Retin-A

Acne Treatment: Accutane vs. Retin-A

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease that results in the formation of pimples, blackheads and white heads. It can be due to a variety of reasons ranging from hormonal activity, diet or stress to bacterial infection. One of the most powerful drugs used in the treatment of acne is Accutane or Isotretinoin. It is a potent prescription medicine that should strictly be taken under the close supervision of a healthcare professional. Isotretinoin is a naturally occurring derivative of vitamin A and is found in moderate amounts in the bloodstream of all people. Four to five months of Accutane treatment usually helps to cure acne completely.

Though Accutane is considered as the most effective drug against severe acne, it is found to cause certain side effects. It can lead to serious side effects if taken during pregnancy and result in congenital disorders, miscarriage and premature births. Women who have chances of being sexually active while taking Accutane must take utmost care to use an effective method of birth control. Chapped lips, dry skin and itching, dryness of nose, mild nosebleed, irritation of the eyelids and eyes, joint and muscle pains, temporary hair thinning, rashes, urinary symptoms, headache and depression are other side effects of this drug. Isotretinoin is sold under the brand name of Accutane, Amnesteem, Claravis, and Sotret. However, in low doses it is found to be free of side effects. It is infact considered safer than other acne-controlling medicines which are antibacterial agents, found effective only if used on a daily basis. As accutane is a naturally occurring product, the body removes it from the bloodstream within about nine days of consumption and hence has no long lasting effect on future pregnancies. If taken under strict medical supervision and in a moderate dose Accutane is the most effective treatment for acne.

Retin-A or Tretinoin is also a derivative of Vitamin A and is one of treatment of choice for acne. It works by increasing skin cell turnover, leading to the removal of plugged material in the follicles. Though this drug is extremely effective for whiteheads and blackheads, it may take about six to nine months to see a noticeable difference. It is best to apply Retin-A in a thin layer at night and wash your face with a mild facial scrub in the morning. Applying a good water based moisturizer will help reduce the drying and flaking of skin, which is usually considered as the side effect of this medicine. Retin-A is also available as Avita or Renova.

Nishana Nazimuddin

Hi-Tech Editorial Division