Febuary Acne Posts

Comments:
I did one course of accutane last year and I got wonderful results. My acne is a lot better than it use to be. However, I plan to do at least 2 more courses because my doctor told me that the more courses I do the better the results. But he said the most I should do is 3 courses. Does anyone have an comments about this from their own experience? Oh yea any Black female or male using antibiotics for the treatment of acne and you notice your hair coming out it is problably because you have some type of chemical in your hair. The only way I can use antibiotics is if I don't have a perm in my hair it breaks my hair off after a couple of weeks of use. Also, when I brought it to my doctors attention he told me he had never heard of it doing this but he was a white dermatologist so he may not have much experience in black acne.

FISH - 03/09/00 15:20:56

Comments:
KARA - That's exactly what happended to me!! I was upped from 40mg to 50mg and was doing rather well until the change in dosage - Very strange! I would be very interested to here what your derm says. Thank you so much for responding. Love Fishxx

Kara - 03/09/00 15:18:55
My Email:kpilon@pillsbury.com
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
Hi, To Fish- I've been on for 15 weeks now, and still getting new spots...for the past 4 weeks I've been breaking out like crazy, ever since my dose was upped from 40mgs/day to 60 mgs. It actually was clearing up nicely until then. I go to the derm today, s I'll ask him what's going on.

FISH - 03/09/00 13:43:52
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Country: UK

Comments:
Hello to all at the SFW!!! (see archives) RIANNE + JASMINE - I'm so sorry you guys are feeling so shitty - I wish I could wave a majic wand and make it all better for you (and everyone else feeling thoroughly fed-up). You both sound like such amazing pe ple and it's just not fair. Anyway, please know that I'm thinking of you both - in fact I was thinking about you whilst sitting in the London rush-hour traffic on my way to work this morning!! UPDATE...I'm really not pleased with my skin. I've just comp eted week 17 (2 weeks 'til I finish) and I'm still getting new spots! What's all that about??? Now, my boyfriend fell ill again and went back into hospital last week which obviously caused me a great deal of anxiety and stress, so that could be a factor, but I just would have thought and hoped that at this stage in the game I would be totally clear and coasting till the end of the course of Roaccutane. I had mild/moderate acne - and although it really is loads better, I'm just not that clear and certainl not as clear as I would have hoped I would be and it's getting me down. Sorry to moan. To anyone - is it a possiblity that Roaccutane just might not work for me and that although it's helped my acne, it won't make it go away? Has anyone else found that after 19 weeks on it - they still had new spots? Please post and let me know of your experiences or knowledge on that? Lots of love and much spotlessness to all. Always - Fishxx

Just Me - 03/09/00 13:36:03
My URL:http://www.voy.com/4529
Age: 35
Country: UK

Comments:
p/s I meant it's hard to keep posting the same information back and forth ie at my site, ie the Acne Support Group in Cyberspace and here .. so I'll keep my main stuff there and will just post snippets here on this page every now and then!!

Good luck again to everyone in your personal search for the right cure! Wishing everyone much success and clear skin!

Just Me - 03/09/00 13:32:13
My URL:http://www,voy.com/4529

Comments:
p/s Rianne, Jasmine et all :) ...

to update on how my skin is doing ... I'm doing pretty good ... since using the Dermalux Lamp and also continuing my supplements etc, I haven't had any acne breakouts for over a month now and that's really unusual and I think it's finally over! I get a f w spots ie just before the period but it feels like it's over and not just a phase I'm going through .... posted about the stuff I'm taking at the Acne Support Group in Cyberspace chat page .... it's hard to keep posting back and forth all the informatio as it's very time consuming so I keep my main stuff there and will post here in snippets from time to time to update people and to invite those interested in acne treatments/cures etc over to visit.

regards the main website ... that's still taking time as working a full day and answering all the emails I get and posting on the Board etc, there really isn't that much time left and I have another chat page going plus another site I'm building .... so ls be patient :) ... I've only been at this a month or so ... and still a baby in the html programming etc!

Good luck to everyone in their acne cures and I hope you find the one that works for you soon! It's out there and it's just finding the right one for you ...! Best of luck!

Just Me - 03/09/00 13:25:18
My URL:http://www.voy.com/4529
My Email:SoulLightBeam@aol.com
Age: 35
Gender: Female
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi Jasmine, Rianne, Marcus, Maurice, Kaitlin, Kelly and all ....

To everyone, just wanted to say that the server for voyforums (ie for my Acne Support Group Chat page @ http://www.voy.com/4529) seems to have been down since last nite so no one it seems can access the site! (groans ) :) .... so if you've been trying and getting an error message, it's cos the site is down! It's rare that it goes down ... this is one of those times! Marcus/Kaitlin/Jasmine - I'd replied to your messages there last nite and was real bummed that almost as soon as I'd sent it the system went down! Grr!

DavieS - thx for the website recommendations. I'll check them out.

Lunch is over so have to rush ... L&L, JM.

Dawn - 03/09/00 13:22:24
My Email:cgran95806@aol.com
Age: 39
Gender: female
Country: us

Comments:
S.P. Since you were on for 13 months, when did you see and improvement since you had started accutane. Did you wear any makeup during this time. For how long did your skin stay dry including lips and eyes. thanks for your support.

cliona - 03/09/00 13:21:34
My Email:cliona54@hotmail.com
Age: 19
Gender: female
Country: ireland

Comments:
i have been on isotrex for 5 months now and although most of the spots are gone and i hardly get any more, i still have alot of red marks and scars.i was wondering if anybody has ever tried a skin peel as i was thinking of having one.also, has any one eve tried retinova/renova?

Gump - 03/09/00 12:23:32
Age: 27 only just
Country: Aus

Comments:
Hello all, haven't posted for ages. Hope everyone is coping. I've been on 20mg/day since October 99. I actually notice my skin being a little more oily but lips are as dry as ever. Eyes even more so but probably more from lack of sleep. S.P how slight or severe was your acne to be on 20mg/day. How long have you been off and what side effects did you experience? Good luck Rianne. To think that people without this stupid affliction don't need to go to a mi lionth of the trouble you and others go to for some peace from acne just sucks real bad. You are quite special.

Davie S - 03/09/00 12:15:01
Country: UK

Comments:
Rianne, The safe daily supplementation limit for Zinc in the UK is recommended at 15mg long term and 50 mg short term. Also it states that higher levels of zinc should be combined with upto 5mg of copper per day. Lots more info at www.questvitamins.co. k or www.solgar.com. Hope this is of some use. We all have our bad days so hang in there it will get better.

S.P. - 03/09/00 10:39:00
Age: 32
Country: australia

Comments:
hi Dawn...side-effects were not too bad for me at all because I was on 20mg/day for around 13 months...and the results were fantastic...if I have a relapse...I will definitely be going back on Roaccutane...

Rianne - 03/09/00 09:56:47

Comments:
Jasmine, isn't this just so rotten to have to be stuck with this acne at our age. I felt so depressed last night over it. Yes, you can take higher dosages of zinc....I have some 15mg. ones so I make them up to nearly 100mg. I also bought some 25mg. on s and that makes it easier than taking soooo many 15mg.! Either way, as long as you get the 100mg taken - please try it Jasmine, it should help. Also if you get some acidophilus that should help too. I'm still taking the saw palmetto and this morning m skin "seems" to be settling down. (I'll let you know later - sometimes it doesn't look too bad at the start of the day and gets worse as the day goes on) As for the androgen thing and hair. It would only affect the hair on your head Jasmine....you woul n't end up with a beard or anything!!! The saw palmetto helps thinning hair. I have a couple of social & work events to go to over the next weeks and I'm dreading my skin being bad for them. The scarring is bad enough (and it's very bad) but with spots too - the whole thing is a nightmare. I end up not looking forward to ANYTHING and it just drags me down and down. I feel sooooo selfconcious. (again I KNOW some people can handle it - some of us CAN'T!!!) Jasmine, please try the saw palmetto, 100mg zin (chelated zinc), acidophilus and B6. Persevere with it because I'm sure it will help us. If you go through the Ask Jeeves site - type in "saw palmetto for women" and it should come up. Oh, I get so tired of this constant battle with my skin....it lets me down all the time. BUT I think the zinc and saw palmetto will work. (and thanks again to Marcus for the suggestion!!) CHL I might ring the Chinese herbalist today to see what he is like. I'll keep you posted. Lots of love, luck and thanks as alway . Rianne.

kia - 03/09/00 09:12:19
My Email:secret
Age: 30
Gender: qvinna
Country: sweden

Comments:
Hello everybody out there! Just wanted to say hang in there and times will get better, at least you in the early age because acne will fade away when you reach the 30:s. I know because I have been there. To the rest of you go for the cures you can get bec use there is a whole new life waiting for the acne-free people. Take care from Sweden

Jill - 03/09/00 04:18:14
Age: 20
Country: usa

Comments:
Hello everybody. Hey JIM, remember me? I wrote you email one time but you never responded!b Is your email still the same? Anyways, I had a question, my doctor put me on ORTHO-TRI CYCLINE, or something to that effect....anyone tried it? It is a form of bir h control that is supposed to help. Had anyone tried it? Please respond if you can! Thanks JILL

C.H.L. - 03/09/00 02:59:43

Comments:
To Denny: Derms can say things that are very mean and things that are not true. The first derm I went to in 1991 told me that I had a psychological problem because I would not leave my spots alone. That has bothered me ever since. And after finding th s web page and people telling about their own experiences I find that it is completely normal. Maybe not good for the skin but normal for the condition. Anyway some derms are very mean natured and have no idea the impact of their accusations. Peace

dawn - 03/09/00 02:21:49
My Email:cgran95806@aol.com
Age: 39
Gender: female
Country: us

Comments:
Does anyone on this site have acne rosacea and are taking accutane for this? my derm told me i would benefit from accutane and it would make my acne rosacea go away. I have not started yet, trying to see results on 3/29 to see if i have an ulcer. But I o plan to go on it, thanks to all of you and your positive results. To the ones who have questions about cleansers and moisturizers. My derm recommended Cetaphil cleanser and moisturizer, which comes in a lotion and cream. I use all and they really are great, you should try them, i use the cleanser and cream and it help with the dryness that i have on certain areas, im oily/dry. in reference to hair, does anyone on accutane color their hair, i have grays and im pretty consience of it. i dont really want to stop coloring my hair, im very sensitive on my scalp, but my hairstylist uses a brand (I can't remember the name right now) ut it does not burn it actually feels good on my scalp since im always itchy. Hopefully i will be able to use this one and not loose my hair while on accutane. Well good luck to all and many thanks to Laurel and Ginsue1 for all your comments.

Davie S - 03/08/00 23:23:57
My Email:dsimp@clara.co.uk
Age: 31
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
For Brian and anyone else who can be bothered, With regard to your derm not prescribing accutane: - Well in his/her defence, accutane is serious shit. Hence the reason you require so many blood tests when taking it to check the old liver isn't giving up he ghost. At the same time however I can sympothise with you as I had to see many doctors and try all sorts of topical and oral treetments before even getting a referal to a derm (Good old British NHS, best in the world NOT). From my own experiences all I can reccommend is if you try what the doc/derm says and are still not happy with your skin or it's affecting your lifestyle then just keep going back. If you are considering accutane I have included my sumarised experience with the drug for you and any ne elses information:- Some six years ago I was eventually put on Roaccutane to clear up in the dermatoligists view moderate acne with a few cysts. The treatment was initially very successful although a mild acne with no cysts did reapear a year or so la er. This was reasonably controlled (good days and bad) by oral antibiotics(Tetrasal 300 1 a day). At present I am not curently taking anything for my acne (derms Idea) to see how it goes. My acne at this time is mild my body and forehead are generally ery clear with little to no scarring. My only remaining problem seems to be around the shaving area which annoys the hell out of me. I have noticed lately that some of these small pimples and blemishes are caused by ingrowing hairs which is a new twist o this tale. Long term effects:- My skin and hair were fair and my hair especially was not characteristically greasy. Both are still noticably drier than before but can just about be managed using appropriate products. My skin is also much more sensiti e to the sun than before. In short Roaccutane has certainly helped me but not completly cured me. In some ways it is a wonderfull drug but for me at least not quite the wonder drug. PS:- Laura, glad it was of some help.

jasmine - 03/08/00 22:44:36
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.k.

Comments:
Hi everyone.I'm sorry RIANNE that your skin is breaking out.It's so terrible isn't it.I feel sorry for everyone on here having a bad time.I can't help but feel really sorry for myself too.My face is so bad.I have never experienced ANYTHING like this in th 22 years I have had acne.I won't open the door which is a bit hard as the Council have been trying to fit central heating for me.They only get in if I have a friend here to answer the door and there I am being pathetic and hiding in the bedroom.My face j st looks so shocking.So as you know I'm not exaggerating I had a spot next to my nose under the skin so big that I woke up with a really small eye where my face had swollen and made my eye not open properly.Luckily it went down because it was a bit worryi g.Is this what everyone calls cystic acne?It is extra depressing because I can't have Roaccutane either.This Azelaic Acid will have to be a miracle cure to mend this amount of acne.I think not.Perhaps we should all just set up on an island together and we would be happy because we would all be the same.God I just thought that is what they used to do to lepers!!Well enough self pity for today.MARCUS I must be thick.I can get to the Jeeves site and type in the question about the Saw Palmetto but can't find t e bit about it helping women.I did find an article though about Azelaic Acid and zinc,B6 and Saw Palmetto.It was on the same bit after asking the question about the Saw Palmetto I think under the Alta Vista choice (Azelaic Acid)It all sounds promising but it also talks about hair growth.There was one bit that said putting zinc on the skin on animals caused hair growth.If all these things are anti-androgen and causes hair to grow back would it cause any extra hair growth for us using it all as anti-acne tre tments?I'm not trying to be frightening just wondered.I have just written to an American Dermatologist about a study he did on Azelaic Acid and I also asked him if he would recommend zinc,B6 and Saw Palmetto as supplements and if so how much?I will be ver suprised if he answers but I will keep you posted.MARCUS I found my zinc tablets but they are only 15mg can you get higher dosage ones otherwise I'd have to take loads to make up 75-100mg?The article on Jeeves also said that acne patients are sometimes f und to be lacking in zinc on the skin even though plenty was found in the blood.All I know is that we want clear skin.To the person talking about tooth decay with Roaccutane,the saliva in your mouth washes away the bacteria and plaque etc so the more sali a the better.If your mouth is very dry then it doesn't wash away all the nasty stuff that gives you cavities.In theory chewing gum would probably help because it makes your mouth more watery.Anyway sorry another long post.I always do it.Take care.Speak so n love Jasminexx

C.H.L. - 03/08/00 20:04:17
Age: 36

Comments:
To Jim, Thanks for clarifying your experience with the Chinese Herbs. If you should decide that you want to go that route once again, My Herbalist (who cured her own acne at age 32 and she spent either a year or two working in China - I forget if it was or 2) said she will call any other herbalists and give them info. It is nice to know that your herbalist at least did not lead you on to more than they know and drag out your program forever. Let me know if you need her name, etc. She is located in th Northern part of CAlifornia, U S of A.

Rianne - 03/08/00 19:56:43

Comments:
Marcus, thanks for letting me know about the B6 with the zinc - I'll follow that up! Jim - if you look back over the last few weeks Marcus has listed the vitamins/minerals etc. that he takes as well as the saw palmetto. My skin is really lousy at the mo ent - it's throwing out oil and breaking out all over. I'm so fed up. (PLEASE don't suggest Accutane - without sounding like a parrot - I can't take it!) It's early days with the saw palmetto so I'll keep that regime up. I just wish my skin would give me a break. Lots of love, luck and thanks. Rianne. (p.s. Hi to Marcus, Jasmine, Just Me and CHL)

Denny - 03/08/00 19:02:27

Comments:
...and the Doctor said "well maybe we should try OTHER treatments BEOFRE we do ACCUTANE.." sure I said. BUT I havenbt left my apartment in three weeks..."oh No' he said. thats A PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTURBANCE AND accutane WILL MAKE IT WORSE..; SO i SAID JUST P EASE HELP ME. so next thing i know im on 40mg a day and my face is clear (FO R THE TIME BEING)

Ervster - 03/08/00 18:12:45
My Email:ervster@hotmail.com
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: England

Comments:
Hi! Justa quick note to ask about the dryness and the cracked lips. I've had Acne for most of my adult life and after various treatments I decided to go for the big bad stuff!! I've been on Accutane for about two weeks and I'm as dry as Arizona! Fortunate y I have an understanding girlfriend, but I'd like some advice on lotions or stuff. Is Petroleum Gel really a good option? How long does the dryness last for? So many Q's.

Ervster - 03/08/00 18:09:45
My Email:ervster@hotmail.com

Comments:


MINDY - 03/08/00 17:39:19
My Email:mphillips.afc@shelton.cc.al.us
Age: 25
Gender: Female/40mg/115lbs/week 14
Country: USA

Comments:
~~TO GREG~~I drink alcohol every weekend and occasionally a few days during the week. My triglycerides and blood work have turned out fine every time.

Jim - 03/08/00 17:27:30
Gender: 19

Comments:
Hi C.H.L. Yea I've been taking the herbs for around three months now. They haven't worked yet and I'm discouraged because my herbalist just said these were the only formulas she knew for acne and it should have worked by now. I think finding a good her alist is half the treatment also. So I'm not saying that Chinese herbs won't work for me, but I don't want to bump back and forth between herbalists to hopefully find a good one. I thought mine was really good. She was reccomended by a couple people an went to China over New Years. Anyway, I've done a little research myself and want to try taking was palmetto and Echinacea. the palmetto is supposed to inhibit somehow the androgen production and the echinacea is anti-inflamatory, and a website even sa d it could be benneficial in the treatment of acne. So I'm gonna try to buy them today but it's a pain since I'm at college without a car. Other than that I tried proactiv which was a waste of money and time, and I'm three weeks back into retin-a which ctually seems to help so far. It dried up my skin somewhat and the texture is better. I'm really glad you, C.H.L, had success with the chinese herbs but I didn't so far. I would tell people to try them just because the only side effects are good ones, ven if it doesn't clear you. Peace.

Lisa - 03/08/00 16:55:40
My Email:llbrown@omm.com
Age: 31
Gender: Rad Chick
Country: USA

Comments:
About the piercing/tattoo questions. I would strongly advise that you wait until you've been off accutane for at least 6 months to get either. I have a couple of tattoos that I got before accutane, and I think there would be more complications than just slow healing. Your skin is very thin while on accutane. If you'll notice, almost any tiny scrape will puncture the skin and take forever to heal (at least that was the case for me). The tattoo probably would not come out right because the skin would pr bably come right open and bleed a lot. Normally, the skin barely bleeds at all and there is no real "cut" from a tatoo. Also, about the piercing, I got my cartilage pierced about 3 months after accutane and it is taking a very long time to heal. Hope t is helps you guys! Peace, Lisa

Brianne - 03/08/00 15:40:24
My Email:ginsue1@juno.com
Age: 39
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
Hi-I'm new to this board. I've experience adult acne now for 10 yr. or so. It's been hard. 4 years ago it was cystic, just one or two at a time--with mild acne with it. Went on Accutane (5 mos. 40 mg. twice daily, off for 2 mos.--then back on for 5 mo .). Accutane really did stop the cysts for me. I've never had another cyst. It's been 4 years since I went on it. I started having mild breakouts though, a year or so after the Accutane. Very mild. As of a month or so ago, they are getting worse. N cysts though. My dermatologist insisted that I try it again. He felt strongly that this time, at only half the dosage as before, that it would finish shrinking my sebaceous glands down. I think he may be right. I know that my sebaceous glands HAVE cha ged. I know that I've never had oily skin since I went on it the first time. I'm on day 6, and the skin is responding well. Nothing major has happened yet--but most blemishes are healing nicely. No major dryness yet. Last time on it the side affects ere pretty major. Extreme dryness of lips. Peeling on face only lasted a month or so, that I couldn't seem to control. The muscle aches (down to the bone it seemed!) were pretty severe, and the eye dryness was the very worst symptom! I was known for e e drops regularly for the whole time!!! But to us that have suffered with acne, you will go through alot to try to end the agony, right? It's a blessing to read through what a lot of you share like me. Only in that it's comforting to know you aren't al ne. I am glad that I found this and the other message board. This is turning into a book. I found a product via internet a couple of weeks ago and really would like to share it, as it definately (by a longshot) is the most amazing product that I think 've ever stumbled on to. I like most you, have spent incredible amounts of $ trying to find something topical to use for acne. This one does what they say it does. I'm impressed. www.ageless.co.za It's called Reconstruction Cream--it has tea tree oil and centella Asiatica in it. It can be applied virtualy to any open wound, as well as acne. My skin seems to like it, and has healed my acne faster than anything I've EVER done. So quite frankly, I don't know at this point whether the Accutane is reall doing anything yet, cause I use the Reconstruction Creme, simultaneously. They also have a product called Amino Aloe Lotion that I ordered and like very well. It has Evening Primrose oil, chamomile, and vitamin E in it. The true test with it will be i when this Accutane kicks in fully, and I get REALLY dry skin, will it work? I'll keep you posted. The prices: Reconstruction Creme was 11.00 and the lotion was 15.00. The bad thing is that there is 5.00 shipping and handling charge on EACH product!! They come from Africa, this is why! All of you are so good to share info. with each other--I'd like to help if I can. I can relate to each and every one of you!!! Thanks, and God bless each one of you, as you seek to find cures for your individual skin problem. Please right me if you have any questions. I'll love to help if I can.

Dona Gogova - 03/08/00 15:36:15
My Email:dona.gogova@kpmg.bg
Age: 28
Gender: female
Country: Bulgaria

Comments:
Hello to everybody! A couple of days ago I sent an enquiry about availability of Roaccutane and thank you for the answers!! I had an appointment with a derm in London who prescribed Roaccutane to me under the following scheme for a 16 weeks treatment: 0.5mg per kg of my body weight during the fist 4 weeks and then 1 mg per kg for the rest 12 weeks. Fortunately, it turned out that Roaccutane is available in Bulgaria but the capsules are of 20 mg. only. I weigh 48 kg so I really do not know what the dos ge should be as the medicine is available in the form of capsules and not tablets. I am really concerned about all the side effects, especially when I read all your stories. Some of you sound really enthusiastic about Roaccutane, others are scared by the side effects they experience - losing lots of hair, depression, joint and muscle a hes, horrible breakouts and reoccurrence of the acne. Could some of you please supply me with more information of your experience with Roaccutane and particularly of the side effects? What do you use to wash your face while on Reoccutane? Thanks a lot! Dona

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/08/00 15:26:07
Age: 36

Comments:
Hi all, To Jim: You are back? Didn't you go off to school just a few months ago or on a trip? You had just started Chinese HErbs then right? What type of acne did/do you have? Severe cystic, mild, etc.??? With cystic acne it has taken me a good yea to get rid of cystic acne with Chinese Herbs. It takes much time and I think you were taking the same type of herb as me (not sure if the same exact herbs) but wasn't it in the granule form? Anyway, I just want to let people know that Chinese Herbs do ot cure acne in a few months at least cystic acne anyway but then accutane doesn't cure quickly either.

Kara - 03/08/00 15:10:45
My Email:kpilon@pillsbury.com
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
About rashes...I have them on the back of my hands and a little on my arms, and my derm recommended hydrocortison cream, you can get it at the drugstore. It's worked wonders for me.

Greg - 03/08/00 14:36:40
Gender: All man
Country: USA

Comments:
Has anybody had any problems with thier tryglicerides(however you spell it) from drinking while on accutane? I've been on accutane for a little over a month now and I havent drank at all. I really miss that sweet sweet beer!

sandy - 03/08/00 13:46:34
Age: 21
Gender: femaLE
Country: IRELAND

Comments:
Hi all I have been on roaccutance for three weeks now and my skin is no longer greasy but it is not dry either is this normal , i just hope its working, Thanks for listening AND DID ANYBODY HAVE THE SAME EXPERIENCE

Yangas - 03/08/00 07:56:22
My Email:bulls_43@hotmail.com
Age: 17
Country: australia

Comments:
Hey all i have been off Roac or accutane for 2 months now and yes it has worked . The red spots are gradually reducing the only thing is that roac left scarrs behind.These are scars that u can recongnise in flourcsence light or anywhere really bright. My derm said she will put me on some lotion that will make my skin heal faster and see how that goes. Then she said if after 6 months no improvement laser resurgfacing can be an option. when i heard this i was shocked i thought that natually the scars would go away. so if anyone has info on laser resurfacing plz email me at bulls_43@hotmail.com i need answers plz cya all god bless

val - 03/08/00 07:53:18
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
my mouth DOES get dry from accutane. especially when i wake up or when i take a little nap, i notice my mouth is drier than normal. why would dry mouth cause cavities? when im awake i chew gum alot. (sugar free TRIDENT) would this help against the ca ities since its sugar free and mouth doesn't get dry? where can we find more info on this?? thanx.

Jim - 03/08/00 06:08:56
Gender: 19

Comments:
Rianne and Marcus- are you taking just the saw palmetto or are you taking other supplements too? I went back a little, Marcus, and you said you were cleared. I've been coming here for about a year now and posted irregularly. I took accutane and it work d somewhat but the results faded, and just tried the chinese herb therapy but it did absolutley nothing for me. Anyways, I'm always up for new ideas and the androgen-blocking properties of saw palmetto look interesting. Please respond. Peace.

Mike - 03/08/00 05:44:05
Age: 23
Country: U.S.

Comments:
Hey, has anyone here tried the regimen outlined at this website? http://home.earthlink.net/~dwkern/text.html I haven't - just curious to see if anyone had any success with it. Mike

Mike - 03/08/00 05:42:39
Age: 23
Country: U.S.

Comments:


Laura - 03/08/00 04:34:34
Age: 32
Gender: female
Country: Canada

Comments:
Hi all, just a quick note to thank Davie S for the feedback on B vitamins, most helpful and appreciated. I'm on week one of Medrol (sulpher lotion) nothing yet but Im told like everthing it takes at least a month to see results. To the person taking Ret n A, I tried it for a year (3 different strengths) and it did a little but not alot. I'm told it can take 6-8 weeks to show results. But again everyone is different and it may work for you, my fingers are crossed? I know some derms do not prescribe acc taine and I assume it has alot to do with the side effects. Good luck with your retin A. thanks again Davie.

Brian - 03/08/00 03:51:33
Age: 22

Comments:
I went to derm. today and he gave me Retin-A creme instead of the accutane i asked for. Anyone know how well this stuff works. My Derm said he doesnt prescribe accutane and gave me #s to other derm. why wouldn't he prescibe it.. thanks all

dawn - 03/08/00 03:44:45
My Email:cgran95806@aol.com
Age: 39
Gender: female
Country: us

Comments:
to Laurel and S.P.Hi im a 39 yr old female. i have always had acne since i was 15 moderate at time and worse at times. in the last year i have been diagnosed as having acne rosacea which is worse than acne alone. my derm tried everythging on me and fina ly said i need to go on accutane. im very scared about the side effects. as is i have thin hair and i dont want to lose what i have. when did you see an improvement on your skin did you really get so bad b/4 better? how much are you taking and for how ong? right now my eyes are itchy and my skin is itchy and dry i dont want to even think what can happen once im accutane. but if it would work i would be so happy im so tired of not going anywhere cause of my face i dont even want my husband to see me w th out make up. well thanks for all the info you can give me. take care. dawn

scott - 03/08/00 02:08:10
My Email:scotty77777@yahoo.com
Age: 23
Country: U.S.

Comments:
Oh yes there is a connection between accutane and DHT, but it is the reverse of what you guys think. Also, did any males have a loss of sex drive on accutane? Check this link http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9298137&dopt=Abstract

Davey - 03/08/00 01:57:10

Comments:
I don't know the technical definition but the rash is on my forarm and looks like a whole bunch of small light scabs.

Laurel - 03/08/00 01:43:22
My Email:llmckl@cs.com
Country: USA

Comments:
What type of rash? Hives?

Davey - 03/08/00 01:32:55

Comments:
I just got a rash with the increase of dosage in accutane. Is there any good product(hydrocortizone?) i can buy or should i just go to my derm. Please, any suggestions would be great.

marcus - 03/08/00 00:49:44

Comments:
Rianne, thanks for the info on both the saw palmetto & the other thing which I can't remember the name of now. (in my defence it is very late!)Are you taking any B.6 with your zinc? I’ve just been to the hair site www.hairsite.com and read that you need t take B.6 in conjunction with zinc for it to be an effective androgen blocker! (I’d highly recommend you to do this if this approach is going to work!!!) In one of the discussion groups there someone has also recommended green tea as an androgen blocker, t this point I can’t substantiate (that’s a big word for me!!!!) that with any evidence from the web, but I will keep searching!!! Take care!

Kim to Janet - 03/08/00 00:20:20

Comments:
I wouldn't panic just yet, most STD's can be treated and cured with antibiotics. But treat them fast, they can cause infertility. And can be spread ( as you probably guessed by now ). OR it could be nothing at all, but maybe an irritation caused by your c othing. Only your Dr. can tell you and not to sound like your mother, ALWAYS use a condom ! :). Even I do that and I'm OLD!!! I will also say this... if your acne is interrupting your life, consider Accutane, I wish I would have had it at your age. I wo ld have spent alot more time at the lake and pool, I tell ya. I had the skinny body then, just didn't want to show it because of the acne on my chest and back. I hope you make the right decision. Best to you Janet!

Jules - 03/07/00 23:35:36
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Well I took Roaccutane four years ago and I never have to have anything done to my teeth! My dentist told me not to bother coming back for 18 months this time, as my teeth are so good. So don't panic everyone, you won't end up with teeth like an old hag! Well not from the Accutane anyway!)

- 03/07/00 23:22:55

Comments:
TO THOSE OF YOU FINISHING ACCUTANE TREATMENT, GO TO THE DENTIST IMMEDIATELY AFTER FINISHING AND GET AN EXAM W/ X-RAYS. I WENT TO MY DENTIST AND I HAVE 14 CAVITITIES AND HAVE HAD ONLY 2 MY WHOLE LIFE. I EXPLAINED THAT I WAS ON ACCUTANE AND HE ASKED "DID T DRY YOUR MOUTH" AND I SAID YES, AND HE SAID THERE'S YOUR PROBLEM. WHAT FUN HUH?

Vantmas - 03/07/00 23:18:31
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
HEy, i am on 80 mg's a day, 15 weeks into treatment. I really want to get my tongue pierced, and i was wondering if that would be ok. If its just a matter that accutane will make the piercing heal slower i am fine with that, i just have to make sure it ont like make my tongue pruple or anything weird or really negative. Anyone habve any info about this please post back or e-mail me, thanks!

Just Me - 03/07/00 22:16:58
My URL:http://www.voy.com/4529

Comments:
p/s Rianne (smiles), I see you just had a birthday and have now closed up the gap with me (smiles)! Happy Belated Birthday sweetie (smiles)!! My next birthday isn't till the end of the year! Bath's getting cold now so have to rush .... later :o) ))

Just Me - 03/07/00 22:13:04
My URL:http://www.voy.com/4529
My Email:SoulLightBeam@aol.com
Age: 35
Gender: Female
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi Rianne and others ...

Haven't been here for a while ... been mega busy and swamped with personal stuff.... Rianne, Jasmine is doing okay. Going through a bad phase at the moment but we're in touch and I wrote her just half an hour ago (ie personally). Haven't had time to re d the board yet ... bath's running & I'm off to soak.

For those interested, I finally found the official NONO treatment website and other acne healing treatments etc ... they're posted on my Acne Support Group in Cyberspace Forum at http://www.voy.com/4529. I trust you' l find them useful if anything! Enjoy!

Nite.
JM

Rianne - 03/07/00 22:06:29

Comments:
Marcus, I found the article from Ask Jeeves about the saw palmetto for women. Like you said it says "inhibition of 5-alpha reductase may also prevent acne caused by high concentrations of 5-alpha reductase in skin". This sounds sooooo promising!! Thank Marcus!!!! Jasmine, it may be worth you trying the saw palmetto too?! As always love, luck and thanks!! Rianne

Rianne - 03/07/00 22:03:47

Comments:
Marcus, I found the article from Ask Jeeves about the saw palmetto for women. Like you said it says "inhibition of 5-alpha reductase may also prevent acne caused by high concentrations of 5-alpha reductase in skin". This sounds sooooo promising!! Thank Marcus!!!! Jasmine, it may be worth you trying the saw palmetto too?! As always love, luck and thanks!! Rianne

- 03/07/00 19:54:54

Comments:
Accutane does cause tooth decay, especially if you are young. My son has had to have 4 root canals since accutane. The dentist says it destroys the inner lining of the teeth.

- 03/07/00 16:06:55

Comments:
HAVE ANY OF YOU GONE TO THE DENTIST AFTER TAKING A COURSE OF ACCUTANE? WELL, LET'S HOPE THAT PROMOTION OF TOOTH DECAY IS NOT A SIDE EFFECT GONE UNREPORTED...

Shelby - 03/07/00 15:49:29
My Email:slbbabyblue@yahoo.com
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
Accutane will work for any kind of acne. Atleast no one has told me other wise. I had every kind of acne all at once, and accutane worked VERY well on me (have been off it since 1997). I have only had itty bitty pimples since and the big ones have never c me back (accutane is NOT a cure). If anyone wants to e-mail me for details or if you have questions then ... feel free! Good luck to everyone!!

Rianne - 03/07/00 14:34:04
Age: 35
Gender: Female

Comments:
Marcus, I bought the saw palmetto tincture from a small, independent health food shop - when I went to Holland and Barratt they only had the capsules. It's probably worth looking in your local telephone directory and picking out an "individual" health sh p rather then H & B. The liquid version is by FSC Herb Craft & the company is called the Health and Diet Co. Limited, Europa Pk., Radcliffe, Manchester M26 1GG (tel. 01204 707420). When I rang them they only sold to "trade" but gave me a mail order numb r 01483 410611 (I'll type that again in case any letters go missing!! 01483 410611) & they will supply it by post. I hope that helps. Marcus, if you type Kava Kava on your web search they'll give you a lot of information on it. (There's so much you'll robably only get through a bit of it without getting fed up!!) It's very, very good for "nerves" and has a lovely calming effect without making you feel blitzed!! (you can get kava in liquid and capsule form from health shops) Marcus, forgive me for bei g such an idiot but I found Ask Jeeves and I couldn't work out how to ask him something!! To say I am computer illiterate would be a huge understatement!!! Oh, I know how you feel when you see someone about your skin and they make you feel a billion time worse. I have been to hell and back with that situation so you have my empathy and sympathy. Margot, it would be worth trying some acidophilus if you have problems with candida. It helps put the good bacteria back into your stomach. CHL, thanks for y ur posting, you are so good! I am going to give the saw palmetto/zinc/liver herbs/& vitamins a try first. BUT having said that I will probably get up the courage and ring the Chinese herb man too!! CHL, I'll keep you posted on what happens and thanks ag in! Pam in Aussie, thanks for your encouraging message! Jasmine, where are you, are you alright? Marcus, good luck with everything and thanks so much for all your help and patience with me!! Oh, sorry I meant to say....on the tincture (saw palmetto) bo tle it says (why is the writing soooo small on these things!!! I never noticed it before!) that I can take the 167mg. up to EIGHT times per day. So I should end up taking about the same quantity as you! I'm really getting into my stride with this now! eaps of thanks, lots of love and luck. Rianne.

marcus - 03/07/00 11:48:56
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Country: u.k

Comments:
Rianne, and anyone else who’s interested for some reason the URL didn’t post last time, it was www.askjeeves.co.uk! While I’m here Rianne where did you buy the saw palmetto liquid from, Last night I read that the berry juice is more effective than the pow er capsules, I’ll keep taking the pills but I’d like to take a little juice too! No I’ve never heard of kava, is it some kind of antidepressant? I’ve been on loads of antidepressants before, Prozac, Valium, but they made no difference! I’ve been felling m ch better the last few weeks since my acne’s dramatically cleared up. I know how frustrated you feel about not being able to take roaccutane! Although I can take it and it does work 100% for me, I can’t get it due to my derm taking a dislike to me as I’ve said before. Those few visits to the hospital brought me down more than I can express. It’s a terrible felling to know that a doctor would rather you kill yourself than give you a few pills, makes you feel like the most worthless scum on the planet! (I ha e to express again it’s not just because of acne that I’ve tried to kill myself that’s just been the icing on a very large cake!) Okay I’ll STOP felling sorry for myself now! Massive welcome to Robin it’s great that your going to take saw palmetto too, the more people who give this approach a try the better!!!!

- 03/07/00 10:23:40
My Email:ajarendt@excite.com
Age: 24
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I have very bad cystic acne on my face. I have been to 3 dermatologists and have tried, it seems, every oral antibiotic and topical cream/ gel possible!! Nothing has helped! Currently, I am using MetroLotion and a sulfur-based cream, but neither has be n very helpful. Would Accutane be helpful in the case of cystic acne (which leaves lots of scars) or is there any specific medication for this type of acne? Any experiences or help would be appreciated.

Margot - 03/07/00 09:33:04
My Email:h.sprenger@worldonline.nl
Age: 20
Gender: female
Country: The Netherlands

Comments:
hi, I'm on accutane for four months now, and my skin is better then it was but still I think it's not good enough ( and i am not that demanding). So my question is: does it get any better after four months? Because I read somewhere the max. result is reac ed after three months! Also I want to ask about alternative therapies like the Chinese herbs. Do they really help? And has anyone tried a Candida-diet? I did but it didn't help. And does anyone now something about a "filthy" intestine and the relation with acne?Does any- one have expeience with hypno- or regression therapy and the cause of there acne? I have a little experience but I don't what to do now and if I can solve it by therapy.. Great site!!!! I'm very thankful that like this I can see i'm not the only one suffering and being so ashamed! good luck everyone!! And thank you for awnsering.

Robin - 03/07/00 04:47:14
My Email:edeninc@televar.com
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
To Bradthom@tinyworld--go to a dermo and see if they'll put you on Accutane; though, you seem a little young for it. I would also try salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. If it doesn't irritate your skin, it can do wonders. www.acnetreatment.com has a ot of these products, and they work pretty well. I'm new to this board--hello all--does anybody know anything about the chinese herbs? I live in a fairly small town and don't have a clue as to how to get a correct dosage of what??? I'm going to try Saw Palmetto too.

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/07/00 04:34:49
Age: 36

Comments:
If you can believe I actually forgot to say something> Rianne, I am from the U.S of A My Herbalist said she could talk with another herbalist as far as what you were saying about worried that your herbalist may say "CAn't help"

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/07/00 04:31:28
Age: 36
Country: U S of A

Comments:
Hi all. To Rianne and Marcus, keep up the good research. Actually I know close to nothing about herbs. It is something I am very interested in however, I really have not studies them. I am very very very very very very happy with the results of my Chin se Herbal treatment. Going from Cystic acne to a few minor spots and I expect those to also go away with some more Chinese Herbs. And to think that is is more to life than Accutane (which for me did not cure the acne) I so much want others to try it but I know that 1.5 to 2 years is a long time even if it does get rid of cystic acne. People generally are not that patient and they want to hear about alot of studies, etc. myself, I just jumped in. Anyway, the book store would be good but also, the web si es would be great too. I think the problem with getting into a link that is so long is that for some reason the long links just don't seem to take (for me anyway). I have had trouble going into a link with more than a few strings. So just try going int the main link name and then go into the rest from there. Hope I typed this so it is comprehendable (sp?) I just like to give info if I have it and can maybe help someone out. Also Rianne the Chinese Herbs have helped me with stress in two ways. When entered on the health questionnaire that I was depressed and I went ahead and checked off the box that said "Do you anger easily" (what did I have to lose?) Anyway, I did not ask her many questions because she seemed like she did not want to answer many but anyway (and I am the question Queen by the way) she put something in the herbs that made me feel like I was smiling on the inside. It was awesome. Now it has leveled off and I am just generally happy 24/7. ANyway, there is a kind of stress that happ ns to me sometimes (like before interviews for jobs) Twice in the past I had stress in my upper shoulders and neck area and when I went to the Doctor those two times I was given muscle relaxers. Recently I did not have an interview but the busy season st rted and I began getting that stiff/sore upper shoulders so I was driving to the Doctor and decided to swing by the Chinese Herbalist and see if they had something like the muscle relaxer and sure enough they did. It cost me 5 more dollars for the herbs han going to the Doctor's office and paying for the muscle relaxers prescription and they took the same amount of time to get rid of my stress that the muscle relaxers would have and they did not give me wierd side affects and mess with my appetite and st ff. Also I have begun Yoga but I have not dove completely in yet. I am practicing my breathing though and that seems to help with stress more than I can say.

Emporess - 03/07/00 03:07:37
Age: 16
Gender: Female
Country: Australia

Comments:
Been on Isotretinoin for what...5 days now, and all i have to say is DANG. I'm on one 20(iu?) a day just to get me used to the stuff... Anyway, I've had peeling of the lips, but since i'm such a lip balm, and lip gloss fanatic it's NO big deal...and it qu ckly heals. My nose is slightly peeling but it's no biggie. So far so good... I'll keep the progress posted. To all others out there suffering this awful disease...you have my most sincere sympathies and hopeful wishes for the future.

Janet to Kim - 03/07/00 02:37:08

Comments:
Thanks I will do that... Maybe it is something worse, I just was hoping it wasnt..

SP - 03/07/00 02:36:21
Age: 32
Country: Australia

Comments:
Just wanted to add to Steve's (very sensible) advice...that I've also heard it's a good idea to avoid tattoos or body piercings for about a year afterward...(although personally I may not wait any longer...cuz I'm dying to get one of the aforementioned pr cedures done for my B'day!)

aussie anon - 03/07/00 02:17:23

Comments:
To CHL and Rianne,.....cystitis does not refer to acne. Cystitis is the medical term for the inflammation and infection in the bladders of people with urinary tract infections. Sorry, but I thought I should clear this up. From the sound of things, a lo of people were having tough times last week. I hope this week is better for us all. Cheers!

Kim - 03/07/00 01:33:25
Age: 30
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
To Janet with the cystic lumps in the vaginal area please, please see your gynecologist. That does not sound like something to treat with Accutane. Good luck!!

Davie S - 03/06/00 23:40:31
My Email:dsimp@clara.co.uk
Age: 31
Gender: male
Country: UK

Comments:
Mainly for Laura, With regards to B vitamins. The general B group as you are probably already aware are involved in the release of energy from food and the health of the nervous system. They are water soluble and hence your body does not store them (you pee out excess). The B12 vitamin is involved in the production of red blood cells, maintaining nerve insulation and the synthesis of genetic material. I've been taking a reasonably high dose of multi B vitamins for some time now as a sports supplement and as I eat mainly white meat. I have not had any adverse effect with regards to outbreaks etc. I do know however that if you exceed the recommended doses of supplemented vits, among other effects they can cause toxins in your system. Anyway although I don't mind the occ sional episode of ER I'm no doctor so if your concerned then speak to a professional. Good luck if you decide on the Roaccutane and hang in there!!

VantMaS - 03/06/00 22:54:55
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
Denny- How long was your face clear after u stopped your first treatment? How many mg's did u take off accutane and how long was your treatment? Is it as worse now as before or better? thanks

Denny - 03/06/00 21:32:44

Comments:
UPDATE: to the person trying to persuade their dermatologist to prescribe ACCUTANE: try this: BeFORE I went on ACCUTANE I was on everything. Im sure alot of people here can relate. Finaaly, after my pocketbook an dpatience were exhausted, I TOLD THE DR THAT I HADNT LEFT MY HOME IN TWO MONTHS..0h no he said'. All because of that cystic acne, huh? Y S well on 40mg I went ANd it worked wondersw. NOW THE ACNE HAS RETURNED...but boy did ACCUTANE work wonders

Kara - 03/06/00 20:07:46
My Email:kpilon@pillsbury.com
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
Steve- How's your skin this week? I was in the sun this weekend for a couple of hours (not tanning, just outdoor activities) and I put an SPF of 25 on, and I still got a little pink. I've never burned in my life before!! Your absolutely right, no waxxing, tan ing etc!! Could do more damage in the future.

Steve - to Everyone - 03/06/00 19:46:08
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
Anyone thinking of doing anything such as waxing, tanning, chemical/heat hair styling should remember that accutane makes your skin and hair very dry, thin and fragile. Given the fact that these types of activities irritate normal hair/skin it would be wi e to avoid them altogether while taking accutane... unless permanent sun damage, hair loss or scarring is what you are after. These effects might not even show up instantly. Instead you could be setting yourself up for problems in the future by treating y ur hair and skin poorly now. Be perceptive of the condition of your body and think twice before doing anything for cosmetic purposes while on accutane.

Steve to Brian - 03/06/00 19:36:15
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
As long as you can prove to your derm that your acne is persistent and has not responded to any form of topical treatment then you should be able to get a prescription.

S.P. - 03/06/00 19:26:11
My Email:strong persuader@hotmail.com

Comments:
(((Rianne)))...I'm so glad you're feeling better...hope the saw palmetto works out well for you...

Marcus...I miss HG too...anyway...gotta go...

marcus - 03/06/00 19:00:29

Comments:
Rianne, sorry I posted my last message before reading yours, I’ve just retraced my steps and I’ve found a simple way to find the page I mentioned earlier. Go to the ‘Ask Jeeves’ web site using the URL above. Where it tells you to type in a question ask: hat are the effects of using saw palmetto for acne. When you get to the results page scroll down until you get to Web resources sponsored by: and then under where it says 10 matches by web crawler it should then type: Saw palmetto for women. Click on ‘ sk’ and it will take you there. I take 1362mg in capsules form which is what the bottle recommends, I’m not sure if this is even enough maybe C.H.L might be able to help us out on this one as herbs seem to be her area!

Rianne - 03/06/00 18:31:01

Comments:
Yes Marcus - I'm really glad I didn't leave the board!!! I've begun taking the saw palmetto - I started with 20 drops - that's 334mg in the liquid form. This isn't going to be too expensive because there is quite a lot in the bottle for £4.99. Also it astes and smells really nice! Do you think 334mg per day is enough for now or would you take more? I'm really keen on this idea!! I'm now going to have a look at some of the herbal sites here on the net....there are some really good ones. Thanks for p tting me onto this Marcus!!!! As always love, luck and thanks. Rianne.

Brian - 03/06/00 18:27:53
Age: 22
Country: us

Comments:
Hello Im going to derm. tomorrow and hope he will prescibe me accutane. However i only have about 4 cystic zits continually, ive tried everything in the book. ANY advice on how to persuade my derm..????

marcus - 03/06/00 17:42:35

Comments:
Rianne, sorry that top link isn’t working and I can’t work out why! (genius I think not!) Anyway I’ve been back to the page and copied a section I think you’ll find very encouraging! Inhibition of 5-alpha reductase may also prevent acne caused by high concentrations of 5-alpha in skin, which leads to the local conversion of testosterone to D.H.T2 When samples from 23 male and 21 female young to elderly subjects were analzed, a particu ar isozyme (a structurally related enzyme) of 5-alpha, predominated in the skin of older patients with acne. While proscar could not inhibit this isoenzyme, saw palmetto could 3 anecdotal reports do indeed support the possible value of saw palmetto in thi regard. Aren’t you glad you didn’t leave this board?

Rianne - 03/06/00 17:14:57

Comments:
Marcus - I've clicked onto the site you have so patiently written out for me and this "machine" of mine says something like "internet explorer cannot open this site"....or something like that!! Can I try another way of accessing it? I can't tell you how much I appreciate your help in this and all the other information you've given on this site. Sorry, but I have to say YOU ARE A HERO & A GENIUS!!!!! I'm so optimistic about this saw palmetto (also thanks for your words of encouragement Marcus! I feel s oooo brave and upbeat now!!) - I really think you have hit on something very clever here! Despite the Minocin and Eryacne I'm coming out in a few spots again - so this couldn't have happened at a better time (if you get my drift!). It should also help o hers who have had no success with Accutane or if their acne has returned. I see someone about my scars this week and would dearly love to get rid of the acne too so I can just concentrate on improving the scar issue problem. If I keep getting acne I am oing to have new scars all the time. Marcus, for stress I sometimes take kava, have you ever tried this? It is so very good & has such a calming effect. Life can be such a so and so at times....and it sometimes seems that the nicest people get the rawe t deal! Yeah, HGPig seems to have absconded!! Where are you HGPig? We'd like your input on this one!!! Thanks Marcus, again and again and again!!!! Jasmine, if the saw palmetto works this could be a good idea for you too! (I promise I won't build up my hopes too high - I know you were bothered about this Marcus, in case I got let down again! But it helps me a lot to try new things and not feel like I should just give up) Right, I'm off to try the saw palmetto NOW! I could end up the Pamela Anderso of the web-site! Hee! Lots of love, luck and thanks! Rianne.

Cip - 03/06/00 16:30:12
Age: 26
Gender: female
Country: US

Comments:
KARA-- Unfortunately, I had acne until the very end of my 22 weeks. I did see improvement along the way but was still getting new cysts at 18 weeks. Right now I'm totally clear just a few days after finishing accutane. I'm just praying I stay that way. To LADY D -- I would definately recommend accutane. I can't said the side effects are pleasant, but overall, they are tolerable and worth it. I never got pink eye, hair loss, bloody nose, dry eyes. I just had minor muscle aches, dry lips, dry skin and a f w arm and hand rashes, and some constipation. Nothing to be afraid of. Just monitor yourself carefully and stop taking it if you have more serious side effects. Good luck to everyone. There is light at the end of this tunnel.

marcus - 03/06/00 16:25:26
My URL:http://http://www.askjeeves.com/main/ etaAnswer.asp?MetaEngine=WebCrawler&logQID=F755D97278F3D311AB640090276AE7B5&qCategory=CULT&qSource=0&frames=yes&site_name=Jeeves&scope=web&r=x&MetaTopic=Saw+palmetto+for+Women&MetaURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.life-enhancement.com%2Fn27%2Fn27sawpalmetto.html&Engin Ordinal=1&ItemOrdinal=1&ask=saw+palmetto+for+women+metasearch&origin=0&MetaList=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.life-enhancement.com%2Fn27%2Fn27sawpalmetto.html&x=28&y=18
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: u.k

Comments:
http://onhealth.com/ch1/resource/herbs/item,16051.asp Rianne, Above are two links. On another site which I can’t find now for my life it listed around 20 different reasons why women take this herb from helping digestion to increasing breast size! Best get my girlfriend on the stuff then (joke) hope she doesn t read this!!!!!!!) I’m feeling more & more optimistic about this approach, I’ve found out that roaccutane is also an antigen blocker (now that’s three main acne cures that block this hormone Azelaic acid, zinc, accutane, to many coincidences to ignore.) t seems clear that D.H.T is a major player in the cause of acne! I’ll keep researching to find other antigen blockers! Don’t you dare even think about stopping to post, you’re an inspiration to us all, you’ve put up with this condition longer than some of us have been alive and managed to keep your sanity! I have much admiration for you & Jasmine, I was socially &, emotio ally crippled a long time ago (acne wasn’t the only factor in my down fall but it was a major contributor, I won’t go into though, I’ll save that for my screwed over by everyone except my girlfriend message board) You must have much courage to face the wo ld even when you don’t want to! Don’t give up and except it otherwise your acnes won; you have to at least hope that there is hope! (This must sound very hypocritical coming from someone who lives like a hermit) Any way this ideas going to work we have to stay positive right! I think we may have to give the saw palmetto a few months maybe longer before we can see it’s full benefits as herbs seem to take a little longer to get around your system (I’m sure C.H.L lady will back me on this one, she seem to know more on this matter than me!) What happened to H.G.Pig I loved that guy (in the non sexual way of course)

Rianne - 03/06/00 15:52:23

Comments:
C.H.L. thanks for looking up the saw palmetto. You're all so lovely on this site and really helpful! C.H.L. cystitus (sp?) is a urinary infection...the kind of thing that when you pass water it burns like fire! (not pleasant) The saw palmetto works by locking androgens (Marcus help! I'm not good at this!!) and testosterone (sp? sorry!)I THINK....which should in turn stop the acne. I am looking for a web site which would give me more info. but as you said C.H.L. maybe the book store would be a good bet I'm going to begin taking the saw palmetto anyway I think. I'm so tired of my problem skin. Oh, and I have the name and telephone number of a chinese herbalist here in my area. As yet I haven't plucked up the courage to phone him. Don't ask me why.. .I'm not sure myself! I think I'm just scared he'll say "Can't Help"!! I know that's crazy logic because I'll get nowhere if I don't try. Also your chinese herbalist has helped you with stress? I need that too!!! Anyway, thanks to everyone & hope tha you're doing okay C.H.L. & Marcus and Jasmine. Love to you all! Rianne.

Al - 03/06/00 15:31:44
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi,

Comments:
I have just started a course of Roaccutane, and just wanted to let you all know my experience of doing this privately vs. on the NHS. The main reason for detailing this information, is to try and give you all an idea of the cost of going private, vs. waiting 30 weeks for a Dermatologist appointment (at least in my area). I'm lucky in that all my bloods tests and consultations are paid for by my company's medical insurance -- I just have to pay the (high) cost of the Roaccutane. Anyway, the prices are below; these may help you decide about whether you can afford to do this sooner rather than wait on the NHS (I got an appointment with a derm next day after GP refferal). Initial Consultant appt. £75 Blood test £110 Blood test result appt £50 Initial low 40mg dose of Roaccutane for 1 month £85 (Thereafter, 80mg/month = £160/month for 4 to 6 months). Blood test bi-montly £110 Consultation bi-monthly £50 So, 6 months of treatment comes to about £1500...

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/06/00 15:16:48
Age: 36

Comments:
Hi all, To Rianne, In my "Vitamin Bible" book by Earl Mindell is a chapter on Herbs and Folk Remedies. I has that Saw-Palmetto (berries) are helpful in the treatment of chronic cystitis and in the prevention of genito-urinary tract infection. If you hav a chance to check the book store I bet you might find some interesting herb books with Saw Palmetto in it. I have not idea what chronic cystitis is but it sounds like acne???

Star - 03/06/00 13:50:46
My Email:Bradthom@tinyworld.co.uk
Age: 16
Gender: female
Country: England

Comments:
Can anyone help me. Since the age of 13 I have suffered from acne, I used antibiotics and this worked, however since last summer the acne has come back and it is worse than ever. I have been to my GP severel times now and have been given numerous tablets nd creams, none of which have worked.Can anyone help me please, i'm desperate!

Rianne - 03/06/00 10:17:30

Comments:
I posted a message last night and then it wouldn't post! I tried several times to get back into the board and it just wouldn't work at all. Very frustrating, especially when you lose your message and can't remember EXACTLY what you wrote!! Anyway - Mar us it's so great to have you back!!! I just cannot understand anyone sending you an offensive e-mail - a dirty, rotten trick to do - who-ever it was. You've always helped everyone so much and a lot of us have really benefited from your efforts....also y u've given people like me some hope & new ideas of ways to help my acne. And I have to disagree with you Marcus - you ARE a genius!!! I was thinking of stopping posting too. It seems like I have been posting far too long now - & yes, I seem (and feel!) like the grandmother of the site! It seems as if so many people have moved on, been able to cure their acne, and I'm still here & stuck with mine!!! A turning point seemed to be my recent 35th birthday....I started to think that I would maybe just have o accept the fact that I will always have bad skin. If it hasn't gone by 35 I doubt it will go now. (I guess I was feeling sooooo negative about it and a rather pathetic individual) It's ruined my skin & left such terrible scarring - it totally erodes e ery bit of confidence I have. I'm really glad that a lot of people have cured their acne - it's great when someone wins the battle. I just HATE to see acne win!!!! You are such a lovely lot of people on this board - if anyone deserves clear skin you al do! Accutane for me is not possible. I have a health problem which causes my "gamma GT" levels (liver function) to be abnormally raised. I have visited dermatologists all over the UK (travelling miles in the process!) and the answer when they see my lood test results is "Out Of The Question". I lead a very healthy lifestyle and take care with my cleansing regime, diet, exercise & general health, etc.. It upsets me so much that I can't take the one thing that would probably clear my skin for good. hat's why I don't like discussing it because it makes me feel so sad. For Jasmine, I really think it is worth starting the zinc if you have some in the house. Try and take 100mg. per day (Marcus's suggestion) because I honestly think it does help. The inc I have is zinc picolinate....which I'm assuming is chelated zinc? I hope so! Marcus, I bought the saw palmetto on Saturday...I got the FSC one, it's a liquid version and has 167mg. in 10 drops. The 30ml. bottle cost £4.99. I still haven't used it ecause I was so unsure of its effect on females! The lady in the shop (I didn't tell her what it was for...I don't like to attract attention to my skin although she would see anyway) said it was for prostate problems. A site I found on the net seemed to go a bit along those lines too. Marcus, can you suggest a site where I might get some more details about the saw palmetto? Oh, I think I'll just take it anyway!!! What the heck eh??!!! (and again - a HUGE welcome back!!!) Well, I must go now & lots of ove, luck and a great big heap of thanks to you all! Rianne. (p.s. Any sign of the DermaLux yet Jasmine? Also hello to Rob (RL) - I hope that your treatment continues to work well....please keep us posted when you can!)

EVA - 03/06/00 09:36:28
Age: 32
Gender: PRETTY CUTE
Country: CANADA

Comments:
HI THERE! Question: I was preparing to wax (legs, etc) tonight, then realized there was a warning not to wax if u used retin-A, glycolcic acid, AHA, or ACCUTANE. WHY???? I'm not peeling (legs or face, for that matter) and can't see the reasoning behind it (unle s for waxing a mustach on a dry or peeling face.) Any advice?? (ps: I used to have a volcanic face (cysts) but 1.5 months into Accutane (40mg) and it's looking pretty good. I am actually considing crawling out from under that rock we've all been hiding under). Wish you all the same.

LAURA - 03/06/00 07:10:02
My Email:LMEC88@HOTMAIL.COM
Age: 32
Gender: FEMALE
Country: CANADA

Comments:
I was reading the comments and Angel had said something about the B vitamins causing breakouts, I would be interested in more info please, I am on 1000mg shots of B12 monthly and wonder if this is aggrevating my acne. Also someone was asking about Proact ve from TV, I did try it and my acne did not clear up and I ended up with a very dry almost burnt painful rash. Benzoyl Peroxide is extremely drying and not always effective. I hope that helps anyone. Good Luck to all starting Accutaine, I have still ot started it, my derm gave me a lotion that I will try, its called Medrol anyone else have any luck with it? My back is really bad and I hope I can clear it up by summer, I hate having to hide in the beautiful weather or anytime. Take care all.

LAURA - 03/06/00 07:09:13
My Email:LMEC88@HOTMAIL.COM
Age: 32
Gender: FEMALE
Country: CANADA

Comments:
I was reading the comments and Angel had said something about the B vitamins causing breakouts, I would be interested in more info please, I am on 1000mg shots of B12 monthly and wonder if this is aggrevating my acne. Also someone was asking about Proact ve from TV, I did try it and my acne did not clear up and I ended up with a very dry almost burnt painful rash. Benzoyl Peroxide is extremely drying and not always effective. I hope that helps anyone. Good Luck to all starting Accutaine, I have still ot started it, my derm gave me a lotion that I will try, its called Medrol anyone else have any luck with it? My back is really bad and I hope I can clear it up by summer, I hate having to hide in the beautiful weather or anytime. Take care all.

NICOLE - 03/06/00 06:10:01
My Email:deschat@hotmail.com
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
LADY D.... you have experienced the exact day as me!!! not wanting to go any where in the last two days, I felt terrible. This was not like me. I kept wondering if there was anything else making me feel depressed, then I just said...If my face was clea , I would feel SOO much better about myself. that was it. And esp. being in the beauty industry it sucks when I look terrible. I use to model, but when a agent looked me in the face and told me I will not get hired because of my complexion I was crushed. And I hated it even more when some one called be beautiful. Now I know that I don't have to live up to the MODEL standards, b t I would like to have a complexion that did not need a lot of cover-up to go out side. Well I have my bad days and my good days. Hope for more good days!!!! Nicole

S.P. (formerly 'Pam') - 03/06/00 05:24:27
My Email:strongpersuader@hotmail.com
Age: 32
Gender: woman
Country: australia

Comments:
hey Rob.M. - hope you didn't get 'asses of blisters' this summer (cuz I just know how much you'd hate that!!!)...seriously though...glad it worked out for you...

kennedy - 03/06/00 05:22:59
Age: 20
Country: usa

Comments:
re: i have a really tight knit family who suffer when they see that someone else in their family is suffering. you would probably understand that sometimes parents treat their children like small kids no matter how old they are. when i said force, i did 't mean that they put a gun to my head and dragged me by the hair. they were sad to see me lock myself in the house and kept nagging and guilt-tripping me endlessly to go out with them. ok "force" wasn't the best word to describe it. but at the time it felt like it.

ROB - 03/06/00 05:00:57

Comments:
I should learn how to spell eh!

Rob M - 03/06/00 03:26:52

Comments:
VantMaS, I was on 40mg/60mg on alternate day (ie. 2 tabs ond day, 3 the next.) JANET- yuo should go and see your doctor, your red itchy lumps could be an STD.I think you may need somthing other than Accutane!

Sheryl - 03/06/00 03:16:08
Age: 32
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
Hi. I noticed some people talking about the redness they had while taking accutane. I started taking it 6 days ago (40mg x2day). My face is extremely red and painful. Like a really bad sun burn. Is this normal or could it be to high of a dose, or what Please help.

VantMaS - 03/06/00 02:45:24
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
Rob M- How much mg's were u on up until the 6 months?

Janet - 03/06/00 02:39:37
Age: 16
Gender: Female
Country: U.S.A

Comments:
Hi, I have very slight acne on my face but around my vaginal area i have noticed a lot of cystic lumps. I have put off having sex since i discovered these. I have tried several spot lotions nothing helps and it is becoming very itchy and red. Should i go on acutane? Thanks

Rob M - 03/05/00 23:54:02
Age: 24
Country: Sunny Queensland,Australia

Comments:
Well, I have not been to this board for a while because there was a lot of crap going around. It is good to see this board is back to a great site, Anyway, I have finished my 6 month course of roaccutane, just over a week ago. I have to say I am happy wit the results. Up until month 4-5 I was still unsure if it was going to work . Although I had NO pimples or cysts, I was not happy with my skin. But since stopping, the redness has reduced and my skin does not look so sensitive and it is very smooth. I am aving some slight problems, diabetic like symptoms, but I think this may be due to sports supplements rather than accutane. I will let you know about the redness and red marks in time. All I can say is persist with the treatment, it looks as though it was a good choice for me. Best of luck to you all. It is a good time to work on your self, self esteem, self worth and perception while working on your skin, in the end you wont lose.

- 03/05/00 23:45:34

Comments:
Kennedy, If you are 20 years old then how could someone be forcing you to go out if you don't feel up to it?

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/05/00 23:00:03
Age: 36
Country: U S of A

Comments:
Rob(RL) I wonder why you could not get into this forum for so long. Did you have trouble surfing around the web to other web sites? Did you try entering the web site in the "address" area as if you had not been here before instead of through your "favor tes"? To Christy: Are you content with your weight?

kennedy - 03/05/00 21:35:56
Age: 20
Country: usa

Comments:
i can't believe i'm going outside. right now as i write, family is forcing me to go to the park with them on a family picnic where i will be forced to meet their friends. i'm having a major panic attack. today especially since when i woke up, it seems ike my forehead has exploded. this is so embarrassing. i would rather die than go outside and let people see my monstrous face. when will this torment end? i hate life at the moment. i want to crawl under a rock and fall asleep and never wake up agai until my skin looks at least like a normal person's skin.

Christy - 03/05/00 21:02:25
My Email:Pixiesea@hotmail.com
Age: 16
Gender: Female
Country: US

Comments:
Ok all the guys, you can skip over this one. I'm 16 and i'm 5'11 and i weigh 110 lbs. Obviously, very thin and my acne is not that bad really. Also, i have an irregulare menstral cycle, i skip it allot cause i'm so thin and i'm very authletic, (by the w y i'm a virgin so it's not like i'm skipping it cause i'm pregnant) so should i take it or will it mess something up? I live in San Diego and i go to the beach allot. I get so embarassed when i'm at the beach cause my make-up comes off in the water and don't want to put it back on everytime i lay out, but then everyone can see my acne. 2 of my friends are using accutane, one has almost no acne at all, actually the only reason she is using it is because she is a model and she can't get jobs if she has ny blemishes at all, and the other one has mild acne and it worked really well. My best friend is starting accutane and she wants me to start it with her. The problem is i love kids and i want a big family some day. Does anyone think there is a possibi ity that the side effects of having a deformed baby can carry over for years and years? And do you think if i am so thin, cause i really am unually thin, there will be more side effects? Also, how much does it cost? I would probibly take the min amount but how expensive is it? Somebody please help me. E-mail me back with any info you might have. Thank you so much and god bless you all.

Davie - 03/05/00 20:59:03
Age: 31
Gender: Male
Country: Scotland

Comments:
Roaccutane helped initially for myself around 6/7 years ago before my acne reoccured around two years later. I notice with interest from this site that reoccurence is fairly common. However when my acne did reoccur it was far less severe with no cystic pots. For anyone out their thinking of a course of roaccutane all I can suggest is:- If your acne is making you miserable and you are missing out in life, then it is worth a go. Stick to the guidelines from Roche and your dermatoligist rigidly and stay ut of the sun. I now use bodyshop tee tree oil soap once to twice a day and no other acne products. I find this soap gives reasonable results and is not too drying and less irratating than other acne washes I have tried. Hope this has been of use to so eone. Hang in there.

mike k. - 03/05/00 19:52:09
My Email:barfly1@home.com
Age: 16
Gender: male
Country: USA

Comments:
hey again. 30 days left of accutane and im looking good. zit free, none for a while. just red marks really. im lucky to have very little scars. anyway, i realize after most people conquer acne they leave the board, but im hoping someone can help. my quest on is this: after you're done with the course, how long does it take for the redness in your face to go away (the redness, not the red marks), the frizzy hair, the chapped lips, etc. thanks in advance, keep the hope people, it CAN work. -mike, survivor

Ryan - 03/05/00 19:41:25
My Email:Rye0000@aol.com
Age: 19
Gender: male
Country: us

Comments:
Hi, what a nice message board this is, I wish I would have found it earlier. I'm on my 3rd day of Accutane (40 mg), and I would classify my acne as moderate. WOW, after the first day I noticed a huge difference I've got no new spots, and it feels so good ot having a greasy face. But as I read these posts I get scared because most of them point in the direction of an impending break out. Is it this way for everyone? Is their anyone out there who progressivly got clearer. I'm so excited, I can actually see efore my very eyes the pimples on my back and chest dissapear, and I would hate to think that they would come back with a vengence. Thanks I would appreciate any comments you might have. Rye

Donny - 03/05/00 19:13:56
My Email:nugget190@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: USA

Comments:
VANTAMAS...It makes me feel much better knowing that other people are taking acctuane and are having postitve results from it. Whould anyone know of anything that would clear up blemishes or red spots??? thanks Donny

Jasmine - 03/05/00 18:42:37

Comments:
Hi.I forgot to say to SARAH I too read that they are going to start restricting Roaccutane on the N.H.S. in certain boroughs,not because of the side effects but because of the cost of it.I read it in a magazine.I suppose if your Derm won't put you on it y u could always go private(not that you should have to)and of course it depends on your money situation.The article I read said they are going to start doing it not that they already are and I only read it a little while ago.Good luck with it.Bye Jasmine

Jasmine - 03/05/00 18:36:45
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi all.ROB(RL)Glad to see you back.That is a strange thing to happen not being able to get onto the board.Rianne and I were wondering what had happened to you.That is interesting about the licensing reasons with the Skinoren.As I think you might have said in the NZ Dermanet it says it is safe to use it for years.The only thing about the 6 month thing is why would you use it for 6 months and hopefully it has cleared the acne up and then stop?Surely the acne would just return!I found a dermatologist's study n the net saying that Azelaic acid works much better if used in combination with other topicals e.g. Benzoyl Peroxide.I have been using Skinoren for 2 weeks and keep trying to introduce Benzoyl into the regime but it is making my face too sore so I though perhaps I better get my skin used to the Skinoren first.Did you notice any itching or anything when you first started to use it.My face is really itchy for about an hour after I've applied it.I know it says on the leaflet it is normal at the start of tre tment I just wonder if 2 weeks is still at the start of treatment.I'm glad it is working for you.How long before you noticed any improvement?Did you have the big red spots as well as blackheads before you started it or just blackheads?I keep looking at my face thinking it just looks too severe this time for a cream to clear it up but I am persevering.Sorry questions questions.I sound like a desparate women don't I.MARCUS.Glad you have decided to come back again.Of course people don't get bored with what yo are saying.I thought that was the idea of the board to share experiences.I thought you left rather suddenly and it is out of order for someone to send you a nasty e-mail.No I wouldn't recommend that Ketsugo to anyone.I might just try taking the zinc to s art off with because I have got a dodgy stomach and if I introduce things gradually then I'll know where I am.Hi RIANNE.Hope you are O.K.Anyway gone on for long enough.Bye for now Love Jasminexx

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/05/00 18:14:38
Age: 36
Country: U S of A

Comments:
To AcneTrouble: Have you checked out the needymeds.com to see if you may benefit from it as far as cost for Accutane. Also Pharmacists or Chemists could probably help anyone to find out the cost in your neighborhood. To John, It sounds like you might b having thoughts that you want to eat healthier. Of course soda is probably not very healthy for us and I wonder if milk is due to the hormones, etc. they give to the cows to produce more milk. (they do give the cows weird unhealthy stuff for us so the c w will produce more milk at least here in the U.S.) I don't think it is noted anywhere that taking Accutane with milk or soda is necessarily a problem.

marcus - 03/05/00 16:09:32
Age: 22

Comments:
Rianne, If you put it like that I’ll stay, (just for you ) I just thought people might be getting a bit fed up of me banging on about my theories & what works for me, especially as I got a nasty e-mail from someone telling me so! I think genius is going way to fa I think I’m more like at the other end of the spectrum! I’ve researched saw palmetto more for you and found women also take it for a number of different reasons ranging from hair loss to using it as an aphrodisiac! Also on the bottle it doesn’t mention anything about it being just for men! (I can understand yo being cautious though!!!!) Jasmin, It’s difficult to say how quickly you would see an improvement as I didn’t start taking everything at the same time, I built up slowly adding one or two things a week (I should have thought a matter two to three weeks would be realistic although I don’t see why you shouldn’t see some benefit right away!) Oh I forgot to mention before I also used ketsugo too! (doesn’t work does it) Thanks to the person who posted about the Zinc, just goes to show there’s still a lot I don’t know and could learn by sticking around!!!!

Lady D - 03/05/00 14:48:31
Age: 37
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
To April: yes, the Pill can help clear up acne. Unfortunately it's something of a hit-or-miss deal. I was on about five different kinds of pills in my twenties and only one (Demulen) cleared me up--which it did fantastically. The only problem was the othe side effects: water retention, bloating, and depression. I have friends whose skin has cleared up completely while on the Pill, and friends who never had acne but started breaking out while taking the Pill. Now they have that new Pill that's specifically noted to clear up acne, so maybe your derm. wants you to try that. In my opinion, taking the Pill is such an individual thing--i.e., everyone reacts so differently to it--that you could never predict how it would work out for you. You could either try it nd if it doesn't work out go on Accutane again, or look for a new derm. who might be more open minded.

Sarah - 03/05/00 14:23:27
Age: 29
Gender: Female
Country: UK

Comments:
To Al who posted in February and discussed persistant mild/moderate acne. You wrote that Roaccutane use will soon be restricted in the UK; where did you hear this? I have had mild/moderate acne for 19 years. I have an apointment to see a dermatologist in pril and I'm hoping I'll get to go on Roaccutane. I am already worried that my case may not be considered severe enough despite the length of time I have suffered and the presence of scarring but this news makes me think cases such as mine will be the fir t to be refused. Please post again if you have any more information.

Rob (RL) - 03/05/00 13:32:01
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:

I'm back. A really weird thing happend to this board from my end, It has been completey static for well over month when clearly it has been in use! There hasn't been anything wrong my computer I wonder if I was nuked from this board for some reason?

My Azelaic acid use which is now 3 months into treatment is going well it is slowly pulling out all the crap and my pin head spots are really ruduced. My GP didn't know anything about Glycolic Acid and I'm not going to bother with it now anyway. My GP sai you do need to give Skinoren the full 6 months as it does generally does work slowly. The 6 month usage thing is because of licensing reasons Skinoren has not been clincally tested for a longer period of time so it could get onto the market quickly. You re legally covered within the 6 month period if you needed to seek compenstaion from the manufacturers of Skinoren if you had a really bad reaction. If you use Skinoren after the 6 month recommended period you do so at your own risk.

I'm very busy at the moment and will write again when I am able.

ROB

April - 03/05/00 08:15:52
Age: 21
Country: usa

Comments:
Hi everyone. I took a 6 month course of accutane @ 60mg's over 6 months ago. However, my face began to break out again..the pimples are smaller but it is starting to look pretty ugly. My new dermi refuses to get me back on accutane claiming that my face " s different after taking the drug." She says that she wants to put me on some form of birth control. Has anyone taken birth control, or know of anyone who has taken it and had positive results? I'm sick of wasting time on useless drugs. Help! April

VantMaS - 03/05/00 05:10:44
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
Donny- hey, dont feel discouraged. The accutane for my cleared me up for the first 5 weeks and i then broke out up to my 13th week, like REALLY bad, but now i have had a total of 3 pimples ( small ones) in about 2 weeks, and i have been treating my face like shit. so this is probably your "breakout" period, just bear with it. and good luck

Acne Trouble - 03/05/00 02:33:07
My Email:chingchong_@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: Male
Country: Bolivia

Comments:
My dermatologist has suggested a four month treatment of my acne with Accutane. I hear that it works great and I can't wait to start it, the only probably is that he estimates the cost of treatment to reach $1000 or more. Is this an accurate estimate? f anyone has any info on the general price of Accutane in the U.S. or even internationally, I would appreciate it if you shared it with me. Even just the total cost of an individual's own treatment with Accutane would be extremely helpful. Thank you for your assistance.

John - 03/05/00 01:27:17

Comments:
Quick question. They say you should take Accutane with food and so I have been after every dinner. However it got me thinking that there had to be some food, or some drink that doesn't react well with accutane??? I mean there has got to be some food or dr nk that interacts with it in such a way that the body doesn't absorb it or something. When i drink milk of soda with it I sometimes think that i should be taking water instead. Anyone know anything about this? Thanks for your time

mike - 03/05/00 00:21:55
My Email:barfly1@home.com
Age: 16
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
hey all. i was on 40mg 2x a day for 4 months before anything happened, and then it seemed like overnight the acutane kicked in. for all you losing hope, KEEP IT UP! it might take until 5 months before anything happens, but it WILL happen. don't lose hope. -mike

Lori - 03/04/00 23:40:46
My Email:laurie@thegrid.net
Age: 31
Gender: female
Country: US

Comments:
I have been on Accutane for over 6 months now. I am 5'8" and weigh 150. I took 80mg per day, up until last week. My derm says I have to cut back to 40mg per day for the next 4 weeks. Anyway, I haven't cleared up yet? Anybody have any suggestions or ideas for me? I'm giving up on the idea of ever having clear skin! Thanks

S.P.(formerly Pam) - 03/04/00 21:57:57
My Email:strongpersuader@hotmail.com
Age: 32
Gender: woman
Country: australia

Comments:
LADY D...I would definitely recommend a course of Roaccutane...I have just finished a long term/low dosage regime (20mg/day/13 months)and the results were spectacular!!! Low dosages over an extended period helped manage elevated triglycerides and reduced he severity of side-effects...

Having acne in my thirties was so profoundly depressing...although I didn't realise quite how much I was affected until after I was clear. Since finishing the course I've noticed I actually *smile* and *laugh* a lot more hese days...I'm more spontaneous and I get out more!!! I found the courage to walk away from a four-year relationship which simply wasn't working...and I'm seeing someone else now...

Feeling a touch philosophical about it all today...but if I had to put it in a nutshell I'd say that not only did Roaccutane give me clear skin...more importantly...it restored my confidence in such a a way...that I now look people directly in the eye...I CONNECT with them...because I'm not hiding anymore...

anyway...best f luck to you LADY D...and love to everyone else...


Laurel - 03/04/00 21:25:55
My Email:LLMCKL@CS.COM
Age: 36
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
To Lady D: I am 36 and started taking accutane about one month ago. I have a similar story to yours. I never have more than two or three nodules at a time, however even one is unbearable to me! My advice to you, start the Accutane ASAP! I wish I'd have started s oner! I can already see a remarkable difference in my skin!!!!!! My main reason for waiting so long was that my derm didn't think my skin was bad enough! Who was he to judge!!!! Anyway, after having my three children, I decided to take the plunge. An so far, no regrets. Lips are a little dry, but other than that and an occasional muscle and joint ache, the rest has been positive! My skin is MUCH less oily than it was a month ago. You didn't have an e-mail address on your posting or I would have wr te to you there. Feel free to e-mail me with any thoughts or concerns. Although I am only one month into treatment and many of the other on this board have experience so much. It's a great place for moral support as well as information. Thanks everyon !!!!!!

rick - 03/04/00 21:25:25
Age: 24
Country: usa

Comments:
CETAPHIL cleanser seems great so far (using it 2 weeks). What about Cetaphil Moisterizing lotion, it says it is noncomegenic, but it has MACADAMIA NUT OIL in it. Is this type of oil a problem?? Thanks for any help! Rick

Donny - 03/04/00 20:13:11
My Email:nugget190@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
I have been taking accutane for about 6 weeks now 40mg twice a day and for a while my face was looking good but when I woke up this morning and looked in the mirror holy sh%t my face looked like someone had took a shotgun and shot me with one of those bul ets that have bb's in them. I have had acne since I was 15 and I'm getting tired of having to face it. every morning I get up run to the mirror and look at my face??? still no improvement really...but all I can do is pray and wait uh? good luck with every ne's treatment. thanks for reading.....Donny

- 03/04/00 18:45:52
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
Lady D: Take the ACCUTANE! At the age of 31 I was prescribed this miracle drug. I had taken so many antibiotics (tetracycline, minocin just to name a few). I had used Retin-A and Differin, but nothing seemed to work until the ACCUTANE. The results were amazing. My side effects were mild @ 40mg/day, dry lips, a rash on the back of my hands for the first couple of weeks, but that went away after I started applying hydrocortisone cream every night. 2 years later no antibiotics, but I am using Retin-A micro and have been since I went off the Accutane. After all it does help with the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Hope this helps! :-)

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/04/00 18:44:09
Age: 36
Country: U S of A

Comments:
Hi. Robin, I just saw a TV infomercial for Proactive Solution. Ya know what, it is a 60 day money back guarantee. I would suggest trying it especially with the guarantee. The only thing you have to lose is the shipping and handling when it is shipped t you and when you have to ship the empty bottles back to them. Not to bad. Most of their picture examples are for very mild acne but I did see the pregnant lady and she looked like she had cystic acne of some type. Although preganancy could cause more evere acne so it may not be a good example.

Denny - 03/04/00 17:29:11

Comments:
UPDATE: to the person in their 30's wondering what to do..TAKE ACCUTANE before its too late. By too late I mean your face will look like the surface of the moon beofre ya know it! AND IMAGE MATTERS..(your husband will notice assemetry). TO THE person who exercsises ALOT: you are just making the problme owrse by exposing yourself to stress. Its better to stay inside and breathe fresh, clean, humidified air then EXPOSE YOUR SKIN TO STRESSFUL OUSIDE WORLD(particles, microbes, criticism, gaz s, fleas, UVA-UVB rays)

Lady D - 03/04/00 17:15:31
Age: 37
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I just need to vent because I am 37, my acne is getting worse than ever, and I feel like wearing a bag over my head at all times. I've tried just about every type of topical and internal meds...antibiotics and the pill have cleared me up but the side effe ts were just as horrible as having acne--I wish I could just slap everyone who ever lied to me and said it would all be over by the time I reached my twenties. The truth is I'll probably still be getting new zits after I'm DEAD!!! I'm so sick of being a p zza face and feeling totally hideous. My husband keeps telling me I'm beautiful and I want to scream at him, "YOU LIAR!! YOU KNOW I'M DISGUSTING!!" Because that's how I feel. I feel like god must have really hated me to give me this horrible-looking face. Did I mention I've been dealing with this problem since age 12??? IT'S REALLY GETTING OLD!!!!!
Now that I've said that, I've really been thinking about trying accutane. I'm starting to get cysts on my cheeks again (haven't had them since my early teens) and nothing seems to help. Have any other old folks like me started this drug for the first ime in their thirties? If my acne is this stubborn, is there really any help or should I just give up and accept that I'm always going to have this until medical science makes face transplants a reality? Are the side effects of accutane worse for older pa ients?
Any input would really be appreciated. I know my derm. is okay with my taking accutane--he mentioned it last time I was there, but I wanted to wait and look into it more before making a decision.

Chinese Herb Lady - 03/04/00 16:55:32
Age: 36
Country: California, U S of A

Comments:
Hi all, Robin, I have used the Proactive Solution long long ago for a few months when I had cystic acne. I was always very faithful with whatever I used topicals or internals. I must say that it did not help cystic acne at all. There are probably at leas a million topicals out there and I had tried many of them. A few may dry up some acne but mainly it will never cure acne. Acne is from the inside. Sometimes some topicals may help heal up spots that are on the face but that is about it. To Haly, I have been taking Chinese Herbs since Nov 1998 I had severe cystic acne. I now only have a spot here and there and it is not cystic. I expect the rest to go away also with my Chinese Herb program. It may be taking longer than Accutane but it Accutane did not get rid of the Acne then..... I did not do research before I took them. Then only testimonial I had was my Herbalist who has a Doctorate in Oriental Medicine had written in a local news paper that she had cured her own acne at age 32. I dove right in an I am very happy that I did. My life has improved drastically. I no longer have oily skin (just the minimal natural amount that any person should have) my skin and hair use to be so oily that I would need to shower twice a day so my hair would look o.k. I no longer cancel plans with friends which before and during and after Accutane I did many many times, I no longer stay home all weekend, I can make plans of any kind and follow through, I no longer have to be depressed (and I use to be depressed all th time 24 hours a day) I am happy all of the time now. I call my herbs "my happy herbs". I can look in the mirror without shying away just as I look at myself, I actually was able to style my hair so that it looks the best on me (a style that curves arou d my face). Anyway, I only have the information for myself such as the type of herbs I take, etc. My Chinese Herbalist said she would call another Herbalist to give info. I had asked her because I said if anyone was interested from far away how would t ey find someone who knows how to treat the disease. And the most bizarre thing to me is that my Herbalist said that once I'm clear that I shouln't have to take the herbs anymore. I totally expect to take my herbs for this condition through November 2000 I know 2 years is a long time but the 90 to 95% improvement I have already is worth it. Now from what I can gather, my Chinese Herbalist had just started in her field and she took the herbs for first couple of years. I have spent about 600 dollars in a year way more than an Accutane 5 month treatment but Accutane doesn't work anymore for me. Accutane would have only cost me 5 dollars for each prescription. Also the 2nd 5 month course of Accutane not only did not help me at all but the side effects wer much worse than my first 5 month course in 1991.

Robin - 03/04/00 16:21:02
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Country: US

Comments:
Lenny--I don't know if your question was answered or not--don't take Vitamin A supplements while on Accutane, it just exacerbates the dryness and nasty side effects. Also--for those who are using foundation while on Accutane--make sure it's completely oi free. My dermo said I could use make-up with oil "because your skin stops producing sebum." But the oil still clogs pores--and that can make things worse after you've stopped. Also again--for anybody taking multivitamins, don't take one with iodine in i , it causes acne in some people. Does anybody know anything about these Chinese herbs?? Thanks--

Judd - 03/04/00 15:39:04
My Email:Phblatant@hotmail.com
Age: 17
Gender: man
Country: usa

Comments:
What is going on with accutane?? I just went to the derm yesterday after 4 months on Accutane at 80 mg for moderate-severe recalcitrant acne...not cystic. I am still getting small pimples but not as often, and not in the middle of my face any more. Anyway, i ask my derm, what my chances are that accutane will work for me, he tells me right off the bat that I am going to need a second course, He just gives e the friggin fact that "Well, since your acne is so active, your going to need another course." THIS is BS!!!! now i have to set aside my life for another year just to take this stupid drug, and i am about to go to college, a place where i thought i could start all over again with a clear face... I am so sick of ad and people on tv saying 'doh de doh doh doh, Acne CAN be cured.. " It's stupid, cause only mild acne can be cured people with recalcitrant acne have to eat **** and go to hell, I hate this life,and a life with acne is not worth living!

M - 03/04/00 15:17:41
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: United States

Comments:
A couple of people have asked whether or not anyone had gotten a rash from accutane. I have one now. I have been on 60mg a day for 4 weeks (five days of 80 and two of 40 per week--I weigh 150lbs)and I have a rash on the back of my hands. I also have so e other uncommonn side effects. I am going to see the doctor in two days and will discuss lowering my dosage. I am pretty thin and my acne was not very bad to begin with. In fact, it cleared up almost entirely by the third week in treatment. Now I hav no pimples on my face. I am also wondering if I should continue treatment for the whole 5 months. The Roche Accutane website (thanks for the link)suggested that it may not be necessary.

linda - 03/04/00 07:16:11
My Email:tlhill3702@aol.com
Age: 29
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
i have dealt with acne most of my life. i have moderate acne and my dermatologist has recommended acutane. my concern is this... i don't have children but would like to some day. will accutane "alter" any thing in my body and cause a defect to my futur children... even if i have been off of it for a year or more? i am very interested in beginning the process and saying "good bye" to acne. please help if you have any information... my dermatologist says that the medication is out of your system within a matter of months... i would like more information.

Eileen - 03/04/00 07:05:08
My Email:eileen74@catcha.com
Age: 25
Gender: Female

Comments:
I have completed my 6 mths(20mg per day) course of accutane. Yes i did suffered from the joints ache, dry lips, flaky scalp and even hair loss. However, after stopping accutane , my face became oily again! yeah the doctor did say it might come back..but i did not know that it will come back so soon. Have been getting tiny little zits on my face too. I am just hoping the situation wouldn't get worst. I am from Singapore

strawberry - 03/04/00 06:58:56
My Email:jonathan2308@hotmail.com
Age: 19
Gender: guy
Country: fairfield, california california love

Comments:
was up yall my name is jonathan. this is week 13(day87) of accutane. on monday my dermatologist upped my dosage to 100mg/day(40mg in AM, 20mg&40mg in PM). before i was @ 2x40mgs/day. i weigh 70kg(154lbs.). thats right, i weigh 70kg and am taking 100mg of ccutane a day. it is a lot, but my derm upped it because my only side effects have been dry/chapped lips and daily dry skin(especially around the mmouth area). as far as my acne, nothing much has changed(again!). still have a lot of blemishes over my chee s. still going to the gym(weights,swimming) about 4 time a week. sometimes when i lift(weights) my face gets red and flushed and it doesnt look good. looks kinda like a strawberry(no relation to the name). my derm said that chlorine does help out acne, bu i havent seen any positive results. its actually drying out my skin more. with my acne right now im willing to take a lump sum of some scars here and there, just so that itll end. just so that i can get on with life. thats about it. hi to all of you and hanks, especially to karen(fish). Your Pal Jonathan.

Jeffery - 03/04/00 05:58:39
My Email:trickle@cybertech.com.sg
Age: 22
Gender: Male

Comments:
I stopped taking roaccutane almost a year because I noticed that large amounts of hair were falling and my hair was thinning. The condition doesn't seem to be improving. Can somebody please offer me some advice. If any of you have gone through hair los and it has returned to it's normal condition, please email me. I just need someone to talk to. thank you.

Sue - 03/04/00 04:43:08
My Email:SueJ@camtech.net.au
Age: 30
Gender: Female
Country: Australia

Comments:
It's sooooo wonderful to come across such a positive site as this one. When you have a cystic acne problem you feel like a social leper - but when there are others out there suffering as well, it's such a relief. I've been reading all your post-its and m extremely relieved to hear that my s-l-o-w progress with Roaccutane is normal. I'm heading into my 10th week (30mg/day -47kg - 2nd course)and I'm house bound today due to a HUGE breakout. It's strange that my first course cleared my skin up within a f w weeks, but this time - no chance. To those who are interested in the pill Dianne - I took it for a year and yes it is good for the skin, but I got terrible pigmentation and it also made me very depressed - so it does have side affects in some people. Thanks to everyone - you sound like a excellent group.

Tara - 03/04/00 04:05:17
My Email:warwick@foothill.net
Age: 15
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
Hi, I have been on Acutane for 6 1/2 weeks and my doctor called me and said my liver enzymes are a bit high. This has made my Mom very nervous and she may want to take me off of it. I just started seeing results and don't want to quit, but I don't want to g t sick either. I have not been drinking a lot of water, but now I am. Have any of you had this reaction? Did you continue taking the medicine? Thanks for your help Tara

amina - 03/04/00 03:26:26
Age: 25
Country: OH, USA

Comments:
Has anyone ever had a plastic surgeon remove a really noticeable raised scar? I have one right smack dab in the middle of my face :< and the dermatologist recommended this since injecting with cortisone could just turn it into an indentation. Anyone use c rtisone injections?

haly - 03/04/00 03:22:51
Age: 24
Country: USA

Comments:
Great page! 1) Has anyone tried that Proactiv solution that Judith light sells on info-mercials and on the web? They make it sound like a miracle- and the money back guarantee is too good to believe. 2)on birth control- my doctor just recently took me off of it as acne treatment since I get migraines with tingly numbness, and if you get migraines with this symptom, birth control can increase your chances of stroke. Ask your doctors if concerned, they should explain why. 3)Klaron gel has worked wonders for me, kills bacteria all day long and not drying at all like retin-A and benzoyl peroxide were for me. Good luck all and thanks for posting your replies on the Proactiv Question!

Natalia - 03/04/00 01:54:25
Age: 17
Gender: Female
Country: U.S.

Comments:
Hey Everyone...I just started Accutane 2 days ago and I'm pretty nervous. I already can begin to feel my skin drying up, it wasn't as oily today. I'm so excited about the fact that my skin is not going to be oily (because it's so annoying) and that the esults will be that it's clear. Even though I've only taken 3 doses, I have been getting headaches twice a day and my eyes are really dry. I am using Cetaphil cleanser and mosturizer, Aquaphor for my lips, and tomorrow I'm going to get makeup that is NO oil-free like I've been using because it seems to dry up my face too quickly. I was just hoping someone could give me some tips that would help the process go along faster (like what to eat or not eat, how often to wash my face, etc). My doctor put me n 40 mg to start because I'm kind of small and my acne is not too bad. I really hope this works because I am going to college in 6 months, but my doctor said I'd be done by June or July. Please write back and tell me what to expect if you can. Thanks s much! :) ~Nat

Angel - 03/04/00 01:39:05
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Country: Philippines

Comments:
When taking vitamins, never take vitamins containing vitamin B 'coz it would stimulate more acne breakouts for acne prone skin. (Not that Vitamin B is bad 'coz it's an anti-stress vitamin, but that vitamin is not for everyone.) Instead, take Vitamin C 500 mg twice a day and it'll be very helpful!!

Angel - 03/04/00 01:33:46
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Country: Philippines

Comments:
I had always had acne since 11. I tried everything from dermatologist prescribed benzoyl peroxide to salycic acid, but they don't work- they only succeeded in aggravating the breakouts all over my face. I also tried hydroquinone but after a while my skin ecame immune to it so the acne came back.(I also discovered it is steroidal therefore it's not a good choice.) I also tried tretinoin or retin-A, the initial reaction to my face was: all the acnes under my skin surfaced, but gradually my face cleared out ut still some breakouts. Then, finally I discovered glycolic peeling (AHA acids) and use of glycolic creams, plus erythromycin used together with tretinoin and I'm happy to say that I experienced having clear skin for several weeks without any break outs xcept for an occasional one or two when my period is near.

- 03/04/00 01:03:24
Gender: female
Country: U.S.A.

Comments:
Just wanted to tell Marcus and whomever else decides to take zinc or is taking zinc. It has to be chelated zinc in order keep your copper level in the proper ratio for the zinc intake. If not, the zinc can be harmful to the body no matter how much you su plement with. Copper and zinc have to be in the proper ratio levels in order not to be detrimental. When the zinc is chelated, the proper amount of copper has been added to the zinc already.

Tom - 03/03/00 22:38:12
Age: 20
Gender: male
Country: USA

Comments:
Hello. I completed a 20 week course of accutane for occasional cystic acne about 2 months ago now. My skin is completely clear but my lips are still chapped and swollen. They are getting better but slowly. Is this normal? Most people I talked to sai that they had their chapped lips return to normal after only a few weeks. It has been about 7 or 8 now I think. Is this too slow of an improvement? Thanks for any help... Tom

Kara - 03/03/00 21:21:03
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
question for you Cip...do you remember what week you were on when you fully cleared up and stopped breaking out? I'm getting discouraged being on week 14 and it's worse than ever. Thanks tons!

Cip - 03/03/00 21:10:51
Age: 26
Country: US

Comments:
Hi all. I'm done! 22 weeks on 80mg/day. I thought this day would never come. My skin looks great. Not only is the acne gone, but my complexion is just better. People have said my face glows (I think it's just the accutane red) and I haven't had to wear fo ndation and powder in weeks. Overall, side effects totally tolerable and I'm looking forward to getting my lips back. Basically, I'm just worried now that the acne and the oil will come back. Not having oily skin has been the best benefit of accutane. I w ll keep everyone posted. Hang in there, it does work, albeit sometime slowly.

chineseherblady - 03/03/00 20:18:48
Age: 36

Comments:
Hi again, Kennedy, The reason I never checked out needymeds.com is because I paid 5 dollars per prescription of Accutane due to me Health Insurance Plan. It is a great price, Accutane worked the 1st time in 1991 but then my 2nd 5 month course in 1998 did not work at all so I have since resorted to Chinese Herbs which are working wonderfully. Oilyness gone except the very slightest natural amount that each and every person should have, Painful cystic acne gone and progressing very well as I go along with y Chinese Herbal program. I do like to keep up with the board as sometimes I can pass helpful info on to others as with my experiences from the past and keeping others suggestions alive from the past.

chl(Chinese Herb Lady) - 03/03/00 20:14:15
Age: 36

Comments:
Hi all, Kennedy, in answer to your question, no I never did fully check out needymeds.com I just keeping the information alive as someone else in the distant past recommended it as a source. I have been posting on this board for about 1.5 or 2 years no .

Jules - 03/03/00 19:15:42
Age: 28
Gender: Male

Comments:
Al - I always shave at night. I normally shave either in the shower/bath or just after. This is because the skin and the beard are softened and there is far less irritation. I rarely shave in the morning. I don't have time to fiddle about if I cut myself. Palmolive Vitamin E shaving gel is excellent. Least irritation. I have used it for years. There aren't many product I can say that about!

Bob Topps - 03/03/00 17:09:11

Comments:
Greetings and salutations! STEVE=you hang in there too buddy! GW= I have been watching the "Crocadile Hunter" on TV and I have a question...are there many crocs around where you live? AMAE=What up hon? Wishing you china doll complexion! DENNY=retin a is a sham! the stuff never worked for me... GOOD LUCK!

Rianne - 03/03/00 16:50:15

Comments:
Jasmine, we nearly always seem to post at around the same time!! When I read your posting it sounded like a mirror image!!! I've heard about the Red Cross make-up lessons - I think the reason I've never pursued it is because I thought it would be really heavy make-up and that just makes my skin look worse. This saw palmetto idea from Marcus has got me really interested. I could only find a company in Florida on the net & so I'm going to look for one in the UK and maybe give them a ring. It's an aspect I never thought of looking for before. I've explored the "hormone" thing but was always told there wasn't anything I could do about it - genes and all that. It's really rotten to have to stay indoors like that Jasmine (mind you, not that bad an idea in n English winter eh?!) but I really understand - it's very hard to face the world when you feel so self concious. Been there, bought the t-shirt as they say!! I've done that myself, but I would have liked to have stayed in out of choice and not necessit . When my skin erupts it really looks so awful - I know it doesn't bother some people & they can over-ride it and still face the world - but I can't handle it. When my skin is really bad I go into panic-mode and I just really hate that feeling. Oh I du no.....moan, groan, moan....sorry! I've got to rush now..... Take care & lots of love, luck and thanks to you all! Rianne.

Rianne - 03/03/00 16:14:09

Comments:
Marcus....don't go please! You're a genius and have helped us all out sooooo much and been ultra patient!!! Will you visit us now and then (I know the phone bill thing is a pain!) - the site wouldn't be the same without you!!!! It's terrific that your cne has now gone....all your research looks like it has paid off! (and thanks for sharing it with us!) I rang up the health food shop about the saw palmetto and she said it was for prostate problems in men!! THEN I looked on the web and it looks like it s an androgen blocker (I'm not an expert on this subject!!) and theoretically should stop acne. I'm going to look for a book on the subject but it sounds very promising!!! (I need to know more because I'm not sure how it will react with females taking i !) Marcus, it's wonderful that your acne has gone and thanks so much for everything!!!! Lots of love, luck and thanks. Rianne.

Jasmine - 03/03/00 15:58:49
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi all.MARCUS Thanks for the run down on all your supplements.Was your skin bad just on the Minocin so you started taking extra things?What I'm trying to say is how long before you noticed any improvement after starting to take the supplements?Thanks for our kind words.RIANNE You can get the Skinoren from the G.P. even though I got mine from the Derm.I can't recommend it yet as it is not working.I wish I could use the Benzoyl Peroxide with it because I have read it is not much good on its own better with ither Benzoyl or glycolic acid preparations.I think it is better to try and be sensible though and get my skin used to the Skinoren first even though what you really want to do is put loads of things on all at once.I did notice this morning the Skinoren d dn't seem quite so itchy as yesterday I didn't use any Benzoyl yesterday as my skin hurt a lot.My skin is also VERY oily.I too have to use at least 2 or 3 of those oil absorbing sheets to get a matte look.It looks worse in the sunlight.When my skin was cl ar with the Benzamycin gel and the Dermalux lamp my skin was still very greasy so obviously the oil is only one of the factors that contribute to having acne.The acne I have developed on my chest has not got one bit of oil with it.I still haven't come to erms with the fact I have now got acne on my body too.I thought by the age of 33 the acne you had was it.Life is so cruel.I used to use big Rizzla papers for the grease and they are good if you run out of oil sheets.I have heard that the old fashioned toi et paper is also very good,you know the sort I mean.Never tried it though.It makes you feel disgusing when your face feels so greasy.Drying out your skin too much is meant to make your skin greasier because the sebaceous glands produce even more grease to compensate.The foundation I use is L'Oreal Hydra Perfecte.It's non-comedongenic but I mainly use it because I'm so pale I managed to find one in this make that was light enough.I don't know if this is a good tip or not but I usually put foundation all ove the area lightly to mask the redness and then do loads of little dabs of foundation on the spots and red marks,let it dry slightly but not totally and then usually with the smallest finger lightly dab it.I find that way because you've let the foundation ry slightly it stays there better.I know the Red Cross do make-up lessons but I have never enquired about them.Lets be realistic though if you've got scabs and spots the size of a house then nothing will cover them.That is how I know my skin has never bee this bad before because it just isn't coverable.As I'm in hiding and being a recluse anyway it doesn't matter.Have you ever noticed that once you think I'm not answering the door the door bell keeps going and you feel very abnormal not answering it.Still its my life and if I don't want to answer the door I won't.I wish I could just hold my head high and say this is me but I can't.Sorry to everyone else out there who is having a bad time.I have ranted on for ages feeling sorry for myself still it's good we all know what each other is going through.Bye for now.Love Jasminexx

Marcus - 03/03/00 15:24:28

Comments:
Hi I just wanted to say bye to everyone, my acne isn’t a problem for me anymore so It seems pointless for me to keep coming here (plus my phone bills going through the roof) I hope the info I’ve given out helps people as much as it’s helped me and I hope ou all find a cure in the end! Goodbye!

Rianne - 03/03/00 14:21:22

Comments:
Marcus, I really don't want to go through explaining the whole Accutane thing again. I don't really mind if the saw palmetto doesn't work (I'd rather it did of course!!) - I just feel better if I'm actually trying something. I've spent a lot of money ov r the years trying to find something to help my skin, so another few £'s won't hurt. McCarty, thanks for the advice about the make-up - it would be soooo nice to have a make-up that sits for a while without slipping away!! I'll look out for the ones you mentioned. Meanwhile, lots of love, luck and thanks to you all. Rianne.

McCarty - Re: Oily Skin - 03/03/00 14:09:54
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: US

Comments:
I have always had extremely oily skin. My makeup would last about 30 minutes before beginning to slide off. At the end of the day I looked like I had sprayed my face with cooking oil. Before accutane I used Revlon Colorstay. It is the best makeup I hav found for very oily skin. It is extremely dry and seems to soak up a great deal of oil. It comes in sheer if you don't need as much coverage, but I always used the regular. My skin still got oily, but this makeup seemed to give me a little more time. There is also a product called Seban(sp?) that my dermatologist recommended. I never used it but my sister said it was great.

Al - 03/03/00 14:04:30
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi,

Comments:
Rianne, Hi I’ve just been searching through the archives to find out why you can’t take roaccutane but I have to say that after 15 mins I gave up cos I couldn’t find anything! Without you having to go through it again, is it out of the question 100% or co ld you take a really low does like 5 or even 2mg daily? One things for sure this board has a high turn over rate of people! You seem to be the only one to have stuck around for more than a few months which makes you like the grandmother of the board! I think if we are going to see results from the saw pallemeto it will be in the first six weeks although I’m not sure, I don’t even know if it’ll work it depends on the accuracy of the person who said about the hair loss link in the first place! I’m feeli g bad in case it doesn’t work for you or me for that matter. £15 is quiet a lot of money to spend on something that might not work! Maybe you should try the high strength evening primrose oil first at the very least it will make your skin much healthier! he choice is your but in case you get the saw pallemetto and it doesn’t help, sorry!

nicole - 03/03/00 07:55:58
My Email:deschat@hotmail.com
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
Quite fed up with it! I have done it all and nothing has worked. Been to the doc several times and it is getting nothing but expensive. Just when my face gets at its clearest the next day it explodes with reddness, especially cysts that take a long time o get rid of. Anyone find a great way of getting rid of cysts I would like to know of it please... or anything positive would be nice. :-) I am sick of people asking me what is wrong with me.. that is frustrating!!! and I always have friends complaining f a itsie bitsie zit on there chin, whatever!!! I wish it would all go away, for all of us!!!!!! anyway, it is late and i need my beauty sleep :-) take care all!!!!!

to ch1 - 03/03/00 06:50:55
Country: usa

Comments:
ch1thanks for the tip on needymeds. by the way, are you on the program? if so was it hard to go on it? i went to a few online pharmacys and gasped when i found out the price for accutane. 600 dollars. what a rip off. i'm sure the company pays t most 10 cents per pill.to monica, i'm wishing you the best. hang in there. have you tried using extra strength gold bond powder on the pox? i use it when my skin gets itchy and it works wonders. take care. kennedy =)

Steve - 03/03/00 06:40:33
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
Hang in there everyone. I wish I could muster up more to post but my head hurts and it is 1:45 am my time. Peace.

chl - 03/03/00 03:28:53
My URL:http://www.needymeds.com
Age: 36

Comments:
To Confused: My interpretation of "spots" is any form of acne. To me the word spots is much more pleasant than the words, acne, pimple, zit, plasma. It is like not having to picture the worst. It seems like a way to cover the subject without really ha ing to go there. Being able to imagine a "spot" even just a red spot is enough. To Kennedy07: Have you tried needymeds.com

Monica - 03/03/00 02:12:24
Age: 20
Gender: female
Country: Canada

Comments:
Hi everyone, it's been nearly a month since I've posted since there hasn't really been much change, up until last Friday. Now it's not something anyone would expect of a 20 year old, but I got the CHICKEN POX!!!! And loads of them are on my face! It's a if the gods do not want me to have clear skin under any circumstance LOL This has been the worst week of my entire life, no joke, I studied my entire read week for four midterms which I had to miss because I was insanely ill, I had a fever of 101!! So hat sucks, and my whole body and face are covered with these nasty little itchy suckers. So the only thing I have to report is that I have the shittiest luck in the world , and I suppose once the pox are gone and the accutane has done it's course and wor ed completely I'll either be killed so I can't enjoy it or I will suffer some freak accident permanenetly disfiguring me.....ok, so i'm being a bit dramatic, but I have to use this kind of humour to get me through these ever so trying times, HOpe everyone else is doing much better than I , and I hope youall had the pox when you were small and you don't remember how ITCHY they are! Monica

Rianne - 03/03/00 01:04:56

Comments:
To Doug who wrote in connection with gall-bladder problems and Accutane. I haven't ever taken Accutane but have had gall-bladder problems in the past. Maybe there could be a connection with acne & the gall-bladder. I don't know really. Unless anyone e se out there has had experience of this. Guess I should go now. Nite Nite! Rianne.

Rianne - 03/03/00 00:49:53

Comments:
I've got insomnia as well as acne now! Ha! That is very unusual Marcus to have dry skin and acne. I find during the summer, if I sit in the sun then my acne certainly gets much better. If it's just hot/cloudy/humid then my skin isn't very good at all. I'll try the cider vinegar hair rinse! I think you have the makings of a good book here Marcus! You definitely know more about acne & oil than most doctors!! If you're out there Jasmine, can you tell me if your skin throws out a lot of oil? Do you we r make-up, if so what type do you find good? Because of my skin being oily I find that some foundations and powders (I don't wear a lot of make-up) go "orange coloured" on me! At the moment I'm just using something called Touch Eclat by Yves St. Laurent It's a wand type applicator and whilst it doesn't really hide blemishes it evens out the skin tone and makes them less noticeable. On the worst spots and bad areas I sometimes use Body Shop concealer. I'm running out of the Eryacne gel so I only put i on the T-Zone of my face tonight - the rest of my face is now really oily and the T-Zone matte. I'll have to get another prescription for the Eryacne - might as well keep up with it if it's helping! I'll keep everyone posted as to how I get along with he Chinese herbalist when I speak to him. I'm only telephoning first to see what he's like and whether he specialises in skin conditions, esp. acne! I'm still using the liver tonic herbs but I must admit they don't taste too good! If the saw palmetto w rks Marcus, how long do you think it will take? (I know that's a difficult question as everyone is different). It's just that I won't be in town tomorrow but I will make a special journey if I think it will help me fairly quickly! Well, it's late here - 1.00 a.m. nearly...better go and sleep...hopefully!! Love, luck and thanks for all the help! Rianne.

Leo - 03/03/00 00:01:23
Age: 21
Gender: male
Country: Sweden

Comments:
Hi everyone! I have been on Roaccutane for nine weeks now (60mg/70kg) and have had almost all the side effects. I have got 3-4 times more spots since I started and they have devloped to be more like "bumps"! Someone with similar experience of Accutane?

Marcus - 03/02/00 23:05:51

Comments:
Jules, I don't think there would be a problem in taking zinc with accutane. It might be a good idea as accutane slows down the skins healing process and zinc speeds it up!

G.N - 03/02/00 23:00:06
My Email:97124451@student.napier.ac.uk
Age: 20
Gender: Male
Country: Scotland

Comments:
I started taking Roaccutane nearly 2 weeks ago and have a couple of questions to ask if someone would be good enough to email me a response. I was weighed at 90kg and my Doctor gave me an initial 6 week course of 60mg per day. Isn't that quite a lot for s arting? Also since starting I have developed dry lips, eyes, a red face (everyone is asking if I have been on sunbeds!!!), back pain and I have become a bit more serious than normal. Has anyone else had these sort of symptoms? The big question I have thou h is how long does the treatment take to work? After years and years of trying various topical lotions and antibiotics I am a bit skeptical about anything like this now. I would appreciate any answers you might be able to give to ease my mind. Cheers and ood luck everybody!!! G.N

Marcus - 03/02/00 22:58:22

Comments:
Rianne, I’ve always had very dry skin it’s never been oily (doesn’t make sense does it!!!!!!) The more oily my skin becomes the less spots I seem to get and vice versa, I can’t really tell if my skin is really any drier since doing all this as I use so mu h moisturiser, but it is soooooooo much healthier, my face looks the best it’s been since I was twelve! Do you use moisturiser? Maybe trying to dry out your skin prompts it to produce more oil! If you use a moisturiser wouldn’t that help stop your skin from trying to lubricate itself with it’s own crap that blocks your pores? (I don’t know if that makes any sense either!) How does your skin go in the summer? Mine always cleared up a lot! Try using the vinegar as a hair rinse before shampooing my girlfriends been doing this and it’s made her hair less greasy and very shiny! Good luck Juels, it does seem like I’m constantly popping pills but it’s a small price to pay for clear or clearer skin!

Doug - 03/02/00 22:18:59
My Email:Douglas233@aol.com
Age: 32
Gender: Male
Country: USA

Comments:
I'm 32 and took acutane as prescribed by my doctor when I was 18. My acne was cured in a matter of months. I had the dry lips and the flaking scalp but other than that there were no short term side effects. I did go for regular blood work at the time and verything went well. Now I am experiencing gallbladder problems (attacks) which wake me up in the middle of the night. I have had my gallbladder photoed via ultrasound and radiology and the doctors have found that my gallbladder is very small. Neither the doctors or myself have found any connection to the ingestion of Acutane and gallbladder problems but I am suspicious. If anyone has any info please forward to my e-mail. Thanks.

Rianne - 03/02/00 20:58:38

Comments:
Marcus, I didn't get the chance today to get the saw palmetto - but it's number 1 on my shopping list! I agree that the Cica-Care is a bit of a trial! I cut the sheets into smaller pieces but I must admit I haven't used it for a while - it seemed to tak ages to get it set up and put on. My skin is back to throwing out the oil again & so many of my pores are blocked. I'm so fed up of it all really (that's a huge understatement!) It's getting me down a lot. I seem to have been battling with it for so l ng now. Jasmine, maybe the Skinoren is now starting to unblock your pores and it will help to clear your skin. I hope so. So many of these treatments are really harsh aren't they though? I've probably asked this before, did you get the Skinoren from y ur GP, or do you have to see a derm? Karen, I agree that the Minocin isn't really a cure as such. It's a stop-gap. As I can't take Accutane, I have no option, Minocin is the only thing I have. Even with the Minocin the acne never really goes away comp etely. I now have the name of a Chinese Herbalist in my area so I'm going to follow that up. Jasmine, that's such an awful long time to wait for the DermaLux. I hope that they can send them out to you soon. Marcus, do you find that your skin is still ily or has the regime you're using dried your skin up a bit? Jasmine, is your skin really oily too? I find that my make-up only lasts for a very short while before it slips off!!! My hair is really greasy too. Most unattractive! When I use the Johnso and Johnson oil absorbing sheets I can use several before my skin looks matte. I'd love to be able to put my make-up on and it last the day! My skin is really wearing me down lately. Anyway, enough of my moans and groans. As always, lots of love, luc and many, many thanks for listening. Rianne.

Jules - 03/02/00 20:29:59
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: England

Comments:
Marcus, are you sure you don't rattle when you walk? That is one hell of a lot of supplements. Are you sure that you are not over doing it? You must be popping pills every hour! Glad it works though. Can you take Zinc with accutane?

Confused - 03/02/00 18:47:39
Age: 26
Gender: Male
Country: U.S.

Comments:
One quick question: When some of you mention "spots", what are you refering to. Is it pimples, or bumps like cysts, or simply redness, like a rash??? Thanks for any replies, I'm just very confused.

Marcus - 03/02/00 18:17:42
Age: 22
Country: U.K

Comments:
Jasmine, I take 200mg Minacin daily, this is what my doctor recommended! 3000mg evening primrose oil as directed by the label! Saw palmetto 227mg x 6 as directed by label! 75mg zinc, you can safely take 100mg before it becomes toxic! 2000mg Cod liver oil as directed by the label. Potassium 150mg as directed by the label, although I was over dosing on this until Rianne mentioned the harm to the heart so I cut back! 1 Tablet of selenium A.C.E. Acidophilus 30mg as directed! 82mg B.6 I’m ot sure if I overdose on this it doesn’t say! Complete B complex one tab daily, the bottle says to take two daily! I stagger these pills out throughout the day! Apple cider vinegar rinse once every other day, plenty of fruit and juice, no alcohol and no dairy products! Sorry you’re having such a rough time right know, hope things turn around for you soon!

Karen - 03/02/00 18:10:09
Age: 22
Gender: Female
Country: Canada

Comments:
Rianne, I just read your message about minocin. I took minocin for 6 years or so. I had to stop taking it because my doctor thought it was causing me headaches. When he took me off my acne got so bad, especially on my back. It was over last summer, so needless to say I didn't wear too many tank tops. When I went to the derm about accutane he asked me to open my mouth. He could tell I was on minocin for a long time because my gums have turned a greyish color. My teeth did as well (thankfully I bleach d that away). Anyway the derm said minocin only hides acne unlike accutane which is supposed to get rid of it. The reason for bad breakouts when getting off the minocin is because the acne is just waiting to be set free.

jasmine - 03/02/00 17:15:03
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi everyone.I'm O.K. thanks Rianne.Well with the Skinoren I did start using a low strength of Benzoyl Peroxide as I read the two together worked much better.This morning my face burned so much when I was having a wash that I have decided to just carry on ith the Skinoren for now and drop the Benzoyl.Ever since I've been using the Skinoren it has made my face itch for an hour or so after but with the added cream it has made my skin itch for hours.It is hard to gauge what to do for the best but I thought I' stop the Benzoyl as I don't want to get my skin so sore that I have to stop the Skinoren as well.Still no improvement yet but it hasn't even been 2 weeks yet and it takes at least a month or probably two.I have just got the feeling that my skin is too ba to be controlled by a cream this time.I had lovely skin(well nice enough to be seen without make-up) while I was on Benzamycin but I'm sure this time my skin is the worst it has ever been so I don't hold much luck on just a cream.I think I have another d rm appointment in about 6 weeks so if no improvement then I'll have hope there.I will get some zinc Rianne.I'm sorry MARCUS can you write a list of all what you take as I've got a bit confused by it all?Can any of it that you take be over-dosed on or do y u take the recommended daily dose?Thanks I would be grateful.I have to admit to feeling very down and desparate at the moment.My chin is just a mess of red marks,small spots and large spots.How do you know if your acne is considered moderate or severe.No ermatologist has ever bothered telling me.I e-mailed Dermalux again about my bulbs and they said they haven't forgotton me and are still working out the packaging!!!It has been 3 months since I first tried to buy them.As I've said before I probably have j st become immune to the lamp anyway but I just want to buy them.So frustrating.Just Me has managed to get hold of a No-No lamp for me.I think the idea of it is that it doesn't stop them coming up but helps them go down much faster.Anyone that wants to try one she said she will order it for you but I think she has to have 12 people that want one before the company will do it for her.Does anyone know if your skin is that bad that you can literally just pick blackheads out of the skin without having to squeez them is this because the acne is bad or because the cream is drying the skin and pushing the blackheads out.In other words is it a good or bad thing.Even though this sounds gross I thought I would share it with you.This morning where I have long nails I ulled a blackhead out with my nails no squeezing and it left a huge hole for ages on my chin.Gross eh!!Anyway that's it speak to you all soon.I'm glad your skin is looking good FISH.Byee love Jasminexx

Shelby - 03/02/00 16:54:05
My Email:slbbabyblue@yahoo.com
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I would just like to say that Accutane has bad side effects, but if you all just stick with it, you will all be very happy at the end of your treatment. It worked very well on me and I hope it goes well for the rest of you! If anyone would like to e-mail e and ask any questions....PLEASE feel free! Good luck to all!

marcus - 03/02/00 15:33:57
My Email:marcus.stacey@vigin.net
Age: 22
Country: u.k

Comments:
Rianne, I’m taking 30mg of acidophilus Holland &Barrett own brand I was taking the quest but found them to be too expensive when the cheaper brand worked just as well! Thanks for the tip about storing them in the fridge, I didn’t know that! I’ve still got the cica care but haven’t been using much (it’s so much hassle) I’m going to try the retin a as I’d have to buy about fifty pieces of cica care to cover my back. The plaster idea was funny; you must have got through a fair few boxes! I use surgical tape t at you can pick up from the chemists! I hope we both have some luck with the saw pallemetto. I’m going to give it two months before assessing whether it helps, in theory it should but then again it might just be a shot in the dark, if we don’t try these t ings though we’ll never know!

Nicky - 03/02/00 12:48:07
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi everyone. I've been on Isotretinoin for 8 weeks now. I weight 65kg and am on 30mg a day which has just been increased to 60mg. I have moderate acne on my face, mainly along my jaw line which has worsened since I started Isotretinoin. I know, it does th t to some people, plus I was on Minocin MR before which helped, but I stopped taking it in December. Minocin worked for 2 years and I had a lovely clear complexion, but around September '99 I started to get spotty again. JAMES - The Derms will usually prescribe 0.5mg/per kg/per day initially and after a further consultation will probably increase it to 1mg/per kg/per day which is the max dosage. LENNY - Isotretinoin is closely related to Vitamin A, so in order to avoid toxicity, you should not be taking Vitamin A supplements. All my best to everyone and don't give up hope.

Rianne - 03/02/00 08:51:30

Comments:
Marcus, thanks for all the help you're giving me, I really appreciate it! I don't know what I'd do without all you fantastic people out there!! Last night after posting I picked & picked at my face! Crazy woman that I am! I am going to stop doing that. ..only makes my skin worse! How much acidophilus do you take Marcus? I buy the Quest non-dairy Acidophilus Plus & take 2 x 36mg. in the morning. (Acidophilus should be good for anyone with acne because they "bump up" the good bacteria in your body) It' important to keep the bottle of acidophilus in the fridge once you've opened it. I'll get some saw palmetto while I'm out today. The 100mg of zinc is definitely helping my skin. Minocin and Eryacne will not work just on their own for me. Having said hat - without the Minocin my face breaks out unbelievably. It may be worth trying the Retin A on your scars Marcus, but you have be careful not to apply too much. The ouch factor!! The Cica-Care is supposed to help raised keloid scars but it's difficul to use it on your back I guess. When I used the Cica-Care at night I used to put plasters over it to keep it on! It's hard work having acne & scarring - I seem to spend sooooooo much time on my skin!!! Jasmine, are you okay? Any progress with the Ski oren? Must go....lots of love, luck and thanks! Rianne.

Amae - 03/02/00 06:58:41
My Email:amae7@hotmail.com
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
**** HI GW, Pig, Steve, Bob Topps...wishing y'all the best. ~Amae

James - 03/02/00 06:55:41
My Email:reactor_axiom@hotmail.com
Age: 21
Gender: Male
Country: Thailand

Comments:
I've been on Roaccutane for 8 months now at 20mg daily. Recently I've been having aching of my joints like in the fingers and the back, is this normal? When should I stop taking the drug? My face is red since I started taking the drug is this also normal? I weigh 65kg what is the required dosage for a complete course? What else should I do to help cure my acne problem?

andi - 03/02/00 06:47:56
My Email:starla8@aol.com
Age: 19
Country: us

Comments:
i am so jealous of you aussies that have diane 35 available!!! i am stuck over here in the american ortho tri cyclen world and it's not doin much for me. i'm just finishing week 8 at 80mg and i have a terrible itchy rash on my hands, arms, and belly. i ho e to get something for them on monday at my next appt. i really , really hope to stay at 80mg cuz 40 was doin absolutely nothing for me. i can see clear skin on the distant horizon but i'm so impatient! good luck to all!

strong persuader (formerly Pam) - 03/02/00 06:07:19
My Email:strongpersuader@hotmail.com

Comments:
DENNY...I read somewhere that AHA's work very well in conjunction with Retin-A...to counteract the dryness and scaling...

glycolic acid in particular is supposed to be the most effective...I have used this regime myself and found it quite effective...

Aaron - 03/02/00 02:07:08
My Email:iago@nin64.freeserve.co.uk
Age: 20
Gender: Male
Country: Uk

Comments:
Hi, Please if anyone can help

I have been on Roacutane now for about 14 weeks now and while it has stopped the stops from appearing (well maybe a couple a week) my face still has alot of red marks and my neck has loads as well. I have also scarring on my cheeks which gets me do n..

The big question is - what can I do about it?

Last time I went to my derm she said it was probably the last part of my course and I will come of it (thats in 2 weeks) but I'm not sure if she will take me off or not. If so, would she give me some other medication to treat the red marks. Also anything o help scaring? Maybe a treatmeant or even laser surgery? is that even possible?

Please help! Thanks

kennedy07 - 03/02/00 02:02:08
Country: usa

Comments:
hi. i'm seriously thinkin of taking accutane. however, i don't have any insurance. how much does it cost each month for the drug? what is the procedure to get on and is that expensive? i'm at the last straw. my face is a wreck. i want to live again. br>
marcus - 03/01/00 22:20:12
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Country: u.k

Comments:
Rianne, I any insurance. how much does it cost each month for the drug? what is the procedure to get on and is that expensive? i'm at the last straw. my face is a wreck. i want to live again. br>
marcus - 03/01/00 22:20:12
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Country: u.k

Comments:
Rianne, I also take 3000mg evening primrose oil which is a rich, natural source of the important unsaturated fatty acids essential for maintaining healthy skin! 2000mg cod liver oil helps skin maintenance! Acidophilus essential for putting back the good bacteria that antibiotics kill! (Good idea for you & me when we take 200mg minacin) Selenium A.C.E (The skin vitamins) complete B complex 2 tabs daily. And yes It does seem to be working, Put it this way, this time last year I wasn’t taking anything apart from 200mg of minacin and I had at least 20 active spots each and every day, now my worst outbreak consists of two to three spots and I think that’s on y down to the fact that I’m run down because of flu! This is the closest I’ve been to a complete cure since roaccutane! Other measures I would recommend DON’T touch your skin with your finger, at all costs avoid it! All your going to do is cause spots, it took me along time to realise this one, I’d be constantly feeling, checking for new ones (If you need to scratch use a comb or something never your fingers) I use an antibacterial soap once a day (carex) I found washing more than this would cause spots be ause you’re stimulating the skin to produce more oil to moisturise the skin (always moisturise if you do this then the skin shouldn’t produce as much of it’s own crap! I’m still eating the bananas especially at the moment; they definitely help take them d wn! No dairy products & no alcohol. Rianne do you think the retin a cream would work on raised scarring? I have lots of small bumps on my back and would love to get rid of them!!!!

GW - 03/01/00 22:02:15
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: Aust

Comments:
Hey dudes how ya all doin??? Yep Denny boy the weather down here's fine, if U like it hot (which I do.) Bit premeture with the autumn statement before, while technically it is autumn here now our summers really go right up to April, sometimes longer.... ...Feb and March can be the two hottest months of the year........Its 39 to day (that'd be over 100 wouldn't it) and bright blue skies, its a very dry heat........I don't care I stay out in the sun.......I have the oily type skin that tans and rarely burn .......I'm pretty brown at the moment, that's why I'm worried what my acne will do when stop exposing myself to all this sun.................oh and I rarely wear sunscreen cause like I said I don't have fair skin that burns......the browner your skin is he more resistant it is to sun damage....................Special hi's to Jules, HGPIG, Amae, Steve, Fish.....oh and we can't forget Denny.....get outside mate!!! SEE ya dudes from the Endless Summer...

Greg - 03/01/00 21:32:31
Age: 28
Gender: All man
Country: USA

Comments:
Well,what a difference a few days makes. After a great pimple free first 2 weeks on accutane, my skin went haywire and broke out like it hasnt in a long,long time. So bad, I called out of work on Monday and havent been to the gym or out of my house essent ally since last thursday. But today it looks really good,not perfect, but the best it has in a while,I'm loving my skin not being so oily anymore. But the thing is,just as I didnt get to down when my face was broke out,I am not going to get too excited th t its clear for now. One thing I learned from most of the postings on this board is that while on accutane,your skin will have its ups and downs. So what's the point of this posting? I just think its important to keep an even keil while taking accutane an dont get to depressed when you have your bad skin days or some down time, because it will get better.

Lenny - 03/01/00 21:23:02
Age: 21
Country: USA

Comments:
Hnag in there everone. I have a few questions. first, i have been on accutane for a month and just upped my dosage from 80 to 120mg(i weigh 105 kg). Anyway, i had been taking Met-rx 2 times an day and it has lots of vitamin A in it and i think that was adding to my dryness. o i found a new protein supplement with no Vitamin A. My questions are: 1- Does additional Vitamin A cause more dry skin or just add more toxins to the liver. 2- I just began taking Vitamin E. Should i take it with food or on an empty stmach. Thankx

Rianne - 03/01/00 20:37:50
Age: 35
Gender: Female

Comments:
Hiya Jasmine! Sorry to hear you are having such a lousy time. I get so self concious about my skin too & I know what you mean about not wanting to answer the door!! Isn't it just awful? Over the years the acne and the scarring and has really dented my confidence a LOT. It's hard to find the words to say just how much it has affected my life. (I've gone on about it so much in the archives, there's probably nearly a book contained there!!!) Jasmine, if you have any zinc in the house please try and tak 100mg. per day - Marcus suggested it to me and I've been doing that and it definitely seems to be helping. Together with the Eryacne (4% antibiotic gel for any new people who haven't seen my other postings) and 2 x 100mg Minocin MR antibiotics per day. The cider vinegar rinse (again a Marcus suggestion!) helps too. My skin still looks rubbish though - just a bit better rubbish!!! (great English vocabulary there - not!) I just wish the problem would totally go away and that I didn't have this terrible carring too. Over the years it has just ravaged my skin and I am so tired of it. I CAN'T ignore it because it just looks so awful. (please no lectures about beauty being on the inside and all that! I KNOW that!) I think people with acne are BRAVE - it takes some guts to face the world when you have a face full of red, pus-filled scabs!!!! Suey, if your scarring isn't too deep you could maybe try Retin A cream, it could help to "smooth out" your skin. Initially though it does make your skin red and sor - well, it did with mine! Katherine, yes toothpaste does dry out the spots doesn't it? Not very glamourous but it does work! For Katherine and Kara I sympathise with your feelings about other people's reactions to acne. I have had so many comments an "helpful" suggestions, made me feel like crawling under a stone! Marcus, I haven't had chance to get the saw palmetto yet but I will. You take 6 x 227mg? I'll do that! A few weeks ago I bought some MSM Organic Sulphur Supplement tablets (£12) - I onl took them for a few days and felt really lousy so I stopped! Has anyone out there had any luck with taking sulphur supplements? Marcus, your regime really seems to be working for you....that's Minocin, Vit B6, zinc, potassium and saw palmetto? I'm fol owing your advice because it sounds effective! "Just Me" are you still there? How are you doing? Well, enough for now I guess! As always, lots of love, luck and thanks. Rianne.

chineseherblady - 03/01/00 20:34:33
Age: 36
Gender: fem
Country: California, U S of A

Comments:
Hi all, Ivan, Did you check out needymeds.com to see if you might benefits from it? Hey and speaking of drawing out spots, I wonder if some ichthammol ointment might work to draw out the stuff that makes spots. I used it as a drawing salve once to get ut a splinter. I am sure it must be tried on non open wounds though. Ya know, when first noticing a spot. I will try it out and see. I don't have as many spots as I use to but I still have a few. Has anyone ever heard of this ointment? I picked it u at a pharmacist. It is not prescription, they did have it behind the counter though. It kind of stinks like tar.

Jules - 03/01/00 20:10:28
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Yes toothpaste is great for spots, I've posted before about this (little bit not loads). Also cake on talc on the spot if it is huge - should dry.

To the lady asking about 2nd time users of Accutane, I am on my second course (two thirds through). It has worked brilliantly again!

Some people may have read my post the other day about the huge spot which made the side of my face swell up (it was on my jawline). It is going nicely now! Tell you what I did. For about an hour I kept putting Boots Botanic Mineral Rich clay on it, washin it off every 20 minutes. This drew it out. Then I kept applying T-ZONE Men Body Shop Hemp Oil quick fix spot stick. I have never seen a spot that size go down so quickly. Maybe its to do with the Accutane, I don't know! Anyway, now that it has started to peel away (nice), I have a clear face again. I was clear for weeks before that bastard monster appeared, but I have a feeling that was the last one! I hope so. That may have seemed like a lot of trouble to go to, to get rid of it, but believe me it was re lly painful like a horsefly bite. Try this method on a monster. Cheers

laura - 03/01/00 18:55:53
My Email:lmec@hotmail.com
Age: 32
Gender: female
Country: canada

Comments:
I just wanted to ask again if there is anyone who is or have used accutaine and had hair loss. My scalp is not oily it is quite dry and i am afraid that may have an impact on hair loss. i've read about people having red bumps is this from accutaine? loo ing forward to a response.

Denny - 03/01/00 17:55:57

Comments:
Hi All!< UPDATE: Retin A .025% works for me, though makes my skin raw..Anyone know what Alpha-hydroxy lotion is and what makes it so good? JAY=I have learned magic during my reclusive episodes..I will cast a spell on you and you will be sorry. STEVE=thank you GW=where are ya? hows the weather down there? BOB Topps=Nicole Kiodman is mine! GILL=thanks for the info! time to take bong hits and listen to music!

VAL - 03/01/00 17:47:19
Age: 21
Country: MIAMI FLORIDA

Comments:
Wrong VAL i guess. I didn't go to highschool here in miami. Im an out of state student and go to fiu. good luck to you too.

- 03/01/00 16:17:18
Age: 20
Gender: Female
Country: usa

Comments:
VAL....well you might have known me...i know of 2 val's both of which went to coral gables sr. ...one i can say i knew quite well for a time period..the other i only know of...don't know which one you are... maybe neither.if i did know you then you're an quarius. i made a connection between the name and age and thought it would be a funny coincidence if it was actually the someone i knew at one point in time.well good luck with the accutane.

Kaitlin - 03/01/00 16:13:58
Age: 20
Gender: female
Country: canada

Comments:
To Kat, Only on my first course so can't help you with that question, but for birth control thing: I'm on Alesse (it seems to be really good) and there's another one called Dianne thats supposed to be good for acne. Hope this helped.

kat - 03/01/00 15:45:14
My Email:skaterobin@aol.com
Age: 33
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
HEY YOU GUYS! no one answered my long first posting and now i'm feeling a little lonely. my question was about that second dose, mostly for scar prevention reasons, sincethe acne itself has slowed down so much but still kicks up in high hormonal moments-- i get the feeling that there are many 2nd and 3rd coursers out there -- i so wantto hear from you about the worth-it-ness. also, i'm curious about the long-term low dosage strategy -- is this a well-trodden path? also -- has anyone heard that the birth control pills desogen and Ortho-cept are the best for acne control? any experience? jessica -- it is common for the skin to get worse in early treatment. be patient. it almost always clears up eventually -- my md even told me that sometimes it takes up to three months after stopping for the full effects

Ivan - 03/01/00 15:32:56
Age: 21
Gender: Male
Country: Singapore

Comments:
Hi there everyone. Ok, maybe some ppl would be getting tired of me asking abt NIMEGEN but I got to ask again cos I'm really tight on cash and I need to know how effective this cheaper oral isotretinton is. So for the 4th? 5th? 6th? time, Has anyone ever heard of Nimegen or could someone direct me to their website or just post me some information on this drug please? Thank you :) I have battled with acne for some time and so far,three things work pretty well and has no ill effects on my system not do they require you to apply anything on your face: 1)Water 2)Some sunlight 3)Zinc

Katherine - 03/01/00 15:13:01

Comments:
STEVE - Sorry, just noticed a previous posting from you that answers my question. JAY - Being new to this board, I haven't seen any of your previous postings, but if they resemble in any way the rather pathetic effort which currently "graces" my computer screen, then frankly you will be no great loss to the guest book.

Katherine - 03/01/00 15:00:13
Age: 17
Gender: female
Country: Scotland

Comments:
STEVE - I read about your sugar free diet, and I'm curious. I always thought it was a myth that there was a direct connection between sugar intake and acne. Did the diet induce a significant improvement in the condition of your skin, and if so, how long d d it take? I just might have to abandon my "Mars a day" theory if it'll help my skin. Moving on, you're all going to think I'm crazy, but has anyone ever heard about toothpaste being good for calming a nasty zit? Someone told me it worked for them, so I tried it, and despite my skepticism, I had to admit, it did have a positive effect.But, as I learned to my cost A LITTLE WILL SUFFICE!!!

Shelby - 03/01/00 14:45:11
My Email:slbbabyblue@yahoo.com
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I had very bad acne since I was 12 years old. I had tried everything. My dermatologist had told me about accutane when I 18 years old and was at my worst. I would try anything because it was so bad. So I got started and the side effects for me were drynes everywhere! It was sometimes painfully dry. But if I could say only one thing about accutane it would be .....wounderful! It has been worth it. I have been clear ( with a few small pimples ) for the past 3 and a half years. No one should be scared to tak it if you have discussed it with your doctor completly. Anyone with bad acne that has tried everything eles, you need to try this. It is better than taking medication for the rest of your life, when this will do it in 6 months! But do take this into mind our bodies are different and it may work different on others. Think it over and discuss it ALL with your doctor. If you would like to ask me any questions about my experiance with accutane do not hesitate to e-mail me!

Shelby - 03/01/00 14:44:39
My Email:slbbabyblue@yahoo.com
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I had very bad acne since I was 12 years old. I had tried everything. My dermatologist had told me about accutane when I 18 years old and was at my worst. I would try anything because it was so bad. So I got started and the side effects for me were drynes everywhere! It was sometimes painfully dry. But if I could say only one thing about accutane it would be .....wounderful! It has been worth it. I have been clear ( with a few small pimples ) for the past 3 and a half years. No one should be scared to tak it if you have discussed it with your doctor completly. Anyone with bad acne that has tried everything eles, you need to try this. It is better than taking medication for the rest of your life, when this will do it in 6 months! But do take this into mind our bodies are different and it may work different on others. Think it over and discuss it ALL with your doctor. If you would like to ask me any questions about my experiance with accutane do not hesitate to e-mail me!

- 03/01/00 14:06:22

Comments:
Oh no Jay pleaseeeeee don’t say your going away and not coming back! You add so much to this board! You give people hope where there is none, inspiration and an overall felling of happiness! After all every message board needs at least one psychotic twer !

- 03/01/00 12:38:43

Comments:
Jay, or whoever you are. You're right no-one really gives a toss. The thing about posting offensive messages to a guestbook is that they initially have somewhat of an impact (because people don't expect them) but then they simply have no impact at all. Sa isn't it. No-one is interested. Why am I typing this..oh! just to let you know that I'm tracking your IP address to find out who you are. Why?. Because I can. No other reason (other than I don't like you).

Suey - 03/01/00 10:51:24
My Email:cbates@nextcentury.com.au
Age: 23
Gender: femme

Comments:
I took a seven month course or Roaccutane at age 18, it worked after every concievable other antibiotic starting at age 13. Now the acne has gone i need pitting removed and red scarring i need the best alternative and an economical one can anyone help?

Laura - 03/01/00 08:25:10
My Email:LMEC@HOTMAIL.COM
Age: 32
Gender: FEMALE
Country: CANADA

Comments:
Hi all, this is what I've been searching for. I can't belive I am not alone. I've had hormonal acne for 3 years and nothing has worked Differin gel, of retin A creams, sulfer creams etc.. you all know what I mean. I have just recently asked my derm ab ut accutaine and she seems to think it is worth a try considering nothing else worked. But I am afraid of the side effects. My face and chest seem to have cleared up the occasional red bump, but my back and neck are quite bad, lovely red or purple welts maybe 10 at a time. I am concerned about dryness as my face is dry and flaky but oily underneath. I am also concerned about hair loss because I am so dry (scalp and face) Anyone have any experiences with this? In the meantime I'll think about starting a cutaine. Good-Luck all with finding a cure.

Aida - 03/01/00 05:14:42
My Email:aida@dubai.com
Age: 23
Gender: Female
Country: United Arab Emirates

Comments:
Dear All, I've been reading this guest book for the past two weeks.. I have my Roaccutane pack since 4 days now.. I still am unable to decide whether to start it or not!! to be honest I'm scared of the side effects..I used to have very bad acne problems e rlier..but now it's less..i've been on minocin for the past one year.. for sometime my acne was all gone..but it seems that it's getting back now.. i don't want to have this nightmare anymore.. shall i start roaccutane?! is there any special diet?!

Catherine - 03/01/00 03:13:20
Age: 19
Gender: Female
Country: US

Comments:
I have never had an experience with Accutane before, but I would like to offer another alternative for people who would like to try something else for acne. For over a year now, I have been taking an oral antibiotic, Monodox, which has helped greatly. G anted, I never had a horrible case of acne, but it has cleared up my skin. I also use a gel called Differin which helps the breakouts you already have and prevents scarring. The only problem with these is that they make you a lot more sensitive to the su . I hope this helps someone!

louie - 03/01/00 03:00:38
My Email:098148@swin.edu.au
Age: 29
Gender: male
Country: Australia

Comments:
I starte to have problem with acne when I was about 15 years old. By using a number of avilable medication, things were under control until I was about 22 yearsd old. Then things started to get really bad. Then I wen on a courese of roaccutane which very lowly helped allot. But after completing the first course I started to get some acne. So we tryed another course. Any way to cut this short I have had 4 courses of Roaccutane; my face is much much better then before, but belive it or not I still get very ew here and there. My experince with Roaccutane was ok. I didin't suffer any major disasters. But I know this drug is a very slow working drug. At the moment I am on a very small dose of antibodxis. So far every thing seem ok. regards Lou,

PF - 03/01/00 02:52:21
My Email:maybuff@cs.com
Age: 45
Country: us

Comments:
I hope this will help others who may use Accutane. My 17 year old son recently began a 2nd round of Accutane after his acne returned after the 5 month treatment. Unfortunately, he got a rare side effectthis week. He developed herpes simplex all over his lips, ran 102.5 temp. for 2 days, had swollen gland and inflamed, bleeding gums. The package insert states these as side effects in less than 1% of patients. I wonder if taking Accutane for a second 5 month treatment puts the patient at a higher risk for these rarer side effects? Has anyone experienced a ything like this?

Steve - 02/29/00 23:35:26
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
In an unrelated matter. Jason/Javier/Travis you are a liar because you will come back to this board. It is inevitable. You don't have the will or the discipline to stay away. You will be reading this post and becoming angry and frustrated not more than fi e minutes after it is posted. Let me tell you my friend I did a traceroute on your Ip weeks ago and I have just been waiting for your unstable personality to produce some behavior like this. If you even attempt to touch this board I am going to submit all of your personal information to Gill before contacting your parents and your ISP with all of your posts which I have archived on my machine. I warned you.

Ciara - 02/29/00 23:26:51
My Email:ciara@mad64.demon.co.uk
Gender: female
Country: UK

Comments:
Nice to see I am not the only one who has to have a second course of Roaccutane. Worked wonders first time round, lets hope that 2 years on it will fianlly get rid of the plague of my life! One question - do you really get that bad a hangover when mixing Roaccutane and alcohol?!

Steve - 02/29/00 23:24:33
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
Oh Jesus, I ate whole grain bread, chicken, turkey, red meat, pasta, vegetables, fruit, and dairy products. It got quite boring after a while. I couldn't even eat Pizza because the sauce and dough has loads of sugar in it. The only way I would go on that diet again is if I was either trying to torture myself or training for a triathlon. Neither of which I am ever going to do.

Mike - 02/29/00 23:13:01
Age: 23
Country: U.S.

Comments:
Steve, I am very curious - during your sugar-free diet, what were you eating? Mike

- 02/29/00 22:44:27

Comments:
To Jay: do you wonder why nobody answers your replies? You've only been trashing this board for atleast 2 months, including the people on it. So I think that would be the reason why noone wants to reply to you, when all you do is call us stupid this and s upid that. You need serious psychiatric help or counselling.

Jay - 02/29/00 22:01:32

Comments:
You people make me sick with all your bitching and moaning. You truly are self conceited and after all the help I have recommended to all of you you don't give back any. I have repeatedly asked sevreal questions about post accutane treatments and none o you will answer me. You stupid pigs. We are all going through the same problem and the least you could do was answer my questions. You people make me sick. You can shove all your damn health care vitamins, ideas and most importantly, accutane straigh up your ass. That drug doesnt work a bit and you all disgust me with your ideas. So shut the !@#$ up and I'm never comin back to this #$%^& shithole again.

Jay - 02/29/00 22:01:30

Comments:
You people make me sick with all your bitching and moaning. You truly are self conceited and after all the help I have recommended to all of you you don't give back any. I have repeatedly asked sevreal questions about post accutane treatments and none o you will answer me. You stupid pigs. We are all going through the same problem and the least you could do was answer my questions. You people make me sick. You can shove all your damn health care vitamins, ideas and most importantly, accutane straigh up your ass. That drug doesnt work a bit and you all disgust me with your ideas. So shut the !@#$ up and I'm never comin back to this #$%^& shithole again.

Steve - 02/29/00 21:49:14
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
I did not eat any foods with sugar for three months and I could make no correlation between sugar intake and acne. When I say "any foods with sugar" I mean not even bread that had more than 1 gram of the stuff. As I recall my acne was worse than ever duri g my sugar hiatus . I am sure that there are some people who react with spots to sugar but I am not one of them.

Katherine - 02/29/00 21:17:14
My Email:mollie.tubb@virgin.net
Age: 17
Gender: Female
Country: Scotland

Comments:
CHRISSY - I get the family thing too. I eat a chocolate, and my grandpa says "Don't eat that, it'll give you spots". I'm like, wow you're not only insensitive, you're ignorant too. The worst, though, is when my mum says things like "Why aren't you going s imming with the others?". Sometimes we go shopping together and she suggests a vest top or something, forgetting I can't wear them. I'm like gee ta.Then there's pulling the fitting room curtain open a bit to talk to me, the result being that people can se all those attractive purple lumps on my back. Once again, gee ta mum. And then she asks what my problem is. Anyway,I'm going to see my doctor in a day or so, and I may have to decide whether to begin a course of accutane. I heard that it can damage the f male reproductive system, and cause birth defects and before I decide, I wouldn't mind some inside information from women who take accutane. All thoughts and comments appreciated.

Val - 02/29/00 20:43:10

Comments:
to who ever answered my question. thanx. yes im in Miami. Do i know you? thanx again. bye

marcus - 02/29/00 20:00:32
Country: uk

Comments:
Hi Rianne! My girlfriend's just come home and read the board. She's just told me that in Holland & Barrett the 200 capsules of 227mg Saw Palmetto that I mentioned earlier is in fact £13.99. Sorry about that but she's always the one who goes into town a d buy it and I lose track how much things cost because I take so many differant things. You can buy bottles of 100 capsules but it does work out to be slightly cheaper buying it the way that we do.

Kara - 02/29/00 18:03:22
My Email:kpilon@pillsbury.com
Age: 25
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
I'm so sad about my skin and it's so frustrating. Just needed to vent...I'm on week 14 and my skin has never looked worse. Even the nurse I called was concerned that I hadn't cleared up yet. Ever since my derm increased my dose at week 11, from 40 mgs t 60 mgs/day...it's been just awful. Sometimes it looks like it's going to clear up, and then my face just breaks out even worse. I'm embarrassed to go to work, although I dont want to lose my job, I've taken a day off every week for the past 6 weeks, an now I"ve got a cold, so I"m more sensitive than ever. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest. I really appreciate all the support this board has given me since I've started my course of Accutane.

Steve - 02/29/00 17:46:40
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
I have no evidence to support this except the statements of a female friend but I believe that hairloss while on accutane can be mitigated by not styling your hair with chemicals or heat. Accutane makes your skin and hair very fragile and dry. Heat curler , hot oil treatments, and alcohol-based styling agents ravage normal healthy hair. What do you think they do to weak or damaged hair. Any thoughts?

marcus - 02/29/00 17:38:04
Age: 22

Comments:
Rianne after I read here about the link between acne and hair loss I searched the web for information on hair loss to research it! I came across a good sight at www.hairsite.com where it has a lot of articles on supplements that block D.H.T (Saw palmetto, zinc, b6) I did take roaccutane last year but I was only on a low dose and only for a few weeks (to cut a long story short the derm took a dislike to me and was quiet nasty, even thou I begged him and showed him scars on my wrists where I'd tried to kill yself) Maybe the power went to his head, or he was just jealous of the fact that if my acne cleared up I might actually be quiet good looking! Anyway I tried complaining but no one believed me over the doctor!! (No surprise there) Yes I’m still taking the potassium along with loads of different supplements that seem to work well exceptionally well together!!!

Steve - 02/29/00 17:35:18
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
Hahahaha. That's funny "SFW", The Spotty Friends Website.

jasmine - 02/29/00 17:22:06
Age: 33
Gender: female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi sorry Rianne I didn't see your message further down.You obviously did see my message.I've been in too long.Going Mad!Byee Love Jasmine

jasmine - 02/29/00 17:17:39
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi everyone.Hi RIANNE.Did you see my message on 27th about 10.30pm about getting into Just Me chat room?No improvement in my skin yet.Not even answering the door now.Sorry to hear you were feeling down about your skin the other day.There seems to be a lot of people feeling down at the moment.My sympathy to all.It is such a bain in our lives.Hi to JULES,FISH,MARCUS,JUST ME.Speak soon love Jasminexx

Rianne - 02/29/00 17:01:56

Comments:
I think I might take the extra 25mg. of zinc Marcus & make it the 100mg. per day! Are you still taking the potassium?

Rianne - 02/29/00 16:58:42

Comments:
Thanks for the info Marcus! Where did you find about the saw palmetto? I'm really curious because I've never come across it before! I've written lots & lots of times (archives) about not being able to take Accutane so it gets a bit boring! So I have to move on & look for other treatments & remedies.....which, as we know, is more difficult than it sounds! Have you ever taken Accutane Marcus? You know I'm sure that the zinc is working - my skin certainly feels a lot less greasy!!! Fingers crossed!! Ja mine, how are you doing? Also it's so long since we heard from Rob (RL) - I'd love to know how you're getting along with your azelaic acid. Meanwhile, love, luck n' thanks! Rianne.

marcus - 02/29/00 16:35:58
Age: 22
Country: U.K not U.S.A

Comments:
Sorry 6 to 7 £ not $

marcus - 02/29/00 15:58:04
Age: 22

Comments:
Rianne yes Holland & barrette. Around £6 to$7 pounds for 200 capsules! Each capsules is 227mg and I’ve started taking 6 capsules daily (this is what is recommended on the back of the bottle, I may increase) Your very welcome regarding the zinc (If you fe l you would like to increase your dose further you can do so safely but stay under 100mg daily!) Why can’t you take roaccutane? Did you have a bad reaction or something?

Rianne - 02/29/00 15:24:02
Age: 35
Gender: Female

Comments:
Fish, it sounds like you are conquering the acne scourge now!! Well done!!!! I just luv a happy ending!! Good luck Fish! My skin is still a pain in the backside but since increasing the zinc doseage it seems to be improving slowly. I'd taken zinc be ore but only 1 x 15mg. per day. Marcus suggested (thank you, thank you, thank you!!) taking 3 x 25mg. of zinc and it is certainly helping. While I'm posting - Marcus, did you get the saw palmetto from somewhere like Holland Barrett? Do you think most h alth food shops will store it? Jasmine, I think it's worth taking the extra zinc, it may just work well alongside the Skinoren. My skin feels less oily today. I won't build my hopes up too much cos I always fall flat on my face when I do that! And yes I have had acne for a LONG time - for 24 years - just wonderful eh! (any new people - I can't take Accutane - I haven't put up with bad skin this long out of choice!!!) As always lots of love, luck and thanks. Rianne.

- 02/29/00 13:14:38
My Email:BabyTrixie12@aol.com
Age: 20
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
VAL.....i wouldnt worry at all about taking the pill a couple hours late ...i think its okay as long as they are spaced apart well. By the way...this wouldn't happen to be a Val from miami...just wondering??????

Marcus - 02/29/00 11:50:51
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Country: U.K

Comments:
Rianne, at some point the other week someone said that acne and hair loss are caused by the same defective hormone, (D.H.T.). This got me thinking; there are some supplements that can block this hormone therefore stopping any further hair loss so maybe it would work the same way on acne! Supplements that block D.H.T (Zinc taken with B.6 & and Saw palmetto, a herb) I already take the zinc & B.6 for acne and have recently picked up some saw palmetto. Also Jasmin mentioned that her azelaic acid is also used b people who are losing their hair (A coincidence maybe but then again maybe not) this maybe the reason why zinc is working for us because it blocks D.H.T! I’ll keep you posted on how I get along as soon as I shake this flu! Take care

FISH - 02/29/00 11:48:31
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Country: UK

Comments:
Hello everyone - it's lovely to see so many new people have joined the SFW (Spotty Friends Website) as I like to call it!! :o). Haven't posted for a while - but I have been reading all your posts. UPDATE....I'm 120lbs (54kgs) and have been on 40mg Roacc tane per day for 15 weeks for mild/moderate acne. However, my derm and I were not absolutely satisfied with the results and we agreed that another month on 50mg per day (max dosage he'd allow me) would just get it completely sorted. So I've had a further week on my new dosage (total 16 weeks now) and things are looking very good. (Only 3 weeks to go!) I was concerned that I may experience side-effects from the increased dosage but things seem to be fine. Skin still very dry and lips need constant Carmex ttention. My hands (if I don't put cream on them) feel like sandpaper - and look none too attractive either! There is one thing actually - I'm a rather fiery character and always have been, but in the last week (since the increased medication) I have bee particularly snappy and, as far as I can see, for no apparent reason. I'm trying to curb it, but I was wondering if that is a possible side-effect - General short-temperedness????? Or is it me just conveniently blaming my grumpiness on something else? Special hello's to Rianne,Jasmine,Jules,HGP,Strawberry,GW,Amae + Steve. With big love and spotlessness to all - FISHxx

Dino - 02/29/00 11:26:00
Age: 24
Gender: Male
Country: USA

Comments:
Has anyone ever used Tarzorac for an ointment or Difrengel.Tell us you're experience and have they worked or continue to work.

Rianne - 02/29/00 09:39:09

Comments:
Marcus, you mentioned something called "saw palme??" when you posted on the 27th. What is it?! Hi to all and love. Rianne.

response to Steve...from Pam... - 02/29/00 09:27:19
My Email:pam-e@ihug.com.au
Age: 32
Country: australia

Comments:
'...The only real problem that I have been able to recognize is the occasional prescription of disproportionately high dosages by physicians. This has seemed to happen most frequently to thin females. I am 194 lbs. with 8% body fat and I take 40mg twice a day. If you re a female who is 120 lbs. or less you should not be taking this same dosage. Since the dosage recommendation is very broad, 1-2mg per kg, general practitioners who are unfamiliar with accutane can inadvertantly prescribe a dosage which will ause the prescribee to develop the more serious and intense side effects. When I used to go to the Stoll board one of the first posts I ever read was from a 115 lb. female who was suffering from fatigue, lucidity, hairloss, and joint pain a month and a half into t eament. She subsequently indicated that she was taking 40mg twice a day. There is a definite threshold where the amount of isotretinoin in your body reaches a toxic level. I believe that knowing how not to exceed this level is the key to keeping the potential side effects to a minimum...'

As a female who has been taking Roaccutane at 20mg/day for over a year now...I can at est that lower dosages over an extended period were not only extraordinarily effective at clearing my acne...but also meant that side-effects were indeed minimal...

UPDATE: I have recently completely stopped taking Roaccutane...even though my derm and I had originally planned a three month (20mg 3x weekly)'weaning off dose'...and the reason??? My skin looks so damn good...I simply don't need it anymore...not only that...it's still improving on a daily basis without the drug...

To anyone just starting o t on Roaccutane...keep the faith...for me...it simply took a little longer...but I got there in the end...

val - 02/29/00 09:05:58
Age: 21
Country: us

Comments:
yeah.. i have the same question as JOHN down there.... HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO TAKE THE PILLS EVERY 12 HOURS??? Sometimes im late from school unexpectedly and i end up taking it a couple hours late. is this a really bad thing??

Lenny - 02/29/00 08:52:13
My Email:ldnails@hotmail.com
Age: 21
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
Hi everyone- I have been on Accutane for almost four weeks now and have had the normal side effects. My case is probably alot different from most. I have had acne on my back, shoulders, and chest since i was 14 and it has always been more severe than my face. Antib otics cleared up my face but not the body acne. Anyway i am 105 kg and am on 80mg a day of accutane and have not really seen results thou it is early.i have heard that body acne is harder for the accutane(or any med) to get to, so my question is should i ask my derm to up my dosage to like 120mg or should a 5 month course of 80 do the trick? thanks in advance if anybody knows the answer

Robin - 02/29/00 06:33:18
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
For those who are wondering what to use for skin care after Accutane--I've used stuff from a clinic outside of San Fransico, CA called The Acne Treatment Center (and no, they're not paying me to post this). The lady who runs it has had her own experience with acne and has developed a very effective line of cleansers, etc. that really really help. Everything is COMPLETELY oil free. Don't trust over the counter products to be the same, even if they promise it. You can see her website at www.acnetreatment. om

Steve - to GW - 02/29/00 05:45:44
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
I heard that you should stay off of Accutane for at least one year. We are heading for spring up here and I can't wait.

Vantmas - 02/29/00 05:28:13
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
hey jessica, my story was the exact same as you, for the first two weeks i totally cleared up, it was like a miracle but then it came back and i broke out for almost two months and didnt get almost completely clear until the 12th weeks, and now its the 13 h week and only one new pimple, so it will work in time jessica.

jessica - 02/29/00 05:08:36
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
i have surrered from severe acne for about 8 years now. like everyone else, my story is the same, I've tried every thing out there and nothing has worked. well, now i am on accutane. i started my treatment about 2 and a half months ago. i just want to be "reassured" that my progress (or lack thereof) is not unique. at first, aside from the extreme dry skin, i did see some improvements. but, that did not last very long and now i am having bad breakouts agian. what i don't understand is if i started t see an improvement, why am i getting these horrible breakouts again? please let me hear of a success story that started out like mine. thanks

Jessica - 02/29/00 05:01:47

Comments:


GW - 02/29/00 04:36:49

Comments:
Almost forgot, hey STEVE I have a question for ya, or ANYONE whp can help. I've been off roaccutane for about 2.5 months now, my skin is back to its normal oily state which I don't mind but since this has happened I've had a few small pimples come up. N where near the same scale as before but nonetheless...........does this mean I'm heading for hell again......do I need to go back on medication or just wait and see. And fall is coming too should this influence my decision?


kennedy - 02/29/00 04:13:13
My Email:tomato_heart@yahoo.com
Country: usa

Comments:
just when i think my skin is looking normal. poof, more acne magically appears out of nowhere. i'm getting so damn fed up. i think about the days when it took me five minutes to go out when i could just splash my face with water and run out the door wi h no cares in the world. now it's a miracle if i even leave the house at all! if my house was to burn down at this very moment, i still wouldn't leave the house. i'd burn down with it. i'm dying slowly. i'm alive but i feel like i don't exist.

kat - 02/29/00 03:13:55
My Email:skaterobin
Age: 33
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
okay. how great is it to finally find a comunity of people as obssessed with skin issues as I have been for the two years since my skin totally freaked out and went seriosuly cystic on me? I have so many questions I want to ask you all -- I did a course of accutane -- it worked and the side effects were minimal -- dryness which was worth the gains. I was left with those hellish lingering red marks and wondered about the person who said accutane speeds collagen development -- have others heard this? beause sometimes I wonder if my skin doesn't heal slower post-accutane... that could just be that I'm in my 30's now so healing is slower than it used to be. anyway. the accutane almost solved the problem, but I still get the monthly or so cyst which would be find if they didn't leave what feel like eternal marks in their wake. at this point I want to do a second course just because my skin will always look pretty bad if I'm constantly adding new marks as the old ones (SLOWLY) heal. I'm no on birth control pills and antibiotics (to counterbalance the first three months of the pill which my MD says are is hormonal rage period and could wait to see if the pill does the trick, but given the fact that I'm on the pill (for just over 3 months now ) and on antibiotics and still cysts creep through, I suspect that when I go off the anti-biotics, it won't be good... anyway. what's my question? is it worth doing a second course or should I just be happy it's only about once a month? should I wait until i'm TOTALLY MISERABLE again, or just dive in and get it over with -- also -- did some of you only have 4 month accutane regimes? mine was 5. oh! also - has anyone hear dthe theory that acne is caused by sugar? I went to this website set up by a guy who swears by this and I have actually been trying to live without sugar but it's a personal hell as I adore sugar and having just gotten a brand new cyst I'm ready to

aussieanon - 02/29/00 03:11:06

Comments:
Ok, so I'm going to post my own whinge today. I'm not sure what's up, but for some reason I've been feeling like total crap all week. Everything seems to be getting to me. I'm sick of having dry eyes, dry itchy skin, being unable to wake up in the morn ng and then feeling lethargic for the rest of the day. It would be ok if my skin was clear, and if I only had a few weeks more of accutane. But I've still got 4 more boxes of pills to take. All I can say is that I hope the accutane works for me.

Laurel - 02/29/00 00:52:14
My Email:llmckl@cs.com
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
Has anyone ever had a chemical peel after completing their accutane treatment? I've heard that they can eliminate surface scarring.

Debs - 02/28/00 23:36:04
My Email:deboraherwin@ukgateway.net
Age: 24
Gender: female
Country: N. Ireland

Comments:
To Michelle and others - I know how you feel. I've been on Roacc since Nov and only in the last month have I begun to see an improvement. I've had a rotten time with various side-effects including muscle aches, irritability etc but hang in there people - t will get better! To the guy who likes swimming - don't let it stop you. The only thing about it is that it dries out your skin but moisturiser fixes that - lots of it! I use E45 moisurising lotion and the emollient wash - fab stuff. Unfortuantely I took a cramp in my leg last week whilst swimming - the first ever but maybe it wasn't the roacc. Anyway take care folks and all the best to everybody at the various stages of treatment. Stick with it!

michelle - 02/28/00 23:25:14
My Email:cheekeface@hotmail'com
Age: 23
Gender: female
Country: ireland

Comments:
i would just like to thank this web site and all who contribute to it. I have been on roaccatane for two months and my skin is worse and not better. I am glad that I am not the only person who would gladly stay in doors rather than go out. I am absolutely miserable and despairing right now. How long will this go on because I am not dure I can take it much longer. thanks everyone

andy - 02/28/00 23:16:05
My Email:nuneatonandy@hotmail.com
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: uk

Comments:
I have been on Roaccutane for 2 months now, but it is the second time I have been on it. The first time I took it was 2 years ago and my acne improved immensley. However it has come back not as bad on the face but as bad on the shoulders and back. The fir t time I took Roaccutane I had red spots on my legs which the doctors thought may have been caused by the roaccutane and therefore I had to stop. Has anyone else had these. Also what does everyone else do about drinking alcohol? I'm feeling very depressed at the moment but I go through stages. It is not due to the Roaccutane but (I think) more about my skin. As the treatment is not woking at the moment I feel like nothing can work and that I'll have it forever and thus feel depre sed. Chin up however. On the whole I wouldn't be myself if I hadn't suffered from Acne. I often think what I would have turned out like if I didn't have acne but I'm sure he would have been a pompus twat who didn't care about anyone and fancied himself. My acne is worse on my back and shoulders and thus I am petrified about taking my top off in public. I haven't been swimming since I was 13, and I used to love swimming. Would swimming help my acne (the chlorine, i'm thinking of)? Bye Andy

Steve - Hello all - 02/28/00 21:54:56
My Email:sackerman@anotheruniverse.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

Comments:
I have noticed that there seem to be many newcomers to this forum right now so I would just like to say that accutane is a very effective anti-acne drug and if any of you are anxious about the possible side-effects relax, everything will be fine. The only real problem that I have been able to recognize is the occasional prescription of disproportionately high dosages by physicians. This has seemed to happen most frequently to thin females. I am 194 lbs. with 8% body fat and I take 40mg twice a day. If you re a female who is 120 lbs. or less you should not be taking this same dosage. Since the dosage recommendation is very broad, 1-2mg per kg, general practitioners who are unfamiliar with accutane can inadvertantly prescribe a dosage which will cause the pr scribee to develop the more serious and intense side effects. When I used to go to the Stoll board one of the first posts I ever read was from a 115 lb. female who was suffering from fatigue, lucidity, hairloss, and joint pain a month and a half into trea ment. She subsequently indicated that she was taking 40mg twice a day. There is a definite threshold where the amount of isotretinoin in your body reaches a toxic level. I believe that knowing how not to exceed this level is the key to keeping the potenti l side effects to a minimum. In most cases patients are prescibed an appropriate dosage for their body weight and I know that everyone reacts differently to accutane but I think that everyone should be aware that this situation can occur.

Anna - 02/28/00 20:15:53
Age: 24
Gender: Female
Country: US

Comments:
To Chrissy-- that is so insensitive and rude of ANYONE to say those things to you. I have had people I know personally (friends & family) also try to "help." Of course, they know nothing about how to effectively treat acne, so they just end up sounding like jerks. Sometimes I think one of the FEW good things my acne has taught me is how to empathize with other people who are visibly different, or even disabled. A lot of people are very insensitive because they have never had any type of physical probl m. I don't think there is a way to make others more sensitive, but I do think that the best way to deal w/ them is to get as much support as possible from those who are sensitive. That is why this board is so great!!

Chrissy - 02/28/00 19:31:59
My Email:cmreilly@sas.upenn.edu
Age: 18
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
Wow, reading this page was the most inspiring thing I've done in a long time. I truly thought that I was the only one who couldn't wait to go to bed so that I wouldn't have to think about my skin anymore, only to then have to wake up and think, yuck, not another day of this. I completely relate to the girl who's friends are all destined to be supermodels. I too, put up with this, and also my sister, who looks a lot like me, only her skin is absolutely perfect and I get to hear constantly how beautiful s e is. My mom and sister completely do not understand how torturously embarrassing acne is and their only advice to me is to snap "you know, if you didn't pick at it!!" So anyway, I'm almost done with six months of accutane. To those whose insurance comp nies still don't pay for it, switch companies. I'm on John Alden and I pay about $30 a month. To those who are just starting: be patient! I read all the reviews of people who are like, "i've been on it for a month and my skin is almost perfect!" which is great, but my skin was considerably worse for at least the first three months, which was really scary because it isn't exactly fun to be on accutane and carry around moisturizer and have at least one tube of chapstick per every square foot of your room. also have about ten in my car, and one on my keychain. I've tried every skin product ever invented, so from the questions I've heard, here are my comments. To Greg: stay with the Cetaphil if you have dry skin, or use the Neutrogena once a day only. I us Neutrogena Deep Clean in the morning and Cetaphil the rest of the day. To whomever was asking about dry skin and Accutane, I'm glad there's someone else out there. I too, have dry skin, not oily skin. Yes, Accutane makes your skin drier but I don't thi k unbearably. I've found the best moisturizer to be Noxzema Skin Fitness, which is also really similar to Oil of Olay's Oil Free Beauty Fluid. At night I use Kiehls Sodium PCA oil-free moisturizer and for a gentle toner I use Kiehls Calendula Herbal-Ext act Toner. Kiehls also makes the best lip balm, but second to that is the Vaseline lip therapy. And thanks to whomever mentioned that their skin doesn't heal as fast. My skin takes forever to heal and thin-skinned scars seem to peel themselves into sca s again. It's so weird. Does this happen to anyone else?? In conclusion, just one bitch-fest: I am soooo sick of complete strangers talking to me about my acne. I don't like to talk about it with my dermatologist cuz it's one of the few things that has the power to make me want to cry, and I'll be in the supermarket checking out (it's ALWAYS the supermarket) and the cashier will start asking me questions or making comments like, "wow, you have really bad acne!! You should see a dermatologist!" and i'm l ke, thanks, cuz i didn't notice that my acne was really bad and i haven't been seeing a dermatologist for the past six years and i'm not on the strongest medicine there is or anything like that. But thanks for adding to my self-consciousness and embarras ment and essentially ruining my day. But seriously, I know it's unfathomably hard and I can rarely do it myself, but just forget about these people. I try to convince myself to just smile more and then people will be looking at my teeth instead and I'll feel better myself cuz I have to think about something nice to smile. Good luck to all!!

Jules - 02/28/00 18:09:25
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: England

Comments:
Accutane 70mg/73kg - week 12 My skin is great EXCEPT for one big spot and a smaller one which is going. You know the type. It started on Friday with a tingling feeling. Its on my jawline towards my chin. Anyway, it started with a tingle, then an ache. Now it is huge! I have had this ype of spot before. The worst thing about them is that they make the whole area around them swell, making your whole jawline look mis-shapen. Its not the type that scars, more like a blind spot thing. Feels more like I have been stung by a horsefly! Anywa , does anyone have any tips to make the swelling go down. Its really quite painful now. I use toothpaste on it at night, but any other tips would be great. I also had another spot come up over the weekend, but that one was a different type which just drie up. I think I know the cause. For weeks I have been eating healthily, not having much chocolate, cake etc. Just eating whole foods etc. In the last week though I have had a lot more ordinary foods. Could this just be a coincidence, I think not! The worst thing about this type of spot is that you can feel it there throbbing on your face, so you are even more aware of it than you would be normally. Lots of smaller spots are easier to deal with than the embarressment of a huge one. Ever had the fee ing that people are talking to your spot, rather than you. I suppose it will be about a week before this bastard decides to leave! Anyway - good luck in the fight. Kill all spots! Anyway, sorry to moan. I know its only one spot, but it is a really big fat bastard.

MINDY - 02/28/00 16:55:17
Age: 25
Gender: Female/115lbs/40mg/Week 13
Country: Alabama, USA

Comments:
~~TO ANNA~~I've found that St. Ives Apricot Scrub helps exfoliate my skin without being too harsh. It makes my skin look and feel better. You can get it at any drugstore (Wal-Mart, Rite Aid, etc.) You might want to try that followed by a moisturizer. ~ TO ALL~~Have any of you experienced a rash/itching on the palms of your hands?

Katherine - 02/28/00 16:26:45
My Email:mollie.tubb@virgin.net
Age: 17
Gender: Female
Country: Scotland

Comments:
I've had acne for the last five years, really painful on my chest and back, but hardly in existence on my face (something for which I will be eternally grateful). Anyway I only took action about a year ago (because I was so ashamed of it) and I have been n antibiotics (and retin-a cream) for the past nine months. The effects were always good, but every time I came off them, my acne came back with a vengeance. Although I haven't seen any side effects before, I'm now starting to get dizzy and tired a lot, l sing an abnormal amount of hair, and it would be generous to describe the pallor of my skin as corpse - like. Unfortunately the literature accompanying my antibiotics states that changes in skin colour can be irreversible. Anyway, my doctor says the next ossibility would be the Pill, Dianette. I am totally ignorant as to the side effects this could induce, so what I would like to know is what they would be, and would they be more invasive than those I am already experiencing? Any comments would be greatly appreciated. P.S Most of my friends are pretty much destined to be supermodels, and for a very long time I was the only person I knew who had acne.I had no self confidence and I was deeply ashamed of myself.Reading other people's experiences, and finding that I amn't he only one is good. Thanks.

Al - 02/28/00 15:52:16

Comments:
Dona -

Comments:
Hi,

Comments:
To: Andrea I was so afraid to take Accutane that I waited until I was 33. I was worried that I would look and feel terrible for four months. I was also concerned about long term effects. I have been on 60 mgs a day for three months. My skin has dried considerabl , but I like it. It is a relief not to have so much oil. My lips are chapped, but I can keep that under control with Aquaphor. The worst things for me are dry eyes, backache, and fatigue. This has been totally worth it. I started clearing up by the s cond week. I never had a big breakout at the beginning. I still get occassional small bumps - not cysts. I can't believe how incredible my skin looks. I wish I would have done it a long time ago. Good luck and try not to worry too much. Drink tons o water, that helps more than anything.

Dona Gogova - 02/28/00 14:43:37
My Email:dona.gogova@kpmg.bg
Age: 28
Gender: female
Country: Bulgaria

Comments:
Could someone please tell me who is the producer of Roaccutane and how I cann check in which countries this medicine is available. I am afraid it is not distributed in Eastern Europe. I would really appreciate your replies. Thank you!!

Rick - 02/28/00 12:38:19
My Email:www.rickjones2@hotmail.com
Age: 17
Gender: male
Country: England

Comments:
I finished roaccutane in november '99 and have great skin now. I do however need to use a mild moisuriser. How long will i need to keep this up for. Also is there any cure for the red cheeks/nose that i occassionaly get from it?

- 02/28/00 10:44:54
My Email:spanky244@bolt.com
Age: 19
Gender: male

Comments:
I HAVE ANOTHER 2 MONTHS OF ROACCUTANE TREATMENT AND I FINISHED WITH MY ACNE...MY FACE IS LOOKING SUPERB....BUT I HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT ACNE COMING BACK AFTER STOPPING TREATMENT...DOES ANYBODY KNOW HOW LIKELY IS IT FOR ACNE TO COME BACK...AND DOES IT HAPPE ????

Ursula - 02/28/00 10:16:44
Age: 27
Gender: Female
Country: South Africa

Comments:
I was diagnosed with Late Hormonal Acne by my derm on the 14th Feb (great gift)I've had problem with my skin for the past 2 year after my baby was born. I have been using every possible external cream and beauty product available with no avail. I was put n a course of Roaccutane 20mg x 2 capsules per day (40mg) and was/is honestly terrified of the medication, and it's side effects, but after reading all the personal experiences posted here I feel a little more comfortable. I need some info please. I am no on day 15 and my skin has started drying out approx 7 days ago, redish, my skin has cleared up except for about 2 spots, my lips are dry but I keep treating it so it is not uncomfortable. What is the worst period and what can I expect??? Does it get much worst that currently. When does it peel? Good luck to everyone out there on Roaccutane!

Diana - 02/28/00 07:03:32
My Email:leed1252@hotmail.com
Age: 20
Country: canada

Comments:
Can someone please tell me how long u took accutane. I have a friend who took it for a month and it worked

Vantmas - 02/28/00 06:49:59
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
To Garry K: i have been on accutane for 13 weeks now, i am totally clear now, just scars. I smoke marijuana like a few times a week and i do ecstacy every other week and do shrooms every once and a while, and have drank twice and i am totally fine, even he side effects of the accutane arent that bad, anymore questions, e-mail me.

Garry K - 02/28/00 06:17:16
Age: 24

Comments:
Im planning on going on Accutane and was wondering if it is safe to smoke marijuana while on it?

Lisa - 02/28/00 05:41:28
My Email:lisamserrano@usa.net
Age: 24
Gender: Female
Country: U.S.

Comments:
Has anyone found a good product(s) to reduce scars?

- 02/28/00 03:32:06

Comments:


Marisa - 02/28/00 02:57:48
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
I have had 2 courses of Accutane, the last of which I completed about 2 years ago. The results of the first course were outstanding, my skin felt and looked great, although I began to notice the scarring that was left behind-sometimes you don't notice th se because the acne is all you see in your reflection. Unfortunately, I was back on the treatment about a year later, the acne returned, but was nowhere nearly as bad as before. I insisted on a second course because I wanted my acne gone once and for al . That second course pretty much did the trick. It was definitely worth the trouble of taking all the blood tests, staying out of the sun, birth control, etc. The down side of it all is that my night vision is not very good any more, to the point that I won't drive at night unless I really have to. I also wish I could say I was totally acne free, but I can't- like many people I still break out during "that time of the month" and I have to be extremely careful not to touch my face, because I will always ave very sensitive skin. However, I am so much more confident about my appearance and I have learned a lot about caring for my skin by using natural products and also by watching what I eat. I never believe people who say that certain foods cause acne BUT I do believe that the body is at it's best when it is given clean(not processed)and healthy foods-and that definitely shows in my skin.

i hate acne - 02/28/00 02:27:23

Comments:
hi. i have completed accutane before with great results but the acne has coem back. i am 15 and was wondering if a second course would be nessecary and if it would help any or is the reaction all over? Thankyou and good luck treating your acne.

Cara Munoz - 02/28/00 02:11:15
My Email:jecmunoz@cs.com
Age: 24
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
Hi I am a 24 year old female that has acne forever. It has ruined my life. I can think of nothing else but my skin. I have complete two courses of Accutane therpay. It has made a difference, but not cured. Side effects such as severe muscle spasms and severe dry moutj still persists. I recommend Accutane to anyone that looks in the mirror and can't take it any more. I still get breakou s, not as bad. I have a wonderful dermatologist and family, who have been so supportive with me on Accutane. If anyone needs to talk, I can sympathize and I know how you feel and what you are going through. I know the feeling to wake up and want to put a paper bag over your fa e. I know what it is like to make a wish, and wish that you have clear perfect skin. I will be 25 soon and I still battle with acne. I'd love to hear from somebody that needs to talk about their problem.

- 02/28/00 01:46:07
My URL:http://www.acneclear.com

Comments:
I have found something for those interested - It is an acne medication regime - MAGIC CLEAR SYSTEM Has anyone tried this regime ? Well, click the link if you are interested and post your comments please

Anna - 02/28/00 01:26:41
Age: 24
Gender: female
Country: US

Comments:
Hi! I've been on Accutane (140 lbs., 80mg/day) for 17 days now. My face is horribly dry and actually "scaling." I haven't broken out too bad except for a stubborn cyst on my cheek. How do you guys exfoliate your face and get rid of the dry, peeling, f aking skin? It's getting pretty gross looking but I don't want to irritate it too much (my face is red enough as it is and moisturizer doesn't exfoliate, it just makes me shiny and then when the shine fades, the flakes are still there). Suggestions? Op nions?

juidi - 02/28/00 01:24:59
My Email:rrjchris@comserve.com

Comments:
can a boy take this???????????

John - 02/27/00 23:58:48
Age: 18
Gender: male

Comments:
real quick question: - taking 2 accutane pills a day does it matter if I take them exactly 12 hours apart? I try and do it 6am and 6pm but sometimes I cant and it becomes 6am and like 9pm. Should I try harder to make is exactly 12 so my body can get in a routine? Thanks in advance. Just trying to do everyth ng right to achieve maximum results.

marcus - 02/27/00 23:25:22
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: uk

Comments:
Rianne hi! I’m still doing great! (touch wood) I have one or two small spots but I still have the flu or something equally annoying, and I always get spots when I'm ill! Glad to here you think the apple cider vinegar is helping you too! I’ve picked up some saw palme to today to add to my ever-expanding regimen (starting to rattle now but it’s defiantly working very well) I’ll let you know how it goes! Take care

Aaron - 02/27/00 22:42:01

Comments:
Well I take back "pretty bad" because it has helped a lot and is a lot better than before

Aaron - 02/27/00 22:38:09
Age: 20
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Andrea: I Know exactly how you feel. The things you try to avoid is exactly what I do. Do take Accuntane, it hopefully will help you. Dont give up if you have an initial breakout, it does get better. I have been on 12-13 weeks now, the only thing is that lthough im not getting new spots much, my face still looks pretty bad. Not sure if it will improve much more. Oh well just 3 weeks till next derm appoitment

good luck

Jasmine - 02/27/00 22:35:42
Age: 33
Gender: female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi everyone.Hi Rianne.I'm sorry to hear that you are down about your skin.I know exactly how you feel when the spots are brewing to come out.Friends always say to me how do you know your spots are coming back you've only got a few and I always say you jus know.That happened to me at the end of November and here we are in Feb with skin so bad I won't even answer the door.You just KNOW when the acne is returning.What a life we lead.I've had mine 22 years.Is yours the same?I know what you mean about the red arks they are even worse than the spots because they take forever to go.Like the bout I've got now even if this cream works I'm looking at at least 6 months if not more for the red marks to go.I don't think half these dermatologists realise the trauma of t all.It's just like they hardly bother to look at you and say oh try this.Well if it doesn't work then its another 8 weeks of going onto something else.We are both having a moan today.I think we deserve to.Yeh my skin is also so greasy.I bought those Joh sons Clean and Clear Oil sheets you were recommending and they are good.I have to use at least two per go.I am also awaiting the flaky look which I'm sure I'll get once I start using the Benzoyl Peroxide with the Skinoren as the Benzoyl is very drying.I d d buy zinc a while ago but never took them so perhaps I should.If you want to go to the real live chat room that Just Me has done then go to the website and click on REAL TIME to get in,then click on the bit that says if you don't have a registered handle SIGN UP HERE.Fill out your details,make up your handle,press SUBMIT and then type in your handle and password.I've had a look but no-one there.I think the idea is good but it is just catching people there at the same time.If you just want to put a message down like we do on here then you just click on the post message.Have I made it even more confusing?Did you get an advert with your acne support mag for products called Hyfac.They do a face wash etc.They also do moisterisers for acne skin but also one mois eriser is especially for damaged skin due to topical treatments,mainly from retinoids but also for any drying.I spoke to them on the phone.Of course they are non-comedegenic which is what we want.I don't know if they are any good as I haven't yet tried th m.I am just about to order some.I just thought it might be good for you for the flakiness.Do you use a toner?I always have but haven't bothered since using the Skinoren as I read somewhere not to use astringents.I have also read that toners don't do anyth ng anyway.Anyway enough moans and groans.I wonder if this moisteriser would be any good to the people on Accutane for the dryness.Just a thought as I don't really know.So take care Byee for now Love Jasminexx

Andrea - 02/27/00 21:05:46
Age: 16
Gender: Female
Country: U.S

Comments:
Most people assume that my acne is just a "teenage thing". My parents, relatives, and even some friends have insisted that it will go away once I pass this "stage". Acne has plagued my life for the past 2 years. To put it plainly, I have felt ugly. I void taking pictures, being in areas with a lot of light, and having people look at me for long periods of time. When people are talking to me and looking me in the eye, I assume they are staring at my pimples - hey, that's what I stare at every time in he mirror! Yesterday, I went to the dermatologist for the first time. He perscribed me Accutane. I have heard that this method is risky, and it might not even clear up my acne. Thankfully, I have read this web page and realized that THERE IS HOPE!!! (something I' e been searching for since this all began.)What I'm afraid of is all the side effects. All I see on the accutane boxes are "WARNING!! WARNING! DO NOT...!!" It's freaking me out. So, if anyone can reply to reassure me that Accutane WORKS and wont KILL M , please do so! I'm starting my treatment in a few days...so I'll be waiting. Thanks so much for the support.

Rianne - 02/27/00 19:14:45

Comments:
Hiya Jasmine! I hope that the Skinoren works for you real soon. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you! I'm a bit fed up with my skin at the moment - I know it just can't wait to erupt on me. I hate being on a knife edge like this. I also have quite few red marks (ex spots) where the skin is so thin and they refuse to go away and heal. Even though the Eryacne/Minocin is trying to keep the spots at bay my skin is throwing out so much oil and I'm sick of it. My make-up slides off in no time and my s in never looks nice. (forgive me....moan moan moan) As well as being oily my skin is really flaky, it really needs moisturising but I can't put moisturiser on during the day because I end up looking sooooo shiny and greasy. Also I need to keep applying he Eryacne and I can't do both! The cider vinegar (suggestion from Marcus) is good I think - I'm using it as a rinse a couple of times per day and it helps. How are you doing Marcus? Jasmine, I think it is worth trying the zinc. I take 3 x 25mg. table s per day (again a good suggestion from Marcus) and although it's early days yet I'm sure they will improve my skin. I know what you mean about not wanting to use the benzoyl peroxide together with the Skinoren. There's only so much our skin can take. find that if I "over-treat" it, then I end up with such a sore face. When I think of all the treatments that have literally taken the face off me! I didn't realise you had to visit MD Formulations for their products - ah well, that's out of the equatio then! Also we can only try one thing at a time eh?! I've mentioned before that I've tried to get into the "Just Me" board but I'm not sure how to! Jasmine, I can find the site okay but I'm not sure about how to put in a password, etc. etc. Tell me ho you do it? Please! I should get my appointment with the Chinese herbalist this week. I'll let you know how I get on. Hope your DermaLux arrives sooooon too!!! Meanwhile lots of love, luck and thanks to you all. Rianne.

Greg - 02/27/00 18:57:55

Comments:
Thanks alot Lori...I will give that routine a shot.

Greg - 02/27/00 18:25:44
My Email:gshick21069@hotmail.com
Age: 29
Gender: Male
Country: USA

Comments:
*****TO DEL***** I am in the exact same boat as you are. I am also in my third week of treatment on 40mg's a day and after a great first 2 weeks, I am broken out pretty bad now. My face is almost oil free but I am still having this break out. Its confusing to me as I thou ht oil was the main cause of breaking out.I cant give any advice beings I am still a novice with accutane but I would like to keep in touch with you because our situation(past and present) seems almost the same. Good luck and I hope to hear from you. Greg

Laurel - 02/27/00 18:15:16
My Email:llmckl@cs.com
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
This board is filled with personal experiences and words of wisdom! It is so important for people to know what to expect with their treatment. Everyone is different in their responses to Accutane, but MOST of the people I've heard from regarding their t eatment are very positive and supportive. Thank you for that! I have just finished my third week of Accutane on 40mg per day. so far my skin is MUCH less oily than normal, and the new acne bumps that appear are smaller in size, really never make it to the surface, and don't last anywhere near as long as they did. 'm very pleased so far. My lips are slightly dry, but I've been keeping them moisturized and they seem to be responding well to the carmex. I haven't experienced the red face many of you talk about, YET! When does that usually happen? Right away or when? Keep up the valuable information and remember that beauty is only skin deep, and what's on the inside is what REALLY counts! I know it's difficult to remember that in this society which puts so much emphasis on looks, but it really is true! Good things ome to good people!

Del - 02/27/00 08:47:33

Comments:
OK, I'm on week 3 of Accutane (40mg). My acne has gotten worse (more, bigger, and redder) since the middle of week 2. They're so red and big that when my landlord saw me for the first time since I went on Accutane, he thought they were bruises from a fal . The only positive so far is that I don't have to splash water over my face 4-5 times a day, which is fantastic. Does anyone uses spot treatments while on Accutane. In my pre-Accutane days, I use Clearasil Adult Care (sulfur/resorcinol) on the lesions nd it makes the them go away more quickly. Now, the Clearasil seems to be for the most part ineffective. Does anyone know what to use on the spots to make them go away quicker? Also, what's a good product to cover them up so they don't appear so red? I u e OXY 10 Balance cover-up formula but the 10% benzoyl peroxide is has become too irritant since I've been on Accutane. I like something that makes the spots less red but doesn't looked like I've put anything on.

Del - 02/27/00 08:21:37
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: USA

Comments:
To those who have taken the time shared their positive experiences about Accutane/Roaccutane, thank you. Your messages have given me hope. To those who are regulars and have given much help and advice (and you know who you are) to others in need, thank ou and keep it up. All your help and postings are not unappreciated. I've have acne for years and on most days, I do feel hopeless. Your postings have given me hope that somehow it will all work out in the end. It does work out in the end, doesn't it?< r>
Lori - 02/27/00 07:41:10
My Email:laurie@thegrid.net
Gender: All Woman
Country: USA

Comments:
To the 'All Man' in the US...regarding Cetaphil and Neutragina. I use both. Cetaphil in the morning and Neutra at night. Neutragina causes a little more drying than Ceta. It has Salicylic Acid in it,k co I apply Eucirine cream before bed. That helps a lot!! Take care and hang in there! Lori

Ivan - 02/27/00 06:19:10
Age: 22
Gender: Male
Country: Singapore

Comments:
TO DAISY : Here's a cheaper alternative to accutane. It's called Nimegen. It's active ingredient is also isotretinon. Apparently, it's manufactured by some other company other than roche and it only costs half as much. My reservations abt using this produ t is that in spite of posting many times in this board, no one has heard of Nimengen or replied to my requests for more information on Nimegen. However, you can always consider Nimegen as a cheaper alternative to Roaccutane.

Trent - 02/27/00 05:11:51
My Email:cyspade@hotmail.com
Age: 19
Gender: male
Country: Canada

Comments:
I was an avid visitor to this site a few months back, and posted a message as well. When I first posted that message I was just starting accutane, and was feeling pretty down. Its been about 3 months later, and most of the acne is gone. However I'm far from perfect. I still have a few pimples, and I have a lot of red spots left. I was on accutane for 8 weeks (2 courses), and should probably still be on it, but it was costing me too much money. However just having a smoother face is a good feeling to . I use to have a lot of bumps so deep under the skin, that it seemed like they would never go away. I'm glad they have, and hopfully the red spots will fade as well. Its not certain if the bumps will come back or not, but for the moment I'm feeling go d. As for the reports of people getting depressed after accutane, I feel the total opposite. I'm feeling better than I have in a long time, and remember my face is still far from perfect. I just wanted to update you guys, and to tell everyone that your acne will get better. Best of luck to all of you. This site was really helpful to me.

mm - 02/27/00 04:42:59
Age: 16

Comments:
I finished a 6 month course of accutane 2 weeks ago and I got bumps all along my jawline and some on my cheeks within one week of stopping, they seem to be drying up a little and tonight i started using a prescription lotion and retin-a. did anyone else h ve this type of reaction right after going off the drug. Also, anyone out there using retin a: what face wash do you use and how many times a day, my derm said to only get my face wet one time a day, so if anyone has found a way to work that out let me k ow please.

JOHN - 02/27/00 01:02:18
Age: 19
Gender: MALE
Country: GREECE

Comments:
I HAVE USED ROACCUTAN FOR 4 MONTHS...I ONLY HAVE TO SAY,DO NOT TOUCH YOUR FACE WHEN YOU DO THE TREATMENT,BECAUSE THE SKIN WILL THEN HAVE A <>AT THIS PLACE,IT IS SENSITIVE...AND BELIEVE ME,JUST DO NOT START THIS MEDICINE...JUST KEEP GOING IN LIFE,IT ILL BRING ONE GOOD,AND TEN BAD...THANKS.

To Daisy-From Jay - 02/26/00 23:14:17

Comments:
hey daisy. I am currently on an insurance plan with kaiser permanente and accutane is covered under their plan. it only costs me 5$ each time I meet with my derm and only 50$ for a box of Accutane which includes 8 packets with 8 capsules each. just wan ed to inform you. bye.

jasmine - 02/26/00 22:03:28
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
To JOAQUIN.Hi.What ingredients has Tarzorac got in it because I've never heard of it?It might be called something else here in the U.K.Bye.Jasmine

Jasmine - 02/26/00 21:58:35
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Country: U.K.

Comments:
Hi everyone.Hope you are all O.K.To Rianne how are you?Glad to hear your skin is good at the moment.Well I'm still using the Skinoren and my skin seems to be handling it alright.My face is a bit itchy when I first put it on but that is it.No improvement y t as I've only been using it just over a week.I think it is supposed to be for moderate acne and I don't really know but on my chin I think I would say it is severe at the moment so I don't know if it is going to do the job.My skin is worse than when the erm saw it.My chin is just a mass of big spots,pus and crusts mmmm very attractive.By the way Skinoren is azelaic acid in case you thought it was two different creams.I don't know what happened to Rob.I did see a study on the net saying that Skinoren work better if used with Benzoyl Peroxide but it doesn't say which to put on first or what.I was thinking of trying it but I thought I might do it gradually as in get my skin used to the Skinoren and then perhaps try the both just on my forehead to see the re ction and if O.K. start putting it on my whole face.I thought I'd be sensible because I don't want to burn my whole face off with a reaction.The study said that there was a much better rate of improvement with Skinoren and Benzoyl than just the Skinoren o its own.That M.D Formulations was in the acne support mag and the regime consists of glycolic acid products which are apparantly meant to open the skin up more so whatever topical treatment being used in theory would work better because it is getting int the skin better.I did ring them and you have to get the products from a salon so I suppose it is the cost of salon visits plus whatever treatments you come away with.I was originally going to try them with the Skinoren until I heard about using the Benzo l with it.I can't use it all otherwise I would definitly have a burned up face.Still waiting for Dermalux bulbs!!!!Hi MARCUS I'm pleased your apple cider vinegar is working for you.Talking about acne and hair loss being caused by the same hormone well I'v noticed in my research on this Skinoren (Azelaic acid)that it is also used for alopicia so I don't know if that is connected in any way but it's the first time I've heard of an acne treatment being used for hair loss as long as it doesn't make me grow ha r!!!enough problems as it is..Anyway enough ranting.You can tell I'm not seeing anyone because of my skin so I'll bore you lot instead.Hi to JULES,FISH,ROB(RL),and JUST ME speak to you on the other site.Bye love Jasminexx

- 02/26/00 20:57:32

Comments:
daisy -www.pharmagroup.com

Jennifer - 02/26/00 20:35:10
My Email:silverflower@hotmail.com
Age: 19
Gender: Female

Comments:
This is day 16 for me and I have yet to see much improvement. I was also put on Ortho Tri-Cyclen (birth control) also and read yesterday in the information given to me that it is known to help, not aggrivate acne. I am still getting more spots than norma , but they don't hurt as much as before (thought I think they are still "cysts"). I also have experiance sore, bleeding gums as a result of the Accutane and would like to know if it will cause permanent damage to my teeth or gums. Hang in there everyone!< r>
daisy - 02/26/00 19:44:07
My Email:ceecee@dtx.net
Age: 29
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
Hello friends, I am a fair complected, black female and at the age 29,I suffer from acne & black post acne marks all over my body.I started using orthotricycline, which is a birth control pill combined with medication to clear acne. I realized my acne abrupts during my menstruation, but I did not realize that this particular pill would stimulate my acne to a even a greater degree and now I look worse than what I was before I started the pill. Common sense should have told me that some birth control cause more acne beca se their job is to stimulate certain hormones to avoid pregnancy. However, my Dr. thought orthotricycline would also clear acne. What a waste of time, money and a dream of having clear skin in the summer heat! Anyway,I found your wonderful site and, I wish we did not have to go through this. There are certain clothes I can not were from fear of nosey adults and curious, out-spoken children because they have pointed out these marks on me and had the nerve to sk me "what's that?" Long sleeve shirts in the south is hot and humiliating. I am interested in Roccutane or Accutane. The only problem is,I can not afford it. I was told that the accutane is approx. $650/month and it will take 6 months of treatment & in urance won't pay. What can I do? Are there any insurances that handle this? Does anyone know the cost of roaccutain? Is that treatment cheaper and effective? From, Daisy

Paula - 02/26/00 19:42:09
My Email:paula@darrell.org.uk
Age: 46
Gender: female
Country: england

Comments:
re. back and chest slower to respond to accutane than face, does anybody have any experience of this problem?

Laurel - 02/26/00 19:08:14
My Email:llmckl@cs.com
Age: 35
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
Hi to everyone on this board. There is some great information spoken here. I'm extremely interested in hearing personal experiences from everyone. They vary so much, that I don't really know what to expect. I'm on my 3rd week of Accutane. Lips are a little dry and my skin seems to be less oily. What can I expect pores and blackheads to do? Will my face actually crack at some point? What about all this redness I keep hearing about? Any words of wisdom will be much appreciated!

samantha - 02/26/00 18:25:34
My Email:samantha@persian.com
Age: 26
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
what I can do to clear up the blemishes and the scars on my face?!

Lissette - 02/26/00 16:49:04
My Email:lissette01@aol.com
Age: 20
Gender: female
Country: US

Comments:
What is an acne cyst? I have bumps on my nose from pimples that I picked before time. I had them for years now, and I want to get rid of them, how can I? Is that what the cortizone injection is for? If so, how much is it? Any side effects?

Lissette - 02/26/00 16:48:41
My Email:lissette@aol.com
Age: 20
Gender: female
Country: US

Comments:
What is an acne cyst? I have bumps on my nose from pimples that I picked before time. I had them for years now, and I want to get rid of them, how can I? Is that what the cortizone injection is for? If so, how much is it? Any side effects?

- 02/26/00 14:17:11

Comments:
hello, does anyone know about retin-a micro? i've been on one treatment of a different retin-a, didn't work. but my derm. is convinced that this will work for me...any information would be much appreciated! thanx

Joaquin - 02/26/00 13:32:14
My URL:http://www.oocities.org
My Email:joaquin.sotelo@eds.com
Age: 24
Gender: male
Country: Califonia

Comments:
I have taken all types of anti-bitoics; such as tetrocyclin, eurithromycin, doxycyclin, kephlex and so on within 18 months. I also used Retin-A which worked for a few months but my face seemed to have grown accustomed within 8 months of using it. Now my n w Derm has perscribed Minocyclin and a topical ointment called Tarzorac which is also used for Phoriasis. Can anyone tell me there experience using this ointment. If this does not work than my Derm suggested Accutane. Accutane is not covered by my health nsurance. I heard a month supply of Accutane can be in the $$thousands. Does anyone know the amount Accutane cost? This is the first time visiting this sight, and I am very impressed. Thank you.

Brian - 02/26/00 12:54:55
Age: 25

Comments:
Will my derm. prescribe accutane even though i have only 4 or 5 blemishes consistently. ive tried many other things to no avail.???

Daniel - 02/26/00 11:37:04
My Email:l_daniel@hotmail.com
Age: 20
Gender: Male
Country: Melb, Australia

Comments:
TO AL WITH THE HEADACHES: Second week into Roaccutane I had a pretty bad headache, so much so that I took a few Panadols. It went off after the third week though, and things were fine after that. I also had a sore throat during the early weeks of treatmen .

Michael - 02/26/00 10:43:01
Age: 18
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
I have had really serious acne for about 4-5 years now and as a last resort my doctor referred to a specialist who prescribed me roaccutane. I don't if it was just me, but i found that it did not work for me at all. In fact it made my skin a lot worse bec use it seems to stop the natural healing process of the skin. I took it for about 2 months and I have always regretted taking it. My skin is now a lot better though alhtough there are lots of noticeable scars on my facial area which are getting better wit time. I wouldn't really recommend taking roaccutane to anybody, no matter how bad your acne is. There are other solutions!!!!

Jules - 02/26/00 10:11:03
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: England

Comments:
Can't find a decent lip balm? Read on.......

I started of using Body shop vitamin E lip balm which was brilliant, but I got through it quite quickly, so tried Hemp balm. Got through that even quicker. Then I tried carmex. That stuff is crap. It doesn't sink in - its oil based. My lips became sore an taught.

Since going back to the body shop vitamin E lip care I am fine again. I'm sure it is to do with the fact that this is far less oily than the others. It makes your lips feel normal again and its the only one I have found that stops the lips from being high y coloured and almost swollen looking. It really is the best! This creates a more normal look, rather than looking like you are wearing lip gloss!

PIMP - le - 02/26/00 07:23:05
Age: 16
Gender: Male
Country: Canada

Comments:
Hey wussup yall!! Gosh, it must have been a month since I posted here! I'm 6 weeks into Accutane 40mg (115lbs, mild to moderate acne). My face is starting to get better now, thank goodness. I don't have any redness, it's just that my face is really dr . But I really don't care about this, because I'm kinda used to it. My lips are not really chapped, but the corner of my lips are inflamed. Vaseline just doesn't cut it anymore. For anyone who's very apprehensive right now because they are starting of , for my case, my acne seemed to get worse, only because there was no medication to treat the acne at the time. Make sense? Probably not. It takes Accutane at least a month to kick in, so your face should get worse, but not all people. My face started to get better just last week. I am still breaking out, but much less. I understand all the people just starting Accutane. In the beginning, everyone is apprehensive and impatient. Everyday passes by so slowly when you are on Accutane. For goodness sa es, you count the days! But trust me, you will soon forget it after the first month. Sometimes, I forget to take the pill and then rush out and take it at midnight. Phewf! I just hope after this treatment, my acne will never come back. Oh yeah, and I still have major acne on my back and chest. Accutane seems to be less effective on those areas. Any tips on what I should do? Or should I just give it more time? Thanks! Sorry for not postin' up in the longest time!

Brian - 02/26/00 06:31:07
Age: 25
Gender: Male
Country: U.S.A.

Comments:
I was hoping somebody could help by answering a couple of questions. I am thinking about taking Accutane but I have some reservations about the possibility of hair loss. Is the hair loss permanent? Is it just a thinning of the hair that thickens once t eatment is complete or what? My other concern is that I already have very dry skin but for some reason I still have sporadic outbreaks of cystic acne only in my cheek areas. I was wondering if my face is already dried out, will the dry skin I experience from the medication be unbearable? Thank you and I hope to hear from somebody.

melissa - 02/26/00 03:47:33
My Email:mestiza81@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Country: australia

Comments:
hi everyone......well today is my first day of taking roaccutane...i'm soo woried and nervous.... i'm 58 kg and take two 20mg capsules daily.....how long will it b till i see results?? wish me luck ppl....:) good luck to everyone!!!!!

GREG - 02/26/00 01:42:32
Gender: All man
Country: USA

Comments:
I use cetaphil cleanser now but I am thinking of switching to Neutrogena oil free acne wash. Does anyone else use it? I am worried that it may dry my skin even more. Any other suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated.

al - 02/25/00 22:53:35
My Email:pervaizc@hotmail.com
Age: usa
Country: usa

Comments:
I started accutane a few weeks back at 60mg/day (I weigh 140 lbs). A few days after starting I started getting minor headaches, which persisted for a few days, so my derm told me to go off accutane and see an opthalmologist to look at my optic discs, and to check for papiledema. Everything was fine. (I had no visual disturbances, but derm wanted to be on the safe side). Went back on accutane on 40mg/day. It started working real good, but started getting headaches again. Again not severe headaches, bu enough to bother me (I am a student). I have stopped taking accutane. Has anyone experienced anything similar. And is pseudotumor cerebri the only cause for headaches with accutane use. I really want to go back on accutane, but dont want to risk something as serious as the pseudo tumor.

al - 02/25/00 22:53:09
My Email:al
Age: usa
Country: usa

Comments:
I started accutane a few weeks back at 60mg/day (I weigh 140 lbs). A few days after starting I started getting minor headaches, which persisted for a few days, so my derm told me to go off accutane and see an opthalmologist to look at my optic discs, and to check for papiledema. Everything was fine. (I had no visual disturbances, but derm wanted to be on the safe side). Went back on accutane on 40mg/day. It started working real good, but started getting headaches again. Again not severe headaches, bu enough to bother me (I am a student). I have stopped taking accutane. Has anyone experienced anything similar. And is pseudotumor cerebri the only cause for headaches with accutane use. I really want to go back on accutane, but dont want to risk something as serious as the pseudo tumor.

Dave - 02/25/00 22:42:09
My Email:the@krackon.freeserve.co.uk
Age: 28
Gender: male
Country: England

Comments:
Hallo everyone. I stopped Roaccuatne mid December. Since then I have only had in total 2 spots that required 'zapping'. I had a 14 week course of 75mg a day. My dermatologist - Dr B. - was very pleased with my progress. My triglyceride levels increas d and my protein levels dropped so I had to watch my diet for a while. My spots were more like pussy piples but they had developed a resistance to Tetracycline which had previously proved very effective, so I decided to take the plunge and have another c urse of Roaccutane. I was previously prescribed the drug back in 1995. On both occasions I used E45 Dermatological cream on my cheeks and neck to moisturise the skin. For the person with the kissing problem, I used a vanilla lip balm, (my girlfriend at the time never complained), I found the Superdrug one to be the best buy, kept in my back pocket it was always smooth to apply as bodyheat kept it malleable. Hope this helps Good luck everyone Dave.

rebecca - 02/25/00 21:40:13
My Email:ralevin@aol.com
Age: 24
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
Hi, I am a little nervous, so I was hoping someone could put my mind at ease. I am going away in a week, and I really want to look my best. For the first time ever I got a cortizone injection in a cyst. I heard there is a chance this can cause an inde tation in my skin. I am so worried about this. Could some of you who have experience with these injections let me know about your experience with them. I am on week 7 of accutane. 40 mg/once a day. I can't wait until I stop breaking out. I have mild acne, but the once I have are deep! Thank you so much for your help. I wish everyone success!!!!!!!

Greg - 02/25/00 18:12:06
Age: 29
Gender: Male
Country: USA

Comments:
Well, my first 2 weeks of accutane were excellen.Besides the slight redness(which I think actually evened out my skin tone fom previous breakouts) I had limited side effects. Maybe my lips were a little dry, but carmex fixed that.Now going into my 3rd wee ,today I am having a horrible skin day. D'OH! I am breaking out in several places with some small cysts.Actually it is bad enough I almost didnt come into work. But anyway, I will not lose faith and hope that this is a sign of the accutane working. I mea it has to be, my skin is nowhere near as oily as it was when I first started. So just letting others know who are breaking out on accutane,that you are not alone and this seems to be the process for most people. Good luck to all. And F-Jackie!

Lisa - 02/25/00 18:02:26
My Email:llbrown@omm.com
Age: 30
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
First of all - to LAURIE: About that cyst under your eye on your cheekbone. I had the same exact thing happen to me and my dermatologist injected it with cortizone. It went down in a day or two. It left an indention in my skin for a few weeks (a side ffect of having a cortizone injection), but the indentation was gone within a month. I would suggest you talk to your dermatologist about that. Well, it has been several months since I have posted on this board. I completed my course of accutante in September. My oil has returned, but not to the degree it was prior to accutane. I have had one or two small pimples pop up, but other than that, m skin looks great. Just thought I'd give you guys some encouragement. Take care. Lisa

Sabrina - 02/25/00 15:31:01
My Email:sabrinastinson@mindspring.com
Age: 28
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
I took the entire treatment for accutane, but I still have huge cyst. Should I go back to the Dr. or try and treat it with an over the counter item. I just hate to keep going back to the Dr.

Anna - 02/25/00 15:14:14
My Email:akhill@udel.edu
Age: 19
Country: USA

Comments:
Hey All! Long time no write! I'm well into my second week of Accutane and things are clearing up great!!! Even the stubborn side of my face has cleared!! What's left now is those annoying red spots, but those are very easily covered with makeup - my skin hasnt looked this good in ages. TO AL - I did have a breakout about 5 days ago(day 13), but all the zits cleared in about 3 days, and I (knock on wood) havent had any since - hope this helps!!!

Marcus - 02/25/00 14:33:26
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: u.k

Comments:
Dan, you must have read my post wrong! I didn’t mention anything about a link between accutane & D.H.T in any shape or form! What I said was that if the same hormone that is responsible for hair loss is also responsible for acne (as someone suggested last week) why don’t we try taking supplements that block this hormone, then in theory we should have no more acne right!

amy - 02/25/00 13:23:14
My Email:BabyTrixie12@aol.com
Age: 20
Country: u.s.a

Comments:
Hello there...does anyone have any recommendations for a good moisterizer? i've never really had to use one till i started accutane...i'm very reluctant since they always seemed to make me break out. Any suggestions are much appreciated. Thankx!

KM - 02/25/00 12:04:30
My Email:sir_vv@hotmail.com
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi everybody... (hi dr. nick!) To answer the previous question about the initial breakout. I have this theory that a large part of the reason for this breakout is the fact that most of us who go on roaccutane do so after a significant period of taking ant biotics. I reckon that most of us then immediately stop taking these antibiotics once we start roaccutane, and next thing you know you're getting feckin terrible breakouts and infections. The antibiotics have stopped working (cos you're not taking them!) nd the roaccutane has yet to start working... it's the worst kind of limbo there is!! Of course there may be other reasons to do with the accutane function in the skin, but I'll leave those explanations to the medics and/or HGPig!! General update.. 2 days into week 5 now. Things are going ok. I have one (just 1!) spot on my face today, but it's not a very nice one. I really didn't need it today for a very good reason which I won't go into. I still have the redness from previous scars and a general red face All in all I can't complain too much. I have my first blood test since starting RoA on Monday and to tell you the truth I am a bit worried. I drank like an thirsty alcoholic fish last weekend. .. one day for 10 hours non-stop (special occasion.. doesn't happen every weekend). I didn't eat anything the whole time and feel I gave my liver an absolute battering. Not good. Hope that my blood fat levels are not gonna be all messed up. And I will probably be in a situation this weekend where I will take a few rinks. i don't want to be taken off this drug. Have to go now.. wishing everyone well. Slainte, KM

Al - 02/25/00 11:47:03
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hello once again everybody,

Comments:
here's my opinion on depression and accutane.... I think it only happens to people who either take too strong of a prescription, and/or for too long and/or they are prone to depression. for example if one of your parents maybe also grandparents suffered from some type of depression then you are more prone to it than people with no traces of depression in their family. Therefore when you take accutane your "proneness" to depression kicks in. Anyway thats my opinion. I haven't really looked at studies of this type. But I have no opinion on wether certain people should take it or not. Thats up to whoever is considering it.

val - 02/25/00 09:15:02
Age: 21
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
day 365. kidding... week 8 ,60mg/day. the normal side effects. lips skin dry. itchy face sometimes. no redness, but that's probably because im hispanic and skin doesn't get red really. ive never really had acne on any other part of my body, but my fac . maybe a very little bit on my back, but that went away completely after first 2 wks of treatment. mine is cystic along the jawline and basically the rest of my face is mild. my acne started after my first year of college. so its been about 3 yrs. but i went first on doxicyclyne for 1 month did nothing so i started minocycline 50mgs. which worked very well but it came back after a few months so i tried it again and did nothing ... so i started on minocycline 100mg about a year ago and it worked great hen came back and tried it again in september and 2 months later after not much improvement i decided to ask for accutane. so i started it in beginning of january so now its basically 2 months. didn't have a major breakout. i did have a mild one aroun week 4 or 5, and it was weird because it was not cystic pimples and it was in parts of my face where i never really had acne (right cheek, and forehead). along my jawline the old cystic ones are almost all gone. There are marks along jawline and i hope they start going away soon. i can't wait to be completely acne free. have been good about not drinking. school is really stressful so that doesn't help. but i feel im improving a bit, its a little too gradual to call it a miracle drug, but i understan that it may take a while longer to start seeing major improvements. my confidence level in highschool was roaring compared to now. this has been the dryest season of my life when it comes to women. I can't wait to get back in the game! im quite opti istic about this drug ive heard mostly good things about it and my brother took it and it worked for him 3 or 4 yrs ago. he's geting some acne again but definately not as bad as before. he had it worse than me because it was his back and chest and fac . when i was little like 11 or 12 i started to realise how lucky i was in so many ways: my family is the best, wasn't poor (definately not well off otherwise i would have insurance), people liked me for who i was, cute girls found me attractive, school was ine, etc. My life i thought was too good, and i was afraid that sooner or later somehting really bad was gonna happen because if God was fair then how could i have such a good life and other people suffer so much all around the world. That went on from hen i was 11 or 12 until about when my acne came. Then i thought... "Its my turn to suffer i guess" and i did. But now I realise that acne is nothing compared to what some people go thru. i am still really lucky, because my family is the same, my personality is the same, people like me, i have food, shelter, all that stu f. the only thing that is missing is the female species. and thats the only reason i think why acne bothers me. otherwise who gives a rats ass!!!! Im even more lucky because im able to take this drug and have hope that this condition will go away and 'll be able to boost my self esteem up again so i can land a girl. I wish i wasn't so superficial like everyone else. Thats why after i get married to the perfect girl (when im like 40) i'll move back to my country and live among the Mayans who are the most humble people in the world and enjoy the simple pleasures. But now i live in a material world and im a material gir . no im a boy, but you know what i mean. thats all for now. i'll uptdate later on my condition. take care, keep it clean (under the nose).

- 02/25/00 07:14:35

Comments:
I love Pantene too...'cept I use the revitalising formula for coloured hair...

Dan - 02/25/00 06:11:27
My Email:tee2green24@yahoo.com
Age: 25
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
marcus..... regarding your post about DHT and hair loss. i'm not sure about the link between DHT and accutane (not affirming of doubting it), but i do know from previous research that the reason some steroids cause hair loss is due to the excess testost rone converting to DHT in the scalp. i also know that some steriod users use a shampo designed to treat dandruff to prevent/lessen hair loss while on a cycle. so, if the hair loss caused by accutane is from DHT, then this shampoo should also work to pre ent this. the name of this shampoo is nizoral. it was only available by prescription, but i do believe there's not an otc version of it (although it's not as strong as the prescription version). could be worth a try. D

Chris - 02/25/00 05:49:44
Age: 21
Gender: Male

Comments:
My biggest regret is not going on accutane earlier. It has removed all the blackheads and i havent had a pimple on my face for 3 months. The only thing is i have real slight scarring (large pores) that makes my complexion look a bit funny. But accutane ha improved this greatly. I have lost lots of layers of skin so i think this is improving the scars.
I cant wait to get off it, the side-effects havent been bad at all, but im sick of the redness. I havent been moisturising that much because i enjoy the peeling (its improving my complexion)
I finish in 3 weeks. Ill keep you posted.

Bye

HGPig to Everyone..

Subject....hair - 02/25/00 05:23:22

Comments:
Dry hair? I have found that Pantene Pro-V for Normal hair works well for myself, with Pantene Pro-V Daily Conditioner. My hair is nice and soft. Best to you HGPig

MeliSsa - 02/25/00 04:50:58
My Email:mestiza81@hotmail.com
Age: 18

Comments:
howdy doody i have moderate acne ( my dermo thinks i hav stage 3 acne....what exactly does taht mean? he sad its the stage just befoer the really really bad acne) .and have been on so many different types of medicine....minomycin, diane 35 etc...and topical products never seem to work for me. jsut also last year i was on septrin forte but decided to stop taking it. it did work for me but i was on it for so long...i switched from taking 2 pills a day to just one. so now i decided to just go on roaccutane, hopefullyl ttaht will end my acne once and for all. i just hope it wont't come back again, it shouldnt. has it been proven if there are any permanent side effcts? i heard u should wait 3 years after taking roacc if u want to hav kids....shouldnt the drug b out of ur systtem by tehn? this is scaring me. would it b possible that after u've stopped taking accutane , and u decide to hav kids.....could it b deformed st l? is it ok to take an AHA lotin taht has vit A, C and E while on accutane? thanx.....

MeliSsa - 02/25/00 04:11:50
My Email:mestiza81@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: female
Country: australia

Comments:
can sumone pls tell me if there is some kind of chatroom where i can talk to otehr ppl who are on accutane? thanx

lisa - 02/25/00 04:10:06
My Email:cookie613@aol.com

Comments:
can someone please email me about how can zinc affect the redness in the face... does it work, how much should i take??????? please answwer

- 02/25/00 03:40:14

Comments:
I have been both sincere...and patient...

- 02/25/00 03:20:42

Comments:
the logic is irrefutable...

- 02/25/00 03:20:34

Comments:
the logic is irrefutable...

- 02/25/00 03:19:50

Comments:
the logic is irrefutable...

HGPig to Christian and Everyone... - 02/25/00 03:07:11

Comments:
Every course of isotretinoin (oral vitamin A acid) I have taken, has brought me absolute remission. Your chemistry, (I believe the blood chemistry), I believe is the root of whether it again manifests itself. Right now my skin is very pure, but I have ha so many courses (all done with blood tests monitoring etc.,) that I have lost count. I am a demanding individual bottom line, and I believe oral vitamin A acid is in reality safer than antibiotics. Furthermore, I compete in "top line" competition, and ith these demands, accutane has had no negative effects upon my constitiution, none at all!!

This complete nonsense about side effects, I have posted before. The reason why products WITH JUST AS MANY WARNINGS, such as aspirin (pregnancy and Reyes etc ,) , Pepto Bismol, monoxidil, are all OVER THE COUNTER, is there is no single patent hold on these products, and are universally produced. There is a reverse function at work here. If the demand for a product falls, where a company cannot make huge prof ts (the inflated cost is protected under the prescription guise, and hence the pharmaceutical company has to have liability protection.......but note how the OTC products with all there similar warnings, can bypass this, by THE USE OF A "BACK OF THE BOTTL DISCLAMER WARNING"!!!!) Note how when Persa Gel (a form of benzoyl peroxide) became known as similar to most of the other OTC benz. peroxides, IT BECAME A OTC PRODUCT, IT WAS ORIGINALLY PRESCRIPTION ONLY!!!!!!!!!!! This is due to insufficient "profit-p escription" function.

So in a round about way, my answer is that do not become euphoric about acne, or any other complextion manifestation never returning, after a second, third, or fourth course. I believe a low SELF CONTROLLED dosage, liken unto a pirin self administered by heart patients, is the real solution. If the reader has been sincere, and understanding to the above, the logic is irrefutable. Best to all HGPig

dawn - 02/25/00 01:41:01
My Email:cgran95806@aol.com
Age: 38
Gender: female
Country: usa

Comments:
I have not started on accutane, my problem has always been acne, always on antibiotics 4/ever! Now this year i've been diagnosed as having acne rosacea which is worse than just acne. I might have an ulcer which means i have to take care of that b/4 i st rt on accutane. To those females who want to cover their red marks Neutrogena makes a green stick that looks like a lipstick that you apply on your red spots b/4 you put your makeup, it works wonderful to cover the red marks! Neutrogena also makes a wond rful foundation in a cream type that you can apply with your fingers its like a compact makeup. Well hopes this info helps someone! if anyone has taken accutane for rosacea acne please let me know. Well good luck to everyone. My sister took accutane 1y ar ago for acne rosacea she did bad for the 1st. 3 months and then her skin cleared up wonderfully, but after being off for about 2 months it came back. so she started on it again for 3 months and she's been great for about a year. so it works just have o have faith!

MM - 02/25/00 01:05:19
Age: 16

Comments:
I was wondering if anyone who took accutane for 6 months had the acne return within 2 weeks. Thats what happened to me and my derm is putting me on a lotion and retin-a but not back on accutane. It worked well while I was on it and i was clear ffrom mont 3 on but now its coming back. Also, i was wondering if anyone who swims has successfully used retin-a w/o serious drying. Tahnks

Ricky - 02/25/00 00:23:03

Comments:
After taking accutane does the redness start fading away cause thats what my doctor said

to AL and HGPIG - 02/24/00 22:39:21
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
thanks AL for responding. i don't know whats wrong with my email. but please keep posting your progress on this site. if it works for you, i will strongly consider going on accutane. HGPIG thanks for being a supportive person. every pos tive advice given on this site is a blessing. kennedy

Marcus - 02/24/00 22:36:02
My Email:marcus.stacey@virgin.net
Age: 22
Country: u.k

Comments:
Rianne hi glad to hear your going through a good spell! The apple cider vinegar seems to be helping! After the first few applications my skin got a little worse, but I expected this as it’s first action is to bring up all the crap from deep in your skin to the surface before kicking it’s ass! I’m having a small outbreak at the moment (three spots) but I’m putting this down to the fact that I’ve caught the flu or something! I’ve been doing some research on vinegar! Firstly I’ve found out that the vinegar puts the acidity back into your skin tha soaps and other cleansing agents strip (this can contribute to excess bacteria on your skin) Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a hair rinse for dandruff! At some point last week someone said that acne and hair loss are caused by the same Hormone, (D.H.T.). This got me thinking; there are some supplements that can block this hormone therefore stopping any further hair loss so maybe it would work the same way on acne! Supplements that block D.H.T (Zinc taken with B.6 & and Saw palmetto a herb) I already take the zinc & B.6 and I’m going to pick up some saw palmetto soon, the problem is I need some other people to try this as my acne is practically nothing at the moment so I wont be able to give a fair report as to whether or not it helps! Rianne how are you getting along with the vinegar?

Rianne - 02/24/00 21:35:24

Comments:
"Just Me" - I've just tried again I still can't figure out how to get into the chat room! Help! Love Rianne.

Rianne - 02/24/00 21:23:38
Age: 34
Gender: Female

Comments:
Hiya Jules! You mentioned about Retin A and if it improves acne scarring. I used Retin A for over a year for scarring and YES it does help if the scars are not too deep. You may remember from one of my previous postings that I said I'd sat in the sun f r a short time while I was using the Retin A and it gave me the equivalent of a chemical peel! I was like a lobster for days and then the skin just peeled off in chunks. Ouch! I looked good when it settled down though! (this is NOT a recommendation!! I accidentally "burnt" myself really. I suppose I hadn't realised just how strong Retin A was) Anyway, good luck Jules. Lisa who wrote about the zinc. I think the idea of zinc is really to help cure the acne and not the redness. It could help the red ess - but I'm not sure. At the moment I'm taking 3 x 25mg. zinc tablets per day and they seem to be helping my skin spot-wise. The 4% Eryacne gel is still helping keep down the spots but I daren't stop taking the Minocin MR (2 x 100mg. per day). The Mi ocin doesn't work 100% for me but the antibiotic gel seems to work along with it well. BUT my skin is still soooooo oily and I know that I'm nowhere near out of the woods yet. Jasmine, how are you doing with the Skinoren cream? Rob (RL) please let me k ow how you're getting along with the azelaic acid? Has anyone out there had any luck with something called MD Formulations? (It's some kind of skin regime, supposed to help acne and scars. They have a web-site) Marcus, how are you doing? Are you okay (the cider vinegar "face wash" is good!) "Just Me" - I'm going to have another try at your website later - I'll have to look into the archives now for the details. HGPig, I have your diet details here in front of me (from earlier postings that I printed out - I printed off all the stuff I needed when we went through the stage of some of our postings mysteriously disappearing!!) and I'm following some of your suggestions. For Karin Helfmann who wrote - can you tell me what supplement you took for the liv r? I take milkthistle daily but also have liver tonic herbs. Maybe I should be more vigilant with taking the liver tonic herbs - maybe they would help with the acne too. I'm still waiting for an appointment with the Chinese herb specialist & hoping tha may do the trick, especially with the oil problem. For "Just Me" (again!) - I should really keep taking the Natrium Mur (homepathic remedy) regularly, instead of just when I remember to! Do you think it would help more if I did that? I was thinking of etting some of those pore cleansing strips because my pores seem sooooo blocked with all the oil my skin throws out. Fish, how are you?? Anyway, lots of love, luck and thanks to all my mates out there. Rianne.

Christian - 02/24/00 18:10:34
Age: 29
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
First off Hello to everyone who has contributed to this page. Together we stand! I read through tons of your stories and believe you to be beautiful on the inside and well as the outside. My question is specifically to people who have taken accutane mo e than once. I know accutane clears the face when you are on it(i have experienced the miracle first hand) but how long does that miracle last? If you have been on accutune twice and have experienced long lasting success please tell me about it. I have a derm appointment soon and have to make the decision to take a second course. I took accutane a year and a half ago, but a mild to moderate acne has returned. Will the second course free me for life or be just a temporary cure? Thank you so much for po tings, I can relate to each and everyone of you. May you all be blessed with the realization that you are beautiful inside and out. May your self-esteem return and flourish. Thank you for in advance for your replies to my question. Christian

Cip - 02/24/00 18:07:24
Age: 26
Gender: female
Country: US

Comments:
To "R" age 15--I think many of us on this board know what it feels like to be picked on because of acne. You are not alone. Many of those people with clear skin may eventually get acne as adults, if that makes you feel any better. I've never had good skin I can remember by first BAD pimple when I was 11 and I've had it ever since. But there are a lot of myths about acne and oily skin. Washing your face 5 times a day won't help you, it may actually make things worse, twice a day is fine. I think the best t ing is get your parents to bring you to a dermatologist because there are perscription washes and medications that may not cure your acne, but may keep it under control. Good luck.

Christian - 02/24/00 17:07:25
Age: 29
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
Dear Mr.PIG, thank you for the words of encouragment regarding the the second course of accutane. Have you taken it twice, if so were you happy with the results. Thank you for your imput. Best of luck! Christian

Greg - 02/24/00 16:56:38
Age: 29
Gender: Male
Country: USA

Comments:
***To AL*** I totally agree with you about the severity of mild acne. While it didnt seem horrible while I had it,after 10 yrs of having it,my face is somewhat scared in certain places. I am finally taking accutane(on my 3rd week) and if this works I will be extremel happy about it, but feel as if some of the best years of my life may have been taken away due to acne.It is the worst self esteem killer on the planet. So anyway good luck to all. P.S. I need a good light,non greasy moisterizer and sunscreen for my face,any suggestions?

KM - 02/24/00 16:38:04
My Email:sir_vv@hotmail.com
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hello everyone. Al, about the E45 lotion: I bought it too but have to say that I very rarely use it. I got Aqueous Cream from the chemist and I wash at night with that and also apply some to wherever I might get dry b4 I go to bed. Then in the morning I a ply some Vaseline Intensive Care for Problem Dry skin to those areas of my face which might need it. Have to say that so far dry skin has not been a problem for me, touch wood. The E45 lotion/Neutrogena lotion (I have both): I will use them every now and hen on any other areas of my bod if I need them. Just telling you all my methods. The redness on my face I don't really attribute to dry skin, it's more a kind of 'flushed' look... to do with blood flow perhaps?? I'm not sure. Anyway... I really hope that everyone is doing well out there. Slainte, KM.

MeliSsa - 02/24/00 16:29:30
My Email:mestiza81@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: female
Country: australia

Comments:
is it safe to use vitamin e cream on ur face while taking roaccutane? or how about vit A creams?

Beth - 02/24/00 15:52:08
My Email:b_buckwalter@acad.fandm.edu
Age: 44
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
To HGPIG......thanks so much for the response and comments concerning my 15 year old daughter, and to LINDSEY Z. for your remarks about being on a maintenance dose. I totally agree with you, HGPIG..there could be a "low dose" version of Accutane out ther to buy over the counter and millions would be helped! I think I'm going to stongly request my daughter be put on a maintenance course when we go to the derm next week...I think she needs something extra to get her through these hormonal adolescent years I know she responds well to the medication because her skin was beautiful after a 5 month course, it just isn't lasting since she came off of it in December. Lindsey, would you be willing to e-mail me and let me know what doctor (and where you live) wa kind enough to allow you to be on a long-term maintenance dose? Thanks again for all the help! Beth

Ivan - 02/24/00 15:39:10
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: Country

Comments:
Hi again, I'm still looking for information on the oral isotretinton called NIMEGEN. It's a cheaper alternative to the popular accutane but that is all I know about it.(I'm running low on cash which explains my interest in NIMEGEN) Anyone with any additio al information about Nimegen please post it on this message board. Thanks :)

Al - 02/24/00 15:10:51
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hey, I'm using E45 cream on my face and to be honest I don't find that it soothes my sore red skin - maybe my skin has'nt had time to change yet and become dry rather than red. What other products do you guys/gals recommend and has anyone used Neutrogena as t is is what my derm. suggested. Also, some people have said that Body Shop's Hemp lip balm is good - any reason why this is better than other such as Vaseline which I'm using now (although I can't help feeling it is a bit industrial-like if you know what mean).

Comments:
Hi. I would like to thank everyone for emailing me. Especially Al and Amae. Thanks guys. Love ya, bye.~~~Jay

Al - 02/24/00 09:40:26
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi there, To Kenny07 - thought I may be able to advise - my email to you bounced back and this may interest to others anyway!

Comments:
**** KAREN DOMINOE **** (Awesome last name) You and I have very similar experiences. I am also 22 and finishing my 3rd month of Accutane (80mg/day). I am extremely pleased with my treatment so far. My skin looks beautiful and I have had minimal side ef ects. I wish you the best of luck with the rest of your treatment. **** PIG **** Glad to see you are sticking with your diet and also helping others. ~Amae

HGPig to Christian - 02/24/00 05:33:14

Comments:
Second. third, fourth, course etc., Second course very common, I'd go for it. Side effects? If you have acne, then you have them. Acne is a side effect in itself. If it were me, I'd choose course two. best to you HGPig

and...HGPig to Kennedy and Lindsey - 02/24/00 05:23:07

Comments:
Kennedy, I would not delay too long, you do not want scarring.

Lindsey, I agree totally. "Wisdom is vindicated by Her children" Best to you both HGPig

To " j " age 16 - 02/24/00 05:17:57

Comments:
Your doctor was your friend, your freind indeed. Instead of letting you suffer the protracted constant antibotic "trial and error", he cut right to the quick. Isotretinoin, a vitamin A analog, is multifunctional, and modulates the actual epidermal layer s) itself. This is "mechanical", and brings about, for the most, more dramatic results. Count your blessings, and best to you. HGPig

R - 02/24/00 04:41:15
Age: 15
Gender: male
Country: Usa

Comments:
hi, this page is great...i have acne but im not on any medication...at school there are some people that all ways pick on me and say that i have acne and stuff like that....and they say stuff like i duno what soap means...those things really hurt and i wa h my face only about 5 times a day and its starting to get better....thank you

Joane - 02/24/00 03:22:59
My Email:zoobee@worldnet.att

Comments:


melissa - 02/24/00 03:22:05
My Email:mestiza81@hotmail.com
Age: 18
Gender: female
Country: australia

Comments:
hoy!! hey everyone i'm just about to start on roaccutane. I have a few questions I hope anyone of you can answer for me. >Firstly, what difficulties hav u expereinced while on this medication? Would there be any permanent side effects? Does anyone know of a good moisturiser or sunscreen? If so could u pls tell me what u >use? I heard u can burn easily in the sun. Does this reduce the >medicine’s effectiveness? Becoz i’m actually trying to get a >tan...heheh > has anyone experreinced hair problems?? i heard it can make ur hair fall out...my hair is already fine. >I have read about some ppl who have permanent irritated skin while >on it, and also suffering from red marks and cysts. > >is it true that it can interfere with ur fertility? becoz i am only >18 this wories me a great deal. would u know when it would b safe to >becme pregnant after thereapy? how long does it take to get >completely out of ur system? > >Do your eyes become dry? Becoz I wear contacts and am afraid I wont >b able to wear them anymore. if anyone could pls email me back withntheir experiences i'd greatly appreciate it. thaanx mel > >

Lindsey Z. - 02/24/00 03:10:25
My Email:LZgrneyes@aol.com
Age: 21
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I am a 21/f, who has been on Accutane treatments on and off since I was 15. I have had nothing but good experiences with the drug. Although it is unknown what the long term affects are, I felt that some chapped lips was a small price to pay for a clear ace, and not having to wash my hair three times a day. I will admit that I did not have cystic acne and probably should never have been given Accutane, but it has brought nothing but good things to my life. I take 60mg three times a week now as a mainte ance therapy. My acne always comes back right away after ending the 6-month treatments.

HGPig Confessions ans Observations - 02/24/00 01:50:57

Comments:
To the lady with the 15 year old daughter, I hear you. If it were myself, I would go with a lower dose for as long as it takes to prevent even the oily look. We are kindred spirits here.

My diet I may have been a little lazy. However, I am eating uper healthy. Tonight I had a terrific spaghetti dinner, smothered with hot cooked red bell peppers, green onions, cut sliced tomatoes mixed with Prego Mushroom Pasta as sauce. I also had a banana, and red grape juice on the side. (And I had a very ver large portion). I do have Accutane here as a safety....which brings me to the next subject...

Look at your common OTC medications, they all have warnings. Look at your common aspirin and it's accompanied warnings, or your Pepto Bismal, or even cert in vitamins. The bottom line is most everything can be abused, yet we are denied the choice of accutane at will. The process itself can be more abusive than the warnings. Even aspirin there is the warning of taking it 6 months into pregnancy. I guaran ee you that Vitamin A Oral Acid (isotretinoin) can be marketed OTC in low dose form (eg 10-15mg, and 90% of the population would never again suffer from this, or the frustration of denied or slow access, or constant "needle to the arm" testing. Remember M noxidil? Notice how suddenly it became OTC (over the counter), YET THE WARNINGS ARE STILL ACCOMPANIED WITH THE PRODUCT. And all these are "safer" than alcohol. Yet we can be trusted with "the common." Mom, I'm on your side, but the monopoly leeches on serving the few at the expense (expense "big time") of many. Look in the "medicine" cabinet, I tell the truth. Best to you, and especially to the mom with the beautiful 15 year old, but not to the ignorant. HGPig

Laurie - 02/24/00 01:16:43
My Email:Katshe2@msn.com
Age: 36
Gender: Female
Country: US

Comments:
For one year I have had a cystic type acne spot below my eye (bone area). I'm not sure what type it is but it is about the size of pea, under my skin. It seems to drain clear sometimes but always fills back up. I am tired of having the lump sticking ou of my face. Please help what can I do to get rid of this? Thank you

j - 02/24/00 01:04:40
Age: 16
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
I would just like to say hello and thank you to all of the people who have taken time to post on this board. It has really helped me out alot. I know that alot of people come to read about other's experiences, so I have decided I should share mine. I h ve been on accutane 17 days. I am taking 60 mg per day (I weigh 135 pounds). I had stage 3 acne when I started the treatment (even though it looked cystic to me). At first I thought the doctor who prescribed me the accutaine wasmy best friend, because e prescribed it the first time I vsited him 5 minutes into the appointment. I realize know that he was wrong in doing so, accutaine takes much more consideration. I had only heard of it through a cousin, whos acne had completely cleared. Being an impat ent teenage boy, I immediately wanted on the drug. I am glad I got on it though. A week into the treatment my face broke out horribly, but was cleared up completely in another week, so don't worry. I have had dry skin and lips, but they have become man gable. I carry chapstik medicated and Eucerin lotion w/ me every where I go and in the evenings I apply vaseline. The derm told me 3 months for the accutaine to work; however, I have only five zits and it has been less than three months. I haven't real y been depressed, and joint pain has been very mild (I run track and weightlift). I hope this helped

Lisa - 02/23/00 23:52:57
My Email:cookie613@aol.com

Comments:
Well, I was reading this site about a few weeks ago and someone said it was good to take zinc supplements to reduce the redness in the face. is that true... will someobdy please email and tell me what the deal is with the zinc pills.. thanx

kennedy07 - 02/23/00 23:26:27
My Email:tomato_heart@yahoo.com
Age: 20
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
hi AL. i totally understand what you're saying. i have had moderate acne for a while and all my dermis have been prescribing are topical solutions that do nothing for my persistant acne that refuse to go away. i've never been on accutane but am etting really desparate even though i'm very afraid of the horrible side effects. i heard that the medication makes your hair thin and fall out, ,chapping, your body ache, and it destroys your liver. please email me about your progress. thanks accutane may be my only hope.

Dia - 02/23/00 23:13:05
My Email:APlehigh@aol.com
Age: 25
Gender: Female
Country: USA

Comments:
It's time to add my story to this web site. I have been reading different postings for the last two months in hope of trying to find out some new things to help my acne. I am a 25 year old female and I have been suffering from acne since I was 16. It got progressively worse as I got older, especially after I went off the birth control pill for a few years. I do have a hereditary link to acne problems through my half-sis er and aunt, both of whom suffered from acne, although their conditions were less severe than my condition. I am about a month away from taking what will be my 4th course of Accutane. I want to give people out there hope- most conditions are not like mine and Accutane does work for a lot of people. The third course actually worked to clear up the acne on my back, shoulders, and chest, all of which have not come back yet, and it's been 2 years since my last Accutane treatment. For some people, acne is hormonal, caused by androgens that are radically converted in the body to testosterone which in turn, causes the acne. There are suppressive drug therapies for such horomonal imbalances, such as spironolactone. They may or may n t work for some people. I have been depressed for the last month b/c my skin has broken out again with a horrible vengence. It not only looks bad, but hurts. Aren't you supposed to be done with acne by age 25? I guess I just wanted to add my tid bit. I will keep posting once I am back on the Accutane. For all of you on it, hang in there - it does work!

Jules - 02/23/00 22:43:08
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Country: England

Comments:
Progress - 10 and a half weeks into treatment and I am still totally clear. I think I am cured this time, at least for a few more years! Looking forward to collecting my last months supply of pills soon. What a relief that will be! My experience of Roaccutane has been a very good one. It has only ever done good things for me - even the breakout was minimal for me. My acne was mainly on the shoulders, but I also got annoying spots on my face, which were becoming all too frequent agai . When in my teens I had acne on my face, back, shoulders and chest. Luckily it only scarred on my shoulders, which was where it was most severe. I have really began to notice a great reduction in the appearance of these scars. They have really began to s ooth out (they were pitted). Apparently this is because Accutane increases the skins ability to produce collegen - or so I read on this site! When I have finished the course, I may wait a while and then try Retin A on my shoulders to continue this "smoothing process". Is that what retin A does? I don't know much about it. I'm not expecting to have to use anything on my skin to prevent the acne, the accutane should work for ages, like the first time. Still have dry lips, but am now using Carmex. Had a bout of conjunctivitous a while back, but that seems to be gone now. My eyes don't seem to be so dry anymore. Hi to GW, Fish, Rianne, Jasmine, Pig, Denny and Aussie Anon. Bye Our Chicken man has bottled it again!

Phil - 02/23/00 20:34:12
Age: 32
Gender: male
Country: UK

Comments:
Roaccutaine. Be very careful with secondary infections with this stuff. I finished a 6-month course (40mg a day) in october '98, just having the usual side effects of dry skin/lips, nothing severe. While I was run-down, I caught an ordinary cold, that is, ordinary for everyone else. I had it three times as bad, and it targetted the ears and throat, leaving me with tonsilitis for the next 18 months. Finally, after a year of constant throat/gland problems, I've had my tonsils removed. Ouch. My ENT specialist said that my tonsils did not like the 'roaccutane experience', and at that point 6 months into the course, it just needed something like a cold to get this sort of thing going. Obviously, its sheer coincidence that roaccutane has immune-system bashing pro erties....

Christian - 02/23/00 20:28:34
Age: 29
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
Hi, I have gone through a course of accutane about a year and a half ago. The acne has returned. It has always been mild to moderate and a killer of self-esteem. I have the option of taking a second course of accutane but want to know if the results wi l be more permanant the second time around. Have any of you had a second course of accutane and been pleased with long lasting results? Please share!

Karen Dominoe - 02/23/00 17:56:05
My Email:kdominoe@sdmm.ns.ca
Age: 22
Gender: Female
Country: Canada

Comments:
I have been on accutane for 3 months now. When I first started I was scared of all the side effects that may or may not happen. So far so good. I have had dry lips and skin, but that's easy to fix with chapstick and moisturizer (cortate cream). I have tried all kinds of creams and gels, and for over 6 years I was on minocin. My doctor took me off because he believed I was not responding to it anymore. After seeing what happens when I was off the minocin I was really worried I would never get ri of the acne problem. Problem solved I hope. I visited the dermatologist today and got a clean bill of health. Everything is going along great and I only have to take accutane for 2 more months. I have see great improvements. But honestly, it was so gradual, that when I look in the mirror I wonder why I was always spending so much time looking at my face. Not anymore. I can't wait until I am done. Accutane has been the best. I know that some people have had bad side effects, so it is not for everyone. But I am sure glad I am on it. It will be a big relief.

Karen Dominoe - 02/23/00 17:32:30
My Email:kdominoe@sdmm.ns.ca
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: Canada

Comments:


Al - 02/23/00 16:47:57
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi all,

Comments:
Hi all,

Comments:
O most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, blessed mother of the Son of God- Immaculate virgin assist me in m necessity. O Star of the Sea- help me- and show me herein you are my mother. O Holy Mary- mother of God- Queen of Heaven and Earth- I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart tosuccour me in my necessiry (make request) there are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my mother- Oh Mary- concieved without sin- pray for us who have recourse to thee( Say 3X) Sweet Mother I place this cause in your hands (Say 3x) SAY THIS PRAYER FOR 3 DAYS- IT MUST BE PUBLISHED!!

candice - 02/23/00 16:14:54
Age: 27
Gender: female
Country: uk

Comments:
Hi Al - Thanks for the advice. Would appreciate if you could keep me posted of any other side effects you experience. Thanks again candice.

Jay - 02/23/00 11:52:54

Comments:
hi. i am going to france on a school trip of mine and was wondering if accutane is sold their. if so, how much for the shiznit. thanks a BuNdLe.

Anne - 02/23/00 09:33:09
Gender: female
Country: Australia

Comments:
A final report from, well probably. I'm just finishing 5 months on 2 x 20mg/day. This was for rosacea, not acne. But it was VERY successful. My skin is clear and smooth (although dry). Hasn't been like this for 10 years or more. So keep perservering if th dryness and joint pain gets you down (those were the main side effects I experienced).And my best tip (which I read about on this page 5 months ago: Elizabeth Arden Lip Protectant Stick ($AUS 28.00) and when things are really awful in the lip area "Advan an cream" which needs a doctors prescription in Australia.Good luck to you all!!!!

Rini - 02/23/00 08:16:19
My Email:missrini@hotmail.com
Age: 27
Gender: Female
Country: Australia

Comments:
Well, nearing the end of my Accutane treatment and my story is a very positive one. I can hardly remember what it is like to have pimples! I just have beautiful, smooth, glowing, flawless skin and have had since about the 5th week of treatment. I tell y u, this drug has practically changed my life. Sure, I had some minor side effects (blood noses, dry skin....still VERY dry lips!), but they are nothing compared to the joy I now experience with my beautiful skin. This is how nature intended me to be.... t just took science to get me there :) Good luck to everyone and keep smiling!

andi - 02/23/00 05:56:09
My Email:starla8@aol.com
Age: 19
Country: us

Comments:
hello, hello. i'm almost at week 8 and at this time i've been at 80mg for 4 weeks. i believe i'm starting to clear which i hope to god is true because i don't think i can deal with another break out. i wanted to add a little personal experience about depr ssion. as someone who has suffered a few bouts of depression and has a predisposition to it, that accutane has made me feel the anxious, nervousness that i felt when i was depressed. i believe that many people who are accusing this drug of depressing them actually just cannot believe their acne has gotten so bad that they've had to take such a drastic measure as accutane, or sometimes people are affected emotionally when they just don't feel comfortable taking certain medications. good luck to all.

Chineseherblady - 02/23/00 04:52:34
My Email:Thanks to Gillian for fixing up the web page
Age: 36
Gender: feminine
Country: U S of A, California

Comments:
Hi karin helfmann, In case you may be interested in looking into needymeds.com Depending on your situation you may be able to get assistance. I think you derm would also have to participate. Someone mentioned this site along time ago, I am just trying to keep it alive. Is your derm that you have now the same derm you had years ago. Just wondering because my first derm prescribed Accutane to me back in approx 1991 (and Accutane worked for me then). My second derm in 1998 thought I was a definite candidate for Accutane nd I took it for the 5 months (just like the first time) and it did not work at all for me). But I know the feeling of how it worked the first time and anyone who is willing to give it a second shot should. I have since been taking Chinese Herbs and the are working wonderfully.Back in 1991 I broke out into severe cystic acne after stopping the birth control pill after taking it for about 5 years. At the time I did not make the connection but I never did go back on the pill because it causes depression or me.

karin helfmann - 02/23/00 03:45:31
My Email:mangolove@mindspring.com
Age: 34
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
I am a 34 year old female who has been dealing with acne almost my entire life. I had the awful, painful cystic acne all through highschool and endured the painful process of extractions at the hands of my dermatologist, you know, where they take a scalp l or some other sharp instrument and dig the cyst out, or they inject it with some sort of steroid. Anyway, I had to beg to go on Accutane, and this was after being on antibiotics for a very long time (and that causes a whole host of other problems). My experience on Accutane was not so bad. I was on a 6 month course and it seemed to clear me up pretty well (I took it 10 years ago). I also took it in the summertime, so I did not deal with all of the peeling and redness of the skin-- I recommend that ov r wintertime to avoid excessive dryness. About 5 years ago my acne came back with a vengeance, and not having much money for a dermatologist I chose going the "natural" route. A chiropractor told me that acne was caused by an unhealthy liver, and that m ne was most definetely ubhealthy due to all of the drugs I had taken to treat the acne...I began taking a supplement for the liver/gallbladder amd it seemed to really work for 6 months or so. Lately, over the past year or so, my acne has been so bad that it has made me so depressed and really undermined my self esteem. Back to the dermatologist i went ready to demand Accutane--she said that would be a last resortbecause a) it is very expensive (i do not have insurance) and b) it is really toxic to the sy tem. I was put on antibiotics and a diutetic called sporonalactone, along with topical gels...oh, and Alesse, a birth control pill. The doctor also said that acne like I had at my age was all related to hormones. The antibiotc (Dynacin) made me VERY di zy and strange feeling and the diuretic gave ne heartburn and messed with my bloodsuger--i felt on the verge of collapsing from hunger constantly. I persevered with the topical stuff and the birth control pill and my skin has cleared up 100% I also use Tea Tree Oil facial soap and Oil of Olay Complete face lotion with sunscreen which does not cause breakouts. I believe in the connection of good skin and clean liver, but I also know that women in their thirties deal with hormaonal acne all of the time nd hormone therapy can really help alot. This is a great site, I only wish I had found it in my days of despair before the clear up. One other thing, Accutane can cause some pretty severe, sometimes irreversible depression, which in the long run is much worse than a bad case of acne. Anyone who is considering it as a treatment should try every alternative first.

- 02/23/00 03:38:32

Comments:
hiiiiiii...well i've been on acutane for 3 monthes now...still no results...i've had to take a 3 week break from it because my liver enzymes were up so high...but thankfully i'll be able to go back on it again now that the livers back to norm. derm. is go ng to give me a lower dosage so maybe i'll be able to finish out the course. my question is this: has anyone not cleared up until the last weeks of treatment? i'm really scared cuz it seems that everyone has cleared up around month 3...help! is it normal o not have any improvement at this stage? thanx a lot

kennedy - 02/23/00 03:22:35
Age: 20
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
hello. my skin has been getting worse and worse. i got so frustrated that i started picking which is a really terrible idea. the spots are healing now but they are turning brown. please can someone recommend a way to get rid of the brown spots f st. thanks.

sjeff - 02/23/00 00:35:49
My Email:vantmas@hotmail.com
Age: 17
Gender: male
Country: usa

Comments:
hey all, been on accutane for almost 3months, starting at 40 and bumping it every 20 days or so, now i am at 80 mg's a day. Up to about 2 weeks ago i was breaking out HORRIBLY, worse then i ever have before accutane. It was a pure nightmare and i admit to using my mom's toner/skin color makeup it was getting that bad. In the last two weeks it is cleared up to where i have two pimples left on my face, and only one new one in the last week. It is the greatest feeling in the world, and I dont resent brea ing out because now i know i can handle almost anything and makes a clear face that much more great. I am happier and more alive and confident. Except for the red spots/face, everything is fine. The message here is everyone hang in there, your accutane will come around and work wonders in due time, and when it does it feels GREAT!

Darlene - 02/23/00 00:32:13
Age: 32

Comments:
Hi, I was on Accutane last year. I'm still getting some acne and was wondering if any of the ladies here had success with the oral contraceptive Diane-35? I would appreciate any feedback. Thank!

Anoynomous - 02/23/00 00:27:46

Comments:
Hello all. I have been off Accutane for a good month or so and was wondering; which is the better maintinance, Retin-A Cream, or Diferin Gel. My derm prescribed me Retin-A but I am still breaking out. Please give me advice on what to do. Thankyou.

Megan - 02/22/00 20:38:54
My Email:daystar@bigpond.com
Age: 24
Gender: Female
Country: Australia

Comments:
FOR APPLE: and anyone who wants to respond What kind of dosage were you on? I'm not sure whether you might have read my last post because everything has gone to the archives. But I've been suffering from a severe outbreak of acne since about December, having never had any problems(the odd spot) efore. I'm on Diane-35 and minocycline 200mg a day which was prescribed by my GP, I'm going to see a dermatologist on Friday and would really appreciate some advice as I'm quite scared about going onto Roaccutane and things getting a lot worse. On the o her hand I do want to go on it if it means a definate end to these problems. Can someone please give me some advice. Thanks

Apple - 02/22/00 17:53:40
Gender: Female
Country: Singapore

Comments:
I have moderate acne problem and I am on Roac for the 4th weeks now. In the first 2 weeks.... my face had a major breakout which constrain me from going out to meet people. Well, it's not that bad but I have never seen my face so red and swollen...especia ly those part with painful pus in them... mostly on my chin. One thing I got to say is : Don't Ever Use Dalacin, Differen Gel/ Lotion or any product which will dry up your face!!!!! It's because those product will make dry up your face natural moist and y u will end up with flaky complexion. On the 3rd week, after seeing my derm. He decided to put me off a week to heal those breakout. Guess what! It did help.... The redness reduced and I had no further acne growth. I think it doesn't mean that you got to take the medication continuosly... At irst, I was scare to start Roac again as I was afraid of the breakout which might happened... because I had a few interviews and I want to look presentable. I have my wish... as after taking it for about 3 days... my face is still fine with only two or th ee small spots... so until now venturing into the oncoming days... I am determine that Roac does help in a way.... Anyway... I still have the bad habit of picking the spot.... but it's okay when I stop b4 bleeding. As far as I can say.. I do enjoy the fee ing without oily complexion throughout the day. My makeup has never stay so well on my face until I tried Roac. Thank God for this miracle pill. To everyone... best of luck....

Denny - 02/22/00 17:10:36

Comments:
HI!, To the person who keeps posting that ACCUTANE AND DEPRESION stuff...SHUT UP. People with zits are miserable to begin with. ACCUTANE gives us hope, so go back to feeding old people you dummy...

Beth - 02/22/00 17:01:52
Age: 44
Gender: female
Country: USA

Comments:
To Daniel...Thanks for your reply...I will see what our derm says next week. As I said, it is heartbreaking to think of my daughter having to go through this acne suffering again after she got a taste of the 'clear-skinned' life! She was on Accutane for 20 weeks at 60 mg. a day, and her skin began to improve at about 12 weeks, becoming completely clear by the end of the course(end of December). Now she is getting very oily and breaking out.....no big cyst-type things yet, but I want to nip this in the b d as quickly as possible. Anyone else going back for a second course or taking a maintenance dose? She is 15, and has only been off the accutane for 2 months. After seeing how great she looked at the end of her course, I certainly didn't expect to see a ne returning so quickly! Thanks for the help.

Jeraj - 02/22/00 16:18:35
My Email:Jeraj@gmx.at
Age: 25
Gender: male
Country: Austria

Comments:
Hi everyone! Week 1, Day 1 of my Accutane treatment, just took the first pills and am kinda scared. It's planned to go on for 6 months, with 80mg per day (80kgs), blood tests every month. I took my time thinking about it (good four months), read a lot of postings in the forum (thanks), and plan to share now and then how I fare with this drug. Although m acne sure isn't the worst, it is moderate on face and chest, and severe on the back. Cystic and scarring. Tried a lot of other treatments before (not all, never tried herbs), nothing did work for me. I've somewhat learned to live with it, through, so whe ever my concerns about possible side effects (just like now) are nagging on me, I keep telling myself that I can stop (or reduce the dose) at any time. My derm gave me something for lips and skin, I'll hope that works. Nonetheless, if you made some good experience with any products, email them to me pls (yes, I've read through almost all the forum, and seen quite a few, but, if you can spare the min or t o, share with me what helped you.) Took the precaustion of telling some friends that I could tend to be depressive going on that treatment, hope they'll help me if this occurs. I expect the first month to be the worst (acne & side-effects), hoping it will ease off afterwards. Well, we'll see. Greetings to all & everyone, and thanks to those who send me suggestions. Take care, Jeraj

Yangas - 02/22/00 13:42:23
My Email:bulls_43@hotmail.com
Age: 17
Country: australia

Comments:
Hey all i have completed roac about 5 weeks ago. the only problem that face me is the red scarrs!!! do these go away??? if so how long and what can i do to help it plz i need an answer plz email me at bulls_43@hotmail.com

- 02/22/00 13:11:43

Comments:
fUNNY THAT AS SOON AS NEGATIVE REPORTS ON ACCUTANE ARE ON THE BOARD...THEY DISAPPEAR INTO THE "ARCHIVES"...QUITE INSIDIOUS

KM - 02/22/00 13:04:29
My Email:sir_vv@hotmail.com
Age: 22
Gender: male
Country: UK

Comments:
Al: the itching should subside with time. It's 4 weeks tomorrow since I started, and I've noticed that some of the side effects are not as bad as they once were. examples: dandruff was fairly bad but not so much now. Dry eyes for a while... bought some ey drops but I haven't used them in a week. The lips and dry skin will still be there, but they can be controlled. This may seem like a big headed question, please don't take it as that... can anyone tell me what is the best thing for putting on 'dry roaccu ane lips' for kissing?!! I don't want to use anything gooey like vaseline or carmex cos my girlfriend would definitely notice that. Any suggestions posted to the board would be much appreciated. Thanks, good luck to all, KM

Al - 02/22/00 12:28:34
Age: 23
Gender: Male
Country: UK

Comments:
Hi,

Comments:
hi! I've had the acne problem since my teens and went through stages of heavy outbreaks which cleared up with antibiotics. I've presently got a mild but persistant acne problem with heaps of scarring. I've been on antibiotics on and off for 6 years and continusly for the past year. My derm has recommended roacutane and I'm due to start a 4 month course on the 1st of March. I as wondering if anyone could advise me if it was worth it for mild acne. Thanks a ton

M. Skourli - 02/22/00 08:31:19
My Email:mskourli@hotmail.com
Age: 26
Gender: female
Country: Greece

Comments:
I guess I was one of the "minority" who suffered the rare side effects of roaccutane. Only after a few days after taking it, I started having kind of ...behaviour problems, such as panic, being afraid etc. I used to take two pills a day and despite the f ct that the doctor reduced the dose, the problem became even worse. I stopped roaccutane at once and went to a psychiatrist. No reason to describe the feelings I had all these days...even now, they're kind of frightening to me!

The Archives, Home
All pages are copyright (c) 1997,1998,1999,2000 Gillian Chinn

---

This page hosted by Get your own Free Home Page