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Hi All~ I have a REALLY important question. I read an earlier post that said something about Accutane causing optic nerve damage. I am on Accutane and I had never heard of that side effect until I read that earlier post today. I was a little worried because my doctor told me last week at my yearly physical that he saw a dark spot on the optic disc of my left eye. Does anyone know if Accutane causes this and if so what are the effects? I might just be paranoid but i just thought it was strange someone mentioned it. I have yet to go to an opthamologist (spelling?) but I have an appointment next week. Just wondering if anyone knows if this is from Accutane or just something else....thanks :)

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ya i agree with the other person...... you never want to wish death upon a person, wether u have acne or not. look, everyone on this board has acne..... hell ive on 120mg of accutane a day, what does that say about me? but u cant let it get to you, i mea i just got back from partying with my friends on a FRIDAY NIGHT. u cant stay in your house forever, becasue then you let the acne win. when u give up on life and dont care anymore, youve let acne win. i hope you find the strength to get over this; cer ainly other people on this board have, and probably are having fun this very instant.

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That's disgusting. I had severe cystic acne for over 14 years before I tried accutane and I would never wish for God to take someone elses life so I could have clear skin. I would go through hell for any one of my close family, nothing, including acne, ould change that. You need to wake up. I realize that acne can be depressing and hurtful to you, but it can be dealt with better than you are doing. You are here on this board which is obviously a request for some support, that's great! But try to cool ff and keep a level head... acne is something that can be dealt with, don't let the man get you down.

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Life is just a waste of time for me. How can ANYONE tell me to go out and enjoy life and make friends when I live in a superficial city like Toronto. Life sucks 10000000%. People with clear skin have NO idea what it feels like to have red marks, scars and burned skin on their face. I hate my complexion. I hate to have to sit at home for 6 out of the 7 days of the week at home. I wonder back and forth from the washroom to the living room what seems to be one trillion times a day. I can't help but think that my scars and burned skin on my face is GOD's curse to me for being who I am. Thanks all mighty one from above. Yet still I always try to keep you in my heart. I'll be staying at home until Wednesday when I have to leave to go to summer school. I wonder, i going to school going to be helpful when I go to a job interview when my face is so ugly. Dear GOD, please take away my scars and burned skin and give me heart cancer, lung cancer, AIDS, brain damage, tuberculosis, liver disease, or take away my sisters ife or grandmothers life. If this is what it takes to give me clear skin, go for it. I can't go on living with this complexion of mine. It has taken away my teenager years which are supposed to be the best years of ones life. Being free to hang around wit friends and go to friends houses and hang out, go downstairs and play basketball with all of the kids from the neighbourhood, these years are all gone, I have NO memories of my past except for looking in the mirror and wanting to kill the person staring ack at me in the mirror. Tears come to my eyes as I write this because I know that this very nice summer here in Toronto is going to be another waste in my life. I can't handle these feelings of ugliness, they are not feelings of lonliness, but quite simp y of ugliness. When my sisters friends come over, they always try to cheer me up, but I know, because I'm not stupid that THEY ONLY FEEL SORRY FOR ME. They have never in 5 years asked me to hang around with them. They only talk to me for 5-10 minutes, alw ys staring at my face like I am some sort of freak and then they say bye we are going to go hang out. Well, enough tears for me. Goodnight. Enjoy another Friday.

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Well i have just bought some vitamin E cream now, so hopefully that will help after seeing some of you reccomend it for healing the skin.

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To people wondering about oily skin post Accutane: I'm not sure if this is correct or not, but my derm said dry skin is a side effect of the drug while you take it, not a permanent effect; he said oil levels go back to normal after treatment--this does n t mean acne will return.

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I am using accutane but am seeing no results only. i am spending all this money and nothing has happened for the past couple month. I heard about a new product called Proactiv Solutions. I would like to know if anybody has any information on that product. It is said to work miracles and have heard nothing but good things about that product can someone help me what i should consider doing about using Acctane and about this Proactiv Product.

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i have been on roaccutane 1 month and although the leaflet specifies that u should not sunbathe and drink alcohol. I however would like to know what are the risks involved for someone who is considering going on holiday and sunbathjing whilst drinking reg larly to get drunk at weekends. I am young 22 yrs old find it difficult with the summer on its way.

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I just thought I'd let you know about a side effect of Accutane that I had experienced. One of the side effects is calcium depletion, which I experienced. I had severe back pain for the five months I was on the medication, which was when I was 18. My doctor told me to take 4 ibuprofen 4 times a day, which led to stomach problems. My boyfriend at the time had to rub my back every night because I was in such pain. At the time the medicine se med like a miracle because I wasn't supposed to break out bad ever again they said. However, it has been six years and I now have problems with acne again and it has been going on for a couple of years now. And I still have severe back pain occasionally I have scarring because of the high dose I was on. I didn't have scars before the medication. So now I am seeing a new dermatologist and starting all over again. But I won't take accutane again. I have mixed feelings about it.

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Hi, I need to ask a question on roaccutane. My dermatologist insists on my using roaccutane. But,I read that one of the side effects of roaccutane is the damage on the optic nerve. I had optic neuritis 3 years ago and I am diagnosed as MS 4 months ago. Ha anyone have a similar experience? Any comments are welcome. Regards, May

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Dear Ross, You said that swimming does not help the skin. I was wondering, I'm talking about swimming in the swimming pool with the chlorene, perhaps you're talking about the ocean. I heard that the chlorene helps the skin dry and peel if you do it 1 hour a day or s mething like that and you keep doing it for about a month and then it helps the skin. Isn't this right? I'm on accutane as well.

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I've been reading this site for approx 2 weeks now and it's been a great help. There's alot of geniune nice people out there. I've had acne on and off for 6 years now. I'm on Roaccutane now (2nd time) i'm in week 12 of 16. Not long now!! My acne has cle red up well although i do have a couple of small spots left on one cheek. I've been reading about Vitamin 'E' cream for the face to reduce red marks and smooth the skin. Is this true and if so what is the best type to buy. And should i use this after Ro ccutane course has finished. Good Luck everyone, i know how mentally damaging this horrible disease is. But stick in and you will beat it. Promise. Bye John.

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well i used to swim before(before i was on accutane), and yes chlorene makes your skin really dry... that's why i liked it then, cos my face would stay nice and normal for an hour at least... but now i REFUSE to swim! i only take 20mg a day but it's still kinda dry... in the mornings they're flaky and stuff.

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Dear Ross, You said that swimming does not help the skin. I was wondering, I'm talking about swimming in the swimming pool with the chlorene, perhaps you're talking about the ocean. I heard that the chlorene helps the skin dry and peel if you do it 1 hour a day or s mething like that and you keep doing it for about a month and then it helps the skin. Isn't this right? I'm on accutane as well.

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Hi everyone. Tomorrow I will have benn on Roacc for two weeks, and so so far I can't really tell much difference. In fact I think it's just got worse in the last few days, since I have developed quite a few really deep pustules...gross!!! My skin is a ittle dry, but becasue I was on retin a before it actually seems a little less dry on my face, though my lips are drying out a bit. To the person who was asking if swimming reduced red marks, well, not in my experience. I swim three to four times a week and i haven't noticed any difference. Also, I seem to have developed a rash on my arms, which I am guessing has to do with the roa c. Am I right? Just another question: On Monday night I went out but instead of drinking alcohol I drank water, but managed to get through about 10 pints of it. When I got home I actually felt drunk, and thought I was going to die or something. My he d just felt awful. Can anyone explain this? Thanx guys!

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Mine came back and for a couple months was quite worse. I've lessened it now with a lot of supplements, but my skin seemed to be more oily

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To D from Australia - from what I've read, if it does come back it's never quite so bad as it was before.

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Hello there :) I've been on a full course of roaccutane, yep seemed like ages! I had fairly good results. My "moderate"(bad) acne was cured, and I was fully dried up. Although I am still recovering, (3months after my last dose) from scarring, red mark etc, and I still get the occassional smaller pimple (damn), I was pleased with the results. Okay, that was for those people having trouble deciding to go on roaccutane, but to the point, I was going to say that it is only now that my skin has become a l ttle greasy once more. I am naturally scared of this, as it brings back memories of what I was like before :( Is this a sign of returning horrible acne, or is it just that my skin has been so dry for so long? I am only 17, is there a chance it won't com back as it used to be. Damn hard questions, but any help would be great. Thanks :) Denis

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Hi everyone, can u tell me, what should i do to get rid of red mark, a bit of pigmentation? what is the good products, what supplements etc etc...im really envy ppl who have a really smooth,white and brighter skin. all info are welcome and appreciated

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Hey there- I haven't been to this site in a couple of months, so I thought I would drop a note. I'm into my third month and I swear ACCUTANE IS A MIRACLE DRUG!!! My skin is unbelievably smooth and haven't had a spot in a while. It took me forever to finally go on this drug... if you are at all considering... JUST DO IT!! The side effects are minimal and for myself they included dry skin, lips, etc. The first couple of weeks I had mild headaches, but the derm just lowered my dosage and it has worked out fine ever since! Trust me on this one.

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Hi. I was surfing the net and happened to find this wonderufl site. Ive suffered from acne for four years now and have tried EVERYTHING! Ive used informercial products, retin-a, benzoyl, and various types of antibiotics. Reading all of the responses to ro ccutane, it seems like a miracle and thats exactly what I need. I planning on seeing my skin doc tomorrow to see if Im right for this treatment. I just wanted to know more about the side effects besides dry skin, which I love b/c I have extremely oily ski . ( my skin feels like someone has sprayed my face with a can of cooking oil by the end of the day) Im a little concerned about the stuff on depression, and suicide. Im really interrested in accutane so please respond and give me more info! Thanks. P.S. y u can write me at my e-mail as well

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Update.. been on accuatne for 4 1/2 months at 80mg a day. Face has no zits. however, red spots are a problem and don't like to fade. So for the past couple weeks i have tried many ways to kill the bastards. Putting retin-a on them didn't do a whole lot (j st dries your face out more, so you shed more skin) but red spots still remain. Ordered reconstruction cream and I would say that it decreased redness by only 10-20%. What I am doing now is laying out in the sun!!! Yes the forbidden sun with no sun block! I figure that by getting a tan it would even out my complexion so i started just laying out directly in the sun for 5 minutes, than 10 minutes, I am all the way up to 13 minutes with no burn or injury. Skin is slightly red, but it seems to be the most ef ective solution so far. Will keep on doing this. Kind of nice, get a tan in half the time cause skin is so sensitive :)

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I always intended to post a message here after my course of Roaccutane. A year after my six month treatment I have no real spots and my skin is still very gradually improving (though I’ve just started to get a few blackheads on my nose, which is tedious). I only have one point to make, and that is that I strongly suspect the general consensus of guestbooks like these does not reflect the experience of the majority of Roaccutane users. By all accounts my experience was about average, however the reported p oblems with the drug caused me much worry when deliberating about taking the treatment. I just want to try to alleviate the undoubtedly excessive fears of people considering taking the drug, or possibly those of their parents who have heard about the terr ble side effects that have been associated with Roaccutane. There’s no point telling you about my personal experiences with the drug. All I want to say is just think about the numbing idiocy of allowing something to continue to destroy your personality and happiness because of the fear of an extremely unlikely bad reaction to Roaccutane and then getting in a car every day. For what it’s worth, I don’t think it at all likely that Roaccutane is a sufficient cause for suicide, whereas acne obviously is.

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I always intended to post a message here after my course of Roaccutane. A year after my six month treatment I have no real spots and my skin is still very gradually improving (though I’ve just started to get a few blackheads on my nose, which is tedious). I only have one point to make, and that is that I strongly suspect the general consensus of guestbooks like these does not reflect the experience of the majority of Roaccutane users. By all accounts my experience was about average, however the reported p oblems with the drug caused me much worry when deliberating about taking the treatment. I just want to try to alleviate the undoubtedly excessive fears of people considering taking the drug, or possibly those of their parents who have heard about the terr ble side effects that have been associated with Roaccutane. There’s no point telling you about my personal experiences with the drug. All I want to say is just think about the numbing idiocy of allowing something to continue to destroy your personality and happiness because of the fear of an extremely unlikely bad reaction to Roaccutane and then getting in a car every day. For what it’s worth, I don’t think it at all likely that Roaccutane is a sufficient cause for suicide, whereas acne obviously is.

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hi everyone! i have been on accutane for 7 weeks now and all the pimples/zits have cleared(well i just have one and thats a little one). anyway what i wanted to say is has anyone else had to take blood tests while taking accutane? i have had to take then and for my la t blood test the results came back abnormal for the liver function test, they said not to worry and get a re-test but i havent been back yet. has this happened to anyone else? should i worry about it? i dont wanna be taken off accutane yet cause its going so good!!!!!! EVERYONE who this has happened to please respond or email me, please. One more thing before i go is accutane seems to work for like 90%(maybe more) people so why dont they put people on it earlier so they dont get all this scaring and stuff??? although all the pimples have cleared up on my face i still have these redish ble ishes...are these scares or will they go? im only 17 which i would have though was too young to have scaring but i have had acne(not too server) since i was about 14 y/o. Ok thats all thanks for listening, BYE

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Kevin, Glad to hear you are giving the supplements a try. They should make a dramatic difference on your blood test. The reason I did not mention calcium is because I have not experienced any soreness, aches or stiffness. If these symptoms develop, I will try th calcium as well. However, for now I have only experienced slightly dry eyes and very dry lips.

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Hey Will

I'll have to try those supplements. As I mentioned in my previous posts, my derm prescribed me 1000 IU of vitamin E to deal with the side effects of accutane, as well as 1200 mg of calcium a day to help deal with sore muscles and sore back, so you may wa t to try that also. I'm going to pick up those supplements you mentioned and give them a try.

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I was wondering, since I'm on accutane, is it too much to put vitamin E all over my face (not too much, but just a thin layer of it) each night? Is it okay to use this each night even though I'm on accutane. Its not too greasy for accutane, is it? In the ornings I'll just use my normal creams. Well, thanks. I'll mostly put it on my scars since I heard that its good for you. Thanks, by the way, if anyone wants to go swimming in the pool, indoors or outdoors, my derm said that its okay, as long as you wash our face with water afterwards since chlorene in the pool will be irritating on accutane skin if not washed off afterwards. Thanks, could someone please just write me a quick answer on my question. Thanks. And also, isn't the vitamin too greasy on the pil ow. Won't you have to change the sheet on the pillow afterwards because it's going to be all greasy? Well, take care and be PATIENT with accutane. I'm on week 7 now.

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Hi again,

Ive been off roacutane for over a month now, and over the past couple of weeks i have had no new spots (well a very small one that cleared up quick). One of the big spots is nearly cleared up now and I am pleased with this. My skin is pretty smooth now, b t now the problem is I have a lot of open pores on my face as well as a few scarrings.

Is there anything I can do about these? My derm said I could take a Chemical Peel, but im not seeing her till september which is still a while away. Would that help me? Also how much does it cost?

Ok, in the meanwhile do you think it would just start clearing up on its own or should is there something i can buy that can help the healing? Please help!!

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Just wanted to let everyone know that I am now at the end of week 5 of my 80mg per day Accutane treatment and my skin is completely clear over my entire body. It has been that way since week 3. Anyway, I wanted to tell you about a couple of supplements th t everyone should consider absolutely essential while on Accutane. Trust me, your doctor won't tell you about these, but you want to be on them. I narrowed down on these three supplements after about 1 month of solid research and phone calls. Here they ar in a list: 1) Vitamin E: Every source I have come accross indicates that 800-1000 mg per day of Vit. E while on Accutane dramatically reduces the side effects. Not only will it reduce eye irritation, but one study showed that it also lowered blood lipid levels while on Accutane. 2)Milk Thistle Extract: Milk Thistle is an herb that contains a chemical called Silymarin. Silymarin has been shown to support natural liver funcion. In fact it has been shown to maintain normal liver function even under the most stressful of conditions. t was actually shown in one study to help clear toxins from the liver. This is a must on Accutane since it is very liver toxic. Take 800mg per day of Milk Thistle for every 80mg of Accutane. Also, continue taking the supplement for at least one month afte stopping the drug. 3)N-Acytl Cysteine (NAC): NAC is the precursor to the powerfull antioxidant Gluthionine. Gluthionine is an essential antioxidant that your body produces to protect your liver and kidneys. This antioxidant is absolutley essential during Accutane treatment. Take 600mg per day for an Accutane dose of 80mg. Again, continue taking the NAC for at least one month after stopping Accutane. I can honestly say that after my first blood test (3 weeks into treatment), my lipid values were actually below my baseline readings. My doctor told me that he had never seen this happen to anyone on Accutane, especially 80 mg. I completely attribute thes results to the above three supplements.

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ooh, there are lotions too? well retin-a cream is made by "cilag"... it's like a switzerland company i think...

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Are a sore throat and stuffed-up nose some of the possible side effects of accutane, or have I just come down with a head cold? Thanks.

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sorry, i forgot something. does anybody know the name of the company that makes retin-a?

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has anyone used retin-a lotion. i have tried the gel and cream also but only the lotion worked and now i can't get it. sorry for being annoying but i am desperate for any information. thanks

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well when i first went to my derm she gave me some minocin and retin-a cream too... it didn't work for me much but what she said it does is that it peels off the acne or wahtever... it didn't seem to work for me, so i complained and asked for roaccutane.. anyway, people, i take 20mg a day. isn't that too little???

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does anyone know anything about retin-a LOTION. I used it two years ago and it was brillant.i can't get it any more. i am now using diffirin but skin is still really crap. PLEASE CAN ANYONE TELL ME ANYTHING ABOUT THE RETIN A .I AM DESPERATE FOR ANY INFO. THANKS

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Hi there everyone! Well...it's official, I am finally going on Roaccutane (probably tomorrow morning). And to be honest, I'm not really quite sure what to expect. Of course, I've heard ALL the horror stories but, I just simply want my condition cured!!! Since late primary school...I started to have mild acne, which fluctuated on and off in high school. Although I do not have severe acne, it is enough to bother me. Considering my career path is modelling, clear skin is one of the MUST HAVES...besides, I w nt it cured anyway! :) So...wish me luck...I'll keep you posted! P.S. I think sites like this are really emcouraging for those suffering from acne...good for you!! :P

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i was on roaccuatane over a year ago, and my skin is generally quite good - just like any other 17 1/2 yr old girls, apart from the scaring, which is more obvious at times than others. the only time i began to get worried about a relapse is when i went o the pill, but after the initial adjustment period, my skin is fine. personally, i found roaccutane to be a NIGHTMARE, BUT I AM SO GLAD I DID IT! Good luck to everyone here!!!

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Hi, Just wanted to say. I use Pure Vitamin E Oil on my face and it was majorly red, I used it every night and my reddness did fade alot, It is also very good for the scars. From my own personal experience. Roxanne

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If you're on accutane, I would recommend just using a cream and not vitamin E on the face because vitamin E is just too greasy for now. Just stay on accutane and use a cream. When you're off of accutane use vitamin E. Let accutane dry your face up so that it renews. Vitamin E will just make your face too greasy. What does everybody think of this idea. I know that applying vitamin E on the face is excellent for helping redness and helping smooth scars, red marks and uneven skin, but use this after your accu ane treatment, right??????????????????????????

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hey, i finished my 5 month course of accutane about two weeks ago..i was on 40mg..i weigh 125 pounds, about. the oil is already starting to come back bad, but the derm said not to bother with anything for another 2 months at least. i havent begun to brea out yet, but im sure i will at the rate the oil is returning. dont know what to do, i feel like i wasted 5 months of my life taking this drug because i was on too low of a dosage! sigh

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wow i have to thank all of you for giving me hope of life,i am going through the same i am with like withdrawn,loss of friends,no confidance,people tease you,and cant stand up to them!

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Hi everybody! I've been reading all of your posts and I can understand completely with about everything everyone has said. I am currently on my third round of accutane. My acne has been fairly mild since my last round 2 1/2 years ago but my doctor didn t know of another drug to put me on to clear my skin up so he suggested we try the accutane one more time. I am doing a very high dose for 4 months. 120mg a day to be exact. It has really helped. I'm in week 6 and I have one very small pimple on my fa e. For those of you going through this just keep it up it does help. I have a very aggressive form of acne so it has taken a lot of work to get to the point I'm at now. Just a few pieces of advice...don't pick your lips (I do it and my lips looks terri le), get some vaseline for the inside of your nose because the nosebleeds are not fun, and a great moisterizer for your face is Neutragena Intensive Day Moisturizer. There is also a Neutragena night cream. Good stuff for your lips is Lip Medex by Bliste . Well, good luck to everybody and if you want to talk or ask questions feel free to email me.

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well my derm told me applying vitamin e helps scars go away... and if it doesn't work for me she said i could get a surgery when i'm older. anyway, i tried aloe vera today, so get the scars go away but i'm currently on roaccutane... should i work on getti g rid of scars AFTEr roaccutane, or start now?

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HELLO EVERYONE!!! It's been soooo long since I last posted, but I've been reading as often as possible to see how you lot are getting on. I just wanted to touch base really. It's been 6 weeks since I finished Roaccutane and my skin is fantastic! I'm so pl ased with the results and if my skin ever got bad again, I wouldn't hesitate to take Roacc’ all over again. The only advice I can give to anyone taking Roaccutane or about to start...It works! It takes time and I saw very little in the way of definite pos tive results until about week 14/15. Use a good moisturiser – I used E45. Use a good lip balm – I used Vaseline and Carmex. Drink loads of water – rehydrate your skin from the drying effects of the drug. Listen to your body! If you feel unwell, depressed, or suffer any unpleasant side-effects – then STOP TAKING IT! It’s that simple. I was willing to take the very minimal risk and suffered just the dry lips and skin – but I think everyone gets those. So I’m one happy customer. Any questions or queries, just give me a shout. RIANNE, JULES, MARCUS, JASMINE – Big love and kisses to you guys – Always FISHxx

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Neosporin is good to lessen the appearance of red marks (not redness on the entire face, the cream is thick so don't put in all over your face) I have these red marks (about 10) on each cheeck that I will apply neosporin to so that these marks lessen in a pearance before they become scars, I'm also on accutane. Capish.

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c'mon guys. i think it's alright to drink. drink. i've been on roacc for almost 6 mths now and i've been drinking. sometimes way too much... red wine, whisky, countless shots of tequila, vodka, etc etc... if i do suffer from hangovers it's no different fr m the ones i got before i was on roacc. *hic*

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*Rick* My doc told me that as long as you didn't overdo it, alcohol consumption is OK. Of course, I don't recommend it. Something about the way accutane dries you out will give you the absolute WORST hangover you've ever had!! And this is after drinking only bout 4 beers the night before, I used to drink almost every weekend. So I don't think it messes with your liver much, (I could be wrong), but I'm telling ya, have the tylenol handy! :O)

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* NEOSPORIN * (For those of you who are using this) I was wondering does this help the redness to go away? How long does it take until improvment is seen? Thanks!~

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Hi! I was wondering if someone could answer a few quick questions. First, I am on 60 mg a day! I stated with 40 mg for the first two months, then got bumped up for the last three. Do you think I should be concerned that I never made it to 80 mg! Does it increase the chances that it will come back since I never took the strongest level. Also, it took until this month (5th) for my skin to get dry (and it never got that dry). Does this mean it did not take full affect till this month? Should I be conc rned? Also, does anyone know how long it takes once you finish to get accutane out of your system? I really appreciate any responses! I am so fearful that I am going to have to go through this again! It has been worth it, but not if it all comes back! !!! Thank you so much! Rebecca

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Just wondering how much I can drink on accutane. Will only be for one night. Want to make sure my liver can handle it so I dont die or anything :) Thinking 6-10 beers??? or should i cut down??

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Hello. I have a quick question...... I dont know how yall do things in England and Canada, but has anyone in the US here ever had a dermatologist physically remove big zits from your head? By god, I went to the derm yesterday and he did this, and it was ome of the worst pain Id ever felt (besides from breaking my arm, that is). Theyve healed over nicely, as he said they would because of the Accutane, but I just wondered has this happened to anyone else?

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I'm on my 6th week of accutane. I saw a commercial on this ointment called neosporin. Its supposed to really make scars disappear and look sooooooooooo much less obvious. I'm going to my derm tomorrow to get a prescription for this stuff because apparentl you need a prescription for this stuff here in Canada. For the chemical peels, trust me, ther're useless for scars and open pores. I've been there and done that. My red marks and scars are still here after about 20 peels. I'm serious. They cost $50 cdn e ch. Don't do them if you have scars and open pores. Try neosporin. I'll keep everyone posted on this stuff. OKAY.

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Does anyone know how much a chemical peel would cost in england and would it do the job or clearing scaring/open pores?

Thanks! Please answer !!

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Hi all, i'm in the same boat as you guys. I have been on up to seven different antibiotics now for the almost two years now. I have taken Minocycline, Erythromycin.......etc but not one course has even improved my acne one bit. I would just like to know i Roaccutane is proven to work, and if so how long. I have waited two years and got nowhere another 6 or 8 months is nothing. PLEASE somebody give me information also on side effects and how I can reduce the appearance of scaring. Any info is most welcome. br>

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I just finished a 4 month course and I had mild acne. It did the trick for me, but for someone with more severe acne I'm positive you'd need to be on it for longer than that. I think the regular time to be on it is 4-6 months, but it varies for everyone. But you should definitely be on it longer than 2 months. Good luck!!

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okay i forgot to say that my dermatologist told me it'll only take 6 weeks to 2 months at maximum... for everyone!! and y'all on this guestbook's saying that you've been on for 4-5 months... has any of your derms told you 2 months at max??

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Hi I've had acne since I was in 4th grade... I still have em, more than EVER, and my cheeks are full of scars and open pores... since I didn't want any more of them(oh god), I went to the dermatologist and asked for roaccutane. She offered me to take mino in first, but I just wanted to get over things as quickly as possible and now I'm on the 3rd week of roaccutane... but my skin now is TOTALLY bumpy, including my nose. My nose is now full of bumpy, rough blackheads!!! I've never had it! And on my forehead I'm getting really really tiny pimples and it's really irritating.. i've never had so many pimples at once... can somebody help? please email me. thank you

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Lee, Happy Birthday and don't give up! Things will get better and cutting your hair was probably one of the best things you could do for your skin, getting it off your face. It reminded me of a story to share. My son recently went on Accutane; he has ha acne for several years which has never really cleared and I would definitely say it is noticable. When I was in with my younger son to get his hair cut last week, I mentioned to the gal who has cut my older son's hair since his first hair cut that he wa on Accutane for his acne. And she goes "Oh, he has acne, I've never even noticed". She goes when I think of him that never would have come to mind. I almost fell over and picked my jaw up off the floor. She of all people, would have been one to notice it so it just shows others may not see you the way you think they do! I also have a teenage daughter who the boys are all smitten with and although she was blessed with beautiful skin (so far) says acne on boys doesn't bother her in the least! So don't g ve up guys.

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HI! HAS ANYONE TRIED CHEMICAL PEELS ON THEIR SKIN TO GET RID OF RED MARKS WHEN YOUR PIMPLES ARE GONE? HOW MUCH WHERE THEY? THANKS A BUNCH. KRISSY!

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Hello everyone, Im on week 2 of 80 mgs a day with good results already. I am however experiencing extreme dryness on a couple spots of my face. I use cetaphil moisturizer like 20 times a day and still am flaky and dry at the worst times..CAN anyone recommend a moisturiz r that will work all day or at least a good portion of it. All replies will be greatly appreciated. thanks all and good luck to those on this wonder drug..

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To the person wondering about post-Accutane cleansers, etc.--I've talked about this before, but I can't mention it enough--go to www.acnetreatment.com and look into the stuff offered. It's good and THOROUGHLY researched. NO OIL or comedogenic (sp?) stuf . Interesting...I talked with my derm (week 10 of 80 mgs per day) about exactly HOW Accutane works. It was my understanding that it decreased the size of the sebacious glands or destroyed them. Apparently the decrease in size is temporary and perhaps a sid effect more than the key element behind treatment. According to my derm, the role Accutane plays is merely pushing out all the comedones under the skin--just a high-powered systemic Retin-A. Acne sufferers can have comedones (the "pore pluggers") from en years prior still causing problems. Accutane simply gets rid of them. Sebacious glands should go back to normal after treatment, which ain't so great for those of us with oily skin, but without acne, it'd be a breeze. So this means people need to be VERY CAREFUL about what you put on your face post Accutane. Research extensively. Good luck...

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today is my birthday and i'm so down in the dumps. why god? i'm an adult. why do i still get really bad acne?????? i thought that i should do something good for myself and get a haircut. what a terrible terrible idea. i used to have long straight hai . now it looks like a piece of shit. i can't cover my ugly cystic face anymore because i practically have no hair!!! there is no qaulity in life. i hope i die soon.

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Post Accutane Cleanser -------- Does anyone have suggestions on a cleanser for after Roaccutane treatment. I was using Cetaphil, it was great while my skin was dry from the treatment, but now it has returned to normal and is slightly oily. Anyone?

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hi--i know that people's reactions to accutane vary from one person to another, but someone told me that the "bad before good" period can be kind of like every bit of acne you ever had comes to the surface. i am hoping that is the worst case scenario...i am wondering if i should expect breakouts in places where i have always seemed to have acne (forehead, chin, etc.) or is any part of my face/body fare game when it comes to accutane and the potential "breakout" period?

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To Julia: Yeah, my son is on 80 mg (he takes both pills at dinner time) Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays and 40mg. the rest of the week. He weighs more than you by maybe 10 pounds. He is into his third week and first comment today on how dry his skin was getting, and especially the lips. He has not suffered any terrible breakouts; rather the areas on his forehead that were bad to begin with have come to a head (which is what the derm said would happen) but the rest of his skin is actually showing some si ns of improvement already. Neosporin is really good for impetigo - it is rather greasy (the ointment) but does kill bacteria (why it's used for cuts, etc). My son fell and scraped his shoulder up pretty bad last week and what he has noticed is he thinks the accutane is keeping it from healing quickly. Was thinking of telling him to put neosporin o it. Good luck all. It's always interesting to hear what others say.

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Hello, Hope everyone is doing fine. Since I plan to go swimming and join a gym (this will be my social life), I was wondering will the cholrene in the swimming pool do good for my skin. The pool is all indoors so no need to worry about sunshine and harmful rays. I mean, will the chlorene in the pool help to dry up this red marks and "in a sense" make them lighten in colour and, dare I say, "disappear". Know what I mean.

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Saying that accutane 'definitely' is going to make your face worse before it gets better is not necessarily true. It is typical for a lot of people for that to happen, but not definite. There are also a lot of people who clear up right away and never se their skin get worse. That's what happened with me, I am on my third month and my skin was clear by the second week and stayed that way. The only thing that is really 'definite' is that accutane works different for everyone and no one can tell how you ill respond to it. You just have to try it.

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I just found these, maybe it will give hope to some of us. I am gonna try it, maybe some of you should:

BEAUTY SPELL... On a full moon, take a mirror and go outside (if ya can't then open a window, make sure the moon is reflected on the mirror) take a piece of a picture (hair, lips, eyes, whatever you are interested in changing) place it on the mirror and concentrate on it and say... "Moonshine, Starlight, let the wind carry your light, let your glow cover my body, and let your shine cover every eye." Say it 3 times and concentrate on the part that you want to change, Then say... "Moonshine, Starlight, shape and mold my body, as a rose is granted beauty, let me blossom in your light, the light that brings me beauty, and grant me beauty three times three" Say it 3 times and when you are finished light a candle (pink) or incense.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SPELL TO LOOK MAGNIFICENT... apples, snow peas, avocado, and cherries. (note: for romance: red apple; for a job interview or to make others envious, a green apple; in the arts or to make an impression in public; gold apple) Cut an apple in half horizontally and you should see the star. Visualize yourself glowing like a star. Eat half the apple, and give the rest of it as an offering, outdoors under a tree. Peel the skin off the avocado. Imagine your negative traits peeling off of you, including any negativity your mind has towards any part of yourself. Slice the fruit into 7 pieces, and remove the pit. Mash the slices into a paste, and use as a face mask. Visualize all your blemishes disappearing. Now take seven snow peas in your right hand, and 7 cherries in your left. Eat them alternately. Left hand rules the subconcious, unseen world, and the right hand rules the concious seen world, thus you are making yourself beautiful inside and out. Do this 1-3 days before you intend to strut your stuff.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR BEAUTY AND YOUTH... Rosemary and Sunflower Oils Paper and Fountainpen with Red Ink Sprig of Rosemary Glass of Springwater Dilute five dros of rosemary into one oz. of sunflower oil. Massage into hair. Close eyes and inhale the scent. Write name on paper with red ink, then dip sprig of rosemary into spring water and chant... "Dew of the sea, enhance my charms, bring love and friendship into my arms." Place paper in spring water, and remove when ink is faded. Wash the oil out of hair, using the spring water as the final rinse. Wear the sprig of rosemary for the rest of the day. Use this whenever you feel the need.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SPELLS FOR LONGEVITY... dried apricots, apples, sunflower seeds, pears, olives, and beets. Work apricots into your diet. Dried apricots and apricot juice can be effective in preventing premature heart attacks, raising vital mineral levels, and blocking formations of certain cancers. Antioxidants in olives can help prevent cancer. The rest of the foods are helpful in evoking long, healthy lives. Count out 120 sunflower seeds, and eat them at sunrise. When you eat pears or olives, imagine yourself endowed with the longevity of the trees that bore the fruit. See yourself as the tree, and visualize dropping seeds. This way you bless not only yourself, but your offspring to a long life. Rub olive or apricot oil into an apple, bite it, and visualize yourself as healthy into old age. Drink beet and apple juice, and visualize them revitalizing every cell in your body.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BEAUTY SPELL... You will need the following: 1 rose quartz six rose petals bottle of witch hazel Look at yout face in a mirror and all of its flaws. Visualise your face changing into the face you want and desire. Rub the rose quartz lightly over the problem areas and say the following: "Stone of Beauty, Stone of Love, Erase imperfection as I rub, Bring to me the face I see, As I will so mote it be!!!" Open then the bottle of witch hazel and insert the rose quartz. Take the six rose petals in your right hand and say... "Venus, One of beauty rare. I offer you these petals fair. Bless them with your loveliness and bring the beauty I request." Rub the petals over any line, wrinkle, imperfection ect. Then drop them in the witch hazel. Cap the bottle tightly and give it six good shakes a day for a week. At the end of the week, use it everyday as a toner after face washing. As you apply it say... "Imperfections, go away. Beauty of Venus, come forth this day."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TO KEEP BEAUTY FROM FADING... When all your face appears most fair, When the comets and meteors gild your hair, And in your eyes the moon and sun Contest, surrender, and burn as one, When ivory Venus smoothes your brow, And Mars recurves your lips' red bow, Make haste to utter this binding verse And hold the stars on their kindest course... "Figure of fire, That shift and change, Planets that move By heaven's hinge, Be siged and fixed Forever here, And close my image Wthin thy sphere" Measure a yard of golden string, Loose from your fingers let it swing, Then tie it in thirteen sturdy knots, Hide it among your scents and pots. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VERVAIN... For everlasting youth, this spell must be performed when the moon is full... Go outdoors and light one black candle. Take a chalice of water to which you add salt, and two spoonsful of Vervain. Mix thoroughly and dip into this water a piece of petrified wood. Pass the rock through the flame of the candle and chant... "Candle, herb, rock, water, salt, Hear me as my song is sung, Age is not my hearts desire, It is youth to which I aspire, Candle, herb, rock, water, salt." Repeat the ritual and chant seven times. As each chant is said, touch the rock in turn to first one foot, one hand, one shoulder, crown of the head, and then down the other side of the body to shoulder, hand and foot. When the spell is finished, take the rock immediately to the nearest river, beach or stream and throw it in.. Taken from "the modern herbal spellbook" by Anna Riva

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VIOLETS... Mix with milk and anoint the face, and "There is not a young Prince on earth who will not be charmed with thy beauty." According to legend..

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Hi everyone....this is my first post. I have just recently been suffering with acne for the first time in my life. After trying every treatment imagineable,I will be starting on accutane tomorrow, and I have a question about the dosage. My derm is putting me on alternating doses of 40mg one day and 80mg the next, then back to 40, and so on. Has anyone ever heard of this before? BTW, I weigh about 135lbs, does 80mg seem too high of a dose? Also, will the spots on my chest clear up? Th nks for any help you can offer.

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Has anyone on Roaccutane had trouble with paronychia (redness and pain of the nail folds, esp. toe nails)? I read about it on another site as a possible side effect and seem to have it. If anyone else had this side effect, what did you do and how long did it take to go away. Thanks :)

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I forgot to mention to everyone out there that's trying polysporin, it does help some, I used to use it a lot on my zits and scars. I find that aloe vera works pretty good too.

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To Bronxbomber, It may take up to 4-5 months to get better. As with what Arlen said, it's very very true. You'll probably break out worse than you ever have in your 1-2 month. Then it will probably just lag on looking the same. Then during your 4-5 month, it will lear up tremedusly!!! I'm halfway through my 6th month (only 19 more pills to go!!) and I didn't see any major results until almost the end of my 5th month. But now...I love my skin! (to an extent LoL) Just hang in there, because I guarentee you that you ill probably have at least 1 major breakout session. I had 3 in total. I guess it depends on how bad your acne is. Good luck!!! And NEVER EVER give up.

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To Bronxbomber, It may take up to 4-5 months to get better. As with what Arlen said, it's very very true. You'll probably break out worse than you ever have in your 1-2 month. Then it will probably just lag on looking the same. Then during your 4-5 month, it will lear up tremedusly!!! I'm halfway through my 6th month (only 19 more pills to go!!) and I didn't see any major results until almost the end of my 5th month. But now...I love my skin! (to an extent LoL) Just hang in there, because I guarentee you that you ill probably have at least 1 major breakout session. I had 3 in total. I guess it depends on how bad your acne is. Good luck!!! And NEVER EVER give up.

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To the Bronxbomber- well I can definetly tell ya that its gonna get worse, much worse, before it gets better. Im on month 4 of my accutane treatment (at 100mg a day) and its just now getting better. I know it sucks, but for the accutane to work, its gon a take a lot of time. But trust me, I can acutally start to look in the mirror again, because by god, this medicine is acutally working.

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I bought polysporin instead of neosporing, the pharmacist says its the same thing anyways. The stuff has vitamin E in it as well as other medical ingredients, etc. Its supposed to be for cuts and scrapes and infections or whatever. I'm putting it on litle scars and on red spots because its probably going to help. I'm on accutane and use others creams as well but I'll use polysporin and I'll tell everyone about it in a weeks time. OK.

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Im going on accutaine in a week. I just wanted to know if it will get worst and how worst. How long before it starts to get better. PLEASE TELL ME HOW LONG BEFORE IT STARTS TO GET BETTER. Someone please write back thank you.

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ummm isn't NEOSPORIN supposed to be for minor cuts and burns? It is the stuff people use under band-aids...so i don't know if that is really going to reduce the redness from acne. But i guess tell us all if it works...i dunno....

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Dear everyone, if you suffer from minor scarring from acne or red spots that you think will turn into scarring like me, I saw a commercial about this product called NEOSPORIN (I HOPE ITS SPELLED CORRECTLY). I'm going to go to the pharmacy to buy today. I' l keep you posted.

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For the bumps on the eyelids, try taking a wash cloth with as hot of water on it as you can stand and putting this on your eyelid a few times a day. It's supposed to make them go away faster. The derm I talked to said Accutane is not supposed to make yo tired so am surprised at all the people who list this as a side effect!

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Hi everyone. I used to be a regular on this site when I took accutane but that was about 4 months ago and I still have clear skin. In the past 4 months I have had one zit and it was so small that I was able to hide it and it was not red or anything. I sti l wash my face everyday with Phisohex and the odd time I put dalacin T on face were I used to have a lot! I don't even need makeup anymore if I don't wanna! I just wanna wish good luck to everyone! There's a cure out there and you just have to struggle! I have to go off and on accutane twice because my cholesterolw as going up all the time and when I whent off my cholesterol was going back down! Anyways...goo luck to all!

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Dear all, frankly I've given up. I had the treatment with roaccutane. Clear skin while taking the pills, but once it was over within 2-3 months back to blackheads & spots. I had side effects too. Bad back pain, tiredness & one other thing that thank god has gone - after the treatmet the blood flow to my fingers was so poor that my hands were constantly cold & my fingers would go white as with extreeme cold tempratures. Doctor said it was incurable, but it has fixed itself. I would not take the treatmet again. It didn't d any good.

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Jules, The thing is I haven't even been on accutane yet. And this is happening. As od now I am not taking anything. And haven't been for sometime. I had this about 3-4 times now. I had it about a week or two ago and now I have them appearing underneath th eye lid. They hurt. I have an appt in about 25 days hopfully this will stop, I don't want it to be an every week thing.

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hello, i wrote once before asking advice about accutane, and i was very excited that several people responded to me (thanks guys). i went to my doctor and they suggested accutane for me but i'm going away to college in a week and don't know if i could ac ually handle the side effect being alone on campus. so i asked for a strong antibiotic to hold me over till next summer, so if i wanted to try accutane i would be home. well, i got a prescription called cefadroxil. in about 2 days my skin was absolutel perfect. people came up to me with perfectly clear skin and told me they wished they had my skin (ironic huh?). what scares a little is that eventually i will have to go off this and i'm afraid i'll start to break out again, or even develop a tolerance o this medicine. if anyone has any comments or suggestions for me, i would love to hear them. thank you

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I'm into my 13th week of Accutane and I am EXTREMELY pleased with the results.I have one month to go to before I am finished. I havent had a pimple or breakout since the initial horrible breakout in week 3. I am on 40 mgs a day and havent really had to de l with too many side effects except for the normal stuff(dry lips and eyes). But since last thursday I have been feeling a little light headed at times and VERY tired all the time. My last appointment with My derm. went so well he told me I shouldnt have o see him until July(1 month after treatment). I know that it makes some people tired,but it just seems a little weird that it is happening all of the sudden. I was just wondering if this has happened to anyone else. Thanks for any reply's and good luck t everyone.

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aloha, to the swimmer...the chlorine wont dry out your skin to the extent that accutane might. as for me i didnt even peel at all, the oil dried up after about three weeks and that helped alot with the breakout problem. The accutane might may your skin a little more sensitive to the chemical but the effects will probably be very short term. Like when i would surf my skin would be red ans tight but as the hour passed i was "normal" again. to those of you worried about breakouts the main concern is oil pr duction....are you less oily? after a couple of months you should notice a reduction in the amount of oil that your skin produces, if not you may need to up the dosage 10 or so mgs....but only with the doctors permission of course. to the person feeling ad, we are here to help, i remember the bad days, in my room looking at the mirror in car windows and wanting to cry...i thought i would be one of the unlucky ones that the accutane wou7ld not work for...hang in there it takes time and you have friends he e that will help....good luck to you all.

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This message is for KY or to anyone who would be kind in their hearts to answer this simple question for me. Thanks for your response, I was just wondering, I'll be swimming at the local gym so the pool is indoors which is a plus because there won't be direct sunlight hitting me, also, will the chlorine dry my face even more and won't this be a good thing. I'll obviously wear SPF 30 just to have added moisturizing to my face and I'll wear my creams after swimming but I guess what I'm trying to say is won't swimming in the pool (with all of the chlorine and stuff that is in there)and being on accutane help my face in the end, because of the drying and peeling? I heard somewhere that the chlorine helps the face for some reason. Not swimming everyday, but every 2 days or so. Could you please reply KY or anyone? Thanks a whole lot.

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For the person who asked about the Acne Support Group Conversation Room (http://www.voy.com/4529/). If you scroll down here to the 12 April message from Just Me and click on the URL there you should be able to get through to the site. There is also Marc s's site to chat on too (which is listed below). Both sites don't just deal with "Roaccutane and Acne" but also other remedies and helpful suggestions for acne. I hope this helps. Love Rianne.

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I have had acne for 12 years now, and have just started a course of ro-accutane for the next 6 months. The trouble is I'm experiencing all sorts of side affects. I'm losing hair, getting eczema patches, having trouble sleeping and feel very depressed, alm st suicidal at times. I have read the leaflets but although they tell you these are all normal, they don't say how to deal with them. I would be grateful if anyone could tell me how to stop feeling so awful !!

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Just saw your message about white bumps at the edge of the eye lid. This is a common side affect of accutane. I had the same thing and asked my derm at the checkup. I only got them twice. There is something called "Fresh Eyes" from Optrex which is brillia t at keeping the eyes moisturised. This helps to prevent the infection. Try it. Bye

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This message is for KY, Thanks for your response, I was just wondering, I'll be swimming at the local gym so the pool is indoors which is a plus because there won't be direct sunlight hitting me, also, will the chlorine dry my face even more and won't thi be a good thing. I'll obviously wear SPF 30 just to have added moisturizing to my face and I'll wear my creams after swimming but I guess what I'm trying to say is won't swimming in the pool (with all of the chlorine and stuff that is in there) and being on accutane help my face in the end? I heard somewhere that the chlorine helps the face for some reason. Not swimming everyday, but every days or so. Could you please reply KY? Thanks a whole lot.

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METROGEL~ I used this med. and it kind of worked. In the U.S. it comes in a large blue tube. It is a clear gel and you apply it on your blimishes with a Q-Tip. When it dries it looks white and flakey. It is a flagulant and is supposed to kill the bacteria Hope this helps!

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For some reason when I tried to go to the www.voy.com/4529 it would NOT come up? Is this the right site?

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This message is for KY, Thanks for your response, I was just wondering, I'll be swimming at the local gym so the pool is indoors which is a plus because there won't be direct sunlight hitting me, also, will the chlorine dry my face even more and won't thi be a good thing. I'll obviously wear SPF 30 just to have added moisturizing to my face and I'll wear my creams after swimming but I guess what I'm trying to say is won't swimming in the pool (with all of the chlorine and stuff that is in there) and being on accutane help my face in the end? I heard somewhere that the chlorine helps the face for some reason. Not swimming everyday, but every 2 days or so. Could you please reply KY? Thanks a whole lot.

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have been breaking out like crazy since week 3...now into week 7...the antibiotics my dermatalogist prescribed me seemed to have not much effect...i can't help feeling regretted to have taken accutane....really depressed...my face itches somemore ...esp a ter pe lessons...can anyone pls tell me whether it's possible to continue breaking out badly throughtout the whole treatment or it will clear soon?i'm on 20mg, twice a day....thanxs a lot..=)

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have been breaking out like crazy since week 3...now into week 7...the antibiotics my dermatalogist prescribed me seemed to have not much effect...i can't help feeling regretted to have taken accutane....really depressed...my face itches somemore ...esp a ter pe lessons...can anyone pls tell me whether it's possible to continue breaking out badly throughtout the whole treatment or it will clear soon?i'm on 20mg, twice a day....thanxs a lot..=)

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you can swim all you want to, wear waterproof sweat proof moisturizer and limit the exposure to an hour a day.... the worst time to swim is 11:oo to 3:00 because the most damaging UV rays are highest at this time. Just moisturize after and everything wil be fine....to others out there....just live your life accutane is just a pill, a cure, it takes a while but i look back and realize how unimportant acne is and how important our youth is.....When your skin is bad you feel like everyone notices....my skin looks great now and nothing is different, people still treat me the same, only two people, my mom and boyfreind have even noticed and changes....it is so silly to cry....i did....but i wish i did'nt.

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Hi , I just want everyone to know that I have taken accutane and it worked great. The real turnaround was not until the last few weeks, I am continuing to clear as we speak and I have been off it since Valentines Day. The reason for this is because the a cutane is fat soluble and stays in your body for a long time after the dosage is complete. I have no pimples at all, and the red marks we are all so concerned with fade away after about three months post accutane. I never ever peeled like I was supposed o, the dry lips did go away after a week or two. I did nothing different I even skipped my medicine for a week once. Just drink lots of water to help out your skin and your liver....trust me it is worth it and i wish you all the best of luck...post any uestions on the board I will be happy to reply.

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I was wondering if its okay to go swimming at the pool every other day or so even though I'm on accutane. I know that the chlorine in the pool will make the skin dry and I'm o accutane as well so this will dry my skin even more, but I definately will mois urize for this reason. I will moisturize often as well. But I was wondering if it will benefit me to go swimming in the pool because I have heard that the chlorine is good for drying the face and this obviously leads to more peeling. Can everybody just gi e me a one sentance answer. No need to write a lengthy answer, just a nice short answer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

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my derm talked about prescribing METROGEL. Can anyone tell me what that is and what it actually does. My derm wasn't too clear about it (he never is).

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I've had what we all call "acne" since I was 13. Tried everything. The only way I keep it out of sight is by avoiding "fat" any kind of fat. I've found that avoiding anything with more than 2 grams of fat in it keeps me clear. You don't need fat to cook & I should know. I cook for friends all the time. Organic foods taste! You'll be amazed how quickly you develop a taste for non-fat milk {acne's worst enemy from experience is full/skimmed milk, but anything with eggs in is an even worse nightmare}. I used to eat an omelette & break out a few hours later. Avocados, fries anything fatty. I might be unique, but as far as blemishes go I doubt it. Good luck.

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I was wondering if its okay to go swimming at the pool every other day or so even though I'm on accutane. I know that the chlorine in the pool will make the skin dry and I'm o accutane as well so this will dry my skin even more, but I definately will mois urize for this reason. I will moisturize often as well. But I was wondering if it will benefit me to go swimming in the pool because I have heard that the chlorine is good for drying the face and this obviously leads to more peeling. Can everybody just gi e me a one sentance answer. No need to write a lengthy answer, just a nice short answer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

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For acne use MARTIN & PLEASANCE COMBINATION 'D' TISSUE SALTS for excellent results. Also use TEA TREE CREAM and wash face with GLYCERINE SOAP. Both available from health food shops. Also try CURACLEAR on pimples. It is available from chemists. Go to beauty salons and look in newspapers for advice. You will get rid of your acne with these things. I & many others have. Good Luck. Love Krissy

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I'm on day 38 out of the possible 150 days(5 months) of accutane. I know that this is still early, but my face does seem dry, but I can still handle going three days without moisturizing my face so that my face really gets dry and skin "peels off" from th accutane. Can somebody just please right a sentance saying whether or not the accutane will REALLY REALLY REALLY DRY my face up to the point that I can't go 1 hour without moisturing by the time I'm 2 months into the treatment or what? How long before my face gets to the point that its really really dry like the package says my face is supposed to be. Everybody says that their face gets so dry that it hurts or whatever but I'm wondering when my face will be like that. OOOOhhhhhh am I asking for it, eh?

- 04/30/00 00:12:31
Age: 22
Gender: female
Country: usa

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I AM GOING TO START USING ACCUTANE IN A FEW DAYS (JUST WAITING FOR MY BLOOD WORK TO RETURN). I HAD A FEW QUESTIONS. MY DERMO. SUGGESTED 2 SOUPS TO WASH MY FACE WITH - DOVE SOUP FOR SENSITIVE SKIN AND NEUTROGENA GENTLE CLEASING FACE WASH FOR SENSITIVE SK N. HAS ANYONE USED ANYONE OF THESE? HOW DID IT WORK OUT? OR CAN SOMEBODY RECOMMAND A GOOD FACE WASH FOR ME? ALSO- I AM KINDA SCARED ABOUT THE BREAKOUT YOU GET WHEN YOU FIRST START TAKING IT - HOW BAD IS? IS IT JUST A FEW OR ARE THERE MANY? THANK YOU ERY MUCH!! GOOD LUCK TO ALL!!!!!

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Liz, I know what you mean about going to the acne clinic and being prescribed solugel etc. None of those really worked much for me either, except for the Minocin which I'm currently taking which seems to be keeping things under control. I'm also using t e Vit. A cream at night but it causes a lot of redness although it seems to be more effective than other topicals I've used. If nothing else has worked for you then definitely go on accutane - it helped me but was a far cry from a solution to my acne. I s also better that you take the accutane in the summer so the dryness won't be as bad (it will still be bad though) as in the winter. Good luck with your treatment...

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This is my second post and I am still using the Accutane. My skin is still clear and getting better. I notice most people have problems with the side effects, so I just wanted to share some things that I learned while taking this wonderful medicine. There is a great site online that offers products for sale and tells about regular everyday items that you may have in your home that can help acne. The site is: http://www.paulaschoice.com/. There you can find tips on skincare and buy great products. I use their Alpha hydroxy 8% gel and her exfoliating lip treatment (never leave home without it). With their exfoliating lip cream the dry skin actually peels right off with no irritation. Her s in lightening gel is great for dark spots and she has good sunscreen too. I also use dermasil (by vaseline) on my face (while it is still wet after washing) with the alpha hydroxy gel and I never have dry skin.problems. I am not saying that these things will work for everyone, but they did for me and I feel and look great. I also use carmex and drink lots of water and take vitamin E 8 0mgs per day. When I first starting taking this medicine I came to this board and I found alot of inspiration and great advice, and I would just like to pass it on. GOOD LUCK :) Thanks, Coweyes

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I have a small broken vein that I didn't have before taking Roaccutane. It really is tiny, so I feel bad asking as I know some people are really suffering, but has anyone else noticed this. Will it go. It seems to have faded a bit. Even if it doesn't it i a small price to pay for clear skin. All answers gratefully received. Hang in there everyone.

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Dear People (particularly Michelle): I have read numerous comments form each and every one of you and I completely understand how you feel. I have been suffering before & during adolescence, and now my young adulthood. Over the years it has worsen. 2 year ago I decided to take a step and go to an Acne clinic very close to home. The doctor recommended I take minocycline, which helped to clear my back, but it had little affect on my face. She also gave me creams such as solugel (a.k.a. benzoyl peroxide), an vitamin A, which don't seem to help at all. After taking the medication things seem to be okay, but then again it got worse. My family doctor percribed me erythromycin in small dosages. It had no effect. Now I was becoming more upset with my skin. I then ordered Proactiv solution - what a waste of money, I knew then my skin and benzyol peroxide do not mix (particularly my face). I refuse to use anything that has it, it made blemishes appear where I usually never would get them (lower cheeks) and made my s in look teerible! I recently went to a dermatologist someone recommended and she told me that I tried some really good drugs and that the only other thing to try is Accutane. I did the blood work, now I'm just scared. I don't know what to expect to happen in the next while. I am to be in a wedding in July, which is so close. I almost feel like telling the bride to find someone else - you know - who doesn't breakout so it won't ruin her wedding photos. I, like most of you enjoy being around people, meeting ew people, talking with people who may interest you, only to be held back by the way you look. I do try sometimes, and when I do I think to myself: why bother? they just see one ugly girl, who looks like she's 17 because she still breaking out, I'll talk o her just 'cause I feel bad. There's days I want to wear a bag on my head, or simply I wear my Molson CANADIAN hat, drop my hair over my ears and pull it down as far as it goes to hide my face. I can't even wear half of my clothes because it so bad (tank tops-with summer almost here). I used to go out in high school and have guys flirt with me, that doesn't happen anymore. None of my friends suffer like I do, but I do know they do care about me, despite it. I feel terrible when I see someone else sufferin too. I understand how you feel, and everyone has their problems... but ours had to ACNE. I want to wish you all luck in finding what is best for you. Don't loose hope, there is a more beautiful person in you which is MORE important than being on the cove of Cosmo. After 11 years, I hope that my treatment will help improve my skin. Thanks for all the advice and warnings; much appreciated!

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TETRACYCLINE!!! One of the first medicines I tried. I was 13 yrs. old when I first started it and I did not take it for very long as it did not work. As of right now, I am required to take trycycline with my accutane treatment, as it is birth control ( ctually Ortho-trycycline)

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I m only a week into my accutane course and so far it has been very positive. My only regret is that I didn't go on this "hero" drug beforehand. My side effects have been minimal - only dry lips so far- but a few irritating side effects is a small price 2 pay for clear skin. For me the accutane cost only £42, it originally cost £80 for a 4 week course but (in Ireland) you can claim anything over £42 back. I would advise anyone with severe acne to opt for accutane AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Its the ONLY cure take it from someone who has tried everything. Best of luck to you all.

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Are there any people who live in Toronto, Canada?

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Today is beautiful outside and if it waslast year i would be in my backyard in a bathing suit. One year later I am in my room crying. It has been 3 months on accutane and so far no real improvement. Plus I am wondering if I am on of those 10% of people that the side effects never end for. I have one month left but I am about to just give up and stop this medication. Did anyone feel this way at the 3 month mark. I could deal with the lips, but my skin just is not normal -it feels so tight and looks li e it wants to peel but does not- plus the veins in my chest and forehead are very visible. Anyone with any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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Hello there, I have unfortunately not so much to add concerning mediacal treatment, but I am sure some of your suggestions (namly minocin and retin-a) could help me. Question: I experience the worst moments of Akne in stages of depression. I would like to know now if preventing depressions (if such is possible at all) could prevent acne as well. Personally I am not through if the depression/stress does have negative e fects on my face or (and that I am sure of) my face has then negative effects on my psyche. Comments wellcome

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Jeena- I tried the same thing...none of my prescription creams were working, and when i went off of them, suddenly my skin went almost clear too, w/ the exception of the red spots. But then it came back, and a LOT worse...it took about 1 month and a half to c me back, but now i am on accutane. You really should use the topical creams you were prescribed, they have been tested and proven to work. Although it may not seem like it, they will work if you stay on a strict regiment and be consistent about your tre tment. Most acne medicines make the acne worse before it gets better. Just a suggestion b/c i know from experience....

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Even though I use SPF 15 my skin goes bright red for an hour when I've been outside - has anyone got any tips to help prevent this? I'm using factor 25 next but is there anything better without looking really greasy?!

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WILL . . . Glad you are having such good results, however do not go off Accutane before at least a four month course (providing your blood results are fine). The best success rates with accutane, is by the total dosage + length of time used. This means f you stop as soon as your face clears (in some cases that's early on in the treatment), you have a chance of having the acne returning sooner. I too cleared after only three weeks of using accutane. I am on week 12 now, and I haven't had a blemish sinc the very beginning. I did get an initial breakout, but not the worse before better that others talk about. All I'm trying to say is . . . just because your skin looks great now (and I'm glad it does), don't stop taking until at least 4 months of treatm nt. Your chances for continued success depend on it. Best of luck!

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Well everyone, I don't know when I will be back to the board as I am going home tomorrow and I don't own a computer! Anyway, I'm sure I will keep in touch. I start my roaccutane treatment next week - fingers crossed! Hope everything goes well for everyone, and remember, keep trying to love life, we are all stonger than we think! Still, we are allowed to mope occassionly and definately have a winge!!! I am interested in finding out about treatment for scarring and marks, if anyone has anything to tell please do! Has anyone heard of Diamond Dermabrasion? I have, but don't know much about it!One last thing before I go this time.I Can not wait to get out he shower and feel fine to face the public again without coverup - who agrees?Here's to the future and a damn good one at that! Cheers Krista xoxoxox

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Hi once again, to all visitors of Gill's page. This is exciting. I've been posting about this program for the past few weeks. This program is coming to a close very soon, once we reach 100,000 applicants. Some of you have responded in the past week. But I m urging the rest who haven't to take a look at this unique program. Being a past acne sufferer like most of you and a visitor on this board, I wish to share this program with all of you: There is this rare opportunity for all kinds of people (preferably ge 32 or below) where you can obtain a MINIMUM of US$20,000 for a one time fee of only US$5. That's all you have to pay and there's nothing more you ha e to do. NO surfing the web or selling is required to earn money. This program is not only opened to US citizens, it’s opened WORLDWIDE. I am not a resident in USA. Sign up for your children too and they'll be entitled to US$20,000 each as well. You must be wondering how such a good deal is possible... email me at surecash@hotmail.com for more information a d I'll direct you to the website. There's no catch to it. This is your chance for a break in life. They are looking for a total of 100,000 applicants. We have over 99,000 paid applicants now, looking for another approximately less than 800 more applicants We are very close to our objectives now. The $20,000 payout is estimated to be ready 3 months after we reach 100,000 paid applicants. You won't want to miss out on this great opportunity that offers such generous payout at only a mere $5. Email me and I' l direct you to the official website. No kidding. Also learn strategies to minimise your funds from tax. Please indicate that you're from Gill's page when you email me so I'll know. Thanks for your time.

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To "Life Sucks,"--please go see a therapist at the YWCA or family health care center...though I hate it when people tell me to "Get over it" (acne), in some ways it is psychological. If I could just be a little stronger...etc etc. Please don't let this disease destroy your life--seek help!

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To dear 'Life sucks!' I think we all may understand a little bit of what you are going through.Please, just think about things before you do anything horrible. It's not your fault! My younger sister;beautiful, perfect skin,wonderful family, smart, decided she wanted out! She is fortunate enough to still be here. She is now on 200mgs of Zoloft! She now is a totally lifted person. She seeked councelling, which we all attended. We thought she may of been schitzophrenic, but don't know. Anyway, she is doing we l and has a whole new lease of life. Try to remember, you are definately not a failure and if you look close to you, there are obviously people who you mean the world to. I already feel as though letting your problems out via this board will hopefully hel you. Well, I am thinking of you and advise you to see the Dr. about your depression. Don't think you are wierd or strange or anything because there are so many people out there who need help, the strong ones are the ones who seek it. All the best and look afte yourself!

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NO YOU ARENT! i am sure your child and Bfriend love you no matter what you look like!I know its hard, but overcome it! For your child!! Good Luck!

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Hi - I've struggled with acne on and off since the age of 11 and finally decided enough is enough. We have just emigrated here from South Africa and I think the stress of leaving our country helped to really make my skin breakout even more than usual. I went to see a dermatalogist here and have been on Roaccutane now for three weeks and have not seen much of an improvement yet. Every day when I wake up I go straight to the mirror to see whether the "miracle" has happened. The best thing about living he e in NZ is that for a months treatment of Roaccutane it only costs $15 as the medication is subsidized here. In S.A. it would have cost me about R800 per month. I really hope like hell that this treatment works for me and that it will be the end of my s in problems once and for all. I'd really like to hear from people who have been on one treatment of Roaccutane and have been cured permanently as it seems as though a lot of people have had the acne recurring a couple of months or years after treatment a d it's making me feel a little despondent! Thanks.

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My so called life sucks!! I can't do anything right. I have no education, I'm not pretty, I can't do math, I have no sex drive!! I keep buring food when I cook it.. I have ACNE.. *scream* Does anyone know a great way to end life with pills?? And do it ri ht? I am tried of this!! I am a FAILURE, to my child, me and my boyfriend!!

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oops i gave the wrong email ,,this is the correct one kmd609@hotmail.com... i was wondering if i should wash my face since it is beginning to get dry.. thanks everyone for the info

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hello i am on day 7 of 80 mgs a day with fantastic results. my face is starting to get really dry and i was wondering if i should wash it like once a day then apply moisturizer or should i not wash it at all. Any advice will be greatly appreciated... thanks everyone,,,,

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STEVE, I think it is something similar. Greenpeel is all natural products appiled to the face.Afterwards the skin is pinkish, but this goes away practically the next day. You are not allowed to wet your skin and after about 3-4 days the skin starts to pee . The whole process lasts for about 7 days. For about the 4th to 7th day you wouldn't want to be seen in public, but afterwards the skin isn't really red or anything. I liked the treatment itself, but I do think it's best to wait until you get your skin c mpletely under control. I'd really like to know if anyone has had this treatment and any comments. I had mine done in Sydney.Have a great day!

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Krista: the GREENPEEL? do you mean microfermabrasion? is that another name for it? Microdermabrasion is the crystals that go over your skin and remove the layers of skin, using a machine.

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Hi again! Just wondering, has anyone heard of a process called the Greenpeel? It's a procedure that gradually peels a very fine top layer of the skin. I had it done, and ever since then my skin has been 100 times worse! So, for anyone contemplating having it done, it's probably best to wait until your skin is 99% clear and you have all your zits under control. Just another winge, but who here hates with a passion flurolescent lights - arggg! They manage to emphasise everything down to the smallest pore! Take care everyone - Krista.

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I hate the fact that 2 years ago I was thinking about what I wanted to do with my life and thinking how I want to do it and the job I want, the girl that I want. Everything was right there for me to go out and do. The social life and people that I wanted o be around. Now I have to plan my entire life and dreams around my scars, red marks and dead facial skin. I HATE being around people and being in the light!!!!!! IT SUCKS!!!!!! How can I do the things I want to do, the job that I want, the girl I wish I ould have. I can't do none of this. The thing that sucks is that there is nothing stopping me EXCEPT my complexion!!!!!!!!!!! KILL ME NOW, KILL ME NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm on 5 weeks and 2 days of accutane, I have to get to month 5. Oh man I know that's so long away but like EVERYBODY says, STICK WITH IT UNTIL THE VERY VERY END!!!!!!!!!!!!! Okay, Okay. Later

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i totally understand what you're saying. i was walking down the street a week ago and saw an old friend from a couple of years back when my skin was flawless. it was a terrible experience, like something from the twilight zone. i didn't even know what o say to her, i couldn't even look her in the eyes. what really disturbed me is when she told me "you look great" while scanning all the scars and cysts on my face. she looked like she need needed a barf bag. what a damn liar!!! she might as well hav shot me in the heart with a rifle. i thanked her and told her that i was in a rush to go somewhere just to get away. my entire week was ruined and i still feel like shit thinking about it. lee.

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I was taking accutane about six years ago. I was suffering from bad cysts on my face back and bikini area. When I began taking accutane the problem cleared up. I was on the medication for about six months. I did not experience any rare side effects. I only experienced dry nasal passages, but that is about it. About six months ago the cysts returned. I waited to see if they would clear up (wishfull thinking) but they just got worse. I went to see my doctor which explained I was not on the medication ong enough and suggested I start taking it again. I am nervous about any side effects. Especially with regards to my ability to have any children. Has anyone heard of the medication having an effect on your reproductive system. (beside the high birth efect rate while on the medication). To all who are very unhappy with this problem, don't let this stop you from living your life. Like someone said above if everyone stops hidding it would not be an uncommon problem. Let the world see the real you. T anks! Good luck to all.

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For those of you who do not like accutane and are interested in herbs and homeopathic treatments, go to this other acne board that I found, its at www.voy.com/4529

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I've had acne for 11 years now. I've tried so many things -diets, medical treatments, acupuncture etc.- but it's still getting worse. Everybody tells me I shouldn't bother too much about it, because there are worse things that could happen to a person and there is a part in me that knows that's true. Nevertheless, reading this guestbook made me feel understood for the first time! I know I cannot go on living this way, my whole life is about my acne. I rarely go out and therefore lie to my friends, I cancel appointments, I'm scared of men -what if they'd find out that behind the make-up there is this awful face?- and to be honest: I truly hate myself. Not only because of the way I look, but also because of the way I live my life, or I should say: do not live my life. Anyway, I would very much like to know if anybody here has any experience with non-aggressive, homeopathic treatments. I don't want to use medications anymore that don't cure the real cause and that destroy my body even more. I really hope someone can giv me some ideas!

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Please check out the message board on this site because it addresses the ROUTE CAUSE OF ACNE!!!!!!

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This is was my personal experience, i'm not sure it may work for anyone else. When i started breaking out, i tried more creams and more medicines my doctor gave me, which dried out my skin more. In turn my body produced more natural oils. When i starte to just not care about the acne, and only felt the pain of dry oily skin, i decided to use lotion(oil-free of course) and voila!~ It's not overnight miracle, but in the end. No pain...from dry skin or huge cysts. My only problem now is the red spots.. why won't they go away!!!

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Is Diane-35 (in the UK) the same as orthatricycline(in the US)?

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Jamie, just wondering if you started taking the vitamin e etc. when you began the treatment? I suffer from the red marks too. They say the more olive the complexion, the more prominant the marks. Does anyone else have any hints for this problem? Cheers Kr sta!

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First off, it's very comforting to read these posts - it seems as I walk through campus no one on earth has this problem but me. I've suffered from acne since I was 8 & have been on antibiotics for over 11 years which caused SEVERE damage to my immune sys em. I also worked for the FDA with the very people that admit they think accutane is a very dangerous drug - I'm not saying don't use it, trust me, I am tempted, but my sister went on it and went into menopoause at the age of 27 - this drug has a very, V RY high suicide rate & so many other problems that are more persisitent in the using population than is publicized (the FDA dr.'s told me NOT to take Accutane, so take that as you will.) So yes, it's been really frustrating finding alternatives & someday I will be able to afford laser surgery of somesort I hope. What HAS worked very well for me is using a combination of CATAPLEX A, THYMEX, and ACIDOPHILUS. The acidophilus is for the tummy - put the nice, good bacteria in there to eat up the bad, Thymex is to give your immune system a boost and the cataplex a is to give you a nice, HUGE dose of vit. A for your skin directly. I get them at http://www.myhealthstore.com but I'm sure you can fi d them elsewhere as well. I also use a product called Dermaclear, which is also available on the internet - it contains an agent that helps reduce the red marks on your face & it has done wonders for my psych. state & for going out in public. Again, I'm not totally discouraging Accutane use - I'm t hinking of at least the Dianette treatment myself for the hormonal aspect of treatment, though I don't have many breakouts compared to the rest of my life, but it is a definite risk so be careful & now what you really want - if your acne is very very sever, I know I would take it - luckily, I have tried these other treatments and they have succeeded - good luck & best wishes to everyone - hey - why doesnt' everyone go out more & it won't be as "unco mon"?!?!?! :-) I know it's hard - but you can't let the supposedly "perfect" people keep you from doing what you really want to do.

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Today I started my treatment with Roaccutan and the doctor put me on 60 mg/day (I weigh about 65 kg). I have had acne on and off since I was 15 but it got really bad about two years ago and I got huge cysts that hurt like hell! The doctor then gave me Tet acycline and Skinoren cream and it cleared up only to come back and it has been getting worse every day. Like most of you I've been terrified of the side effects but now I've become so desperate to get rid of this mess on my face and body that I really do 't care. The doctor also reassured me that it will be ok. I will write back and report on the progress. Hugs to you all!

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To Bec: sorry if I didn't make sense, I meant that, where as a lot of people on accutane complain about a red mark left after a spot comes and goes, I have found that with vit E etc.. they take only a little longer than normal to completly go say.. 3 days rather than before accutane where the red mark would go in 2, depending on the severity of the spot of course. This worked for ME. It might be due to a number of other factors such as my skin type or my dosage (40mg/day) or something else entirely. Jus sharing what I think is working for me. Cya

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Hi guys, me again! I'd really love it if someone reads my comment and replies! I know I've only just put it on the board, but I just thought I would ask before you begin. I have learn't from this site that everyone is different, so the course of Roaccutan varies for different people.I will sure to let everyone know how I am going with it. I'm actually staying out at Mum and Dad's farm at the moment, so the privacy on the internet is great compared to public places!Well, take care everyone and remember, yo are all the best!

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Hi everyone! I'm new to the board, but have visited this site a couple of times. It's so great to read other people's comments (oh, except for Simon Ha!) Does anyone just sit here reading and go, "I know exactly how you feel?" You almost feel like saying out loud "yes,that's me all over!" Anyway, I havn't started Roaccutane yet, hopefully in about a weeks time (I havn't had my blood test yet)I just hope it works! I feel so trapped - I love life, love partying, meeting people, playing sport, shopping... but lately all that doesn't seem like such a fun idea. I sort of feel like hiding and then coming out when my skin hopefully clears up just so other people d n't pitty me or see me differently, that's pretty crazy isn't it? I really am feeling insecure lately, I've even stopped going to the gym. Tell me, does anyone else do things like this - when seeing people you havn't seen for awhile, actually commenting y urself on the state of your skin, eg. "God my skin has gotten so bad, I have to go on medication etc...." I think I may say it as a way to make myself seem normal, I don't know! This was actually going to be a short comment, but if you knew me that is not possible, my friends say I write essays in birthday cards!!!!! Oh, I might as well add this little bit as well. I went out the other night after work, got very drunk and was called a prick tease! I think when I'm feeling self-conscious I act more carefree and be more imature when I'm drinking. Who else notices this? I am beginning to realise that acne effects so many things in our lives. I just can't wait for the day when I do want I really, really want to do, not what my acne prevents me from doing! cheers Krista

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TO JAMIE: I was wondering how long after roaccutane the red post acne marks took to clear, you didn't say. I had been told by my derm that I'd have to wait for them to heal naturally, but if there's a way of speeding up the process that isn't exactly dif icult I'm all for it. Bec

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Dear Ali: regarding High Frequency. I am an Esthetician and use High Frequency. I tis a machine that uses a glass rod that helps penetrate specific concentrates deep into the layers of skin. It's painless and is usually done as a supplement during a facia treatment. It is also very safe, however, it's effectiveness is questionable. Acne are usually infected pustules and the High Frequency can definitely desincrust and clear up acne infectoins. Why not give it a try? Jennifer.

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I´m a student of medicine and i want to know more about this drug, but more, i mean about the side effects, reccurrence, administration, etc.. If anyone knows about a page where i can find this please wrote me at cesarcalderon@hotmail.com. It would be better if it´s on spanish. Thanks.

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Hello everyone/cyberclear. I have found that taking slightly more than the recommended dose of Vitamin E, Vitamin C and chellated Zinc has gotten rid of ALL red marks left by roaccutane. Of course I might just have fast healing skin but I really do thin It is this supplement regime. In answer to cyberclears quetions from a while back I have taken xtc on 3 occasions whilst on roaccutane so far.. (have been on for 6 weeks) and there have been NO problems. I thought it might have weakened the effect but more recently I found out it DEFINATLY did not. Skin only now beginning to clear up a little. I don't drink or smoke pot but I have heard that alcohol will tie up your liver and slow down the process some what so shoudlbe avoided in excess (as with ever thing :)

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Are there any diabetic Accutane users out there? If so, could you let me know if you noticed any changes in your blood sugar levels, or any other diabetic-related side effects you may have experienced while on Accutane? Thanks so much!

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I first started Accutane a year and half ago. I was on it for six months and had great success- clear skin and few side effects. However, my skin began to break out again three months after I stopped. I was put on a higher dose this time, 60mg a day, and xperienced rather severe depression and mood swings, and I developed hemrhoids. I am now on 20mg a day for an undetermined amount of time. Although my depression went away, I still have intestinal problems. Has anyone else experienced these side effects?< r>

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Two month's ago I started too use Roaccutane. I take 30mg a day. It's working perfectly. I don't have alot of side affects, only my lips keep getting dry. I have to check my blood regularly because using this medication on a long run (on a high dosis) ca have affect your liver. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me

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Hey, for all those asking questions about diane-35. I started getting really severe acne (first time) about three, four months ago, who can say why. My GP suggested Diane-35, about two months ago I was getting really agitated with the lack of results so went to a dermatologist who put me on Tetracycline, it is now week 8 on that and the 4th month on Diane-35 and finally my skin is clearing, it's a little hard to say which it is because of:- several pharmacists I've spoken to said most peole get results on Diane-35 between months 4-6 and on tetracycine everything I've read and been told indicates that if you're going to start seeing some results it will be between weeks 6-8. Obviously some people do respond differently. I was reading on another site that on a study done on Diane-35 to suppress acne almost completely women had to take it for three years. Not sure how much strength there was behind this study. (Again obviously results came before this, it makes sense that the drug only controls acne whilst in your system, as it is only supressing you hormones and the manufacture of increased androgens whilst there too) It was on a Medical site of some sort, I'll try to track it down again, for anyone whose interested. Th Pill, antibiotics, accutane are all supressants, none claim to be a cure, some people are fortunate that after taking them they no longer experience the horrors of acne, but others have to continue trying other ways of controlling their acne...hope it h lps Bec

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Hey, for all those asking questions about diane-35. I started getting really severe acne (first time) about three, four months ago, who can say why. My GP suggested Diane-35, about two months ago I was getting really agitated with the lack of results so went to a dermatologist who put me on Tetracycline, it is now week 8 on that and the 4th month on Diane-35 and finally my skin is clearing, it's a little hard to say which it is because of:- several pharmacists I've spoken to said most peole get results on Diane-35 between months 4-6 and on tetracycine everything I've read and been told indicates that if you're going to start seeing some results it will be between weeks 6-8. Obviously some people do respond differently. I was reading on another site that on a study done on Diane-35 to suppress acne almost completely women had to take it for three years. Not sure how much strength there was behind this study. (Again obviously results came before this, it makes sense that the drug only controls acne whilst in your system, as it is only supressing you hormones and the manufacture of increased androgens whilst there too) It was on a Medical site of some sort, I'll try to track it down again, for anyone whose interested. Th Pill, antibiotics, accutane are all supressants, none claim to be a cure, some people are fortunate that after taking them they no longer experience the horrors of acne, but others have to continue trying other ways of controlling their acne...hope it h lps Bec

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Reading everyones comments, it looks as if I'm the oldest, have suffered with mild acne during my teens and again now, is particularly bad a week before my period. My derm. spec. has called it premenstural skin disorder . It appears only on my scalp which isn't particularly oily and also my chin are there any more ladies with this problem as my derm has said he has seen about 10 ladies over the last few weeks with sort of the same problem thanks

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heh sarah!!! it looks like we're both in the same boat. i got my blood test a few days ago and its going to take about 2 to 3 weeks to get my meds. i can't wait!!! i pray to god that things will go as well for me as it did for Will. since i will be on 60mgs a day, i have to get a blood test every month for about five months. i hope this info helps you out. take care and i wish you all the best (= . lee.

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I am currently taking Accutane (80 mg per day) to clear up my moderate acne. I can't say enough about this drug. Within two weeks of starting my pills, I had no pimples at all over my entire body. Incredible! Also, I think the dry skin side effect is grea since my skin has always been so oily. It is so nice to wake up in the morning and not be able to rub your finger over your face and remove an inch of oily residue. Another nice effect that nobody has mentioned has to do with warts. I have had two small orts on my left hand for the last 10 years. Three days after I started Accutane, they dried up and withered away. This stuff is amazing. By the way, I am on my 4th week on the drug. My dermatologist says he may take me off of it afer only two months since my results are so good.

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I think this is a great message board for people with acne, whether on accutane or not. It's great to hear other people's experiences, you realize you are not alone. I wrote about a month ago, unsure about accutane, well, still unsure. I am yet again one of those people that hadn't had moderate to severe acne since my early teens and just developed it again about six months ago. My new derm has placed me on benzamycin and cephalosporins for the last month. I still get acne on my forehead but it has lessen d on the rest of the face, although I have continual dryness and redness. I have also started some of the homeopathic remedies like sulfur, vitamins and herbal extracts. Things are better but nowhere close to where I want them. I know I've read posts by im and others that homeopathy can work for some people (I know it's different for everybody) I'm a sceptic honestly but I'm still afraid of accutane. I'm so happy for everyone that it has worked for and I wish it worked for everyone but the horror stories are nothing to disregard. It seems like a scattershot drug to me, if it works for one person that's great, but if it doesn't the side effects and even permanent effects can be horrible. I would appreciate any comments on homeopathy either positive or nega ive. I can't get in to see my derm for another six weeks anyway so I guess it's the current drugs and alternative therapy until then.

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On accutane for moderate cystic acne and I am not sure it was a good idea. My face is entirely clear but the red spots dont fade while on accutane. Dont know why?? Thinking it would have been better to try mionicin (spelling) or something above tetracylci e so I wouldn't have these damn red/dark spots that wont heal!! Reconstruction cream is helping a very very little bit. Thats all for now.

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It's 3 weeks since I finished my roaccutan course and things are really looking good. My skin isn't dry anymore instead it's oily as it was before roaccutan, so I would like to know what is the best way to prevent oil production or how to make skin look l ss oily? Is the oiliness going to settle after a while since my skin isn't dry anymore?

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Hi.I wanted to respond to your post concerning alcohol and pot while on accutane. I am beginning week 22 on 40 mg per day. I continued to drink alcohol on the weekends and smoke pot. I have not had a bad reaction because of it. Sometimes I had hangovers after a night of drinking when normally I wo ldn't. And I assumed itwas due to the accutane and being dehydrated. All of my blood workturned out ok. But, as you know, different things affect people differently. I really had no major side effects from the accutane at all. I've done really well o it. I believe that the key to doing anything is MODERATION. If you chose to do any of those things, start out slow. Good luck. Accutane helped tremendously for me. I just wish I'd have tried it sooner.

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I saw a dermatologist last week and she had no hesitation in recommending me for a course of Roaccutane: I've had mild/moderate acne for 19 years; it covers all of my face, chest and back and the 'usual treatmants' have never had more than temporary effec s. It was a relief for her to suggest it so readily, especially since my face was looking better than it has done for a long time. Unfortunately I still have to wait a couple of weeks before I see her again and get the go-ahead (blood test results all bei g well): even after 19 years I feel a bit impatient. Can anyone in the UK who has been on Roacutane tell me how often they go and see their dermatologist for 'check-ups' whilst on treatment?

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Hi Chinese Herb Lady, I'm wondering what kind of Chinese herbs you are taking that improves your acne because I'm VERY interested in trying this? Could you give me a phone number of your herbalist? I live in Chicago, but I wouldn't mind flying to CA to see her if it really w rks. Please help me, I'm desperate! I always have very mild acne, two or three spots here and there, but lately it becomes so much worse, and these are all big red cysts. I started to take birth control pills (ortho try-cyclen) 3 weeks ago, which used o clear up my face for a while last time I had it 2 years ago, but this time it didn't work at all, it even got worse. I don't know what the hell is going on! I heard Dianette is another bcp that helps clear acne, does anyone know how similar or how dif erent these two kinds of pills are? I also heard overproduction of the male hormone is the cause of acne, does zince with Vitamin B6 really suppress it? I'm willing to do anything to get rid of my acne!

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Can someone give me there personal experience with tetracycline?

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oops. MICHELLE i forgot to give you my email address.

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hi LAUREL ;) the dateline editorial on the woman's life was very sad. she suffered from a serious heartattack when she was only 25 years. she was a pretty woman with silky hair and a great complexion. 10 years later, she continues to be in a vegetated state, however, they shaved her head and her acne is very severe. her husband wants to euthanise (sp?) her because the quality of her life is extremely terrible but her parents want to keep her alive because they think she might snap out of it one day but the doctors think otherwise. i doubt her heartattack had anything to do with accutane, otherwise it would have been mentioned. hi MICHELLE (; yes, i was looking for accutane for a fair price. it's hard to believe that one pill goes for 7 bucks. i have no insurance and can't afford to pay 600 dollars a month especially since i'm not working at the moment. guess why? i think i have things straightened out though. i filled out a form for people who can't afford accutane and might get some sort of discount. i'm crossing my fingers that it's not too much. i've already paid a fortune on my skin when i should have been buying groceries. take care !!! =)

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I was reading the achives and one lady posted that her skin became so papery and thin that she literally aged 10 years in 8 months from accutane. She said aging in linked with accutane. Has anyone ever heard anything like this?

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BRANDI: don't turn this forum into soemthing it isn't. You telling him not to do drugs isn't going to do anything, plus, you're completely wrong. While hundreds of thousands of alcohol related accidents and deaths take place in the US each year, there h s never been a case in the history of the world where pot caused death. Plus, it relieves stress and therefore might help the skin. AND, studies have actually found that use of ecstacy can help clear the skin. That's a fact. Now I'm not advocating dru use, but cyberclear just asked a question and you're forcing your beliefs on him. To cyberclear, I've heard of a lot of people taking E on accutane and it did nothing, and I personally smoked pot sometimes on it without any adverse effects. Don't know bout LSD. Because accutane effects your whole system, introducing more drugs might not be a good idea, but I don't know if it's completely bad either. You're still taking a bet. Peace.

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Lee, Are you the one that lives in NY and is looking for Accutane at an affordable price? If so, what is your e-mail address?

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i've just come off a 3 month course of Roaccutane, i had what was considered to be a high dosage of 20mg for 2 months and then 10mg for 1 month. but now i feel i'm breaking out in spots again, even during treatment i have had a few big pimples. since i've had a bad outbreak last year it has left me to kind of try and get my skin complexion looking healthy and natural looking but i find it so hard to get rid of red "scars" left behind. it is april and since i'm living in a hot climate i'm in for a very long summer now. so i have two questions for any of you nice people out there who might be able to help: is my breaking out in spots right now due to the warm weather or is it because my roaccutane treatment is not enough and i should carry on?? and what can anyone recommend for trying to get my skin looking healthy and not pickled with red marks on my cheeks??? oh and does anyone have any tips for shaving??? i feel it does aggravate my skin and i could do without shaving! i use a battery powered shaver. thanks.

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LEE . . . I missed Dateline, but am interested in they story. Was the woman taking Accutane? How old was she? Was there a correlation between her acne and the heart attack?

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TO: CYBERCLEAR . . . It amazes me that you seem worried about the effects of Accutane, when everytime you take any of the drugs you have mentioned taking, you are taking far more of a risk to your LIFE than with accutane!!!!! Also, recreational drugs hav an impact on your skin as well. Try losing the drugs and your skin may clear up without using accutane! However if you continue using drugs, have a nice SHORT life!!!!!

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Hi, I have had acne (I have no idea what sort) for about 4 years now. I have had all kinds of antibiotics - both oral and topical - and none of them worked. 18 months ago my GP put me on Dianette, and it was fantastic. My skin cleared up pretty much co pletely. Recently I had to come off if as I had been getting migraines, and my skin has flared up again - over the 6 weeks since I stopped taking Dianette it has become awful again, and is getting me down. What are the options for getting to the bottom of the problem? Dianette is obviously just a suppressor... All ideas welcome! Thanks a lot, Amy.

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Just want to add my recommendation to anyone comtemplating starting (ro)accutane. I had medium grade cystic acne on my face since I was 16. I finished a course of roaccutane (20mg bd for 4 months) in March. The results have been fantastic as I now have clear skin for the first time in over 10 years and after countless failed treatments of various medication. It has improved my appearance and confidence greatly. My only regret is that i didn't get to try roaccuntane much earlier

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Hi, to all visitors of Gill's page. There is this rare opportunity for all kinds of people (preferably age 32 or below) where you can obtain a MINIMUM of US$20,000 for a one time fee of only US$5. That's all you have to pay and there's nothing more you ha e to do. NO surfing the web or selling is required to earn money. This program is not only opened to US citizens, it’s opened WORLDWIDE. I am not a resident in USA. Sign up for your children too and they'll be entitled to US$20,000 each as well. You must e wondering how such a good deal is possible... email me at surecash@hotmail.com for more information and I'll direct you to the website. There's no catch to it. This is your chance for a break in life. They are looking for a total of 100,000 applicants. We have over 98,000 paid applicants now, looking for another approximately less than 2,000 applicants. We are very close to our objectives now. The $20,000 payout is estimated to be ready 3 months after we reach 100,000 paid applicants. You won't want to iss out on this great opportunity that offers such generous payout at only a mere $5. Email me and I'll direct you to the official website. No kidding. Also learn strategies to minimise your funds from tax. Please indicate that you're from Gill's page whe you email me so I'll know. Thanks for your time.

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hi pplz.. i'm about to start my Accutane treatment, but i'm rather confused.. like, i've research about the dangers and side effects of accutane at various sites and also at Roche.com but, i haven't come across any info in regards to accutane and mixing d ugs ( recreational ones.. like LSD, XTC, pot ).. are there any dangers in mixing these drugs with accutane?? if anyone has any info.. could ya give me a buzzz.. like, i've only heard about 1 " story " about a guy who fell into a coma after he passed out on alcohol...that's all about all i have heard. Anything would be great... Cheers :))

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Just a quick comment about what Stefan and Gilbert said about depression. Before my acne developed around 3/4 months ago (now slowly subsiding) I'd never considered myself as a person flawed by anxiety and I was never terribly concerned about going to wo k/uni the shops, nightclubs, however across the first six weeks of my skin becoming really bad I moved lower and lower, and found all of these things increasingly more difficult to deal with, zero concentration at the best of times and upset for most of m waking hours, I don't think anyone here is asking to be transformed into a super model at the end of their acne treatments, just that a little normality be injected back into their lives. (I did start taking anti-depressants, they've helped quite a bit, ut obviously are not for everybody...I'm not sure how much is the anti-depressants or the thought of being on them, with the drugs acting now as a kind of placebo) Possibly the worst aspect of acne is that it is such a common disorder, this is in many ways makes it so much harder to talk to people about as everyone who has had a single pimple in adolescence thinks that they understand and that they can provide you w th a solution. This includes GPs, who in my experience have been the worst as far as providing accurate and useful advice when it comes to acne. So fine there maybe people out there like Cristine, she who has the bravado to get out and keep doing the everyday things, but being affected by what is really a traumatic disorder certainly doesn't make any of us, any less deserving as people. Deserving f support, answers, cures and better lives. I can certainly appreciate the notion of just staying out of the human race until this horrible event in my life blows over, I've made that decision to a certain degree and refuse to believe I'm less of a person because I actually know what I'm emotionally capable of contending with. Good luck to everyone out there doing it tough on their journey to rid themselves of acne. Hugs Bec

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I finished my 6 month course of Accutane about a month ago, and I am very pleased!! My skin has NEVER looked so good. I was extremely nervous about taking Accutane, but now I am so glad that I did. I personally felt I was at the end of my rope (with my sk n), and Accutane was my last alternative. I highly recommend it! I had moderate cystic acne, and it was not fun! I feel for all of you that have acne, because it does effect your self esteem. People that are born with beautiful skin, or close to it, will ever understand what it feels like to look in the mirror and not be happy with what is looking back at you. I would have to say before Accutane I was happy with myself and who I was, but now that I have beautiful skin I am a much more confident person. Do 't be afraid of Accutane. The results are definetly rewarding.

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Hi everyone, I have suffered from acne for close to 20 years and have been on Dianne 35 and Roaccutane which helped a heap. I went of Dianne 35 over a year ago as I was planning on getting pregnant after my wedding. Now my acne is really bad and I am sick of it. Th only think I have found that helps heal them is a treatment from my beautician called High Frequency. Has anyone else found this? Ali

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Dear Alison: I'm not sure if Dermablend is available in the UK but if you surf the net, you might find a website that you can order from. If you ahve no luck, send me an email and I will see what I can do about sending you some! Good luck, Jennifer.

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I swim 5 days a week. I have been on accutane for 20 weeks now and swimming has not been a problem. After each swim, I always shower and and apply moisturiser my face and body. I hope this helps. Cheers!!

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help! i need advice, i have been diagnosed with acne rosecea, not only do i have acne, but my face is dry and most of all red most of the time! my derm prescribed accutane, but im afraid of taking it, i also have high blood pressure, im taking medicine fo this. im afraid of taking accutane, cause my face is already dry and red, what will happen if i go on the accutane? has anyone else on this page been diagnosed with acne rosecea and are taking accutane for this? im so scared of my face not being able to tolerate the accutane? most of you's are lucky cause i believe that accutane works wonders on acne, but acne rosecea i have not heard results from any one taking accutane for rosecea. Please if anyone here has any advise, please write me.

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Once off of accutane, can anyone just write me a quick sentacne saying whether or not swimming in a pool is okay on the skin. I'd like to know about the dryness and how much swimming is okay a week. Thank you very much. I'm in the same boat as all of you ith this acne stuff and I'm on my 5 week on accutane.

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To Gilbert, all the best with the treatment, hope things go well. I also suffer on & off from anxiety & depression as mentioned in your post. For me, it was absolutely soul destroying going from a normal outgoing teenager (like my buddies) to a shy, anxio s, unmotivated & constantly bitter young adult. Taking Accutane the first time is phucked...thats for sure. My advice for first time Accutane users is ....DO NOT PICK AT THE ACNE LIKE I DID. I'm am almost certain that this caused my scarring which has req ired surgery over a period of 6 months. Anyway, after 4 treatments with Accutane, I noticed something positive, after each course my mental hassles began to subside. This may be hard for acne sufferers to understand, but I was at my absolute phuckin lowest, yet my mood did manage to get better. Once off the Accutane an anti-depressant may also help for those whose mood doesn't lift.....I guess it takes time to beat this shitty disease, and unfortunately many of us do miss out on a social life now........., when your skin finally clears you can p ck up the pieces & live life from a fresh start. (I discovered this site only yesterday & it's so positive to hear support from everyone to each other concerning their treatments, it's a great outlet for the pain one can feel. good luck everyone...see ya)

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I have used Accutane for 5 weeks now and am starting on my 6th. So far, the only real bothersome side effect for me is the rash I get on the underside of my arms from my elbows to my wrist. This only happens on occassion. Today they are really bad...usua ly they go away after a day or less. My doctor adviced me to take showers every Other day and to use CARMEX for your lips..it really helps. As for the reason I'm taking, I have seen no real good results. My acne has not gotten worse therefore I have no hing to loose for now...I take it day by day and feel I will be of some use after another month or so, so I plan to stay on it, email me if you would like, please no bad emails...I'm just here to help and to hear your comments of this, sort of, "risky" tr atment. Thanks :)

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did anyone see dateline yesterday about the woman who had a heartattack and now is in a vegetaded state. she also suffers from severe acne. i felt so sad for her because the condition she is in. whoever she is, i am praying for her, her husband , and h r family. sincerely lee.

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This is in response to Jason and his "stuffed system." I totally understand what you're going through, with the ear and nose problem and all. I am also on accutane, and just 2 weeks ago, i suffered a major ear infection, in which i could barely hear out of first my left ear, and then my right ear. i went to see my doctor who prescribed some antibiotics to handle the ear problem, so as of now, i'm alright. Also, i have nose bleeds practically every other day which is quite annoying, but it's a routine i ve gotten used to. I get extremely red in just a second out in the sun, and even when i eat hot food. I phucken hate how sensitive my skin's become. I understand your wanting to get off the drug because of the serious side effects. I too wanted to get off this drug, but i have no choice but to tough it out. You see, just a couple months ago, i was diagnosed with SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER, and the source of course being ACNE. I'm too ashamed to show my face in public, when i talk to someone it's impossi le for me to look them in the eye, and in any type of social event i just can't seem to keep my composure(turn red, sweaty, jitty, shaky, nervous etc...) I'm so self-conscious and ashamed of my own looks, that i can't even look in the mirror without bein depressed. That is why i now suffer DEPRESSION, in addition to the anxiety disorder. This depression was also due to acne, and i was diagnosed with it just BEFORE accutane. I know that accutane can possibly worsen my depression, but for the sake of a lear face, i think the risk will eventually be worth it. Accutane has many side effects(dry lips, nosebleeds, etc...). Acne also has its side effects, but they are far more worse because it concerns severe psychological damage(as in my case). I have no pride, self-esteem, confidence, ambition (basically, i have no life). My social life (which WAS quite active) is now completely gone cuzz i refuse to leave my house. I hang my head low, always looking down, because acne has consumed my life, literally. Acne is a HORRIBLE DISEASE which dictates and controls everything i do. I don't think i could ever TRULY be happy again until my face is clear. So you see, at the risk of suffering from all the negative effects of accutane, i have the chance of regainin my MENTAL HEALTH, which i believe is THE MOST IMPORTANT thing to being happy once again. For me, if the negative effects of accutane is what it's gonna take to overcome the grueling negative mental effects of acne, then the risk it totally worth it. .. ...by the way, i am taking 2 40mg per day and am currently in my 6th week, and see no improvement at all. Like many others, i had the initial nasty breakout, which is only now beginning to subside. (ANOTHER THING...TO THAT BITCH CHRISTINE TALKIN BOUT ALL THAT SELF ABSORBED CRAP.....THEY SELL FAKE PUSS FILLED ZITS AT PRACTICALLY ANY MAGIC STORE....I SUGGEST YOU GO BUY A HUNDRED OF THEM, STICK THEM ALL OVER YOUR FACE, AND GO OUT INTO PUBLIC AND TELL M HOW YOU FEEL...BECUZZ AS A PERSON WITH VERY MILD ACNE, YOU DON'T KNOW SH*T ABOUT HOW US REAL ACNE SUFFERERS FEEL, SO YOU ARE IN NO POSITION WHATSOEVER TO PASS JUDGEMENT ON US...i'm just trying to give you a little perspective, that's all, cuzz obviously our narrow minded ass doesn't got any. P.S. WISH ME LUCK EVERYONE

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Once off of accutane, can anyone just write me a quick sentacne saying whether or not swimming in a pool is okay on the skin. I'd like to know about the dryness and how much swimming is okay a week. Thank you very much. I'm in the same boat as all of you ith this acne stuff and I'm on my 5 week on accutane.

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I have a friend who since having taken accutane has suffered from a condition whereby her facial skin becomes almost 'transparent' and she is able to see the veins on her face, becasue of the change in her skin. Has anyone out there ever suffered from a similar condition. Any info. will be much appreciated. Please either e-mail me or leave a message here. if I can help anyone with anything, mail me.

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Dear arrogant bitch Christine, You dare tell us not to be self-absorbed because you are not here to see our horrible red marks on our faces. You stress the fact that you have VERY, VERY MILD ACNE and this is why you're not so shy about having acne. Your mild acne is so much different f om my red marks and uneven skin texture which I hope accutane helps. Don't ever tell us not to be self-absorbed because I can't get anybody in my class to talk to me, and yes I definately know that its because of my acne. You're a bitch for saying what yo said. SCREW YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

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Hello--I am about to start Accutane, and I am curious about people's experience with Accutane and exercise. I am aware of the risks associated with Accutane and sun exposure, but do things like chlorine water or heavy perspiration aggravate your skin si nificantly? Thanks!

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Help! Does sodium laureth sulphate aggravate your skin or not - i have just read comments about it here and it is in the facewash that i have been using for months.

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To everyone who is wondering about how you should look around the halfway point--my derm assures me that you simply cannot be worried about what your skin looks like (ie:if it's going to work or not) for the first four or so months--all you should be worr ed about are the side effects. He said it's really a roller coaster, you get better, you break out, get better, etc. Best of luck to all...

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I have been on roaccutane for about 2 1/2 months. my skin seems to be only getting worse rather than better. I think I may be allergic to it ...is this possible?Please let me know if my skins reaction to this drug is normal.thankyou. rachel willmott

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Thanks Anna. Hopefull now I won't get swelling of the brain. To the girl who went to Florida, I once read in a great book called the good skin doctor that if you suffer from acne then going to a humid place will make it much worse because it hydrates th dead skin cells in the hair follicle and makes them bigger and stick togethr more, thus blocking pores and creating more break outs. It said that if you're gonna go on holiday, go to somewhere dry like Spain or Arizona or something. I know this won't elp you now, but just thought I would say it incase anyone else decided to go into a tropical jungle or something- don't!!. I also heard that during Vietnahm soldiers with very bad acne were excused from going for the same reason. It also said that stea ing your skin would cause the same thing, but the amount of times I have heard beauty 'experts' in magazines and on tv saying that this will clear acne up. I really don't know who to believe!

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Medscapes Medline has a pediatric precaution for accutane stating that accutane is absolutely contraindicated in ages 0-16 due to premature epiphyseal plate closure(it closes growth plates).You will not know that this is happening but you will never grow gain.

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To Jennifer, you reccomended dermablend foundation. Is this available in the uk as i have not seen it advertised? If not do you know of any other foundation products? I am scared to try something new without advice in case it makes my skin worse. Any advi e would be appreciated. Thanks

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Dear everyone You know when I first found this site I was so over the moon and not to mention excited. though it seems now after a while I have noticed that people don't seem to be interested in curing acne and sharing there sucsess with others. They are more interested in fighting and swearing at simon and christine.I mean even though I truly disagree with them I believe we should focus on the problem at hand

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Forgot to mention to all of you females that I am now taking Diane 35 as a treatment and it is wonderful. It took a few months to work but it is truly amazing! Also, I am an esthetician(Skin care Specialist) and I do recommend 30 sunblock everyday to avoi sun exposure. A medicated lip balm for those who wear braces can also be of help for cracked lips. For cleansing, remember that your skin is very sensitive at this time so be nice to it. Benzoil peroxide and medicated washes only compound the problem of ryness. I highly recommend Cetaphil cleansing lotion and Cetaphil moisturizing lotion. It is avail at the pharmacy of most drugstores. These two products are very boring to use because the cleanser does not foam and has no scent or color, however, it is P balanced. Right now, you need to balance the skin's PH because the Accutaine really throws everything off balance. Also, four to six months after you are off Accutaine, I would recommend Glycolique Peels. Sounds scary, I know. I use MD Formulations at my clinic and wouldn't use anything else. I've tried many others and all they do is literally peel the skin raw and create redness and blisters because they are not buffered. I use a 40% strength two to three times a week also recommend using glycolique clea ser and moisturizer. I had horrible scars and these treatments were truly what faded them. Time is also a factor. For the females out there, Dermablend makes a great coverup foundation and can be bought through the Canadian shopping channel. I call it my aywatch makeup because it really does cover up scars and blemishes so they are almost not noticeable! If I can think of anything else that help's anyone, I'll let you know! Good luck!

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After having suffered with acne for most of my adolescent years and early into my adult years I decided to try Accutaine as a last resort. Unfortunately, I was one of the few people who had almost all of the side effects listed on the warnings insert. Abo t one month into my treatment I began noticing stiffness in my hip joints. I mentioned it to my doctor but he felt it was unrelated and I continued the treatment. By the end of the treatment I could hardly walk because my joints were so stiff. A few month after going off Accutaine my left hip got better but my right hip stayed the same. Now, five years later, several cortisone injections later, 18 specialists later, I am a triathlete that is no longer a triathlete and am looking at muscle transplant surge y as a last resort. I also still suffer severely from infected dry lips, dry eyes, nose bleeds and cracks which lead to nasal infections and very poor night vision. Yes, I have beautiful skin, something I wanted my whole life, and I can hardly walk. If a yone is thinking about taking this medication PLEASE seriously reeconsider. These awful side effects may happen to you or they may not. You've got a Fifty/Fifty chance. If there is anyone else that would like to talk more about this to me personally, plea e send email.

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yipee!!! just came home from a wonderful stroll in manhattan. it's great to have strangers stare at you like a sideshow freak. another terrific side of affect of acne is getting treated like shit by store employees. thanks christine for the sound advic !!! it's no wonder you're the most popular bitch in school. i hope one day you'll be able to swim at the pool and that you're able to treat your very very mild mild acne. take care (; lee.

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I have been on the big A for 11 weeks now and i have not seen much change at all. I guess the zits have slowed down but the red marks are piling up so I look worse and worse. Would someone please tell me this is normal for week 11. I hear all of these uccess stories about how accutaine cleared everyone up; was it after the third month that the acne started to fade? If anyone could just post back onto this board I would really appreciate it. Thanks.

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I really really hate this, and i feel you all. My skin was flawless except for the occasional before the period little breakouts. And now for the past three months my skin has been a nightmare. When i first broke out really bad, i skipped a week of school i'm extremely self conscious. After about a month of this my mom freaked out also and wanted me too see a doctor. My forehead and the balls of my cheeks were infested with clusters of pimples. The doctor gave me a benzoyl peroxide wash called DESQUAM-X a d some 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel. My face started clearing a bit - JUST a bit. and felt really dry. Then my skin just broke out again. So we called the doctor again and went in. He gave me another round of the wash and gel and on top of that some Tetracyc ine (the oral kind). And then about two days after taking that, I headed off to Florida for spring break. I spent endless hours in the sun. And let me just say wow, wow, what a mistake. Sure I got a nice tan on my body, but whew my face was soo greasy (fr m the humidity i guess) and i got a whole new crop of bumps all over my face, even worse. Worse than I had ever seen on my face in my life span. So now here I am just seeking some kind of advice on what i can do. My face is now overdried from the benzoyl ash, crusted up from the sun, and so bumpy! My friends notice the drastic change, and my family is like wow what happened to you!?! Can anyone that has used DESQUAM-X or Tetracycline tell me about their experiences with them? I have discontinued the use o the benzoyl wash, but I still take Tetracycline, praying for some kind of clearing...Could someone tell me what kind of mousturizer i can use without makin me break out MORE? Right now i'm using some oil free stuff from Herbal Essences. And also, what ca i use to exfoliate all of this dryness??? Please give me advice! I need it! Thankyou very much. -*michelle*-

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My daughter is on Accutane, week 11, and not much change. We've about had it with her dermotologist, who does extractions every two weeks, leaving her face bloody - not just cysts, but blackheads all must come out says the Dr. I'm wondering, those who a e also on Accutane, if you're also going through this torture. Thanks for any insight.

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Brian- Smoking pot is fine on accutane. Some derms would say that it would enhance depression, but that is probably bullshit. If your liver can handle it, alcohol would be fine too, but for some people, like me, it really increased my tryglycerides so stopped.

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I too had very bad nightmares when I took Accutane..Weird...

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Dear, darling cristine: Thank you SO much!! I used to feel really awful about having a highly visible, socially unacceptable and (yes) ugly skin problem, but knowing that there are people like you you out there who are so obviously deficient not only in b sic intelligence but also normal human compassion (you poor, poor dear), has made me feel SO much better about myself - I'm really not so badly off after all!! Once again, a BIG thank you!

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Im on day 5 at 40mgs, could someone inform me if i will be as photosensitive on my arms and legs as my face. Do I need sunscreen all over then? I was also wondering if anyone has used marijuana while on accutane..Thanks

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You are an idiot. You stated yourself that you only have mild acne. Why do you feel that you are in a position to comment on people who suffer from moderate to severe persistent acne? Did you read your post after you composed it. It makes me ashamed that ou call yourself the same species as I do. Everyone needs to look at it like this, because there are so many genuine and helpful people on this board the law of averages dictates that the presence of the periodic scumbag is inevitable.

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Hi everybody! I discovered this website today and I feel great now that I know that I'm not the only person in the world that suffers severe acne. When I was younger, everyone used to say how pretty I was (OK so I was 11 at the time!). My family were even thinking of m joining a modelling agency.Unfortunately, I started getting spots and it's been downhill ever since then. I've become a regular at my GP's surgery, and I've tried all the drugs: Minocin, Erymax, Oxytetracyclines, Quinoderm, Silica Gel. Every time I start d a new medication I was hopeful that it would be the drug that would bring me clear skin. But nothing worked and I got really depressed. Where I come from, there is nobody with acne like mine, so I can't share my feelings, I just bottled my depression al up. Eventually my GP booked me an appointment at the local hospital to see a dermatologist. She prescribed me Roaccutane and within the next few days I will begin treatment. Reading all your comments has made me cautious and weary about the effects of Ro ccutane, and I hope to god that it works. So wish me luck, I'll keep you posted on how the course is going.

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People Like Christine make me ashames to say I'm Canadian. Fortunately most of us aren't conmplete dinks. I would just like to make some positive comments n accutane. It worked for me (Took 8 months, toughest period of my life) and now I am left to put my self back on track, and happily so. KNow that It can take a long time to work properly but it will eventually. I know exactly what eeveryone is going through cause I had it all. So hang in there

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Dear William "Quadramoon" try anexfoliating sponge called BUF PUF that my derm recommended to me - use with any face wash you like although I find that one with tea tree in it is good or QUINODERM FACE WASH or ACNISAL face wash - both from behind the coun er in a pharmacist but don't need a prescription. Also the person who was asking about sodium laureth sulphate - I was trying to say ages ago that this is not comedogenic but no one believed me - believe what the people who make Eucerin say because they' e done more research than the original claimant!

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Does anyone know of a good moisturiser that doesn't leave your skin really shiny. I'm in my second week and flaking badly...

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Bad Nightmares while on Roacutane

As Rory said, he got bad nightmares while taking Roacutane. The strange thing is, this also happened to me. Once it happened like every night for a week or two. I was thinking it might be cos of Roacutane, but wasnt really sure.

So does it give you bad dreams and anyone else had the same thing? Thanks

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To Male who just posted before me - I've just returned from Gran Canaria on Sunday and sunbathed everyday for a week. Factor 30 on my face and 25 down to 16 on my body. I have the best tan in my life and although my ears got burnt and my lower back (simply cos' I did'nt put enough cream on) I was fine. I believed sun was out of the question when starting (now past half way) but both derms. I've spoke to said 30/25/15 SPF and one said try to keep out of sun between 11-3). My advice is that a moderate level of sun exposure will do you good providing you use protection. Go out without any and boy you will suffer.

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Hi ! I was just wondering that thouse who has had or are having a roaccutan is it dangerous to be in the sun ? And would it be possible for me to start having roaccutan now when the summer is coming ? I will be working alot and most likely i won't spend so muc time on the sun, propably 2-3 hours max daily because of my work, and it doesn't get so hot here anyways (in june-august day temperature is about 18-26 celsius sometimes higher). So what do you think ?

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YOU PEOPLE MAKE ME SICK, tHERE ARE PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH ONE ARM OR LEG THAT CAN'T GO OUT OR GO TO THE POOL EVER!! I MEAN ITS BAD ENOUGH THAT YOUR ALL SO SELF ABSORBED AND INTERESTED IN YOURSELVES. i MEAN i TO SUFFER FROM VERY VERY MILD ACNE! IT CAN'T BE ALL THAT BAD CAN IT FROM THE MOST POPULAR BITCH IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD

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I suffer from acne I'ts bad but not like eesh so I guess I must be kind of lucky (not). But you know the thing that annoys me most is when people say stuff like oh no my skin looks horriable and there skin is perfect with only like one zit.I heard about roacutane + Acutane through a silly documentry in a magazine which quoted people with acn don't wash skin PROPERLY ahh whoever wrote that needs a kick up the as_. Any way if anyone has any info please give us a thought. cheers.

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I have been on accutane for 10 weeks and the results have been pretty good so far. I heard azelex is good for helping with red marks. Is this a prescription drug in the States and also is it alright to use on accutane? I would really appreciate an informed response! Thanks

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To Ross: You are right - it is dangerous to take tetracyclines (including minocycline) while on roaccutane. Concomitant use of tetracyclines with roaccutane causes a condition called pseudotumor cerbri (swelling of the brain), which in turn results in h adaches and blurred vision. As for your question about changing from one antibiotic to another: tetracyclines normally result in a breakout when you first start using them, which would have been the reason for your skin getting worse when you first chan ed from erythromycin to a tetracycline (minocycline). As erythromycin isn't a tetracycline, I wouldn't expect you'd have the same problem changing back.

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One month of "roac" and my entire system is stuffed.I have bad ear infections from my dry nose.I get horrible nightmares and depression and my prostate seems to be trying to tell me something.IF you have mild acne dont try such a strong drug!!! If anyone lse has had these symptoms please contact me as i am stopping the drug.

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In regard to the question about the contacts and the blood tests. Our derm told my son he would not be able to wear his contacts 15 hours a day like he is used to due to dryness. He is half way through week two and still wearing them. He did notice at irst one would fall out of his eye; this happened a few times. The derm suggested re-wetting drops. He is going to the eye doc this Wed. for yearly checkup so we will be asking lots of questions then and if I learn anything new I will report back. To th person with the blood test question. I know the derm checked the liver and also the tryglicerides (sp?) which is part of your cholesterol (thus the reason for fasting the night before).

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The Derm's are mostly checking the Triglyceride level in your blood, which shows if there is any liver damage. I'm sure they look at the other blood levels too, but that's the main one. Also, they should be doing either a urine or blood pregnancy test o ce a month.

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Dear All, I am in need of help of a Great Face Wash. No, my face isn't covered with Zits but I have many Blackheads on my nose. I'm in need of a good face wash. PLEASE Give me a suggestion. What has everyone used? I use and still use Basis. I use Astringent of Clinque and Neutrogena. My Blackheads are getting on my nerves so much. What should I do about them? PLEASE E-mail me. Thank You BlackHead Sufferer QuadraMoon@AOL.com

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HI--I am considering going on Accutane, and I was curious about different comments I've heard regarding contact lenses. I have heard that you are either not advised or definitely should not wear them while ON the treatment. My question is, would Accutan affect my ability to wear contacts AFTER I was on the treatment? Thanks for your time!

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Do you take Saw Palmetto alone? Without any other supplements, and what does it do. Feel free to email me. I just started school again and I will be traveling by met buses and I have to have alot of contact with ppl. Oh No! Tommarrow is also my appointment to my GP for a checkup and get refered to a DERM... Can't wait too Be on Accutane. I hope it does wonder for me as it has for you all.

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I was wondering what type of "blood test" is being taken for accutane. Does the Md just check for white blood cells? My DR wants to prescribe Accutane and I had one blood test done about 2 wks ago and he said my "blood count" was low and I had to take ano her blood test. Is this normal?

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Please does anyone know of any cream or whatever that is good for use after roacutane, to help clear the scars/blotches up? im in the uk thankyou

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Does anyone know if things will get worse if you change from one antibiotic to another. I have just recently started taking roaccutane and xwitched from minocycline back to erythromycin, since I am under the impression that it is dangerous to take Roaccu ane with a minocycline (am I right or wrong anyone?). When I changed initially from erythromycin to minocyclin it got much worse for about the first 5 weeks. Was that just a freak incident or did it have something to do with the switch. Also, what is sa palmetto (spelling?). I'm going back to uni tomorrow but will be checking back on a regular basis to post my experience with roaccutane. I just hate the way I look at the moment. Good luck to everyone else.

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I am going to tell you the cure for acne:- proper diet, cleansing, and nutrients supplimentation. Thats it !! - Forget everything else; all the wasted products and accutane (IT DOESN"TT CURE ACNE AT ALL). Let me assure you before this approach I tried eve ything. I tried every concievable diet. Diet alone only helped marginally. Then I thought the answer lied in cleansing protocal. Tried everyone...they helped, but they alone were not enough... And I would be lying to you if I told you I felt you could cur your acne with diet alone... It was not until I combined all three...proper diet, cleansing, and nutrients supplimentation that I was able to cure my severe acne... The bottom line is that if you give your body what it needs, and you get rid of toxins th n it's impossible for you to have acne...all my expirence proves that to be true, and I challenge anyone to prove otherwise... Best of luck

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Cna you recommend a soap free cleanser. Thanks.

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Hi guys, I have been off Roaccutane for over two weeks now and my skin is fantastic. I eat and drink what I like and not a zit in sight! I am taking Saw Palmetto every day (thanks to Marcus), but apart from that I am not modifying my diet at all. I have been livin it up this weekend, eating indian, chinese, Macdonalds, drinking etc. I have also been keeping up regular sport in between the indulgence though! This knew lease of life has inspired me to get a new job (it is all sorted now) and move back to London. I am now confident to make this move. I start in four weeks! Yippy Hi to Fish, Rianne, Marcus, Jasmine, Al, GW, Bubble Boy and everybody else. Also I have one interesting and encouraging thing to add about scarring. Since finishing my course of treatment I have notice that the scars on my shoulders have reduced dramatically. They look more like moles now. Even the pittedness has almost gone. I t ink this is because after treatment, the skin rapidly starts building up in thickness again. This new generation from the deaper layers, pushes out any depressions. Is this correct or am I just imagining it? I cant be because there is a definite improveme t!!! Best wishes Jules

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starting third day on reconstruction cream with mixed results. 2 small zits have popped up on a cheek that was getting slathered with it. However, the other cheek is fine and possibly even a little less red.

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TIP: Put a layer of lipbalm so thick that u could nearly stick a spoon in it upright before u go to bed at night.... lips are much better in the morning. also... anyways of stress relieval? exams coming up.. and i dont want stress to make my skin worse again...

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Elisabeth Arden 8 hour cream is the best for saving your lips - better than vaseline, it also saves those really dry patches. I'm on my third course of Roac. and I hope it will be my last. The side effects for me were fine - only dry lips, but after 6 m nths I would get lots of small spots under the skin in areas that didn't suffer before (i.e. back). Altho' this is my third time it honestly saves me!! I stop worrying about my skin and enjoy life!

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Vicka, Become a doctor and discover a medication to get rid of acne red spots, seems like we have a cure for acne which is accutane/roaccutane, now all we need is a cure for the reddness. Goodluck. Kim how much was your dosage? And is anyone else expersin hair lost?

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HAIR LOSS AFTER ACCUTANE??? I have finished my 5 month cycle two weeks ago, skin looks wonderful, but I am lossing my hair like crazy!!! Went to the Dr, she says lets wait another week!!! I'm scared to brush my hair!!!

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To Roxanne and Valerie, thank you for your comments. :)

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Thanks RICK. You're right, when I don't have to go anywhere I will let my face just go dry. The thing that sucks is that tomorrow I have to take my dad's car to the mechanic so he can fix it and then I have to go back a few hours later to pick it up. The hing that sucks is that its supposed to be sunny tomorrow with clear sky. I hate the sun!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Dear accutaine users and sympathizers; I have been off of accutaine and acne-free now for over eight months. It was definitely the hardest experience of my life. . . thus far. But man was it worth it. The hardest days were in the beginning when I didn't want to leave my house. But now I'm ree---really FREE--- and I wish the same for all of you. I don't even wear makeup anymore except on very fine occassions. Looking back, I'm glad I went through it --at the risk of sounding corny-- I'm a better person for it. I have a deeper well of emp thy for others and I want to be a doctor now! go figure. My humble tips: Spectro Jel face wash, Neutrogena Non-Comedogenic Moisture (only if absolutely neccessary), drink H20, lots of fresh air and exercise (I know sometimes you want to hide but even 10 minutes will help), find a creative outlet and let it all ut (writing, poetry, art, singing, dancing----the best artists have suffered in one way or another) and the weird one (this worked for lessening the dryness) OATMEAL everyday (I mean eat it, don't spread it). Also stay away from hair products if possible hairspray, gels, conditioners, etc)--they're very toxic and oil producing (but I'm sure your lovely dermatologist told you so). Wherever you are in life, I hope you can grab some happiness. love Vicka

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I have a question that you might be able to answer. So does SLS clogged your pores? And what is the big fuss about SLS and shampoo?? Thanks Roxanne

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i have been suffering with acne for 5 yreas now, and i'm sick of it. i see girls with beautiful sink and i hate them. i think why couldnt it have been them instead of me. after trying everything i am finally on roaccutane. i have been on it for a month now and i can see my skin getting worse. it is making me more depressed. i know that this is a natural side effect but i am getting more and more depressed. i hate my life! and all i wish is that i could simply dissapear.

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hello, i have been taking roaccutane for 2 weeks now and the results have been amazing. I have suffered for nearly 6 years with my skin and have been at the end of some very cruel taunts. Now i feel like a different person and only wish i had taken this e rlier. I didn't know that there were sites like this and i only stumbled on this when i was checking out the side effects to see if i could go out and have a drink tomorrow!!! i didn't get an answer to my question but i'm pleased i found this page.

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Hi I am new here. Does anyone from the UK had success with a CHEMICAL SKIN PEEL? And if so where did you get it done? Any information would be wonderful! I just tried a Skin Culture home skin peel on a small part of my face and what a total mistake! The w ole patch just broke out and went all red and nasty. It has been two years since my treament with Roaccuntane and it was the worse decision of my life. I would urge anyone who is considering taking it to BE CAREFUL and BE SURE that your acne is so bad tha it is the only option. My acne did not improve...now I have VERY sensitive skin...I can only use soap and water and I have to spend every hour of the day covered in Vaseline to help the redness and dryness. It feels like it is burning everynight or every ime I go out. Life is hell. Before Roaccuntane, athough I hated myself because of my skin, I could just about struggle through each day. I had moderate acne when I went on the drug and I wish I could go back. SO PLEASE I BEG ALL OF YOU TO BE CAREFUL!!! LOVE LUCY

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Well, i go to school so I am obviously not going to go to school with my face all disgusting. But on the weekends and especially vacations I just let it go all dry. Sometimes even put retin A on it so it really kills the bastards. I could go forever not p tting anything on it, but like i said I got school. Wish i had a month just do nothing but sit here at home and fix this disease. But i get interrupted.

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Dear Rick, I was wondering. You said that you might go back to letting the accutane just dry your skin out and flake it off. I'm assuming you mean you just won't moisturize and you'll just let accutane dry your skin off. How long can you go on accutane, I mean, how ong before your skin gets too dry where you just have to moisturize???????????

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Using the reconstruction cream. Its been a day and a half so far. Reaplying 5+ times a day. SO far no noticeable difference. Will go the 7-14 days though. Wondering if the spots will fade faster if I just go back to making it all dry and have it just flak off.

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Hi, to all the new members of this board, if any of you have completed or about to complete a course of accutane/roacutane, I would be grateful if you could fill out the survey on my acne site! Any one who wants to view the results is more than welcome, t anks!!!!

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I too have sufferred from itchy scalp - so bad it kept me awake at night. I found Polytar shampoo really helped. You can buy it at any pharmacy. Also Emulsifying Ointment at £2.65 for a huge tub (ask the pharmacist) works for dry lips, if applied regularl . Hope this helps

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Hey there- To JUST ME: I tried the high Potency VIT E CREAM, but it ended up giving me tiny zits- i think my skin can't cope with petrolatum or mineral oil after all. Has anybody tried "NEUTROGENA's skin clearing treatment"- it apparently contains vit E, HA and BHA- hopefully it should help reduce the red marks. ROCK- haven't heard from u for ages. I still haven't ordered the reconstruction cream- I've decided I'm not gonna take the risk for the time being with any cream, esp if it contains oils. One thin for sure, POTTER's skin clear ointment id dead good at flattening the spots overnight- quite amazing. Take care..SONIA

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I have been on accutane for about 11 weeks now. Last week I went to Panama city. I forgot my accutane. What should I do? Should I double up on some doses to catch up. Or not worry about it...

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I bought some Eucerin cleanser that contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate, but says that it is non-comedogenic and non-pore-clogging. I also looked at another brand (by Neutrogena) that was the same. How can SLS be pore clogging like everyone was saying a whi e back when these companies say it isn't?

TO THIS SUCKS: I don't have insurance, and my accutane pills were $550 per month. I talked to my derm and she had me fill out a form and now I get them for free. It's a tax writeoff for Roche. Just tell them you heard you can get it for free and need t fill out the forms. It was easy.

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Shelly, Acne is stress related. I recently found out this when my acne got severe and I relized I had alot of STRESS and problems going on. Other ppl should also tell you the same thing.

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i'm having the most wonder day!!! since today is Easter, my relatives who i haven't seen since my skin was clear, are coming here today for dinner!!! do you think they'll puke on their food from looking at my disfigured ugly face? it kills me dead.

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I have suffered from acne since the age of 13 years and did not start roaccutane until I was about 18 years old. I have since been on four courses of the drug and, although my skin is acne-free whilst I'm on the drug, the spots have come back each time. May I recommend you try the new CLINIQUE ACNE SOLUTIONS range of skincare (only available in the USA) or (for those of us in the UK) the PUR CONTROLE range of products from LANCOME. They are really good! Keeping the skin exfoliated is essential to ensure your skin is spot free. Try CLINIQUE FACE SCRUB for MEN and (from HELENA RUBINSTEIN) GLYCOLIC FACE WASH and TONER. Although all these products are expensive - they are effective and definitely worth trying. I see my dermatologist in October - perhaps it will be my 5th treatment of roaccutane!!

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Hey people.... I'm in week 6 of my treatment with roaccutane.. and have been visiting this site quite a bit... I was just wondering... are there people out there who took roac. and have been off it for several years without major reoccurence of acne? Thanx. ~xx~

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well here I am about to write my adult life story, as you would of guessed by now I suffer from acne. It all started when at the age of about 13 I noticed I was getting acne. I didn`t take much notice of it becouse you know how it is, when your a teenag r you get acne, but as I got older my acne got worse. I cant explain why, but I didn`t see a doctor for treatment until I was about 22. Sure many people gave me advice, even kind helpful hints but I still did nothing. During my late teens early 20s my cne played an important yet tragic role in my life. I didn`t go out that much,"I mean whats the point of going to a nightclub if your got no chance of picking-up", I lost most of my friends, and the few I had didn`t even care to call me out. Naturally I felt bad, depressed, and life some sort of freak, but ehat realy hit me in the heart is when I was verbally assaulted by a complete stranger, this happened to me on many occasions(this is for you SIMON). The worst was when I was going for a country drive one early morning, I parked at a small town to put on my prescription sunglasses when a car approached along side of me and stopped. Thinking that the car had stopped to offer me assistance,I rolled down my window and said "its ok mate, I`m fust changing my glasses", there was a slight pause, and then the driver of the car replied "I`ve never seen pimples like your pimples before", and he drove off. Well all I can say is that ruined my weekend, oh and I wish he ran into a pole. After that incident I made an appointment to my local GP, not only was my acne very server but I was starting to get scarring. He prescribed me antibiotics which started to show good results, but soon as I finished my repeats my acne came back. So starts the rollcoaster ride of b ating acne. i was on and off the antibiotics for many years, and I still had ance, I even asked him is there anything stronger I could take, he said antibiotics is the only medication their is(BULLSHIT). Then during one vist to my GP he asked me if I wan ed to see a dermatologist, I nearly fell of my chair, like it only took about 5 years for him to suggest if I wanted to see a skin specialist, the bloody crook sucking my money for all thoes years, I still find it hard to understand why he didn`t send me o a derma in the first place, a friend of my who had much less acne than me, first appointment GP, second appointment dermatologist , oh well.......such is life. So at 28 I started to take roaccutane and it worked fantastic, my skin was spotless yet scar ed. About 1 year later my acne started to show again so now I`m on my second dose of roaccutane and I hope I get cured fo good. If I comes back again I think I will give Chinees Herbs a go, I`m not too keen in taking rocaccutain no and off for the rest f my life. To all those people who feel depressed and sad,just hand in there, be positive and patient, I know what your thoughts are(no I can`t read minds), I`m struggling too with it but don`t worry, you will win, it may take time but you`ll get there see you TONY

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Hi everyone. Well, I went to the dermatologists again yesterday and he prescribed me 40mg a day, which I’m really pleased about. I did have a blood, test, but didn’t fast or anything, which my derm din’t seem to mind about. I have been taking minocycl ne for the past six weeks and my derm said I should continue to take it for the next 4 to 6 weeks as the roaccutane starts to take effect. The only thing is that minocycline is a tetracycline, and I know that the info with roaccutanes specifically advise against that. When I asked about that he said that minocycline was the trade name for minocin. Is that actually true, or is my derm just incompetent? I have a stash of erythromycin from a few months back and think I will take those instead. Can anyo e update me about sodium laureth sulfate, and why that is meant to be bad? Also, to the person complaining of a pinkish face, I also suffer from this. I have literally had spots on every part of my face over the years, and no where else, and the cumulat ve effect seems to be that my face has taken on a permanent (oh god please don’t be permanent) redness, which contrasts sharply with the rest of my body and especially my neck. (this is heartbreaking when I see photos of me from 4 or 5 years ago when my s in was normal). This is made much worse whenever I get hot. I just hope that this redness will fade eventually, especially as the roacc takes effect and I don’t get any new spots to compound the problem. I find that when my face is oily, or has sunscree or something on it, it looks much worse. For those in the UK I found something from tesco (its own brand) which has sulphur (?) in it and is meant to prevent spots. Whether that’s true or not it resembles foundation and I find it helps to cover up and top the shine. Just make sure you rub in well and can’t see a line where it stops. The good thing for guys is that you don’t feel you’re buying makeup. Otherwise I would suggesta moisturiser with shine control or something, just to matt out the face. cu

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Hi, I took Roaccutane several years ago, but I still suffer from mild acne that causes some "nice" scars on my face. So, I am one of the small percentage of unlucky patients for which this treatement was not completely succesful. I would like to ask if it is possible to use Isotrex Gel that contains isotretinoin after beeing treated with Roaccutane. And, has someone of you already used this gel (or any other one) to remove scars? How was the result? Thanks a lot, Elena

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It's been two weeks since my last roaccutan pill. I have some small zits (is it usual?) but otherwise things are good, except the pink/red look in my face. I have read that roaccutan makes your face go red etc. but you know I had this in my face already b fore roaccutan. So what can I do to make it disappear? Has anyone else got the same condition(pimple free, but pinkish face)?

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To the person asking about Accutane without insurance: I've heard (but don't know a lot about) that Roche (the makers of Accutane and Roaccutane) will actually give the drug to some people who can't pay for it. You might want to look up their website a d do some research--call the company even. To the lady near her 30's who just finished Accutane--I'm near 30 as well and am equally as fed up with acne. I'm in week 8 of treatment, a really high dose for 5 months, and still, the stuff under the surface seems to be just sitting there. Did you exp rience the same thing? Could it be the drug is just not working on my skin? If anybody knows anything, please post! Thanks.

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I finished my course of Roaccutane somewhere November 1998. I was happy with the results as i have very oily skin but it improved after the course of Roacc. My skin stayed reasonably clear(occassional minor breakouts but nothing serious)for about half a y ar until mid-July 1999 when i decide to further my studies in Australia. Maybe it's the change in climate, or maybe it's the stress i face in college, i don't know. My skin started breaking out, very badly at times. Now it's back to square one, back to th condition before i started Roaccutane. My skin's just as oily as before. Now, i can't go out without applying concealer on my face. I don't have a single ounce of self-confidence and sometimes i can't even look at people straight in their faces when talk ng to them and thinking that they must be staring at my zits. It's totally DEPRESSING. I don't know what to do now. And the thought of having to live with this face for the rest of my life's UNBEARABLE. I've heard this somewhere, 'If Roaccutane doesn't wo k for you, probably nothing will because Roacc's one of the best acne treatment around.' Wonder how true this is?

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I had acne for almost ten years. The worst period was my first year in college. I still have a lot of stress but not as much as before, and my acne is getting better. Does anyone think acne is stress related too?

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Has anyone here tried the Diane-35 pill or heard anything about it? I wanted to be put on Accutane but my derm insisted that I take the Diane-35 pill. Any information would be greatly appreciated. :)

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i stumbled on this site by accident. i had seen- im sure like many other people that may read this have as well- an 'infomercial' about 'the answer to acne' (this description is mine but if u have ever seen the infomercial im talking about you will know that is what they are trying to bill this product as)- a three-step process using proactive products. and i was seriously- again- thinking of trying them. or it i guess. and while i was searching for a site to buy from- its one of those guthy-renker th ngs- i came across some message boards that talked a little about other people's results- not quite what the infomercial mite lead u to believe. so chances r i will abandon this idea. i have had problems with my complexion ever since high school. its ather unpredictable. ive only had really serious breakouts a handfull of times- and those times im thinking it may have been an allergic response... i dunno for sure. but i just recently saw a dermatologist again- because a friend of mine had- and thi particular doctor seemed to do her some good. and he recommended -i think its nizoral shampoo-(i wont vouch for the spelling) and i had mentioned i was using aveeno moisturizing lotion. thats a good product i think he said. now this aveeno lotion has eally been the best thing ive found. but the whole process is really frustrating. it seems one thing works for you and something else for me and although there are some common treatments that seem to do a little good for everybody they dont usually solv the problem. the psychological side to this is something else. it makes you very sensitive to all sorts of things that the 'average' person probably wouldnt give a second thought too. and having to deal with it every day- well youre always too conscio s of what other people may think. and u envy those people that dont even seem to think about it. my problem is not as severe as some of those i have read about on this board but it is chronic- it never goes away. and i find myself still searching for t e answer. and when u r still looking u can look in the unlikeliest places- and the wrong places too. and sometimes it takes time to discover the difference. oh well thats life. i think this is a good site. it gives people an opportunity to look at ho other people have handled these kinds of problems. thats a good thing. more communication more freedom. i hadnt planned on adding all this. people that dont have this kind of problem usually dont quite understand what u go thru. this kind of thing m te help. how many of us really like looking in the mirror anyway and when you have a problem like this you may find yourself going out of your way to avoid looking. enuf for now. thanks for the site. i may have more comments about the psychological si e of this in the future. maybe not. didnt expect my comment to be this long. hava nice day. really.

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What's the point in going on with life if you don't have one, I'm so sick of everything!?

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i am so depressed ); i have no insurance and am far from being rich. i asked my dermi if it would be expensive to take accutane and she told me that everything would be OK. what a damn liar!!! she prescribed 60 mg s (taking 20mg s 3 times a day) a month and told me that it would be only 90 dollars. i found that so hard to believe but was desperate. i called at least 15 pharmacies and the lowest price was $600. i thought i was going to break down and cry. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE. does anyone know he cheapest place to buy accutane online or in New York for someone who doesn't have insurance??? i've spent all my money on other medications and am at my last draw. i feel like dying right now. i've been breaking out more than usual with these cysts that are very painful. accutane is my only hope and if i can't go on it then there is no hope for me. lee. PLEASE HELP!!!

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I am very close to my 30s and very tired of dealing with acne.Although my acne was not horrible it was exremely stubborn.I finally found a doctor that would prescribe me accutane.I have one more day left of my 5 month treatment,and despite the side effect it was a miraculous experience.

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Andrew- I feel exactly the same way you do! I could remember last year at this time- tanning in my yard and getting dressed up to go to a club with my friends. Is that all this will ever be now memories???? Will I ever be able to look int he mirror again without crying because if I can't life is not worth living. I do not understand how someone could look completely different than they did one year ago- for the worse- how can the whole composition of their skin change. I feel like I went to sleep normal and woke up a monster. Why can't God j st let me go to sleep like a monster then and wake up normal. I am trying to have faith- but when I see this refelction in the mirror- i really lose it.

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To fiona - thanx, i'll try... and let you know how it goes.

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message for Helen - I have found Vaseline both on my lips and at the corners of my mouth has been very helpful, and is also colourless and seems to stick around longer than lip balm. Since I started using it about 2 weeks ago my lips have been much better

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Hey.. i was wondering, how do people deal with cracked corners of lips? I dont think lipbalm would do the trick.. and it also leaves orangy marks where it's sore.. any hints? thanx... =)

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I finished my treatment with Accutane on Jan.99. I have been happy with the results. Any breakouts I get now are over in a short time. (days) And my skin is a lot drier. I also am having some beta peels done at my dermatologists too.

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Today is day 1. So happy to be on accutane.. my derm recommended taking 1 40mg pill for first week then 2 40 mg pills therafter, this is supposed to help with intial breakout.. anyone know of this helping, and can someone tell me how often you should wash your face and with what? He told me to continue regular regimen of washing and using retin a micro for a month. wont i be extremely dry shortly? any advice will be greatly appreciated.. thanks all

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i've heard that taking zinc supplements really help mild to severe cases of acne.has anyone tried that before and gotten good results?

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hello. please, does anyone know how to get rid of the dark spots left from acne. thanks. kennedy.

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ive been reading back over this comment page and read about the reconstruction cream, have others ordered it and tried it if so how did you find it, are the results as good as the rock says?

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Help!!!! ok ive been reading and alot of people say that theyve only been on accutane for like 4 weeks and there face "is clear"? how can that be? ive been on 100 mg for over 11 weeks and my face is no where near clear? am i doing something wrong? please elp.

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Hi,I finished my course of accutane 5 weeks ago and I was wondering if anyone could tell me how long after finishing the course that u can go on a sunbed.Thanks.

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DAMN BEN ON ACCUTANE FOR 8 WEEKS NOW AND MY SKIN LOOKS FRUCKEN SO GREAT THANKS TO GOD FOR EVERYTHING DAMN I LOVE MY LIFE NOW MORE THAN 3 YEARS AGO WHEN I FIRST STARTED TO GET ACNEITIS. YOU KNOW WHAT IF U WANT YOUR ACCUTANE TO WORK MORE U SHOULD GO TO TH DERM OFFICE AND GET THOSE GLYCO PEELS DONE AT 20% EVERY 2 WEEKS WHILE ON ACCUTANE I MEAN THEY WORK WONDERS SURE YOULL BE RED FOR A DAY OR SO BUT ITS WELL WORTH IT WHO CARES IF IT COST 50 DOLLARS A PEEL YOULL FEEL LIKE IF ITS MONEY WELL SPEND. JUST REMEMB R KEEP THE FAITH AND ITLL WORK ALLLL GREAT ILL KEEP U POSTED SINCERELY YOURS, THE MASTER

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For anyone visiting the derm thinking you may be put on Accutane, you need to fast before you have the blood work from midnight on the night before. The results come back very quickly but this might speed the process up for you and you may want to schedu e an early morning appointment. You can always just go in the next day for the blood work but it makes for a two time trip and an extra days wait.

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Hi everyone. I’ve been reading everyone’s posts for the last two months or so and think this is a really great site. I went to a private dermatologist on Monday (£85 for 15 minutes! Thank god I’m insured) and he said I needed roaccutane. I have suffer d from acne for at least 2 and a half years and have been taking drugs constantly for the last two years. I was taking 1000mg of erythromycin until march when I started on minocycline 100mg. Over the years I have taken benzol peroxide, benzimycin gel, z neryt, and am now on retin a cream 0.025%. Although my acne is much better than it was before I started taking medication it will be ok one day and be absolutely terrible two days later. There is really no rhyme or reason to it. I was so embarrassed ab ut it before I started medication that I didn’t even want to bring it up with a doctor, and it was only when I went to see a doctor for a completely unrelated thing that I got anything, since the doctor said “you have very bad acne, you know” before I had even closed the door and sat down. Acne has ruined my life in many regards, and I just can’t wait for my skin to be spot free and not red. It’s the redness that worries me the most I think. Having never had a single spot anywhere but on my face it has ade my face a completely different colour to my neck, which just exacerbates the visual effect. I just hate it. I have definitely been much less socially active, and much less enthusiastic about applying for jobs etc (I’m at my first year of uni at the m ment). I am going back to my derm tomorrow because I didn’t know if my insurance would pay for the drug, but they will. But I am just wondering if he will actually prescribe them to me tomorrow, since he hasn’t even mentioned taking a blood test or anythi g. Does that strike anyone as a little strange? How long do you normally have to wait for results? I also wanted to know a few more things. Someone a while back mentioned that sodium laureth sulfate shouldn’t be used because it blocks pores or somet ing? The only thing is that this is the biggest ingredient in my cleanser which is specifically formulated for acne. Also, I am in a swim team and swim 4 times a week, which I find already really dries out my skin to the point of cracking if I don’t moi turise it straight after getting out the pool. Will this be a major problem while on roaccutane? The only thing is that within a few hours there us a visible shine to my skin because it has produced more oil. I find that my skin is really oily on the s rface, but dry and flaky at the same time (if that’s possible). I told this to my derm but he didn’t seem overly concerned. Also, regarding sunscreen, all of the ones I have ever used, even non-comedogenic ones, have left my skin looking even more greasy and shiny looking, which is just terrible. Got any advice?Thanks everyone.

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I've been off roaccutan for two weeks. I have only couple of small zits, nothing bad. My skin still looks pink, like it has pink/red areas on my face. WHAT can I do to make it go away?

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I forgot to mention that I wear contacts and have had no problems w/ my eyes drying up or the contacts feeling irritated. My vision was much better when I first took Accutane, so I didn't have to worry as much about that side effect. It was definitely a c ncern of mine this time around, but so far, so good. Also, I should note that I doubt my prior Accutane treatment had anything to do w/ my weakened vision. My family all has glasses or contacts. I was just the lucky one who didn't have to have them until ater in life.

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I've had mild to moderate acne since a teenager. I started Accutane two weeks ago. It's my second time on the drug. I last took it about six or seven years ago. I'm taking 20 mg once daily. The dermatologist game me such a low dose because I told him I d dn't want all the bad side effects. I don't remember my dosage from before, but even at this very low dose, I've had some of the usual side effects. The most traumatic was the "it'll get worse before it gets better" warning. My face totally broke out duri g the first week, and I continued to get an unsually high number of pimples in the second week. The second worst effect is the dry lips. That started hard core by the end of the first week. The center of the lips feel dry and puffy but aren't cracked like I remember them being years ago. But, the sides of my mouth are constantly cracked, and dry and painful. Also, my face gets real itchy at times and the texture feels kind of sticky -- makeup doesn't seem to go on as nicely either. I had headaches the firs week, but they've since ceased. Other than that, I've been OK. My advice to anyone staring this is to be prepared for an initial breakout. I had been taking the Mynocycline antibiotic and the Ortho-Tri-Cyclen birth control with good results. I switched derms and tried the Mondox antibiotic and Differn gel but thought the results weren't as good. I had a waiting period between seing a third derm without any antibiotic and that's when I noticed my skin going backwards. The new derm told me he would prescribe Myno again but that I'd have to be on it indefinitely if I wan ed to maintain things. He suggested to try Accutane and attempt to get rid of this once and for all. He seems to think I can get "near perfection" but warned me that taking a lower dosage could mean I'm on the drug longer. Each day I go back and forth between wanting to quit now for fear of more breakouts and wanting to stick w/ it for the promise of better skin. So far, this board has helped convince me to stick w/ it ... at least until my next appt. w/ the derm on May 2, hich will mark about a month on the drug. If anyone's curious, I guess that my skin improved after my first Accutane treatment. It's hard to remember because I think I'm emotionally scarred permanently, so, of course, improvements were lost on me. I examined my face constantly for each and every lemish and always felt self-conscious. My friends, though, say they remember it being worse before it got better but definitely getting better. I have a friend who did Accutane in high school and later in college again. Her skin is beautiful now, so I'm h ping that same will be true for me -- and the rest of you who are struggling through this!

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i have been on roacuatane for 8 weeks, and i have not notice any real differences, apart from dry lips and very dry scalp. dry lips i can live with, biut my scalp is itcy and very dry, any suggestions.

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Wow, that sucks. I had that problem about a month into treatment but I don't think that your's will stop you from beginning treatment.

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Steve, The thing is I haven't even taking accutane yet and I already have the eyelid/acne problem. So It can't be an side effect from it. This is the 3rd time it has happened. I have an appt to see a Derm soon. thanks for responding Steve Also, Jim,Marcus, Or anyone I want to start taking supplements but I have no idea of what to take, can someone tell me what I should take. thanks

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I just wanted to post to you out there for who accutane hasn't worked or are worrying about the side effects and want to try something else. I've been coming to this board for over a year now, so it kind of makes me a veteran. I started to visit when I as contemplating accutane, and I did take it. It worked for a while but slowly came back, then about two months ago my face was an absolute wreck. I couldn't by any means control it. I tried Chinese herbs which did nothing and the oil production was in redible. After a couple hours of washing my face I could slide my finger across my cheek and use it as a moisturiser. Seriously. Then I heard this guy Marcus talking on here about how he controlled his acne by researching different supplements. Well, took his words of advice and bought lots of various supplements and did HOURS of research. It's like I finally decided to be the doctor and find out exactly what I was taking did for me. And the result...it's been about 5 weeks now and my face hasn't l oked this good since I had no pubic hairs. It even has this healthy ruddish colors in the cheeks that I never had before. I consider myself smarter than the doctors now, as I've blindly tried everything they handed out to me. And any side effects I get are absolutely benneficial. Yeah, it might be a pain to take 20 different supplements a day, which means about 60-70 pills, but it is worth it. If anyone has any questions about them I'd be glad to answer them. I just want to help people out. I'm not ompletely clear yet but the pimples I get are small and not full of much puss at all. And the oil production has dropped drastically within the last few weeks. It's hardly even more than a "normal" person's face. I feel liberated. Peace.

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Does anyone out there take accuatne as a mainteance ie take it for a long time instead of antibitocs. can you please tell me how long you have been and are intending to take it for; and what is your doseage, and your body weight? many thanks

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Hi everyone. Thanks for your replies everyone. I would just like to say that alot of you said that when you started this treatment you Acne got bad for the first 2 weeks or so, well I just want to know does it get alot worse and does it happen all the time. Please reply my e-mail is at the top or just respond here, Cheers.

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andrew & roxanne, thanx for the concern;)

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hello!!! i totally understand what you mean about almost killing yourself and then finally realizing that it's isolation that's the true enemy. for a long time, i refused to leave the house and became self absorbed and lost all touch of reality. my onl source to the outside world was television and magazines. and girl, you know what? there are no zits on tv, besides the wonderful acne commercials that make fun of people who suffer from it. i posted a message a couple of days ago entitled "Crazy Trip to the Dermi" that practically changed my life!!! i realize that what doesn't kill us will makes us stronger. take care. kennedy.

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that other song you make me completly miserable by LIT is also FULLY dedicated to acne.

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Gosh people I don't even have acne that bad, but I almost commited suicide yesterday, I'm not being superficial or nothing but I have a real pretty face (use to model) and then acne hit me (moderate) and it became really hard for me to accept it, since it kind of TOTALLY wrecked my life. The past months I've been in deep depression and wouldn't get out of the house, you know what guys THAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE! YOu have to get out and do your dayly thing. when youre isolated you think that youre the only person in the world with this disease, and you fall into depression,and that my friend combined with acne is a life threatning situation.I had all the pills ready...bridge...even maybe fall asleep and jump in a canal, I was really ready to end it!! Do you know what saved me???Going to pick my sister up from high school and seeing all these girls with way worst acne that I have smiling and having the time of their life with their friends. And then I realized what the hell was I thinking?? How did this get to me so bad that I was ready to end it all?? It wasn't the acne, but the depression it brought from the isolation that I was in. So if you get depresion like most of us do get seek help, I was so low that even though my acne had improved 50% from myno and topicals I still didn't give a shit, I haven't even given accutane a chance...I just completely didn't care, So you see get OUT OF THE HOUSE!!! If other humans like to stare or say something like she's so beautiful if it wasn't for her complexion...and crap like that. You only live once just play life as a game and the acne...just take the old advice it will eventually go away..I'm more compassionate for the guys because they can't wear make up like us women can, but still to all you man out there with this...look at brian adams It didn't stop him from his singing career and to tell you the truth when I had perfect skin I dated guys with acne and never really cared or payed too much attention to it. So take my advice and as HARD as it is don't isolate...it will only make things worse. Another problem I see: don't seek perfection from the treatments, if you see improvements be content with them. All my love to you guys and please go out there and see that you are not t e only one with this.I'm so glad I'm alive spotty or not I'm still me.:))))))

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I have experienced this very same thing. Your eyelid is very tender/swolen and there is a whitehead right on the edge of it. This is just a reaction to the accutane and if you leave it alone it will go away within 24-48 hours. I think that this is related to the pink-eye warning.

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I went today for my first blood work and of course the doctor wanted a PG test. As soon as the doctor gets the results, I'll start Accutane.I'll be taking 40 mg twice a day. I've read a lot about the chapped lips and dry skin, but I was wondering how soo would I experience those symptoms? After the first couple of days? I've been on oral and topical antibiotics etc. to control my moderate acne for 1 1/2 years, but lately it's just not able to control it any longer. I'm excited about starting the accut ne and the possibility of being spot free! I would love to hear from anybody out there who could tell me more about what I probably will experience the first few days and weeks of treatment.

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Hi everyone My name is Jason and I am a third-year journalism student in Dublin, Ireland. I am currently trying to do a radio documentary on acne and the effects of roaccutane and was wondering if anyone in the Dublin region would be interested in talking about their experiences. I can't say that it will be straight to RTE's 'Documentary on One' but i am hoping. I was on a course of roaccutane about two years ago for nine months so you can be assured of an understanding interviewer. Please email me off the list i interested. Thanking you in advance.

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Hi, I finished Roaccutane treatment 3 years ago and ever since have had severe bone, joint, muscle pain. If anyone knows anything about how to cure this please email me. Thankyou, Redondo

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I started Roaccutane 2 days ago, I havenot got any side effects yet, but it is early days. I am building up a website about my experience at the moment, I hope that what we all can share will help other people deal with Acne.

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Hello everyone, this is my seccond posting here, and i wanted to thank all the people who ansewred me, i'm starting Roaccutane treatment next week, on 20mg two times a day, and hope to fet cured... if anyone has edvises for me on how to deal with the side effects please e-mail me, allso if ther's anyone who just starts a treatment too and would like to talk or somthing during this time, i'de love too, and for all of you out ther who suffers like m from acne, good luck curing it, and thank you for being here. Lee

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I have suffered from acne for about 2 years and have been tormented and laughed at because of this condition.My friends tell me to forget about it ,but thats easier said than done as some of you well know.The worst part about it is I love to sing thats ho I first heard about roacutane which I am thinking of taking so if any of you have any imformation please help me out. bye.

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Hi, i just found this site today but was very intrigued at peoples' responses to acne and accutane. I personally do not have horrible skin, but i do tend to break out a lot. I have tried several antibiotics and lotions, but they all seem to lose their e fect after a couple of months. I'm really frustrated every time i have to get a new prescription for my skin that i know will have the same results. I just recently heard about Accutane, but i don't know if my skin is bad enough to take this. I'm also g ing away to college for a long time, and there are a lot of people around. I have fair skin and am very sensitive to different products. I really want to start this because i'm sick of wearing a lot of make-up and avoiding a lot of people and public pla es. To anyone who has taken this, i would just love to hear some more information about accutane. I'm a little scared because even though i shouldn't base so much emphasis on my appearance, i, like many others, do. I would extremely appreciate it if so eone emailed me back at this address. Thank you, and i hope to here from someone.

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Andrew, I wasn't on insurance, But now I have it and I have made an appt at the GP which is the 25th they will then have to refer me to a Derm. I am hoping it doesn't take more then two weeks. I need accutane . I am learning each day from others about acc tane I am ready for it. So hopefylly I will soon be on it..

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I am currently taking 60mg twice a day. My improvements remain stagnant at the moment. I have been on accutane for 4 months now and have improved significantly since I started my course. With incorporating my body weight, I am taking 1.22mg/kg/day. Th maximum dosage is 2mg/kg/day. Does anyone know if the doctors are pretty cooperative in increasing a persons's dosage? My doctor did increase my dosage once. Remember I initially started out at 40mg twice a day. Do you know If I can get him to go to aybe 80mg twice a day. I think this will cure me. My doctor keeps stressing time and not dosage. Can anyone Help me?

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To Sarah: I have noticed that exact same thing with a lot of my friends, I have a lot of cystic acne on my neck, although it has gotten better with accutane. But even before that my friends would be like 'oh no, I have a zit on my chin!' and I'm just li e, um... gee.. that's terrible. Have you looked at my face lately?? I don't know if they're just forgetful, or maybe just so used to my acne that they don't notice it. I do know that when I first told my friends I was taking medication for my skin, a c uple of them said 'why, is there something wrong with your skin?' Made me feel good, but I will still feel better when it is clear.

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Having acne has totally made by self confidence go away. My face is a lot better now after roacutane but the red marks are still here as well as some scars.

Somtimes when im clubbing, i get looks - i dont know if its because of my face or because they are interested in me, so I dont do anything about it. The thing is, I actually do think they were interested in me, but i didnt do anything because of what i sa d before. Once or twice i have had girls come upyo me and talk etc but i kinda shy away..

Even some girls at work, I wanna ask them out sometime but Im afriad that they will say no.. especially when there are people there without acne. Hmmm....

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I suffer from moderate acne, it's bad but not horrible. I hate looking in the mirror and that's all I see. I feel I can never be pretty untill my skin clears up. I hate crying every night because I feel sp ugly. Not to sound bitter or anything, but it re lly bugs me when people with perfect skin are like, oh my god, I have so many zits. And they'll have like two or three. That really pisses me of, especially when they say it to me, like hello??? It really sucks too cause all my brother's and sister's h ve absolutly perfect skin, and I was the lucky one who got acne. I can't do things like go swimming or have sleepovers or whatever cause I'm too embarresed about my skin. The acne may go away eventually over time, but I don't think the emotional scars it as left ever will.

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Hello everyone, this is a terrific site and thought that telling my story may be useful to some of you. My acne started when I was 13, mainly a lot of small zits and a few big pimples all concentrated on my forehead. By the age of 16 my acne had spread to my nose and chin region - all types - less cystic. At 20 years old I had tried every non-persciption reatment and nothing seemed to work for very long (or very well). Over the next 3 years I tried every antibiotic, some would work for a little while and then quit. In those three years I began getting cystic acne in nose and chin region. Finally, at 23 I got an appointment with a derm. who prescribed accutane @ 0.09mg/kilo/day. 6 weeks after starting my skin was at its worst, but at 8 weeks it was nearly perfect and stayed that way right until the end of the 4.5 month treatment. My skin was tipically oily around the nose, but the accutane ended this, I could have went weeks without washing my face. Anyways, during the treatment I experienced dry lips and sore joints. The lips stayed quite dry months after the treatement ended. At about 4 months pos treatement my skin was starting to get oily agian, and the acne had returned in small inflamed spots on my neck, nose and chin area (some were zits, others would show up when aggrevated and disapper overnight). At 6 months post treatment I met with my d rm. again. He and I both agreed on another course of Accutane at the same dose, which I started two weeks ago. I have not as of yet experienced any bad breakouts from starting again, if anything my skin is getting better by the day, already! (I believe his is because my face was not as messed up as it was the first time on accutane). That's my experience with accutane so far. For those of you who are thinking about taking accutane but are worried about the side effects - your acne cannot be that bad, ecause for me, I would have sold my soul to have clear skin. The thought of the side effects caused by accutane was no problem weighed against having clear skin. As far as this being my second course of accutane, I'm not worried - I know it will work, p obably be even more effective this time since my skin is not as bad. Best wishes to all, sorry for the long post.

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To Roxanne, I read that you're not on accutane, why not????????????? To Lamb girl asking about how she can prevent her child from having acne, well, you can't prevent it because its now in its genes, unless of course the child has its dad's genes (which hopefully the daddy of this child does not have acne) IF the child has your genes then it'll get acne. All you can do is so start treating it from the very beginning when it first starts and hopefully when the child is old enough he too can be put on accutane.

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sorry forgot to say something..... does anyone know Adams Song by Blink 182? I think this song just about sums up all our attitudes towards acne.

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XKBLR- well your experience is interesting. Mine is the exact opposite. Before acne, I had girlfriends, more self confidence to ask them out, etc. Now, Im not saying I dont have friends and dont go out (with my friends that is) anymore, cause I do, it just for me prom is coming up and I didnt have the guts to ask anyone out because of my face. I don't know, maybe we did do something wrong in this world to let God punish us like this. Maybe we should blame society, our parents, or anything. hen I look in the mirror, I want to kill myself. But I'm to strong to do that, Im not gonna let this damn disease win. One question though, what are the chances of having to go on accutane again? any info is appreciated.

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I really want to go on holiday with my friends in the summer, how soon after stopping roaccutane can you be out in the sun. Is it bad to be exposed to hot sun while still on the course? Would i have to wear sunblock?

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to James Arnold I think the only thing that you will hear is.. be patient. My son [also 15] has been on RoA since 3 March 00 at 40mg per day [he weighs 55kg]. If anything his acne is now worse [just going into week 6] than ever!! But everyone, including the dermatologist and people on this board [and other boards] say it will clear, it just takes time. He has come very close to coming off the drug with the side-effects as well. Not anything too bad, just the expected dry lips, slight muscle ache and more than normal fati ue. Hope yours doesn't take too long and that you get good results in the end.

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Goodbye, I too feel like giving up. Although I haven't even given Accutance a chance yet. I hate this pain, and suffering. The crying at night, the stares, I hate it all. and on top of that.. I have other problems that cause me stress and depression. Just like Kennedy said when I go out to the store or something people think when handing them my credit card or money that I might give them acne cuties. It sad.. I know where everyone is coming from. When the acne got severe on my face I became sucidal and I nded up in a hosiptal for three days. With needles in my arm and it wasn't much fun. I was wondering if anyone else gets this.... I woke up this morning with my left eye lid sore.. found out that where my eye lashes connect to my skin there are two small hite zits and it hurts.. does or has anyone had this problem. they are really close to the inside of my eye.. roxy Goodbye.. Like andrew said.. don't give up.. don't let acne win .. you take control. give accutance another chance.. sometimes thats wha it takes

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I have acne and I have a toddler how or what can I do to keep him from getting acne when he gets older... Andrew, or anyone?

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Hi everyone. Im into my first week of this treatment. Im on a very small dose, 20mg a day yet you all seem to say things like 'I wished I'd never started it' and 'They have all come back' and this has got me a bit worried. I'm sure you all know what Im going through, Im embarrassed to look at people in the face and talk to people, I even get called names. All I can do is wonder what my back and face and chest will look like without spots because I have been suffering from s ots for about 3 years and I just hate them. Everyone who has spots, there is always a place in my heart for you because I know what spots are like and they are not nice. Anyway my question is this, how long should it be until i notice a difference because doctors say this drug is so good you will notice things withen the first week, please someone answer, thanks. Wish everyone well.

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About 3 months ago when I was snowboarding I fell really hard on my chest on some ice, and the blunt impact hurt for a while, but not permanently. Two months later I started a regular exercise regiment and my chest started hurting, I assume I was aggrava ing an injury I didn't realize I had. Now my chest hurts when I wake up in the morning, from just under my sternum to above my right nipple. At first I was worried that it was heart problems because of the accutane, but it doesn't display any of the cla sic symptoms of heart trouble, it's just a sore muscle type feeling. A friend of mine suggested that I take glucasomine/chondroitin to help heal the cartilage and bone joints. I wanted to find out if this was ok to take with accutane, so I called my der . She didn't know. Connected me with the pharmacist. He didn't know. Connected me with Roche! They didn't know. So my question is has anyone tried taking these two together with positive/negative results? I will probably start taking it in low doses to see what happens, I know that it is produced naturally in the body anyway, so hopefully it will be ok. If this stuff is as good as the ads claim at preventing arthritis/sore bones, etc, maybe we should be taking it anyway since these are side effects f accutane. Let me know what you think, thanks everybody!

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I really, really want my complexion to heal nicely. I'm sorry GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope you hear my anguish. Please heal my face!!!!!!! I'm so sorry!!!!!!!! Please, I want to start a life!!! I was ssssssssssoooooooooo stupid when I was younger. Please OD, heal my face from this hell it lives with. I want to kill myself, I now have to plan all of my future plans and future job, around my acne. I will never be able to wear those nice designer suits to work, or gell my hair that nice model way, or be able to socialize at work, you know, to be able to promote myself, all because of this horrible anti-social disease that my face has!!!!!!!!!!!!

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"Simon" didn't go bitter he's just a goddamed idiot, with or without acne.

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leanne I feel i am on the same boat as you. I am currently seeing a private derm and am on roaccutane. i have also looked at getting accuatne from the states via the internet. if u wanna talk, mail me. i can tell u about costs and other ques u might have

Crazy Trip to the Dermi - 04/19/00 17:44:59
Age: 20

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let me tell you something! it was an experience taking the subway to my dermi's office during morning rush hour traffic! i live in new york city and realized that it probably is the trendiest most fake city on the earth. i gathered all my strength and ctually decided to go shopping since i haven't been out of the house in the longest time. people's responses to my skin differed. i noticed that elderly people are very kind and understanding. most children don't care or looked in curiousity. When bus ness people saw me, they had this disgusting look in their face. i didn't fret because they are used to being pampered and living in lalala land. i just looked back at them and gave them the same look and caused many comotions (sp?) by saying out loud " HAT THE HELL ARE YOU LOOKING AT, MY ZITS?" and that freaked them out beyond comprehension. the last thing anybody wants is to attract negative attention to themselves. but at those points, i had adrenaline rushes and didn't care that people were staring at me. it was like i was euphoric and detached from my body. it was empowering. so they got what they deserved. i got the worse response from trendy young artists and coffee shop people. how snooty and superficial they are. they wear expensive "coo " clothing and pretend to be all tough, urban, and like they don't give a damn. yet they are color coordinated and everything is in place perfectly. what hypocrates! looks are everything! i went to Pearl paint, used book and record stores, and a coffe place, and the they all reaked of fakeness. when i was exchanging change, they would flinch when i handed them money like i would give them acne cuties. artists are the last people i would think would be so cruel to torment. this experience profoundly changed me. i find myself wanting to go out more often. and that's what i will do. the more i experience all these negative things from people because of my skin, the more i learn about myself and human nature. i will better myself to go beyond these ruly ugly people. a lot of us on this site think ourselves ugly but that is the total opposite. acne causes us to go two directions. some people, like simon, go bitter. but the rest of us become compassionate and learn more wisdom than we give ourselv s credit for. compassion is the most beautiful thing i can think of. in the core of things, nobody is better. you don't know beauty until you know ugliness. i wish everybody on this site the best. thanks. kennedy.

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Dear Goodbye, What do you mean Goodbye this beat me. I hope you don't mean suicide!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope that you're on accutane. If it doesn't completely do the job the first course, go on another one!!!!!! PLEASE REPLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Well, I'm now 1 month out of a possible 4-5 months into my accutane treatment. I'm using my creams nightly and I'm hoping for the best. I just wanted to talk about what the other people say below because its true that I can't walk down the street without aving to go through emotional distress. My heart beats 200 bpm, my mind just goes insane thinking that people that pass me by the street are looking at my red marks on my cheecks. It kills me when clear complexioned people look at me!!!! This is my bigges peeve because I hate it so much!!! The people that say if their acne goes away they will still not be able to get back their self-confidence, to this I say "HELL NO". If my skin clears, I'm going to go out in the world full thrust 100%. All I want in lif is clear skin. Its difficult for me to hear others on this site say "Its not that bad, at least if you have acne you still have 2 legs and arms and that you can still go out and enjoy life, other people have it worse off" These statements really really r ally annoy me because you know what, if you have these 2 arms and legs and you can go out and enjoy life you wouldn't be depressed like me and others on this board and say "I hate living and I hate walking down the street because of my acne." Acne is a te rible, horrible and anti-social disease. Just because it doesn't affect you physically, the emotional disease that it causes a person is enough to kill that person. So don't tell me or others that its not that bad and you can still enjoy life becaue the t uth is is that you can't. So many people say that they only go out a night, pitch dark night, they have to wear makeup, they are afraid to get to personl on relationships in fear that the other person will see their acne the next day in the daylight, or w atever the reason is. This my friends is not enjoying life. These people have acne and even though they were not physically handicapped and were able to go outside, the emotional handicappness that they feel is enought to make me want to cry for them. I d n't like the person that stares back at me. And its not enough for people to say I don't like how people are so superficial. Well my friends, the truth is is that its not being superficial, its just human nature to be attracted to others who are "nice loo ing". You don't see "good-looking people" saying, "Oh, that person with acne sure would be nice to have kids with"!!! I DON'T WANT TO CAUSE OFFENCE HERE BUT I FEEL THAT ACNE IS A DISEASE THAT CAN BE PREVENTED IF PEOPLE WITH ACNE DO NOT HAVE KIDS. RATHER Y U CAN ADOPT. WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU HAVE KIDS AND HAVE ACNE, YOUR KIDS WILL BE VISITING THIS SITE IN A FEW YEARS!!!!!!! WELL, UNTIL NEXT TIME.

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guys this beat me.farewell.

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BRIAN - Happy that you are starting roacc!!I used lots of Vaseline on my lips from day one and they have not been to bad. My lips do get dry and cut but the vas. really helps and keeps it under control. I dont know about sunblock because its never hot her ! But for moisturising i use E45 because it is quite thick so it cuts down dryness without out being greasy and i dont have to reapply.

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hi again, its been a while since i wrote. been feeling really down lately (more than usual!) i am getting so impatient. All i want is to look respectable again and to look in the mirror without cringing and feeling like i could burst in to tears. Ican see the roaccutane is working and i suppose i am nearly there with just over 1 month out of 4 to go. through all of this time i have been so upset about what i miss out on and have been so bitter and angry about not going out shopping, clubbing and generally eeling good about myself. Now i cant wait for that day to come, but it is so slow. I am scared that all this pain and isolation from not doing things has changed me. I certainly dont feel the same. I used to be so carefree without a care in the world unti acne hit me. It is crap, but i try to think shit happens and i will beat this (everything crossed!). Quite a few people have writen that there are people much worse off and that is so true, even though sometimes i have thought i would swap acne for anyth ng. But my skin is definately improving and it is now up to me to get the rest of my life back. When i went to my GP in desperation sometime last year, he was so patronising and asked if i was going to let other things that didnt go well for me in life a fect me as badly as acne! What an asshole. I will be much stronger when this is over and able to deal with ANYTHING - as long as its not staring at me in the mirror every morning! That was a very jumbled message - sorry! Hang in there everyone.

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AAAAAHHHHHHHH YYYYYYEEEEEESSSSS finally starting Accutane Friday. It took some persistence but it worked out. Can anyone give me any helpful advice about sunblock, moisturizer, etc... Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Also if anyone else is just st rting maybe we can email each other with progress...Thanks everyone

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I on roaccutane right now and well all i have is 5 wks worth which have reduced my acne by 40 % but now its suddenly stopped wrking and ive moved up to 40 mg....i hope this works. It does make me feel better that im not the only one in the world who has his disease but this feeling of well being lasts only for a minute until i look in the mirror or look at my sisters unblemished skin.... the worst thing is the bloody psychological damage this thing does to u....u cant walk in the street without havin the feeling every person is staring at u and when someone does look at me....im like is he or she lookin at the pitting on my forehead....it really hurts to not have a life do things u like to do ...basically ive wasted 4 yrs of my life being some other perso and i really hope atleast my spots go after roaccutane even if my life and self confidence have been destroyed. i know its selfish when there r other ppl with worse diseases out there who were born like that... but thats what we humans are we are shallow selfish people who think appearances are the most important thing.society has made us this way but thankfully probably the only positive thing to come out of this that i although despise my appearance (its hard not to when u have photos of yourself looki g like an angel and now something like from a horror film) i really have began to hate ppl who look at other ppls appearance so its probably made me a slightly better person ....but lets face it do women fall in love with guys who r not so bloody goodlook ng? no ..so when u know that u looked so bloody good and now look like this the pain adds even more.

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sorry previous message incomplete e mail address.

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I took roacutane last year for about 6 months with very good results. Ive been off it for over a year now but fear that it is begining to come back. Ive tried to contact my dermatologist for another consultation but have heard nothing despite several lett rs. Im getting sick of waiting. Ive seen a web site that you can buy roacutane from and am thinking of buying it and taking it myself. What do you think?iVE ALSO OFFERED TO PAY FOR A PRIVATE APPOINTMENT TO SEE HIM, STILL iVE HEARD NOTHING.What should I do

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It's so good to know that there are other people who are stuck with this, and reading how others feel about their acne has made me slightly less depressed about my own. It isn't even something u can complain about, because it's nothing - how can we be so self-absorbed in our own shallow vanity when there are people with real diseases and disabilities that just have to get on with their lives? Nothing physically stops us from doing normal things, we should just ignore the stares and act like we're the same as everyone else. We don't care if we're unpopular, because we don't want shallow friends anyway, and we don't care about not being beautiful to anyone because looks a en't important. Your friends say it's not that noticable, your parents say the most USELESS things - if it isn't a direct insult, it's a pathetic attemt at humiliating sympathy "your skin's getting worse - u should go swimming more often, it's good for y u, you know. I had spots when I was your age, have you tried witch hazel, hmm?" Well if you're reading this, I suppose u aren't quite so disillusioned by these familiar condolences. I have had migraines and a bunch of other minor side effects since I started roaccutane a couple of weeks ago - I don't care at all, I'll put up with anything if it's going to work. I don't know what I'll do if it doesn't. I wonder, even if my spots do o away, will my life be miraculously changed? I feel that even if the scars on my face heal, I'll never lose this bitterness and fear and self-conscious agrophobia - maybe some day I'll be able to go to work or go shopping without that feeling that every ne is staring at me, disgusted at the way I look, or maybe I won't have to try to ignore my jealous hatred of beautiful people - or maybe I'll always be this way, and nobody will want me, even if my skin does clear up. I think I'll always be a night person - I love to go out in the dark, I can go out with my friends and get dressed up and wear thick make-up, I look normal. It makes me so high when guys flirt with me, but then I know they wouldn't even see me if they sa how bad I look normally; and I'm not a shy person, but if a boy acts like he's interested, I get so nervous that there's no way I could ever have a relationship. My reflection in the mirror hurts so much right now, this is never going to leave me, so wh should I even bother? But it's just spots, I have both legs and everything else so my problems are nothing. It's a teenager thing, everyone gets it, it's hormones, everyone's depressed, it's a generational thing, I guess it explains alternative music... Or maybe it's just me and a few others; we obviously did something particularly evil in our previous lives.

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i've been on accutane for 3 weeks & it works quite well, i'm taking 2 times a week - 20mg per dose. however, my lips are super dry , and being allergic to lip balm , it swells so now my lips look like a hamburger ... can anyone help... and , i went jogging today and my cheeks are super red... i would appreciate if anyone has any advice for me... thank you so much..

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Well, I have eventually decided that I am not going to start roaccutane tomorrow - I have taken my boyfriends advice not to take the drug as I kind of agree that the side effects may be worse than how it is now (also I'm not sure about the red marks!). S as this will be my last ever entry to this fab site I would just like to say Good luck to you all & I hope things work out for everyone - just keep the faith. All the best Katie

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Hey guys, I'm on my 5th week of Accutane and things are looking up. I have a suggestion for all of you out there who have extremely dry lips. Try Aquaphor, it's a healing ointment that is available on the internet at sites like www.drugstore.com. It'll end up costing only like 5-10 bucks ordering it either. I honestly think it is the ONLY thing that works for people who are on Accutane! Basically it's like a high powered Vaseline... and it honestly will HEAL your lips and the cracked spots on the site of your mouth. It can also be put on severely dry spots on your face to heal it... but it is kind of "heavy" and regular moisturizers would be the safer bet. If your frustrated you should check it out, this isn't a commercial or anything... just a sugg stion that I suggest you try.

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I have been on Roaccutane for the last 2 months, before i started the treatment i had a great deal of pimles on my back, and the odd few on my face. In the past i have trained really hard at the gym trying to improve my body, as far as body physic goes i ould say mine was well and truly above acceptable. Constant ridicule that i was on steroids caused me to quite the gym, not only the ridicule but the fact that i had done all this hard work on my body but still felt uncomfterbal going to the beach or havi g sex cause of the ugly pimples all over my body. (pretty vain) Since i have been taking the accutane i have been really depressed and have put on 20 kilos, i have always suffered from depresion but i had been managing it until i started taking the accuta e. I am convinced that the results will far outway the negatives that are taking place at the moment, the dry skin, the red face, the nose bleeds. Please E-Mail me if u r losing faith in the treatment.

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20. Not 40.

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Andrew, I also had unevened skin. And was not on accutane. Someone suggested me to use Pure Vitamin E Oil on my face, I did and it evened my skin out and the swelling went down and it even faded some of the redness to now where it looks pinkish. Maybe i could work for you.

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For those who have completed the accutane or are in their last month, PLEASE PLEASE just write one sentance saying whether or not accutane smoothed out uneven skin texture on the face. I hope you say that it will. I'm not asking about pimples or anything uy the uneven skin texture. I would like to know whether or not my upper cheecks will have a smooth even look and do you think that a second dose could actually smooth things out. Another question is how long should one typically wait before going on anot er course of accutane. I heard 2 months after you stopped the first course!!!!!! I WANT A LIFE, DAMNIT!!!!!!!!!!

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Andrew/Roxanne - Yeah i am stuck in the house most times, although actually i would love to go out at the moment, its just well my so called friends just dont wanna seem to want to. I wish i didnt lose my other friends.... they were better.

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Steve, I am 5'5 and 135lbs, what amount of dosage should I be takin? Roxanne

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This site has definetly given me hope. Im only 16 and im on 100 mg of Accutane since Feburary. My face has smoothed out, but the goddamm redness!!!!! That is the worst part, ya know? screw the new zits im getting from the medicine, if I had known that t is redness was gonna be this bad, I might of tried heavy doses of antibiotics..... But I know that in the end it will all be good, and Ill have my face back to myself, not in the control of acne. Acne does have control of my life.... it made me quit my j b cause i couldnt take the stares anymore. If it wernt for my friends and parents, I dont know what I would do. I guess all i can say is when you think your all alone in the world, that no one else can possibly look like you do, just remember that you a ent alone, that there are others with the same disease, with the same suffering. Accutane is the answer, and eventually our pain will be over.

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Hi . You know I have had this acne for since I was 12. I don't think it will ever leave my skin. It drives me crazy. I too want a life. I hate the people staring. People without acne don't know what kind of stuff we go thru. They think it will end in time But when? I think why live, if you can't live happy. My self-esteem is low and I actually hate myself. Andrew, I might can help with your boredom. I to am stuck in the house All day long with nothing to do. Later

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Man, I want to have a life, I want to be able to go the gym and workout and then go out with some friends I wish I had, I want a life damn it, I want a life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please GOD or to anyone out there, PLEASE, I beg you, please help all of us overcome this antisocial disease called acne and scars, red spots, small indentations, red marks, blackheads, whiteheads!!!!!!! I regret not being smart about making wiser decisions for my face when I was younger!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess I'll just go back o watching T.V., AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!! How's everyone else, how are you feeling Acne ruins lives girl, Katie, Melissa, and Aaron, everyone else??????????

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Sorry i didnt make it clear but if you are have bad acne and are having doubts of Acutane - dont.

It is very good and may very well help you. Put up with the side effects - I did. Sure it was ebarassing sometimes (especially at work were kids were sayi g "his got spots" and stuff) but its a lot better now. Please dont have any doubts at this way to cure you. Cya

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Worried about using Accutane/Roacutane? Listen up

I have had to deal with acne for several years now and in November 99 I was put onto a course of Roacutane at 50mg a day. I had been to this site for a few months before going to the derm, and I was worried about the drug but pretty made up my mind I was oing to take it whatever the side effects.

Once I had started the course then after a few days my acne got very bad... Cystic in one place (which I dont think I have had before). But after a week it went down.

In my whole course of Roacutane the side effects were:

Pretty bad breakout at start of course

Extreme Dryness. I couldnt even move my face in the mornings it was so dry and painful.

After a couple of weeks, I tried Petroleum Jelly. It helped alot and made my face less dry and also my lips it helped.

Around week 6/7 my face had another breakout. Wasnt as bad as the first, but dissapointing.

Week 8 I went back to the derm. My face wasny that bad and she continued me on the course.

During the further 8 weeks, symptons were roughly the same except i had bad nose bleeds. I also had kind of rashes on the back of my hands.. This also happened on Week 3/4/

During this 8 weeks, no major breakouts. So next derm appointment i was taken of Roacutane.

There - that does sound bad now does it?

But what about after coming of it?

Week 1 - had a couple of spots appear, no major problem.

Week 2 - a few spots, which i was getting upset about but didnt worry me.

Week 3 - a few new spots which got pretty bad, especially one under my lip.

Week 4 - Pretty good now, the lip one is fading now.

Im hoping it will start getting better. I just want the red marks to fade. I still have a few scaring which I will discuss what to do with derm in september:-/

Hope this helps some people.

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I have always tried to advise people that they should not be on too high a dosage relative to their weight but unless you weigh 50 lbs. I'd venture to say that you may be on too low of a dose. Your doctor may just be trying to determine your tolerance tho gh with the intention of raising your dosage once you have shown that you react well to it.

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I m on roaccutane for a month now and I have all the dryness that everyone is talking about.But I also have another problem.My nose is bleeding two days now and I worry that it is not normal.Could anyone please tell me if it is normal or not?

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First to Melissa, If you start accutane in the beginning of May, or end of April, its hard to say if you're skin will be "clear" by the end of July for the wedding. After all it will have only been 3 of the 4-5 months that you will have to be on accutane. Some people will ind that they break out throuhgout the treatment and then once its over their skin starts to clear. It may very well have a positive effect on your skin from the beginning and you may not have to break out a whole lot so by July your skin will be looking reat. People respond differently to this drug as I'm sure you can tell by the different responses to the posts. I'm on my first month and I find that not moisturizing in the day time and only before I go to sleep helps because this allows accutane to completely dry my skin in the morning and afternoon and evening so it helps to peel away the "crap" that is on my fa e. I've noticed that red marks slowly become smaller and drier as I do this and this helps, but before bedtime I moisturize with my creams so as to not completely irritate my skin because I don't want my skin to be uncomfortable because this might worsen y skin. I have to tell you that I was part of the cousins bridal party when my acne was at my worse. When I was first asked to be part of it I really didn't have bad acne at all but its one month after I was asked that my face turned sour and I'm sure tha the husband, my cousin's husband that is, was not pleased at all with how I looked, especially since I would be in his wedding pictures after all, but what could he do, he couldn't exactly tell my cousing, "hey, your cousin's ugly I don't want him to rui our pictures". I don't want to sound so negative because I know the wedding is coming up but I just wanted to tell you that just stick with accutane and hope for the best when it comes to your acne because I've heard wicked things about this drug. Be pat ent and follow through the entire treatment. About those red spots people might get with accutane, I heard that they remain during the treatment, but they fully go away 4-6 months after treatment, they just need to fade away on their own. Good luck to all!!!!!!!!!!!11

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Dear Steve, I think what you just did is fantastic!!!!! Good for you and for putting an end to this bull shit that has been going on!!! I can't believe after reading Marcus' post on how Simon told a girl who was on a wheelchair and who had acne to go and kill herself that you would consider not giving Simon up, but you're right, if he ever returns to this site, and I'm so sure that you can tell, then I say "shoot him down"!!!!!!!! I don't care if he wants advice on acne or accutane, people like him have no compasion or the world or anybody for that matter unless it benefits them only!!!!!!!!!!

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I have cystic acne (and never had to deal with acne way back in high school) It is driving me crazy and I am considering taking acutane. I would be glad to hear any advice for my situation - I know it dries your skin and makes you get worse for a while. If I start it in the end of April 2000 - will I look like a "mutant" at the end of July 2000? I don't mean to be vain but I am maid of honor at my cousins wedding! there will be heavy photographic evidence for the rest of my life! (and no, I do NOT usually remotely resemble a mutant for those of a sarcastic nature). Thank you for your advice on this one! Melissa

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I'm with Katie - What are all these red spots everyone talks about? The derm never mentioned these!

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Hi. It's been a few months since I've posted. I've been off accutane for 2 months and I can't even tell you the differnce it's made to my skin. I was on 80mg for 22 weeks and I was still getting cysts until the last weeks. But my derm said accutane contin es to improve your skin after treatment and it definately has. My texture is even and smooth, no blackheads or cysts. I do still have red marks, but people tell me they fade eventually but I'm starting to have my doubts. There is a light at the end of th tunnel. You just have to hang in and let it work. Good luck to everyone dealing with this!

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Actually, he may not have been doing this at work but I will be able to say for sure when I get through comparing the address I have to the location of the last Ip from the traceroute. Either way they can only be a few miles apart. Oh yeah, after reading veryone's post regarding this matter I am almost tempted to expose him. Like I said though, if he ceases I'll drop it but if he doesn't I'll blow him away.

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I now know all of "Simon's" personal information but I am not going to post it on this board unless he starts up with his bullshit again. He has actually promised me that he will never return to this board. If he does however I will be aware of it and I w ll submit a document containing about thirty of his most vulgar posts to his parents, ISP and employer(because I know that he is doing this at work) as well as repeatedly post all of his personal information to this board for everyone to do with it as the wish. If anyone else wants to pull this crap and doesn't believe that I can track them down in less than a few hours, go for it.

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By the way i am not the Simon that is posting all that shit on here.

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I have what I consider to be fairly bad acne. I have just been put on 10mg roaccutane (is that low) and I was just wondering how long it usually is before you start to see any results. Thanks

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What are these red marks everyone talks about - does the roaccutane cause this and if so I'll think twice about starting this. good luck to you all! katie

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It has been ages since I have posted on this site...I fininshed my treatment one year ago, of 60 mg for 5 months. My results have been wonderful! My skin tone has evened out nicely...during treatment I was blotchy and my skin was always a bit red. I'm n longer as sensitive to the sun as I was during treatment. I get the occasional breakout, but nothing like before, just the occasional stray pimple. I still have a few red marks, but they are sloooowly fading. The key to this process is to be patient. I know how hard that can seem, but "all good things in all good time" is what I tell myself! Meanwhile, I plan to start a family soon, and I & my doctor feel that one year off the meds (accutane & birth control pills) will be safe. If anyone is aware of ny other documented research on this, please let me know. My advice to everyone is to stay positive! I have also found that the less attention I pay to my skin, the better off it is...just Dove soap for sensitive skin to wash and an occasional exfoliati g scrub used gently. Let the accutane do its job, and leave all the other harsh treatments on the shelf where they belong =-) Stay well...

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hi dears =)!!! i've been coming here quite often and am thankful for all the great people on this site. you are absolutely fabulous. i've never been on accutane, and i'm going to see my dermi today to hopefully get this miracle medication. i've heard a ot of horror stories about the drug but i've also heard a lot of good things too. i'm going to look towards the positive. the hard part for me is getting to the doctor. it's going to be so embarrassing since i have to take a public train during the mor ing rush hour to her office. to me, that's a nightmare. anyway, enough complaining. wish me luck!!! kennedy.

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To Rob from Qld Aust, you are definitely right, life is about LIVING. I cannot sympathise enough with acne (ex-acne) sufferers. I have suffered for 12 yrs so far & 4 roaccutane courses. A few weeks after my 1st course the acne flared up big time (which is normal I'm told). I couldn't leave the house for 6 weeks as I looked worse than I ever had (even when I had huge red cysts). To anyone starting their course, DO NOT PICK AT YOUR ACNE like I did stupidly. I have found out that this was responsible for some of the deep scaring I have been left with. Be persistent with the course, it will work, but you may have to take Roaccutane gain later if there is a flare up. I have just finished taking it for the 4th time. I have also had scar surgery which has helped reduce the deep scars. As for others staring at you whilst your face is dry & red... everyone has their own problems, taking notice of shallow people with zero compassion is bound to get you further depressed. I also know how mirrors never lie, but try to set y urself a goal,.....I bought a home gym (to avoid dealing with the many "beautiful" people in the gym) & starting working out seriously whilst on my 1st course. Luckily my joints weren't sore but the idea was to try & forget about my condition. It didn't m ke me forget totally, but I did take out my intense aggression in a positive way rather than ending up in jail somewhgere. Only recently have I started to drop all the hang-ups, anxiety, depression, bitterness & hatred I carried with me. Unfortunately get ing over ACNE (or controlling it) takes time, when you skin is finally clear, life will all of a sudden open up for you, IT DID FOR ME. I used to get some sort of depressive pleasure from thinking about how unlucky I was, how others were having greater op ortunities in life, but only now, several years later I have the chance to play catch up, which I intend to do. see ya

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Hey! Addressing you problem of being stared at, i get that all the time, and it makes u feel like ultimate shite! Especially when you are talking to some and they are talkign back to the huge spot on your forehead. I generally just stare back, stare them ut.. then they end up feeling embarrased cuz they know that you know what they were thinking, and you feel like you've won a minor victory... temporary success. Just keep your head up... "try not to let it get to you" although i know it is incredible hard I've even walked into pharmacies asking for a certain type of shampoo or whatever, and been asked if i would like something for my "pimples." WHAT THE FUK? How insensitive are these people??? And its happened more than once too! What I tend to that is jus say no and walk away, feeling like bursting into tears. Anyone got tips on what to do in situations like that? Telling them the whole story would take too long, and i dont wanna waste time on shits like them anyway, but i feel i need to say something...< r>

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Hi everyone My name is Jason and I am a third-year journalism student in Dublin, Ireland. I am currently trying to do a radio documentary on acne and the effects of roaccutane and was wondering if anyone in the Dublin region would be interested in talking about their experiences. I can't say that it will be straight to RTE's 'Documentary on One' but i am hoping. I was on a course of roaccutane about two years ago for nine months so you can be assured of an understanding interviewer. Please email me off the list i interested. Thanking you in advance.

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WEll please all of you out there dont give up! I have been on Roac for 4 months, i have just over a month to go and my skin looks great..at first it was terrible...i havent had a new pimple in about 6 weeks now. I'm on a high dose for my body weight since i have very low fat levels. I didn't experience any muscle soreness and i lift weights 5 days a week. I was a little depressed at first but that was due to my skin being such a mess in the beginning. I have the red spots that everyone talks about on here...but if they dont fade.. i'll probably have the laser surgery but i'll wait and see. TO Steve : You are the greatest...when r coming to Australia...I have the biggest crush on you! Cheers everyone luv Sheri

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I've been thinking my situation over a lot for the past few weeks, and have come to an interesting conclusion. I believe that instead of hurting it, my acne actually jumpstarted my social life. Before I had acne I never used to go out or do anything fun or wild because, frankly, I had no clue that anything could be more fun than sitting in my room and playing computer games. Then I got acne. At first I was really depressed and used makeup to cover it up (though I'm a guy). However, that didn't work to well so one day I just said "stuff it". To compensate for my acne, I started being really outgoing. I also was forced to develop a sense of humor (no way to get through the day without it). I began to be perceived as a pretty cool guy, and developed a ocial life, started going out with girls, etc. A lot of my old friends, having never got acne, are still stuck in their rooms playing computer games. So, hard as it may be to believe, I actually have to thank my acne for making my life a lot better. Of course now that I don't need it anymore, I'm going to kill it with Accutane and do a jig over its grave. But though I'll destroy it, I'll never forget it. Amazing what a zit or cyst or two or three or three hundred will do to you, isn't it? Has anyone ad an experience similar to my own?

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Hey everybody, just wanted to come to the post and just say that I'm bored out of my mind watching t.v. all day long and just tossing and turning on the couch and I wish my spots, scars, marks, destroyed cheecks and follicles will fix with continued use of accutane and reams. I'm just wondering, what do you people do at home if you don't go out because of your acne? I'm curious because I'm so bored to death. Besides watching t.v. and the internet, looking in the mirror, taking accutane, eating, putting on creams, readin , is there anything else to do? Dum question? Anyways, I hope GOD will save us all. Perhaps we did something extremely wrong in our past lives to deserve this? If everyone woke up with a clear complexion tomorrow, what would you do, besides be excited. Ju t think about this question, what would you honestly do if you had a clear complexion tomorrow? Personally, I would just go through life on a day to day basis, except now I wouldn't be thinking of my fregin acne every second, next I'd join a gym and work ut and get a part-time job since I go to university and then do something I've never had before in my life, get a nice good looking girlfriend with a nice complexion!!!!! Oh, how I hope for the day I get a clear complexion. I'm such a dum stupid loser!!!! I wish I had sense when I was younger, I'm now 20, to have been smarter about choices that were going to affect the rest of my life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Well, I'm now a month into accutane and hoping for great results. It'll take another 3-4 more mont s on top of this, so there is still time, right!!!! Anyways, goodnight, its 11:30pm on a Monday evening here in my part of the world and good luck to all of you and I wish all of you love and happiness (I know this means useless to you because of your acn ), but you know, I do choose to believe that all of us truly can find happiness in ourselves in time when we finally except ourselves. I know for me that time is not going to be coming anytime soon :) !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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I thought I would revisit and let you all know that I am happy with my experience on roaccutane. I was on a six month course, and have been off it for almost 7 weeks. I still have a few red marks but I am confident they will go. it did take a while for my face to stop looking red and sensitive, but it is so much better now. I have had about three or four pimples since I stoped, all in the firsty 4 weeks. This did make me panic a bit, but they did not stay, thankfully! All I can suggest to everyone going on or who are already on accutane, is not to stop LIVING ! take this time to focus on yourself and your goals. I felt like hiding all the time, was very depressed about my skin. While on roaccutane, I studied for work and really got into shape at the gym. Th s has helped me mentally as well as physically. I am so much more confident now, have a worthwile certificate for work, and I got a whole lot more out of these last seven months than just clearer skin ( it is still not perfect!). I have had four dates in he last month, and now I have been spending time with a really beautiful girl, who made me feel really good when siad said she I had a great body and I was sexy ! Cool! so rember,you are deserving, and your time will come! Good luck to you all!

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This is just a quote from the derm-info net page, many of you have probably already read it, but heaps of people are always asking about the red marks left behind after acne goes (not scars)............................................."A red mark on the s in called an erythematous macule will fade in four to six months after an acne outbreak - but it may get temporarily redder when your skin gets hot or when you exercise. This red macule is not a scar, and is not permanent. In a dark skinned person, the ma ule may appear as a darker patch on the skin. This is not a scar, either." Hope that helps some people. I've found some marks on my skin are gone in two weeks others are obviously going to take longer to fade out. Good luck to all. Bec

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Anna : Accutane product doses are set depending on a whole range of variables including body mass, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, liver function and lifestyle considerations. Therefore you cannot generalise and say one dose of 40mg/daily is going to be more effective or "hit harder" than 2x20mg/daily, nor can you say that taking the lower doseage twice is going to give less side effects. It all depends on many things.

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Can anyone tell me, why is it that some people take two doses a day (eg 20 mg twice a day), while some people take the whole day's dose at once (eg. 40 mg once a day)? Does taking the two doses a day lessen the side effects? Does taking the whole day's ose at once make the drug more effective? If anyone could answer my questions, I'd be most grateful. Thanks.

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It sickens me to know that Doug wrote those bad comments to that girl who had acne and was in a wheelchair!!!!! How can you be so cruel as to tell someone in this situation to go kill themselves. You're such a prick, and to think you're only 15. You're de inately not sorry!!!!!!!!!!! Steve, follow through with what you're doing. PLEASE!!!!!!! Its people like him and his thoughts and ideas that make people like me not want to go outside because I'm scarred of the emotional abuse I will get because of my acn . Please Steve make the right choice!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Well Doug, I can see that you truly regret what you said, I don't think that you really regret the ignorant things you did because it really seems as though you're not sorry at ALL, you're only saying you're sorry because you don't want your dad to get mad at you!!! !!! This doesn't sound like sorry to me!!!!!!! In order to be sorry you must write a 100 word apology to Acne ruins lives girl because you made fun of her because she gave birth to a child at such a young age!!!!!!! Are you a fu***** moron Doug, you idio !! Don't ever say something so stupid! You made fun of her at such a crucial moment, especially when she has acne! Don't ever do something so stupid!!!!! Now start writing a sincere apology on this post so everyone can read it and truly see how sorry you re!!!! Unless you write this apology, I don't think that Steve should reconsider!!!!! Thank You!!!!!

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look. i am sorry to the girl i made a commnent to. please give me a second chance. my father would kill me if he found this out. please...don't do it. please. god will thank you and make your life better in the long run. and to marcus, i apologized to that girl and have actually emailed her once or twice giving her support and advice. i hope everyone can get passed this. i truley am sorry. this will be my last post. goodbye

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i suffer from facial acne. Im 18 years old and live in the UK. I have kinda greasy/oily skin. I have used a range of products such as tea-tree oil and retin-a. at the moment i am using clearasil (face wash) and a benzoyl peroxide product called PanOxyl. A night i use retin-a on severe areas. I also take tablets called oxytetracycline. It is sort of working but slowly. i am worrying bout scarring!!!! what do u comment about dermabrasion? is acne scarring surgery expensive? Do u know the name for a treatmen that contains banana oil (i was told by a friend that u can purchase this in the US- and it works. Can anyone help? it is an emergency!!!! If u cant help me, is there anywhere online that i can find information on what i have previously asked?

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Steve, don't let him get away with it again! He seems to start on the people who are at their lowest! I don't know if you remember but he told a girl named Angie who was in a wheel chair to kill herself when she felt suicidal; she disappeared after his co ments so we'll never know if she took his advice! JAY/JAVIER/etc I don't know how you sleep at night bearing in mind your comments have perhaps taken a life, if that wasn't bad enough you're at it again with another desperate person, I guess padded cells ust be very comfortable!!!!!

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I REALLY REALLY am going through the same feelings as you when you say that acne has ruined everything in my life. I know what it feels like to have so much energy inside of you and you feel like you could go to the mall with friends, go to a club, or wan to just go downtown to a nice coffee shop and just chill out with friends talking, but then before you even get to put on your clothes, you take a quick look in the mirror and your acne scares you, your emotions just make you so lonely, scarred that you ook this way and hope that you don't look like this forever because you don't want to have to be alone and face people in your building who have clear skin. I'm SO HAPPY FOR YOU THAT YOU'RE ON ACCUTANE. I have some good advice for you and other on this bo rd. Sinec you just started, I'm assuming, the dryness prbably hasn't kicked in yet, but in probably 3-4 weeks it will, depending on the person. When the dryness kicks in, you should not moisturize because the dryness will help peel and dry off the dead na ty skin and this will help your skin. Moisturize your skin before you go to sleep and during the day have your skin dry so it peels somewhat. OKAY! Try it out, it seems to be working for me!!!!!!

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Doug, isn't this the 2nd or 3rd time you've begged Steve not to turn you in? Last time you were going to get sent to boarding school and now its your Dad? And I thought you had finished your round of accutane and your skin had cleared up immaculately-what is your problem? We are all in the same boat here, I hope Steve turns you in and doesn't listen to your lies for excuses!

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You know what Doug- if you don't apologize to me and let everyone know that all of those posts were made by you then if Steve doesn't report you maybe I will. Even at 15 you should not be this immature. I hope you learned your lesson.

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Thank- you so much Steve. It is people like you that help me make it through to the next day.

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Hi Steve. Please, Please, Please do not report me. I know I said this before but I mean it this time. I will NEVER EVER come back here again and since you know all my information you can make sure of that. Please steve, do not tell on me. The sad tru h is, I am a 15 yr old boy who does have acne, very badly. Doug is my real name and please do not report me. I can not let my father go through this as he is strugling with many health related problems at the moment. Please Steve, have mercy on me and pare me. I SWEAR TO GOD I will never, ever come back. And I would like to ake a personal apology to everyone I hurt, especially the . I am very sorry. All that information is correct Steve. It scares me that people can do that but it has taught m a lesson. Please Steve, and anyone else, you all have scared me, BELIEVE ME. Please do not put me on a hitlist and lets just end it here. Please. I beg of you. I know this sounds stupid after all I did before but I Swear to you, I really do that If ever do come back you can report me. Please Man. Im just a kid. Please. My father would kill me if he ever found out. I am sorry. Goodbye forever. Please Steve, think about it, do not report me or contact my ISP. Please. Please.

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I am truly sorry that you have had to endure abusive comments from Javier/Travis/Jason/Simon. Some people, when they think that they have anonomity, allow themselves to behave in a way that is undignified. Everything that you feel and have said about acne is true. I am just sorry if that individual caused you to question your feelings in this matter.

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I never made those ridiculous posts apologizing to Simon or whatever his name may be. I think everyone should just ignore him and maybe he will just go away. He feeds off of all of us getting angry with him. And I also never was pregnant with a boyfrie d that left me because of my skin or whatever kind of crazy post Simon made up about me. I really don't care if I sound shallow or not but acne has ruined my life. I just hope accutane gives it back.

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Just come across this page and it's very encouraging to see that other people are as bothered as me about their skin! At the moment I am taking Dianette and oxytetracycline and also using Differin gel and getting really annoyed that my skin is no better. m waiting for a referal to a dermatologist to see about taking Roaccutane, is it worth the side effects and has anyone out there cured the problem by changing their eating habits or without taking drugs?

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No, it is the location of his DNS. He does not necessarily have to be located there so don't try and contact them. If I figure out that he is located there I will contact them, or have Gill contact them, in a legal manner but until then just chill out. Al I want to do is send them the archive I have of his posts.

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Is this really Simon's address: 9420 Key West Avenue, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20850-3334, If so, could you please write his real name as well on the board!!!!!!! He deserves to be humiliated beyond this post for the stupid and ignorant coments he has said about us acne sufferers. He has said his comments in haste and cruelty not knowing that t ose comments really can hurt someone's feelings!!!!! Listen Simon, just because we have acne doesn't mean that we can put it off in the back of our minds. After all, its right in front of our faces!!!!!!!!! DUH!!!!!!

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Is this really Simon's address: 9420 Key West Avenue, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20850-3334, If so, could you please write his real name as well on the board!!!!!!! He deserves to be humiliated beyond this post for the stupid and ignorant coments he has said about us acne sufferers. He has said his comments in haste and cruelty not knowing that t ose comments really can hurt someone's feelings!!!!! Listen Simon, just because we have acne doesn't mean that we can put it off in the back of our minds. After all, its right in front of our faces!!!!!!!!! DUH!!!!!!

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Is this really Simon's address: 9420 Key West Avenue, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20850-3334, If so, could you please write his real name as well on the board!!!!!!! He deserves to be humiliated beyond this post for the stupid and ignorant coments he has said about us acne sufferers. He has said his comments in haste and cruelty not knowing that t ose comments really can hurt someone's feelings!!!!! Listen Simon, just because we have acne doesn't mean that we can put it off in the back of our minds. After all, its right in front of our faces!!!!!!!!! DUH!!!!!!

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Hi

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***to Katie*** Hypervitaminosis A is nothing more than an excess of vitamin A in the body, something that is related to psychological disorders. Actually, I was answering to someone who had written that roaccutane doesn't have depression as a side effect! No need to worry, I mean have you read the side effects of the aspirin?

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All ip's within the range of 4.17.65.0 - 4.17.65.255 are owned by ...
GTE Enterprise Solutions.
It's only a matter of time now.

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What I've got so far concerning Jason/Javier/Travis/Simon ...
DNS: MRIS.COM
Metropolitan Regional Information Systems
(MRIS4-DOM)
9420 Key West Avenue, Suite 200
Rockville, MD 20850-3334

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Well, it's been 2 months and still not one blemish, but I have had very tiny, TINY ones (like 3 total) and they have gone away just almost immediately. Hair is back to normal and I use Pantene now on the ends (I've had my hair trimmed twice to get all th dead ends off) and it's been great. Other than that, all the side effects have seemed to cease and my face is still wonderfully clear. I know that getting one once in a while isn't going to make me go crazy, but it's still annoying just the same -- I'm just grateful it's VERY VERY minimal. Hope you all are doing well. Ciao.

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I am so completely annoyed with Simon's talk!!!!! I'm really sorry that I have to swear at this prick like that but I was wondering if you could also post his Simon's real name and where he lives (exact city, if possible) I swear, if he lives near me, he' a dead mother*****!!!!! Here's a tip for accutane users: Don't moisturize everyday, let accutane DRY out your face and you'll see those red spots, scars, pimples dry up and heal faster. Moisturize if your face feels uncomfortable, but try this drying pro ess, its really benefiting me a lot!!!!!!!!!

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For Katie, just relax and be patient!!!!!!! I'm on my first month of accutane,I have another 4 months to go!!!!!!!!! I can't be thinking, Oh I want my face to clear NOW, when I have 4 more months to go!!!!!! Just relax, relax, I know its HARD, I have acne to, but guess what, just take accutane everyday and wait the 4-5 months out. To Chloe, all of my love and regards to you, I hope all of the best for you and I seriously hope that you are on accutane. Here's a hint for accutane. Don't moisturize everyday, o it once every two days because accutane is supposed to peel and dry the skin so it "falls out" and this will dry out scars, pimples and all of the shit and will aid in healing your face, this is what I do and I think its working. Steve to Jason/Javier/Travis/Simon - 04/17/00 18:03:11
My Email:sackerman@anotherunivers.com
Age: 26
Gender: male
Country: US

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Don't worry scum I'll know soon enough. In the meantime just keep on doing what your doing.

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what is my real name fagboy?

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Hey, this is my first post. I just wanted to write a few comments/questions if i can. I've been on accutane for about 4 months now. I stopped for a week cause I just couldn't take all the drying out of my skin. Since I'm not a self made millionare as of ye , I have to work. And its pretty embarrassing going to work everyday with all of the stares. I mean I get stared at alot, and I just don't feel right going into work like this everyday. Anyways, I've been back on accutane for about a week, and the dryi g is starting up again big time. How has everyone else gotten around this. I mean I get alot of stares, and I just feel like the ugliest little troll to walk this planet. Any suggestions, please get back to me. thanx Simons an asshole

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Could someone recommend a sunblock for my face, since im out in the sun for about 4 hours a day and also a good lip balm.. im starting Accutane in two days ...thank you

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Well, I hope I made the right decision. I've been on antibiotics and various topicals for 12 weeks. Needless to say, my (moderate) acne is not responding to these treatments especially well. I've been doing a lot of thinking, and I'm just trying to put things into perspective. I mean I think to myself, in a year from now, am I going to be cleared up? I'm looking at the long-term here, not just a window of a couple months where the antibiotics may be at their full effectiveness. So.... I asked my dermatologist to give me Accutane. Just to make sure he wouldn't tell me to "wait a few more weeks" for the antiobiotics to start working, I told him I had been having some side effects like dizzyness and headaches (when I really haven't . Yeah, I lied. Maybe I didn't need to, but hopefully I will look back at this as the best decision of my life. Has anyone found it helpful to keep a journal or something of your progress (or lack thereof) while on this treatment? I might just do that, every week or so.

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Katie, you only waited an hour and a half, yes...be more patient. Everyone reacts differently and no one can tell you the answer to that question. If you want LOTS of responses to the drug go back in these archives and read all the different experiences That's what I did before I took it a long time ago. It worked well for a while after treatment and did not really make my face red, but it came back on my face with a vengence. I'm now being really successful with a bunch of supplements. Peace

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I know this is my 3rd message today, but as I am only new to this site I was wondering why no-one is replying to me - perhaps i'm just too impatient. thanks once again - Katie

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Please, return any comments to me about my recent e-mail, oh & by the way what is that Hypervitamin A?(sorry,if spelt wrong!). thanks - katie

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No doubt that acne plays a major part in depression. Truly, I don't mean to start a fight in here, BUT don't forget that people react differently. By the way, have you heard about Hypervitaminosis A and it's effects on the nervous system? These side effec s of roaccutane, may be rare but they do exist.

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Hi, I'm Katie. I'm 19 & just about to start Roaccutane. I am a little bit worried about starting I have suffered with Acne for many years & am really depressed. I don't go out with my Boyfriend hardly anymore because I feel that everyone is staring at e! Does this miracle drug really work or will it just leave my face looking like a very burn't lobster, also my boyfriend doesn't want me to take it - I'm so torn! Please help me someone soon! katie

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I am in my 8th week of accutane (40mg/day) and having horrible pains in the back of my heels whenever I walk and somewhat achy knees. I'm not sure if this is a side effect or something unrelated. Any thoughts??

Also, has anyone tried using a lotion wi h alpha-hydroxy in it? It is supposed to help get rid of dead skin, so I thought it might get the good skin up faster. I don't have horribly dry skin so I was thinking of trying it.

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hello pebble=) thank you for answering my questions.I've heard from friends that Pond's lightening lotion/cream actually works.they even used it on scars on their legs left behind by bad falls.they claimed to see improvement in a month's time.perhaps u can try it.

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I just finished my treatment with Roac. and 20 days after the end my forehead starts to be as oily as it was before the treatment. I have been on 20mg for 6 months. I am afraid I should have been dosed up. Do you think i'll have to start all over agin on higher dose?

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Hi Again, Thanks to all who wrote me encouraging notes to e-mail, I will reply, promise. It is good not to feel alone, but knowing that the feelings are side-effects doesn't make them go away. I would like to say though, to the person who thinks it is purely the acne that causes the depression- my skin looks great, but I have never felt worse I know this is the pills and they work well, but they are a really tough drug, and when I see what they do to my nose, my lips, my skin, my joints, i do wonder what they are doing to my brain. Can someone tell me whether if you stop taking the drug when your spots are done, before 4 months, do they come back? Is it like an antibiotic effect? I really NEED to stop, but don't want all this to have been for nothing. Anyone know? pS- Burtonchick-you are great- looking at the board you should be a counsellor or something, cheers mate love mard

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Hi Glenda! I'm glad to share my experience wif u. I started Roacc abt 5 mths ago. I do not suffer from major breakouts like u said u did. In fact on my second month I was taking only 10mg a day but that gave me quite a bit of oily skin so I was put back o 20mg again. I witness gradual improvement over the last 5 mths, there wasn't a specific time when improvement was obvious. I consume alcoholic beverages (quite regularly, at times excessively), use makeup, and even forget my dose on certain days but desp te these my skin condition still improves! No more zits, but only pinkish marks and slightly uneven surface on my cheeks. I suggest u talk to ur Derm and let him know u're unhappy wif the progress. See wat he can do. But be patient, Glenda. N remember: u an use anything on ur face BUT make sure they are all OIL-FREE and NON-COMEDOGENIC, please. Also remove all traces of make-up at the end of the day. : )

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To the mom asking about her son's treatment--different people react differently to the drug--I'm 120 lbs, give or take a few, and take 80 mgs a day. I'm on week 7/8. So far I've experienced a bit of hair loss, SOME joint aches, one heinous nose bleed, a eird rash on my arms and hands, some slight headaches, awfully chapped lips and dry eyes. It's not fun. Especially when you don't see the results right away. However, my derm assures me this will work eventually. As for your son, make sure he moisturi es a lot--so far that's been the one thing I haven't needed tons of, but most people do. Make sure you've got lots of Carmex or whatever, and I wouldn't take any vitamin A whatsoever...just use different vitamin supplements rather than an all-inclusive ulti. You might also want to cut down on fat intake--make sure he eats low-fat, drinks less pop or skim milk or whatever. Hope his treatment goes well...good luck!

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I am so glad to see that things are mending on this board. There for a while I ws worried because of the threat of killing someone. I hope that all of this is cleared up for good! I read on another board that accutane brings all the impurties to the surrf ac and then it gets better! Does anyone know if this is the same for tetracycline? Has any one been on it? How long does it take to clear up your face? A response wpuld be greatly excepted! Thank you, sgined very impaitent!!!

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P.S. And if you want to know the psychological effects - just read this board and you'll get a very good idea. Acne ruins lives - you better believe it.

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To Valeria, the girl from Venezuela doing a study on Accutance and depression. Its not the accutane - its the acne that causes the depression. Why do people insist that its the accutane that leads to depression - go do a study on the effects of acne and depression, not accutane and depression....

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Is it wise to use products for the face that has fragrance in them? Or Products for the hair that has Sodium Laureth Sulfate? I noticed awhile back people responding about not to use Sodium Laureth Sulfate while on Accutane? Any information would help me lots. thanks

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Hey gang. Acen sucks doesn't it? Anyways, Simon, I forgive you. We all have had acne here at one stage in our life and now I can sort of understand where you are coming from. I just need more sympathy. My selfesteem is at zero and those comments just really hurt my feelings. If I came off harsh at you I am sorry. I know you were just trying to help. See ya Simon!

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Alright. This goes to all. I ahve had acne, do know the effects and am not a dumbass!! Please forgive me for my selfish comments, I want to help people, not ruin their lives.

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My son just started on accutane three days ago. He normally washes his face in the morning when he showers and before he goes to bed at night. Since he knows the drug will dry his face out he is wondering if he should discontinue the night washing. Any t oughts? His acne is not real severe but the antibiotics he tried just didn't cut it. I did stock up on Cetaphil lotion, chap sticks, etc... Also the doctor said he should not take a multiple vitamin with over so much vitamin A in it and I can't remember i it was 1,000 or 5,000. Anyone know that answer. His biggest concerns are he plays basketball and will be lifting in the offseason starting next week so he is worried about sore muscles and nose bleeds when playing. The derm. told him to put chapstick n a Q-Tip and put up his nose at night. Wouldn't vaseline work as well and be easier? He also wears contacts and she said he probably wouldn't be able to wear them all day. Is this a problem to everyone? I mentioned I had read vitamin E could reduce the muscle soreness and she said there is no conclusive evidence but it wouldn't hurt. He is taking 40mg four days a week and 80 three days a week. I haven't read anyone else doing this but I figure she knows what she is doing. His course of treatment if fo five months so he will be done shortly after school resumes in the fall. Thanks for any and all help. This is certainly an learning experience! Wow are the pills expensive - $7.30 a pill. Thank God for insurance.

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I am a psychologist and I am studying now the psychological effects of roaccutan, have you noticed any depression or ansiaty while you use this medication?. Thanks for your help

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to:pebble from singapore hi=), i read that you're also taking roaccutane-20mg per day and i would like to ask you around how long does it take before u see improvements?Do u suffer from bad breakouts initially and if u did, how long does it last?i have been breaking out badly f r the past 3 weeks and recently my face itches somemore.i will really appreciate if u can help me with these questions.Thank you.=)

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& I (totally) can't spell!

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Acne Ruins Lives, I totaly agree!!!!

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I just wanted to thank Helen, Oliver Rianne, Allison , Jim and anyone else I may have forgotten for your comments to Simon. I couldn't have said it better myself. And as far as accutane making you suicidal- I totally disagree- it is the acne and seeing your face get worse when you are on one of the five most powerful drugs in the universe instead of getting better is enough to make you suicidal. Does anyone agree?

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to the person calling Simon a "faggot." i understand that you are frustrated but your prejudice is just as disgusting and degrading if not worse than Simon's apathy. i am a gay male and find it extremely hard dealing with acne. but the hatred against ays and lesbians kills me even more. despite what many straight people believe, being gay is not a choice just like having acne isn't. i'm sure, i'm not the only gay person who posts on this site who totally relates. for a long time, i was severly depr ssed because of the hatred towards my sexuality, but now i must cope with the negative stigma of being gay to the best of my ability, just as i must cope with acne everyday of my life. i hope you understand and don't take this message the wrong way. tha ks. keith

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To the 16 yr. old in the UK asking about deep pitted scars. I really, really sympathize for you. You're only 16 and have such scars. I'm so happy to hear that you got your accutane though. I'm not sure if this would help but I've almost completed a month' worth of accutane and I was thinking that you know how people tell you to moisturize, moisturize and moisturize while on accutane, well, I'm not saying that this is wrong but if you don't moisturize everyday, like me, I moisturize once every two days or o, and I put on just a little bit of moisturizer because I would like the accutane to really really dry up my face and peel off the acne skin and this layer of dead skin on my cheecks. I find that since accutane is really really excellent at drying upp yo r face, it peels it really really good. So the point here is I moisturize very little every few days so my face really really dries up so that it peels and perhaps this will help with the skin around the scar and really peels it and hopefully lessen the s ar. Of course if you feel that your face is REALLY dry and feels uncomfortable, by all means, moisturize but you get my point. Good luck!!!!!!!!!

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I have been reading this site for the last two months and it has been a great help. I was meant to go on accutane last november after the usual struggle with gp prescribed antibiotics. after consultation with my derm she recommended accutane. the only hit ch is that i am not froma well off family and the only way to get it done in under a year was to go private. My mum agreed to pay but after blood tests i discovered i had dodgy liver functions! After 4 months of continious tests i finally got the all clea and started roaccutane 70mg a day for 4 months.However in the four months of tests my acne got considerably worse. im now halfway through and the acne has improved considerably. However i have deep pitted scars and red marks. I am confident that the red arks will go but i was hoping that somneone wouuld have some advice for the pitted scars. They are a nightmare and are as ugly as the acne was. If anyone has any suggestions please help. It would be much appreciated. By the way dont listen to DICKHEADS li e Simon. They share no compassion and anyone in our situation will show sympathy as we all know what its like! IT WILL GET BETTER.

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This is just some CONSTRUCTIVE criticism for Simon. Listen man, I hear what you're saying but for almost all the people on this board they are getting this horrible disease at a very vulnerable time in their lives when they develop a self image. And for them to be completely un-selfconscious as you would like them to be, they have to have a self awareness which psychologically starts with their self image, which comes from the world's perception of them and, unfortunately, the mirror. You're asking thes people to change their whole view on their life, which might be possible through long, involved processes. They're definately not just going to snap out of it, and certainly will not through abusive messages like yours. So I think the root idea of what you are saying is admirable but what you actually say is disgusting and harmful. Please, for the sake of everyone afflicted, don't post again. And don't get defensive and angry by this, because the more you post the more harm you do. If you were such a righteous person to not be self-conscious at all then you would have already transgressed passed these trivial, superficial, stages of self image and reached a stage of self awareness that you could empathise with the people back in the depressing, self-c nscious stages. Peace

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I hope that GOD scars your face and gives you serious breakout somehow and then we'll see how much of a normal life you will choose to live!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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I was on 50mg of accutane for eleven months, as you might guess my skin was appaling... but I have had a pimple for over six months now, however my skin is pretty scarred, what's the best thing to use for scars, is vitamin E cream any good? COuld you email any suggestions to me at: scooper@webmail.co.za Thanks a lot!

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Hi! I am wondering how bad does your acne have to be to get your doctor to prescribe roaccutane? I was prescribe antibotics about a year ago and my skin became very good for about 5 months. Then it broke out horribly again in Dec, I think because of the winter, snow and wetness. Now it's been good for 2 months, but still with some small ones and to s red marks. =( Also the scarring sucks. I guess I'm lucky the scars are only on one side of my face. anyways would the doctor prescribe it to me??

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i heard that it is not uncommon to suffer from breakouts during the initial stage of accutane treatment but i am curious to know how long does it usually last?does it depend on the dosage the individual takes?i am currently on 20mg per day and in my sixth week of treatment and i have been breaking out badly for the past 3 weeks.i normally use concealer before going out because the redness is terrible.the brand is 'physicians'formula' which is really gentle on the skin but i wonder if using it will cause ev n more acne.will someone who can answer my questions pls help?i will appreciate it a lot.thanks.=)

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Hi everyone. This being my first posting on this site, after spending much time reading through this guest book. I am too, seeing a Dermatologist and since first visit i was prescribed Roaccutane (that was November 1999) on a 20mg p/day. I must admit it's helped wif my skin condition a lot. I had only 3 little break-outs since and now it stopped. I've also been using one of those roll-on topical antibiotic in the morning, and Differin-Adapalene gel every nite. I have no major complaints except for the expected dry skin near my mouth. I wear contact lens and am not affected at all. Guess I'm lucky. However, not only do I seek improvements now I seek PERFECTION. I'll be trying out some scar treatment cream (for my little pink dots - some very slightly dented). Does anyone have anything to suggest? Also, has anyone tried Neutrogena Fairness Sunblock SPF30? Is that any good? Well... bottomline is I'm glad I found Roaccutane. Otherwise I's still be frowning in front of the mirror this

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Let's start having some positive comments on this board again PLEASE!...

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I was on Accutane once before--exactly two years ago. I had bad acne problems which I inherited from my mother. It was pretty much under control with antibiotics and creams and facewashes until I go a bad case of the chickenpox in seventh grade. During the chickenpox I couldn't use my creams because my face was covered with sores. After I got over the chickenpox, I couldn't get my acne under control again. So, I saw a dermatologist who perscribed Accutane and I went a little over the 20 week treatment I encountered only dryness in my face, peeling, and muscle aches. Following the treatment, my face was clear with occasional breakouts because I have very oily skin. I went back to the dermatologist just the other day and he perscribed a second round f accutane. I'm looking forward to having a clear face again. My experience was not bad before. I would just like everyone to know that you can't stay crammed inside--I didn't and I always got picked on and looked at strangely because of my acne. I di n't let that stop me and I had fun. I still got boyfriends and whatnot. Right now I'm a sophomore dating a senior who's about to graduate and go to the air force this summer. And he's not some nerd or geek that I would tell you who sees me for more tha just my looks. He was a PLAYER!!! He has a pretty bad reputation. Everyone thinks he is so fine----and I got him, even though I'm trying to fight this horrible s**t on my face. He looked passed all that--the pretty girls, player rep, and such--to be ith me. It's a wonderful feeling. I guess I'm just trying to say that you can't let other ignorant people who tease and pick and sneer stop you from having a good time and that there are people who will want you for who you are inside--not just outside. Good luck to everyone on Accutane!

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Ok, this site has turned from something that people used to come to for support and stuff, to a place where we are critisised and made to feel even more shite than we did before. I suggest that if this Simon guys has such a cool life that he can just feel really good about himself and has all the confidence of someone with a clear complextion, that he goes and lives that life the way he wants it, and stops spending his time thouroughly pissing everyone else off with his snide little comments. Your messages are obviously not appreciated, and definately not helpful. To everyone else - try and stay on top, we all know how hard it can be, but don't do anything as drastic as killing yourself, please... Don't let the acne win.

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I to know how it fels to have acne! It really sucks, bad!!! I just want to say that this site is supposed to be a site that you can come to and get answers about products. It is also a site where people can be supported and up-lifited. It saddens me great y to come here and read all the negitive comments! Everyone needs to chill and be considerate of other peoples feelings. I hope that all the peole that are on meds. get better soon. Just keep taking your med. and keep your head up. You are not alone!!!

Bec - 04/15/00 23:27:36
My Email:roamingmoose@hotmail.com
Age: 24
Gender: female
Country: Australia

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Hey again, hope all is going well with everybody. Read on Marcus' site (hi! btw, as I've never said hi to you.) about the fact that dermatologists find it impossible to give you a definitive answer as to why you've developed acne. When you're in your te ns I guess it is easy for them to say that it's all hormonal, great what about the rest us, who've developed acne for the first time like me and others who had it as teenagers, thought it was long gone and whammo here it is again? Anyway I was talking to a friend of mine who also developed acne at about 23/24 and she said she tried all sorts of things, everything I've read and been told indicates that adult acne is really difficult to get rid of and often not receptive to traditio al acne treatments, including roaccutane. Which seems to indicate other causal factors. My friend recommended I visit a dermatologist in Sydney that she saw. She gave me his book first, written with another leading skin specialist. It was really enlig tening for me. He describes acne, particularly for women my age (first time acne)as being factitious acne, caused on the whole by overheating and overuse of soaps and shampoos. I know there are many of you who use a wide variety of products, too many. I'm sure many of you think how can my friends have great skin when they do nothing to it, seems to be exactly that (he says skin doesn't mind being dirty you should not be obsessive about cleaning it), I think about the rest of the skin on my body that I never touched with products, perfect fine, flawless, my face that I practically attacked with miracle products was going psycho. Overheating as in: Sleeping under doonas, on electric blankets, heated water beds, have you noticed that you tend to extend your arms and legs out of the covers, your body is trying to cool down. Then too many layers of clothing that aren't necessary. Shampoos and soaps which I'm sure you all know are extremely drying. I know many of you talk about having greasy skin and having to wash it so many times a day, he told me that often your skin will be over compensating for dry conditions, being greasy on top but still very dry below that. Also for many of you working in office blocks, air conditioning can be a factor. When I went to see him a fornight ago I was in excatly this situation, sleeping under two doonas, in Australia (donk) and washing my face with a billion face washes and had been working up until recently in an erradically conditioned office block (My acne started about a months after I started working there). I was/am also taking achromycin and Diane-35. He recommended the following, at work, try moisturising as little bit several times a day and have a bowl of water on your desk to keep moisture in the air around you, warm showers not hot, change to a sheet and a blanket, if it is 20 degrees celcius and bove you should be able to sleep under a sheet, (it takes a few nights to get used to) washing with sorbelene cream, no soaps, face washes or anything like that, then moisturising with sorbelene/with 10% glycerine and a little water all over. No shampoo, e said you could use conditioner (you need to use quite a bit to get up a lather, twice a week, not every single day) or you can use water and sobelene to wash you hair too, sounds funny I know but it is fine. My friend who saw him is fully recovered and didn't take antibiotics, it took around four months, but that's the same as taking roaccutane and these are hardly difficult things to change about your lifestyle. She developed acne after packpacking for four months, she'd been using a sleeping bag through late summer and autumn. I've only been doing these things for about two weeks, but already see a really positive change in my skin, I still have red marks but no new acne and I actually don't wake up feeling really tired, with itchy eyes and skin, this is another indicator that cne is caused by over heating, itchy acne. If any of you want to try and get a copy of the book it's called Good Skin: Safe and simple skin care for today's world. By Drs Molloy and Egger Obviously some forms of acne that are truely caused by hormonal upsets, need to also be treated in conjunction with antibiotics, hormones...etc. He doesn't rule out using these treatments but just identifies that when acne continues to occur again after reatment then you need to look at the reasons why this is happening. The book is not only about acne but other skin conditions, I also developed seborric dermatitis about the same time as the acne and couldn't get rid of it, dry flaky skin on hairline, eyebrows, near ears and on chest, it is now gone, without using the tra itional treatments. One down, acne to go. Anyway if anyone has any questions drop me a line. I'm still taking the antibiotics and Diane-35 but antibiotics only work whilst they're in your system so I've been really interested in why this is happening to me now, and don't want to come off them thinking I'm cured and then whammo because of a few ea y to fix lifestyle problems find I have acne all over again. anyway hope it helps. From Bec

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I am so happy to find all these information about using roaccutane. Actully , I'm suffering from acne when I was 14 years old . I tried so many times to find the solution to my problem but in vain until last week . The physican prescribed me this medicine (before that I used some peeling medicines but still the acne appea s ). I am afraid of the bad results of roaccutane that causes. Please , I am writing this e-mail & hopefully you can help me . The real problem is that I have a serious problem in my ears (especially in the right , 40% of hearing is lost ) & by taking this medicine for 6 months will cause a dangerous problem to my ears . All I want is to know if there's a substitute ( since it is an anti-biotic one & I 'm really sorry to tell you that I am unable to take it) , maybe you can help me finding a substitute . Please if you can help me & I thank you a lot Wishing you all the best Thank you

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I began taking Accutane two weeks ago after I complimented one of my co-workers on her complexion and she suggested that I take it. She is now finished with her treatment and her skin is beautiful! She said her complexion used to look like mine, so I fi ured why not try it? I have suffered from breakouts since puberty, and my acne leaves dark scars on my skin after it dries up (I am black). People used to think I had freckles on my back, face and shoulders... yes, it's that bad. My co-worker warned me ab ut the chapped lips, but it's nothing like I thought it would be. My lips started to become inflammed and very red about four days ago, itchy too. Yes, my face has begun to itch as well. I had a mild rash on my back. I feel like I have fleas, but it's tarting to stop. I usually use Eucerin lotion, but since my pockets were tight, I switched to vaseline. I used it everywhere before I was on Accutane, and I can't tell you what a lifesaver it is! I also suffer from a slight decrease in night vision, and ed eyes at night, as well as headaches which go away within a half hour. Now, I'm just being patient to see if the medication will clear my skin FINALLY of acne!!

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Hi all.To DAVIE.I don't know if you come to this site but for some reason I couldn't post on Just Me's site.Sorry to hear you've had a break out.I hope your trip to the Doctor's is successful.It is very disappointing and depressing when your acne comes ba k after being clear.To the girl saying acne ruins lives.Please don't give up hope.The Roaccutane is bound to kick in soon.Just try and take each day as it comes.You must live on hope when you feel as down as this.A lot of people here probably won't agree ut the Roaccutane can contribute to the depression.Were you just as depressed before starting the drug because of your acne or do you feel it has got worse?It might be worth talking to your derm about it.To SIMON.I can't believe you would talk to someone ho is writing in feeling absolutly desparate about their skin and life in such a disgusting unsympathetic manner.If you are trying the snap out of it approach then it just doesn't work or maybe you are just being cruel.I'm sure most people would agree tha your comments are not needed and if you can't think of anything better to say perhaps not speak at all.I am usually very easy going but your message really made me feel angry.Anyway that's all for now.Take care all Love Jasminexx

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One more thing I forgot to say is that its hard to walk around in the daylight with the sun shining on my wonderfull acne and disgusting face thinking "Oh my, what a wonderful day lets go and pick up some flowers and go hang around with people!" Life is n t like this when you have acne, STUPID ASSHOLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (This message is for Simon)

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Hi. I want to tell you something which I hope you will take into consideration. I had horrible acne, whiteheads, cysts, blotches, during my first three months of Accutane! During the fourth month it all kicked in. It will work. You have to continue t take it. Now I want to tell you something. You are a conceited bastard child! You know why? You judge yourself from the outside? You know why no one probably cares to look at you or be friends with you? Because you are a boring, ignorant, self-conc itied, supericial, moany and complaning person. Get over the acne. I have no sympathy for you. Just get over it. And yes, I do mean to be coming over harsh. Goodbye~~~~~~~~~~ Simon

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I've had severe cystic acne for the past 2 and a half years. I finally decided to go on accutane over 4 months ago, and I have less than a week until I'm finished. I'm very pleased with how it's worked overall, but I have a question. All the pimples are g ne, yet a noticable red mark and indentation has replaced each of them, so now(even though the acne and pain is gone) it looks as though someone has taken a red marker and dotted my face. It FEELS much better, but it LOOKS pretty much the way it did befor treatment; can anyone tell me how long this will last? Is there anything I can do to speed up the process or get rid of the pock-marks? Any answers or help would be greatly appreciated!

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To the girl who wrote under the name "acne ruins lives". Oh, I hope that you will be okay - it really is such a horrible thing to have something like this I know. I really hope that the Accutane kicks in for you soon - maybe not long and you'll have a l vely, clear skin again! I'll keep my fingers (and everything else!) crossed for you and if you want to chat there's Marcus's site and Just Me's site too, as well as Gill's page here. (You'll find them just below on here if you scroll down) The people on these sites are so lovely - very supportive and you don't have to feel alone with this. Please take care and I hope things get better for you real soon. Lots of love. Rianne.

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To Whatever: Where ever did you get the idea that anyone will have acne for only 5 years?????? I am 36 and have had acne since I was 14. I guess, maybe I'm not that good at math, but I think that equals 22 years!!!!! Where do you get your information? ?????

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I give myself one more week of sitting in my room in the dark crying my eyes out and then it is off to CVS for an abundance of sleeping pills - to sleep this hell I have been living through forever. I prayed to God for me to please wake up and feel like normal person. Since that is not happening I just think not waking up at all would be the next best thing. I have been reading this board for awhile and I want to say for people like Rianne that has been suffering for so long. I give you the utmost re pect. Let me tell you- you are a hell of alot stronger than me. I have been suffering for about a year, am on accutane and still can't deal with it. This has already taken over my life. I just can't do it anymore.

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Sorry, when I type in that link it doesn't work when I do it! Because it's not MY board I suppose! It's just that I've left my message on Marcus's board - if you scroll down here then Marcus's link will connect you! Love Rianne.

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Hey! This is amazing! For the last month or so I've been fretting that I won't be able to stay on the pill, and go on roacutane at the same time- and no one I've known has used both- so when I finally decided to have a look on the net tonight, this was th first page I found- and you've all answered my question! Thankyou! Keep up the good work too- hopefully I'll be able to start my round of Roacutane soon!

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i know that you are only trying to help by telling people with acne to brush off sadness and go out, and get offended when people don't all of sudden say, "heh, you're right, i'm going out today. thanks for the great advice!" to me, it's the equivalent o telling an agorophobic person to magically snap out of it and go to a rave party. having cystic acne, you should know how annoying it gets when people tell you that you should act a different way than you feel. some people need to vent out their frustr tions before they start moving on to the positive and getting better. thanks. ken.

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I would just like to say how helpfull this site has been to me. I have suffered with moderate but persistant acne since as long I remember.I can't remember a time when I walked past a mirror and didn't look in it. Or a time when I been out on the own and dissapeared to the toilets praying all the way that on sneaky inspection I was not going to find a freshly squeazed spot reaccumulating a 'head' I have felt so alone these last couple of years. But after reading some of the posts on this site, co ld not believe how many of the stories I could relate to. And parents, as nice and caring as they may be are so g tactless. Can't you all remember that sunday lunch when surrounded by all your family, you get told "your skins looking clear" what are you using on it now?" - Its called mums foundation, and its taken me about an hour to apply well so I don't get busted! "this and that" - ducking your head hoping that all eyes are diverted! I by no means claim to have had the worst case of acne ever but it's meritted enough tears for one youth,I couldn't have got through these last couple of years without my girlfriend. She is so caring and understanding and beautiful, and she should give you all hope because I had this 'disease' when we met and up untill the very first time we spoke about it(about a month ago - I broke down because she accused me of being boring when I didn't wan't to go to the pub) It has never bothered her - and she should know what beauty is, she was offered a modelling contr ct - and I get stopped in the street with people asking "how did you pull her?" I am in the 5th week of Roaccutane 60mg a day and things are finally looking up - My course finnishes just in time for our holiday in july. Ive been working out and a really, i mean really looking forward to going swimming for the first time in about 5 years. I've read all about the side affects of Roaccutane but as anyone reading this is aware, nothing can possibly be worse than living with acne in any shape or form. I wouldn't wish this horrible affliction on my worst enemy and if I didn't have hope I'd have nothing. Take care and remember you're not alone and it feels bloody good to talk to someone(or type) about what your going through.

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You just know. Skin texture changes. Nothing waiting under the skin. It feels clean, like it did when you were a child.

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Can anyone tell me how you know whether your acne has gone away permanently after a succesfull course of accutane? Is there anyway of telling?

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hello, dear, i'm actually writing u from tokyo,web site. I've been suffering acne since 17 years old. Acne sucks! I used to have this pretty face ,clear no red spots or scarring. However, however, almost half year ago, my acne turned out scarring. Seviere scarring..i cried and cried everyday and i couldn't possibly go out for half year. This is true. i was pretty and popular in school but now no one cares about me... i wanted to die for this. i prayed prayed to the lord if he could remove this... Listen,guys u guys are lucky,,cause in US, u have many great treatments that are available. Such as power peel, chemical peeling, artecoll, Exoderm Lift. In japan, we don't have sort of plastic surgery for acne scarring. no insurance, babee. That's why i came here all the way from tokyo, japan. i will fight with my acne scarring rest of my life. forever! but Good luck to u ,too! PS. cool touch laser works great for your crator like acne scarring..

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Fish, a big hello! Sorry about the absence! Oh, I do hope that your skin continues to improve. Maybe you could try Eryacne 4% antibiotic gel to zapp the few small spots you have left over from the Roacc. treatment. It really helps. Good luck Fish, I' l be thinking of you! Also good luck to Jules - really well done there! The more winners against acne the better!!! We need to beat this thing and together WE WILL!!! For Heather (17 USA) and Brooke (19 USA) who posted re acne scarring - try looking a the Dr. Ed Becker EXODERM site - the treatment for acne scarring certainly looks effective, very! Alice (18) who posted on the 12th re Chinese Herbs - there is a lady who posts called CHL and she is very good with knowledge about this treatment. If you ook in the archives you should find some info. from the Chinese Herb Lady. For a while I've been posting messages on the 2 others boards (http://www.oocities.org/marcus stacey) and (http://www.voy.com/4529) They are also very helpful, sympathetic & info mative with acne treatments and chat. The more knowledge we have about this awful disease called acne the better - knowledge is power!! Speak to you all soon and send lots of love. Rianne.

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Ok...I was just trying to help you see your life in a different way, but obviously it didn't help you. I just wanted to tell you that you are more than acne, you are a person. But go ahead and just keep bitching and moaning and when anyone (like me) tri s to offer you a solution about changing your perspective, just shoot them down. It's a great way to live your life (sarcastic)...complaining about things that you have only a small amount of control over. And by the way, I DO KNOW, because NO, I don't ust have one little zit, I've had cystic acne for 4 years. It's hard to feel sorry for someone who is bitching about life and not listening to someone who was just trying to say that you are more than what people think you are.

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Hi Fiona. Yes, I did try Proactive while on Accutane treatment and it helped greatly. The astringent cleanser greatly helped keep oil levels down, though my skin was dry as hell, and replenish moisture to my skin, instead of a heavy, greasy like moistur zer. It also helps to fade red spots quicker than usual. Heop the info helps. Try emailing me at xk30@hotmail.com for more info. ~~~~~~~~~~Simon

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Has anyone tried Proactiv while on Roaccutane, and if so what were your experiences? The sales pitch sounds almost too good to be true. Thanks

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Hi all it's me again, it has been a while since I last visited this site but, about a week ago I started a new job as part of a construction crew and my face was broken out. And I talked to my mom about being out in the sun while on accutane and she said wasn't that good of an idea so I stoped talking it for about three days (by the way I have been on accutane for approx. 3 months) anyway yesterday when I woke up my face had cleared up big time. then I started taking it again today. but when I got home I went to the mirror and my face was RED RED not just red...it was RED almost seemed like it was turning purple. but I think the combination of sun drying out my skin and accutane drying it out too hopefully it will do the job. by the way will accutane caus you any problems while being in the sun for 8 hours a day??? thanks for reading good luck with all of your treatments.

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would you please post your email so I could email you??

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Try telling that to the people who have had acne for 24 years.

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To Everyone complaining that people look at them and think they are ugly-- You probably think that people are looking at you this way because...they probably are. But it's probably not because you are ugly or because you have acne. I have acne too, but people don't look at me in a bad way...atleast most don't. It's probably because you wear the same outfits everyday and don't care about your appearance. People are only going to respect you as much as you show respect for yourself. If you have low self-esteem and no respect for yourself, it probably shows in how you carry y urself and your outward appearance...so people can only respect you as much as you respect yourself. Acne is PART of your life, it's not your life, so live! You only have one life, and maybe 5 years of it will be with acne, but what about the other 80 so e years! I know because I've had acne badly for 4 years...but I can't let it run my life.

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Hey Jules, glad to see you haven't gone completely!

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Alison. No problem, email me anytime (: Mike. We're all in the same boat. I stopped bothering about my hair and clothes, too. All I can do is obsesse about my skin. I think, why bother when no one's going to see my spotty face anyway. My parents ar always on my case to get a job. I get so angry at them because they are the ones who passed the ugly acne genes to me but say nothing because I've already caused so much agony to them. lee.

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Stick with it people. When you have finished your coorse you will feel like a new person!

I haven't gone completely, I am just not reading every day now!

Fish, yes it is quite normal to get the odd spot (justy like normal people), but that is to be expected. I have been off Roaccutane since Monday and hjaven't had any spots yet.

This w s my second course, in case anyone doesn't know, and this time I have seen a complete anhialation of this cursed disease. After the first course (about four years ago), the acne had not cleared up completely until I had stopped taking accutane for about 2 more months. Then it stayed away for about 3 years (with mild breakouts sometimes). Then it came back. This time I was clear after about the first month of taking it. I know this time that I will never suffer again. Its a great feeling. You will just know when you are cured. I can't explain it, but after all those years of suffering a worrying about relapses, this time it is over. At the time, acne seems like it is the end of the world - I know what I am taling about, I had it on the face, back shoulders a d chest. Don't pick them, get treatment with accutane and you should be ok. I have little scarring, except on the shoulders, and I had bad, large spots - hideous. There really is a way back to normality, so stick with it and most importantly believe that ou will get better. Don't let it beat you.

To the person who stays in on hot days - get outside! Yes it is horrible seeing people when you know you look terrible - so go somewhere alone! The fresh air and sunshine will do you good. Go in the sea if yo can, it is really good for acne! Also, in my experience, it is always the thought of seeing people when you have acne that is far worse than the actual event. This is actually true of many situations in life. Still, don't think I'm preaching - I know it an be tough. Keep smiling. See ya.

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To Mike, yes you are so right acne wrecks your life in an unbelievable way. It is with you every second of every day and you just cant get rid of it. I never go out, i just stay in my room. I cant bear to even speak to my family sometimes and i ju t feel so helpless ans angry all of the time. I too dont make an effort with clothes or hair anymore, there is no point in wearing nice clothes when i look like shit anyway. And as for the thought of going for a haircut and looking in the mirror with thos bright lights and perfect looking hairdressers - Id rather die.It is friday night and i am in the house as usual, the last time i was out at night was new years eve and that was only because i was forced to. This is not what life is about but unlike othe problems it is completely out of my control. Thanks Lee for your comments, it is good to have somewhere to write my feelings because i have so much anger inside me that i could go crazy.

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I totally agree with the girl who said acne ruins lives. Its finally 20 degree celsius outside, people are playing basketball outside in the sun, poeple are downtown window shopping, sitting on the coffee shop patios enjoying the breeze talking about thei summer vacations and plans and here I am watching the people through my telescope in my closed room because acne has decided to MESS UP my life. It has controlled my life for so long. I don't return my friends calls, I haven't for over 1 and a half years I now have NO friends, my family is annoying me about going out, SHUT UP I SCREAM TO THEM. I wish accutane will hurry up and fix my face so I can start talking with people instead of the computer screen and television, NO OFFENCE TO ANYONE. I wan to be able to talk to people instead of talking to myself each and every second. I wear the same clothes everyday becasue I can't be bothered to dress myself up or style my hair because what's the point, I'm butt ugly anyways, I know it, the people that ook at me now it and so do you!!!!!!!!!! GOOD LUCK, MAY GOD HELP RID ACNE FROM ALL OF US, SOON!!!!!!!!!

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ok, from being so positive over the last 2 weeks because of big improvements i am now majorly disenheartened (spelling?)- WHY does my chin and left cheek look like s**t again? this is really frustrating as i am on week 11 of roaccutane and really thought hings were on the up. is this usual for week 11? i was not expecting, well praying, that there would be no more lumps or spots appearing. does anyone know when it is normal to STOP getting setbacks and when your skin STAYS better? that day is a long time n coming, but when it does i am going to be sooooo happy. fingers crossed for everybody! katie

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Dear Marcus or to anyone who could help :), I am fighting off acne, red spots, small indentations, dead skin, etc. I am on my 3rd week of accutane. I was told of oregon grape root: Read the following on oregon grape root: Oregon grape is used for liver toxicity from drugs or alcohol, low stomach acid infections, or irritation in the intestines (irritable bowel syndrome). It is one of the most effective herbs for skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, or cysts, for which it can be used with burdock seed. It has also been recommended for heat in the stomach with such symptoms as tooth and gum pain, inflamed gums, a burning and gnawing feeling in the stomach area, and facial acne. Now, I've already been taking this herb and turning it into tea for two days now. I have 3 tea's a day with this herb. My question is this, accutane is processed in the liver. I know I'm not supposed to take vitamins with vitamin A because accutane has vi amin A. Oregon grape root is not vitamin A related, but it goes through the liver because its supposed to clear out the liver from toxins and clear out the skin as well as perform other benefits. Does this mean that oregon grape root will clean out the ac utane that is processed in my liver, since oregon grape root is supposed to detoxify the liver among other benefits it does? Know what I mean? I know that you probably haven't tried it and you might say you don't know or ask somebody but I mean you are on accutane and have researched so much about acne thta you should probably know, I hope a lot!!!!! But my main question is will oregon grape "flush away" the accutane that is being processed in my liver from what you read above. I hope I can take both at he same time. Oregon grape has NO vitamin A. So, what do you think about waht I said. Thanks a whole lot!!!!!!

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Dear Marcus or to anyone who could help :), I am fighting off acne, red spots, small indentations, dead skin, etc. I am on my 3rd week of accutane. I was told of oregon grape root: Read the following on oregon grape root: Oregon grape is used for liver toxicity from drugs or alcohol, low stomach acid infections, or irritation in the intestines (irritable bowel syndrome). It is one of the most effective herbs for skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, or cysts, for which it can be used with burdock seed. It has also been recommended for heat in the stomach with such symptoms as tooth and gum pain, inflamed gums, a burning and gnawing feeling in the stomach area, and facial acne. Now, I've already been taking this herb and turning it into tea for two days now. I have 3 tea's a day with this herb. My question is this, accutane is processed in the liver. I know I'm not supposed to take vitamins with vitamin A because accutane has vi amin A. Oregon grape root is not vitamin A related, but it goes through the liver because its supposed to clear out the liver from toxins and clear out the skin as well as perform other benefits. Does this mean that oregon grape root will clean out the ac utane that is processed in my liver, since oregon grape root is supposed to detoxify the liver among other benefits it does? Know what I mean? I know that you probably haven't tried it and you might say you don't know or ask somebody but I mean you are on accutane and have researched so much about acne thta you should probably know, I hope a lot!!!!! But my main question is will oregon grape "flush away" the accutane that is being processed in my liver from what you read above. I hope I can take both at he same time. Oregon grape has NO vitamin A. So, what do you think about waht I said. Thanks a whole lot!!!!!!

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Dear Marcus or to anyone who could help :), I am fighting off acne, red spots, small indentations, dead skin, etc. I am on my 3rd week of accutane. I was told of oregon grape root: Read the following on oregon grape root: Oregon grape is used for liver toxicity from drugs or alcohol, low stomach acid infections, or irritation in the intestines (irritable bowel syndrome). It is one of the most effective herbs for skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, or cysts, for which it can be used with burdock seed. It has also been recommended for heat in the stomach with such symptoms as tooth and gum pain, inflamed gums, a burning and gnawing feeling in the stomach area, and facial acne. Now, I've already been taking this herb and turning it into tea for two days now. I have 3 tea's a day with this herb. My question is this, accutane is processed in the liver. I know I'm not supposed to take vitamins with vitamin A because accutane has vi amin A. Oregon grape root is not vitamin A related, but it goes through the liver because its supposed to clear out the liver from toxins and clear out the skin as well as perform other benefits. Does this mean that oregon grape root will clean out the ac utane that is processed in my liver, since oregon grape root is supposed to detoxify the liver among other benefits it does? Know what I mean? I know that you probably haven't tried it and you might say you don't know or ask somebody but I mean you are on accutane and have researched so much about acne thta you should probably know, I hope a lot!!!!! But my main question is will oregon grape "flush away" the accutane that is being processed in my liver from what you read above. I hope I can take both at he same time. Oregon grape has NO vitamin A. So, what do you think about waht I said. Thanks a whole lot!!!!!!

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Dear Marcus or to anyone who could help :), I am fighting off acne, red spots, small indentations, dead skin, etc. I am on my 3rd week of accutane. I was told of oregon grape root: Read the following on oregon grape root: Oregon grape is used for liver toxicity from drugs or alcohol, low stomach acid infections, or irritation in the intestines (irritable bowel syndrome). It is one of the most effective herbs for skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, or cysts, for which it can be used with burdock seed. It has also been recommended for heat in the stomach with such symptoms as tooth and gum pain, inflamed gums, a burning and gnawing feeling in the stomach area, and facial acne. Now, I've already been taking this herb and turning it into tea for two days now. I have 3 tea's a day with this herb. My question is this, accutane is processed in the liver. I know I'm not supposed to take vitamins with vitamin A because accutane has vi amin A. Oregon grape root is not vitamin A related, but it goes through the liver because its supposed to clear out the liver from toxins and clear out the skin as well as perform other benefits. Does this mean that oregon grape root will clean out the ac utane that is processed in my liver, since oregon grape root is supposed to detoxify the liver among other benefits it does? Know what I mean? I know that you probably haven't tried it and you might say you don't know or ask somebody but I mean you are on accutane and have researched so much about acne thta you should probably know, I hope a lot!!!!! But my main question is will oregon grape "flush away" the accutane that is being processed in my liver from what you read above. I hope I can take both at he same time. Oregon grape has NO vitamin A. So, what do you think about waht I said. Thanks a whole lot!!!!!!

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hey everyone. i've had acne since i was 12...blah blah blah yeah i'm depressed and fustrated. i've been on accutane before and it worked. although 6 months after i was off it my acne came back. it's not as bad and i'm trying to keep it under control, but ometimes i get to that point where i think life is just not worth living if i have to deal with this shit all the time. my major concern is scaring. it bothers me to no end. i wasted $500 on micro-dermabrasion....didn't work. i'm thinking of laser resurfa ing. it cost a lot and i need to know if it's worth it. also has anyone heard about exoderm? my self-esteme is so low that even i wouldn't be my friend. yeah yeah my friends and family say i'm beautiful, but they don't suffer from it. any help you could g ve me would be appericated. e-mail me..... heather

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im starting Accutane next week can someone recommend a good sunblock for my face since im outside most times. thanks

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XKLBR - In my experience NOT shaving just seems to make my acne worse, but so does shaving every day. So I ususally just shave about every 3rd day and that seems to help keep everything under control. Also, shaving cream REALLY broke me out as compared t a good shaving gel. But if you can live with the 'stubbies' shaving about once every 3 days seems to work best for me. Hope that helps! :O)

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hi This is probably the last time I will write on this site. I use to look at it daily when I was on Accutane, but now that I have been off of it for 3 months I haven't came back. I just wanted to let you know that it is well worth it. My acne is complete y gone, accept for the odd zit here and there. My complexion is amazing and my self esteem soared. Good luck to all of you out there and keep hope. Love, Lisa

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I started accutane a week ago and have only seen some dry skin and dry lips. not a whole lot of improvement but have not gotton the flare-up I was afraid of, either. I take 40 mgs a day. If I've been a week without my skin getting worse, does this mean th t I might not experience it? also, I've continued taking my benzamycin. is that okay to do? any info. would be appreciated.

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CAN someone tell me the website for this ?? site

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Hey all. I would just like to let everyone know that taking Accutane was well worth it. It saved my life. Friends and even people I didn't know very well have come up to me and asked, "Hey, didn't you used to have alot of acne, I hardly recognized you. This makes you feel really good inside. The side-effects didn't even bother me during my treatment, only dry skin and chapped lips as well as minor headaches and a couple mood swings were the only side-effects. By month 3 my skin was a total mess but ll of the sudden my pores unplugged and out came everything. I look like a changed person. It is unbelievable. After having acne, and don't get me wrong, I still get an occasional zit, I can relate to all of you and have practically devoted the rest of my life to find a cure for this disease. I will become a dermatologist when I get older and will help those which have succumbed to this horrid disease. Thankyou Accutane, God bless you!

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I was wondering if anyone has noticed their scars fading away while on accutane. A couple of my friends say that their scars went away as well, their skin got lighter. Is this common? Please respond with an email.

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AT 31, IVE SUFFERED WITH FACIAL,CHEST & BACK ACNE FOR MORE THAN HALF OF MY LIFE AND ONE WOULD HAVE THOUGHT BY NOW THAT I'D GOT USED TO IT, NOT SO. AFTER YEARS OF LOTIONS, POTIONS, TABLETS & CONTRACEPTION PILLS I NOW THINK I KNOW WHAT HAS CAUSED IT. YOU SE , MY PARENTS HAVE NEVER BEEN SUFFERERS OF ACNE NOR HAVE ANY MEMBERS OF MY FAMILY, SO I KNEW IT WASN'T GENETIC. BEING 31, I KNEW IT WASN'T AN ADOLESANT THING & AS I KEEP MY FACE EXCEPTIONALLY CLEAN, AND EAT A REALLY HEALTHY DIET I KNEW IT WASN'T CAUSED BY HAT EITHER. WHEN I DISCOVERED, FOLLOWING SEVERE ABDOMINAL PAINS, THAT I WAS SUFFERING WITH ENDOMETRITUS AND ADHESIONS TO MY FALLOPIAN TUBES & OVARIES AND HAD SURGERY, I READ ABOUT THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF MY GYNOLOGICAL PROBLEMS. IT SEEMS THAT ONE OF HE SYMPTONS OF THESE PROBLEMS IS ACNE, WHICH ALTHOUGH THIS DOES NOT CLEAR UP MY BAD SKIN, IT DOES MAKE ME UNDERSTAND AS TO WHY I HAVE BEEN A SUFFERER. OBVIOUSLY, THIS CAN NOT APPLY TO MEN WHO SUFFER WITH ACNE BUT IT MAY HELP OTHER FEMALE SUFFERERS OF ACNE UNDERSTAND WHY THEY HAVE BEEN TARGETED. I ALSO BELIEVE THAT POLYCYSTIC OVARIES CAN TRIGGER ACNE SO MY ADVISE TO OTHER LADY SUFFERERS IS NOT TO SEE A D RMATOLOGIST BUT GYNACOLOGIST.

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Hi I am so glad that I found this page I just began my accutane treatment, I am in my 2 week of treatment. Ok so my skin is very dry and my lips are very chapped and starting to burn around the bottom of the lip. I know that something is going on. I can't go 30 minutes without applying my Carmex, I might stop using that because it burns when I put it on - th t can't be a good sign. But I am also putting vaseline on my nose and other dry spots on my face every night before I go to sleep that seems to help a lot. My scalp has been really dry, but I don't know if it is because I have braids or the combination w th the accutane. I haven't had any headaches this week, but last week, I had a few headaches and some terrible mood swings. I just walked into my house one day and went off and start slamming door and what not, so I have to watch that because my roomie hinks I am crazy. My skin looks incredibly clear, but I am still waiting for the breakout to come. I haven't noticed any depression or anything just yet, but if I do I am going to talk to my doctor because I ain't trying to do nothing stupid. . .

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Thank you McCarty. Thank you Naomi.

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Neosporin saved me while I was on accutane. Put a little in your nose with a q-tip morning and night. It completely stopped the nosebleeds. My Derm advised me to do this and use saline drops.

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Alison, I know exactly how you are feeling. I'm 20 years old and stopped going to college because my skin went out of control. I had so many friends. I used to be very outgoing and volunteered all the time to help others in need. Now I can't even help myself. I've become agorophobic and refuse to leave my bedroom. If my house was on fire, I would rather much burn down with it. That's how terrible things have become. It helps a lot to let someone else know how one is feeling. Everyone on this sit is here to support each other. Please email me anytime if you need to vent out frustrations or happiness when you are feeling better. thanks and take care. lee. tomato_heart@yahoo.com

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To US 23. Thank you for the advice. I'll mention that to her.

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Hello!!! I found a terrific site about the psychological effects acne has on people. I printed a copy and gave it to my mom in hopes of educating her on how I feel. I think it has helped a little with the bitterness between us. I hope maybe it will do the same for someone else. Thanks. lee. http://www.dermnet.org.nz/index.html

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Helen, I got my belly button pierced while I was actually on Roaccutane and had absolutely no ill effects from it. Although, I did feel a bit guilty about not telling my derm especially as I had a blood test immediately after. But, as far as healing, it t ok about three months, which is the same as people not on Roaccutane, so go for it. Talk to your derm first though, if you're still worried.

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I am so sick of acne. It has totally ruined my life. I have lost friends, dropped out of school and never go out. It has completely changed me. Before this i was never in the house, now i am never out of the house. I have to make excuses as to why i cant o things or go places because the thought of anyone looking at me is horrible. I am so desperate for this to go away, i need to have confidence in myself again. Is this some kind of cruel punishment?

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i was wondering what eye complications accutane causes besides dry eyes? my derm wanted me to get some type of eye tests before accutane.....thanks all

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I just wish to say thanks for all the comments on this board regarding our Reconstruction Cream, and I am very glad that so many people are finding diret benefit from it. The cream was developed by one of the leading herbalist in the world, and medical science is only cathing on now, that this mixture of herbs used in this cream, really work for people suffering from acne. If anybody has a question regarding the cream in particular, or any other point they would like to discuss regarding acne, please drop me a line. I try to answer all e-mails within 24 hours, but sometimes we get a bit behind. Kind regards

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Hello all, I was wondering whether shaving had any positive or negative effects on acne. That is, should I shave or shouldn't I? Thanks, XKLBR

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Hey... anyone that thinks they could answer this PLEASE DO! I'm seriously considering getting my belly button pierced, but i was just reading through the archives and i read that you should wait til a few months after coming off the drug - WHY? is it cuz your sking cant heal or something? please tell me someonnnnnnnne! ~~thanx~~ =)

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*****to: a Boyfriend*****

The only thing I can recommend for nose bleeds is a saline nasal spray (really inexpensive), she should try it a couple times a day. It is supposed to keep the nasal cavities moisturized - worth a try!

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Lois- do you live in London? If so, you can get chinese herbs from the Harlequin centre in Watford. I don't know about dosage or names; the herbs she gives me change from week to week depending on my skin. So, yeah, it's a hassle having to trek into Londo every week, but I feel really well looked after. It's the same woman every week and she monitors what's going on with my skin. It's expensive (£5 a bag, one bag per day), but definitely worth it I think. It's the healthiest option certainly. I've had eno gh of stuffing my system with antibiotics etc.

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To Katie Katie when I first started the Roaccutane my skin became red and irriated also. I used a vitamin e moisturiser it helped keep my skin soft but didn't really help the redness. However it went away by itself after a few weeks once my body adjusted to the dr g. So the redness will came down and best of luck ! Joy

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I have suffered from acne since the age of 11.I tried every drug that was available but nothing worked for more than a few weeks at a time. At the age of 16 my GP suggested Dianette or Roaccutane. Intimtdated by the side effects of the Roaccutane I decide to go on the Dianette. After a few months my skin reached its worse point ever and was really sore and itchy at this point I went on alternative medicine for 2 months. This medicine deprived me of dairy products, colours and flavourings etc. Unfortunatly the result was that I lost over a stone and still had the acne. It was at this point I realised that regardless of the side effects Roaccutane was my only hope. A few weeks into the treatment I began to notice an improvement and by the end of the course m skin was completely clear. Now I get the odd spot or two but I know thats because of my lifestyle. I will admitt that I experienced really chapped lips, dryness of the skin, bleeding gums and my hair weakened but I do not reget it for one moment I have c nfidence now that I wouldn't even have dreamed of two years ago. My only regret is that I did not start the roaccutane the fist time I was offered if because it was during that year I got all the scars, however I have accepted them now and they are fading After all they are part of me they tell a story of the way I was. My advice to anybody thinking of taking roaccutane would be that once you are aware of the POSSIBLE side effects and realise that different people recieve different side effects then you w ll realise wheather it is for you are not. Believe it or not it sounds a lot worse than it is. Once you have support the 6 months fly by and you will be happier and stronger!Joy!

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to MONA who is worried about starting roaccutane because of the side effects. i have been taking roaccutane for 11 wks and have only experienced dry lips and dry skin which is easily controlable by using vaseline on lips and a good moisturiser (i use e45 for face. so even though some people experience worse side effects, you might not. does anyone use benzamycin gel at night? i have been using it throughout the roacc treatment and not sure how effective it is. skin seems to be getting more irritated and r d recently. any thoughts? katie

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Hello Everyone, I am now 6 weeks into my course of Roaccutane and things are looking up!! My skin is almost clear with just a couple of blemishes and I feel so much better about myself. The side effects have kicked in but I can cope with them if my skin continues to stay clear. I have a very itchy rash all over my hands, nosebleeds, the side of my fingernails bleed(not sure if this is a normal side effect???) aching musles after exercis and extremely dry lips. Well worth all these side effects!!! Rachel

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What is the big difference between a seborrhea and acne? My dermathologist said that I had seborrhea and not acne. I think that I have mild acne and I have it since I was 13. And I still have it. I never tried any antibiotics. Should I try it?? For what I know thats not a cure... Im just fed up with this.. it causes social and working problems.

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I have suffered from severe cystic acne on & off for the last 12yrs. After completing my fourth course of Roaccutane recently,(that's right 4 courses over 12yrs), I began to believe that depression & anxiety would stay with me for the long-term. My last course of medication was halted by my doctor as I mentioned the depression as something which was causing me great concern, particularly when the acne had been clear for such a long time (my complexion was clear, but I was advised in the beginning to complete the course as an insurance policy, so to speak.)I was immediately taken off the medication & prescribed an anti-depressant. Many would suggest that I am now left to deal with the psychological as well as physical scarring that acne has wrought on me. It is true that occassionally I do feel this way, but one must remember that nothing lasts forever, including acne. Others may f el compelled to reply to this message with a negative response (i.e psycho-babble BS), all I can offer to them is that in relation to acne & it's effects, I've been there & done that!! I would steer clear of Roaccutane, unless all other treatment is ineffective. Whilst taking the drug I have found that support from family & friends is helpful, also trying to avoid negative/shallow people also helps. Above all else, stand up for yourself & remain confident & assertive.

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I have had acne for almost two years now. recently it has gone worse and I went to see a doctor. He put me on roaccutane for 16 weeks. I'm about to start tomorrow. Yesterday I visited this website "by accident" and I was SHOCKED!!!! Can this be true??? N one told me about those side effects that seems to be terrible. My acne is not bad... I can easily live whit it and now I'm wondering whether I take the medication or not. Please tell me people... do those side effects effect on everyone or is it possibl to make it whitout them? I'm starting to panic...

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I have chronic acne since i was 13. They always told me 'you'll grow out of it'. I never did. For the next 14 years, I found myself avoiding contact with anyone for fear of them staring at my face and saying something. It was on my back, my chest, I fe t really alone in the world. I come from a small rural town and noone else it seemed had acne except for me in high school, let alone when you're a working adult in the real world. I had heard about accutane since I was 22, but like most, I read all the eally nasty side effects that went along with it, and it frankly scared me to death. But at 27, when you lived with this very underrated condition, well you are willing to try about anything, so I went to the dermatologist and asked to get on it. I had o start feeling good about my appearance at some point in my life (and I really want to go to the beach and not be embarassed by taking my shirt off.) I weigh in at 135lbs and he started me at 20mg/day.(I remember getting physically upset at the thought f taking my first pill out of fear of what it might do to me.) Six weeks into it and I'm doing 40mg/day. I really wished I known about accutane when I was 13, although I don't think it was around yet LOL. But other than the EXTREME dryness (it's not rea unbearable), and the occasional tiredness and upset stomach, I'm not having any of the major side effects that I had worried myself to death about. The best part is...THIS STUFF WORKS. My acne isn't completely gone, but I can see improvement every day hen I get up. I know it will take some more time, but I'm going to beat this. All my friends and family have even commented on how much better it's getting. I can't wait until the day I can show them it's gone completely. And that day is just around t e corner. Please see someone and ask about accutane, don't put yourself through the experiences I've been through. Sorry for sounding like a bad accutane commercial, but this is the first time I have felt good about myself in a long, long time. :O)

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does anyone know about exoderm lift? from the pictures it looks like it does a great job fixing acne/chickpox scars. please e mail me directly at barba@inetworld.net tha

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To Jerrica--breaking out is completely normal, as for the oiliness, ask your derm, he/she may be able to tell you. ***Alice***Where do you get your chinese herbs and what are the called? Dosage? Thanks! Lois

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FISH

Yeah I have been off for 3 weeks as well. Since coming off it has been better but i still got a couple of spots per week. At the moment, I have a really bad one in the corner of my mouth. i got a couple of my cheek as well, but they seem to be more like a bad red mark.

I dont know if this has happened because I tried some special face stuff for a few days, but I have stopped just incase.

If it gets any worse Ill go Mental I was kinda hoping it not to get bad anymore. I was told to goto the doctor if need be and he will give me some kinda of roacutane in Gel form. Hopefully it wont come to that. My next derm apppointment has been pu hed back, like to september.

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Hey all. I dont wanna sound like a depressing person all the time, because I am not, just wanted to vent about acne. Acen has destroyed my life. I have lost friends family, though probably MY falt, and have ruined my social life. Back in 9th and 10th rade, friends would wonder, why doesnt he ever want to do stuff anymore? I was completley obsessed and during school, I would hide myself. Now, I really just don't care anymore. My face is hideous, but it is a part of me, a part of me which will be the e forever and ever. Hang in there everyone and this goes to everyone. If someone tells you your ugly when you have acne, they are wrong, beauty is on the inside and I hope the next time you people look at someone, try not to view them outwardly but look for the inner qualities, this is what counts. See yall. Bye>~~~~Mark

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Hi everyone My name is Jason and I am a third-year journalism student in Dublin, Ireland. I am currently trying to do a radio documentary on acne and the effects of roaccutane and was wondering if anyone in the Dublin region would be interested in talking about the r experiences. I can't say that it will be straight to RTE's 'Documentary on One' but i am hoping. I was on a course of roaccutane about two years ago for nine months so you can be assured of an understanding interviewer. Please email me off the list i interested. Thanking you in advance.

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Well, I've certainly put up my fair share of posts for the day!!! LoL. To *Alice* about the sweet food triggering acne, I think (even though studies show it doesn't) it does to a point. I noticed if I eat too many candies and sweets, it makes my acne flar up more than it normally would without eating the junk.

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Hi, I've just stumbled across this site, and think it's great. My personal history with acne is long and boring so I'll spare you guys. Suffice to say I've had acne for 5 years now. It cleared up for a year after taking erythromycin, but came back again. then went on Roaccutane and it worked brilliantly. I was completely clear (of spots and blemishes) for about six months after I stopped taking the pills. My skin was blemish free and I felt brilliant. Unfortunately I was one of the sad few who get relaps s. I can't describe how depressed and frustrated I felt when I realised it was happening all over again. I get tiny little bumps around my mouth and chin and sometimes on my cheeks and I KNOW that every single one will turn into a fully fledged spot. And ure enough it does. I don't know what causes it, but I'm starting to think it may be related to the food I eat. Anyway, about three months ago, I'd decided I'd had enough of stuffing my system with medicine (I've been on every antibiotic under the sun, th pill, and put a very strong drug in my system for four months). I thought I'd give my body a rest and try and control this thing working WITH my body as opposed to against it. So I started taking Chinese herbs. I can't say it's a miracle, but I have noti ed a change in my acne. I no longer get huge red cysts or even pus filled whiteheads. I get tiny red spots, usually the size of a pinprick, which are much easier to cover up. My skin is no longer painful to touch because there are no inflammed area and th spots are no longer itchy. I feel healthier, and my skin doesn't look so greasy. The spots seem drier somehow, and look like the normal spots which people with clear skin sometimes get, as opposed to "acne" spots. Areas which are spot free look really go d. I know that I'll have to wait a good while before the herbs really take hold, but I'm optimistic; every person I've spoken to who's taken chinese herbs for one reason or another has said that yeah, it does take a while, but it has worked for them. I've not had one single negative comment (so far!!). So anyway, I was hoping that if anyone else has had experiences with Chinese herbs, if they could email me and tell me about it? Also, I came across a web site by this bloke who claimed that refined sugar ca sed his acne. This has now got me paranoid and I haven't had any chocolate for ages now! What do people think about food being the culprit?(or at least triggering breakouts?), because my chinese doctor says not to eat cheese/lamb/chocolate/crisps because hey're too "hot" for my body. I can't really understand what she means, but I'm sure she know what she's talking about..... Phew! sorry about the length! Good luck everyone!

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Also to KATIE yeah I know how it feels to have someone with perfect skin come up to you and tell you it's not as bad as it seems. You're totally right when you say they can't understand...because fact is, they couldn't understand unless they get it.

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Thx DEB, I think we can all sympathize (sp?) with eachother. It's nice to have someplace where we can all talk to eachother and relate completely. I'm going to see my derm tomorrow (thursday) so hopefully he'll do something. I'm currently on 50mg a day an weigh in at 133lbs if anyone wanted to compare. Also, I've been putting a bit of cortizon cream on my breakouts and it seems to bring them down. I'll keep you updated

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first time writing but have been reading the page for a while. it is reassuring that i am not the only one to feel down about my skin. my friends all of whom have lovely clear skin try to make me feel better and tell me the famous line "its not as bad as ou think". the fact is they could never understand what it feels like to wake up every morning dreading what has appeared overnight. i started on roaccutane almost 3 months ago on 50mg a day and am so glad i did. the difference to before i started is unb lievable and it now keeps getting better. i am not clear by any means but i no longer get the large sore ones that seem to stay for a lifetime. so anyone considering it - go for it! i am getting back confidence and now am looking forward to things. even j st normal everyday things. whereas before it was such a struggle just to go out the front door. to ***MARDI*** hang in there. as your skin in now improving just think back to when your skin was at its worst and i am sure you would have given anything then for a cure. as for not feeling like going out with your friends i have felt the same but i now am begining to realise how lucky i am to have them because they have stuck by me even though not understanding why i felt so bad about myself. i would not go ou with them, stopped returning calls etc and shut myself off. so now i want to spend time with them and repay them for not giving up on me (it was a long time). i know it is so hard to go out when you are feeling depressed but dont let acne win, make yours lf go out. i hope that gradually it will become easier as your skin continues to improve and hopefully your life will get back to normal. i hope things get better for you. all the best and good luck to everyone. katie

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first time writing but have been reading the page for a while. it is reassuring that i am not the only one to feel down about my skin. my friends all of whom have lovely clear skin try to make me feel better and tell me the famous line "its not as bad as ou think". the fact is they could never understand what it feels like to wake up every morning dreading what has appeared overnight. i started on roaccutane almost 3 months ago on 50mg a day and am so glad i did. the difference to before i started is unb lievable and it now keeps getting better. i am not clear by any means but i no longer get the large sore ones that seem to stay for a lifetime. so anyone considering it - go for it! i am getting back confidence and now am looking forward to things. even j st normal everyday things. whereas before it was such a struggle just to go out the front door. to ***MARDI*** hang in there. as your skin in now improving just think back to when your skin was at its worst and i am sure you would have given anything then for a cure. as for not feeling like going out with your friends i have felt the same but i now am begining to realise how lucky i am to have them because they have stuck by me even though not understanding why i felt so bad about myself. i would not go ou with them, stopped returning calls etc and shut myself off. so now i want to spend time with them and repay them for not giving up on me (it was a long time). i know it is so hard to go out when you are feeling depressed but dont let acne win, make yours lf go out. i hope that gradually it will become easier as your skin continues to improve and hopefully your life will get back to normal. i hope things get better for you. all the best and good luck to everyone. katie

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I have just finished my fourth month of accutane treatment @20mg twice a day with myself weighing 195 lbs. When I started I had persistent, worsening, mild to moderate acne concentrated around my mouth and jawline. Now, I'd like to say, categorically, tha this drug has blown it away(knock on wood). I am very supersticious so I don't like talking about it for fear of jinxing myself but I think that there are people visiting this site who are in a similar situation as I was and are wondering what the hell t do about it. Adult acne does not go away and in many cases without treatment it gets much worse. Accutane treatment was an eventuality for me that I wish I had reached a few years earlier. If anyone is considering taking it you should do it now because i it is right for you then you will have wished you had started sooner and if it is not then at least you will know sooner rather than later and can make provisions for alternate forms of treatments. The only side effects that have seemed to persist throug out my treatment are the dryness/redness of the corners of my mouth and the dryness/scabbing of the inside of my nose(I have seasonal allergies so this may be a factor). Everyone reacts differently to this drug in sometimes very idiosyncratic ways but if you are reaching desparation then you won't know until you try.

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Janeta kindly gave me some advice about what my girlfriend my be going through. She's 30 and she started taking Roaccutane about 5 weeks ago. She is now getting nose bleeds. They appear from nowhere. Yetserday evening for example she was preparing dinner, a pizza in the oven, and the nose bleed started. She said it was a heavy one. Can anyone tell me if this is normal? She copes fine with it but are there any tips of how she might stop them from happening. If it's not usual, I thought she should probably see a doctor.

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Hi to everyone. I just wanted to touch base. I have been off Roaccutane for 3 weeks now and my skin is great. I occasionally get the odd small spot but I can so handle that now in comparison to how it was pre-Roaccutane. My question is - is it normal t still get the occasional spot 3 weeks after the course??? Or should it just not happen??? JULES - I would love it if you could answer that question if you haven't disappeared completely!! The SFW will miss you!! I too will pop in here occasionally and post and answer any questions anyone may have. Wishing you all much spotlessness and love - Fishxxx. PS - Rianne - where are you? Are you alright?

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hello... i'm now in my fifth week on roaccutane.Around the 2nd week,my skin turned dry but now my skin is oily again but not as bad as before.is this normal?i'm having a very bad breakout since my 3rd week on this drug.should i continue with it?i am currently on 2 mg per day.feelin really depressed..someone pls help..

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To Alan (concerned parent),

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Since taking Roaccutane 2 weeks ago until today I have had the most terrible prostate pain and diarrhea. None of the side affects are supposed to do this. I am stopping taking it today for 3 days to see if it makes a difference. Has anyone else experience these symptoms? Please reply

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Hi all - haven't visited for a long time.

This is for the newcomers to Gill's site :) - you're welcome to come and visit my Board, The Acne Support Group in Cyberspace @ http://www.voy.com/4529.

Have to rush - lots to do before I go on holiday! Good luck to all who are seeking your personal acne cure!

Best Wishes, Just Me

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You are all beautiful in my eyes.

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TO MARK: DONT GIVE UP HOPE....YOUR TIME WILL COME. I THINK ALL OF US HERE FEEL LIKE THAT ON DAYS..I KNOW I DO...BUT JUST BE STRONG, ID LOVE TO TELL YA MY STORIES IM SURE THEY ARE WORSE THEN YOURS, AND I JUST LEARN TO LAUGH AND BE OPEN NOW CUZ I KNOW ONE DAY IT WIL BE OVER WITH, MAYBE NOT TODAY OR TOMMOROW, BUT HOPEFULLY SOON!!! JUST THINK IF WE ALL GET THROUGH THIS JUST THINK HOW STRONG WE HAVE GOTTEN OVER THE YEARS DEALING WITH IT, AND NOBODY CAN TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US...LOTS OF LOVE BURTONCHICK5

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If you had the opportunity to obtain an education fund of up to $200,000 for each of your children, would you take it? If you and your spouse (under age 50) had the opportunity to obtain $40,000 or more to pay off debts or put away for retirement, would y u take that opportunity, as well? What if the money NEVER had to be repaid? Would you be willing to look at a program of a kind that never has been tried before, and that has been developed by good people of faith who are trying to give a helping hand to orking class people who may be living from paycheck to paycheck? Would you be willing to learn everything possible about this program, to form your OWN opinions about its worth, and not to take the "opinions" of others about the program as "truth? If so, mail me at surecash@hotmail.com. Please indicate that you're from Gill's page when you email me so I'll know. Thanks for your time.

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***********MIKE************* I would definatley try the Accutane. I'm now 30 and had been through the same routine you were(trying everything and anything to stop breakouts) and nothing really worked. The next thing I know my face has alot of scars on it now. I have been on Accutane for almost 3 months and besides the initial horrible breakout in my 2nd week, I have totally cleared. The side effects vary from person to person,but so far no hair loss or really bad drying out of skin. And as far as scarring ,it wont get rid of old scars,but it will definatley be an improvement. Any more questions,I'll be glad to try and answer them. Good luck dude, Greg

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Well, I've been taking accutane for exactly one month now, so I thought I would update how things have been going. My skin was dry after about the first week, but not too bad. The last two weeks it has become really flaky and super dry, lips too, but it s livable. I use a lot of moisturizer. My dermatologist said that I was responding so well, that I will only have to do 5 months instead of 6. That made me Really happy. If things go well, maybe she'll cut off another month, but I know 4 months is a m mimum. My blood pressure and triglycerides were fine too. It was kind of fun becuase the derm had an intern with her, so I got to talk to them for a while about accutane and effects and stuff. She told me that younger people in their teens usually can't handle the accutane as well and complain of irritability and mood swings. Not all I'm sure, and I haven't had any of that. My skin is a tiny bit red, but not real bad, barely noticable. I take 1200mg calcium and 1000IU Vitamin E per day on my derm's in tructions, calcium prevents the joint pain and vit e helps with dry skin and eyes. It really has helped. I wrote about the red dry spots on my hands and arms, but these have pretty much gone away. I went out looking for a good body soap.. I had been usin the Cetaphil that my derm recommended, but I don't like it because there is NO lather with it, and I use a sponge and it just doesn't work. I looked all over and found that EVERY soap at Target except Cetaphil has Sodium Laureth Sulfate in it. I finall decided on a body soap made by Eucerin, despite the fact that it has SLS, I will continue to use Cetaphil on my face at least. I also got a non-comedogenic moisturizer for ultra-senstive skin by Neutragena to try, I'll let you know how that works. Also, I have been using Dr. Dan's Lip Balm (www.drdanslipbalm.com) which is supposed to be specifically formulated for people who are taking accutane. It doesn't really work that great, even if you put it on like 5 or 6 times a day. The 'secret' ingredient is just hydrocortisone, so you may as well try putting a little cortaid or something on, probably get the same results. Anyway, I'll keep everybody updated as things progress.

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Hi. sorry i came back but quick ? What is erthamycline, spelt something like that, dont have the pres. bottle with me. Does it really help? Ive just been prescribed this. Peace!

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Hi. I am kind of depressed as of late. My face has become one giant inflammed red boil. I have black, brown, and even redish green pimples growing on my face, they seem to be really big cysts and I am so scared to even walk out the door. I ahve been t the Derm twice before and am considering Accutane. Recently I was so pissed off with acne that I took some scissors and actually cut a whole in one of the giant cysts pertruding out of my cheek. This caused greenish, whitish goo to leak out all over my mirror, as well as face and it was almost as much as 2 cups of fluid. It was disgusting and hideous. My sit. is bad. I look back on those times as a kid, when I had not a pimple in the world. But now my afce is one big face of scars. I must learn to ive with these. They are my life and are my battle scars through this tough war with acne. Best luck to everyone, I'm out.

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Anyone who is scared of tring ACCUTANE? Try using tetracycline. The first 2-3 weeks your face gets worse. Then after that your skin will began to get better. It takes 4-6 weeks to see significant results, and 2-3 months to get the full effect! Need more i fo. try loging on to www.skinsite.com/info_tetracycline.htm Good luck to all! I am on my 9th day and my skin has broken out pretty good, but this is because all the impurities have to surface! Don't give up! I will keep you updated on my progress!

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Hi everyone. Tomorrow is my last day on roaccutane and I wanted to write about my experience over the last 4 months. The first two months were tough. My skin actually got much worse, my lips were dry, my skin was flaky, and I slipped into a pretty seri us depression and agrophobia. When I saw my derm after 2 months things got much better and I strongly suggest that some of you speak to your derms if things arent going how you wanted. He prescribed my an antibiotic called Zineryt, which is a solution t at helps whilst roaccutane is still taking time to kick in. The best stuff he prescribed me however, were steriods called Prednisolone 5mg tablets. These steriods reduce the inflamation of the skin DRAMATICALLY, or at leats they did for me. On top of t is, I use Blistex lip relief cream on my lips, and aqueous cream BP on my face. Now my face is much, much better, not 100 per cent because I still have red marks here and there, but I am no longer confined to my room in the way that I was. If anyone is eeling depressed like I was, you might find that fluoxitine anti depressants will help. They might have helped me, or I might just be feeling better because my skin is better I don't know. Anyway, I'm looking forward to tomorrow being me last morning of swallowing 'good ol' double colours!'. If anyone has any questions please email me, I'd love to help others who are going through what I went through 2 months ago. Keep the faith.

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I've just decided to take the plunge with Accutane after having a major recurrence of cystic acne. I've gone through almost every antibiotic on the market, and feel this is my last resort. I'm afraid of looking worse from the side effects than I do with he acne. I chickened out years ago, and am determined to go through with it now. Just wondering how bad the initial flare ups are, and how severe the cracked lips and dry skin gets.

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Hi, I've been on accutane for four months and I wish I would have known about this site. I was reading the comments and I was also very curious about the glycolic peels to get rid of scarring. After being on 80mg a day in my final months, my skin has cleared up completly, but I still have some scarring. Anyone know anything about these peels Also, what is the 'reconstruction cream' that everyone is talking about? Thanks

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I've been on Roaccutane for three weeks now,and am experiencing some side effects.The usual dryness,and extremely sore lips.However I was wondering if anyone else is experiencing sore,bloodshot eyes.I am also in the middle of a breakout,and am feeling ver disheartened.

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Hey there everyone! Just wanted to give you an update on my progress seeing as the last time I posted I was in the depths of despair. I saw the derm yesterday - a different one, a woman and she was very understandng about all my side-effects - dryness, muscle-aches, tiredne s, mood-swings, depression, anger and irritability. I've been on Roacc 22 weeks but still my skin is v cystic and when Roacc is a wonder-drug you expect more! So she has put me onto half the dose - 30 mg in the hope taht the side-effects will lessen. She aid if it got really bad just to stop the roacc. Unfortunately it will just take a lot longer. Let's see how it goes. To anyone e.g. Lindsay who has been on roacc long-term already and not seeing great results - hang in there. I can really sympathise - it is just such a nightmare. But I believe there is a reason for everything so maybe I'll know soon what it is I'm to learn form this. Take care everyone and keep moisturising! I've found an aloe vera gel which is good for senstivive skin like ours - v gentle cleanser. Anyway see ya!

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All, my son,21,has v.bad acne onback and chest,almost like boils! GP advises roaccutane, but we are all worried by listed side-effects!! Is it worth the suffering? swapping one problem for another? How bad is the depression? he is already v.depressed by the pain!! Pls reply to e-mail address. Thanks in anticipation Alan (concerned parent)

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I have been off Roacutane for 3 years now and still have side effects, but they get less with each passing year. The acne I had appeared as a painful rash which was a bad as the side effect of Roacutane anyway. After a couple of months into the treatment became allergic to Lanolin, and Petrolatum(most moisturisers). I have found aqueous cream to be the best moisturiser. Taking primrose capusules daily also seems to help. I also take prititon, and a topical steroid cream, and drink lots of water. Personal y I find the excersise keeps the roacutane under control. I would appriciate any other recommended moisturisers though. Thanks for your time, and good luck!

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I'm on my 5th month of accutane, but I STILL get breakouts. Not huge ones like before, but I still breakout. I was wondering to the people who are on their 5th month or done, did you keep breaking out? And also, I've got tons upon tons of scars on my chee s and forehead. My derm says they'll clear up on their own, but it takes like a year to fade completely. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to do about the scars? To get the redness out or something...thanks

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Does anyone know if tetracycline breaks your face out first before it gets better? I am on my first week. My face was not that bad in the beggening, but now I have these huge sores on my chin. 2 on the right side and a smaller one on the left side.

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Jules, although I never talked to you much I always read your posts, I just wanted to say good luck bud in whatever you do!!!!

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Hey FRED. Guess what- I was going to post on this board to complain abt exactly the same thing as yours. I've finally concluded that these bizarre reddish spot-like things that I was describing before are more due to the dryness than anything else. They a pear straight after I wash my face too, in areas where the dryness was quite marked anyway before I washed it. SO, I think instead of tea tree oil, which kind of really dries your skin out, I'm gonna stick to Clinique's. I know it is due to the dryness be oz, yesterday when I came back home, my face was fairly smooth. Then obsessed as I am, I rubbed some tea tree oil freshener across my face as if to remove all the grime and stuff. It dried my skin like mad, which I thought was good and I didn't bother moi tursing. And in the evening as I was analysing my face, I saw those reddish spots that weren't there before. It must be the dryness. Coz apparently u stimulate your seb.glands to compensate for it. SO, I'd advise u to change your face wash. And don't use ot water. I'm gonna keep moisturising my skin like mad now. TO BURTONCHICK- have u tried the Reconstruction cream as well? Anyway, take care..SONIA..

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I was wondering if glycolic peels are helpful after the accutane treatment...Does anyone know aboout this....i need my scars to go away...im only going on my second month but im just wondering for future, cuz my scars look bad...and i think rocks reconstr ctive cream is kinda BULL@#!T, know one i have talked to says it works like you say.

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Hi. I was on roaccutan about 4 months ago and everything was ok. I had all the sideeffects etc, but i coped ok. The thing is this - now i have tiny red marks that appear seconds AFTER i wash my face. These are obviously not normal spots, and i think they ay be due to the dryness that my facewash creates. I put on moisturisor straight away, and this helps. Has anyone else experienced these 'dryness' spots? And if so, what can i do about them. Please email me at the above addess with any replies, thanks.

Aaron - 04/10/00 23:24:36
My Email:iago@nin64.freeserve.co.uk
Age: 20
Gender: Male
Country: England

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Hi

Been of Roacutane for just over 3 weeks now. It has been pretty good but at the moment got a few red marks (really bad red marks). I think one is going, but the other two are there and one is huge.

Please anyone got some ways to get rid of the red marks?

I might be going holiday in a few months, I would really like my face to kinda clear of the red marks by then. Its depressing:-/

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I've found a really great site about frequently asked questions about accutane. Check it out if you want. http://www.druginfonet.com/faq/faqaccut.htm

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Just a final message from me to say I took my last roaccutane pills this evening. I feel like a new person again!

I wish everyone great success in curing their acne and enjoying their lives without this curse!

I won't be visiting much anymore. Most of the old gang seem to have left now anyway. Good luck to Rianne, Jasmine, Fish, Marcus, GW, Bubble Boy (HGPig), Al and anyone else who I have missed. This has been a great site to come to! Thanks for all the advice, hope I helped a few!!

Will probab y check back occasionally! See ya!

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Steve- That's okay...I didn't take it personally. I've been to really bad, uncaring dermatologists before too. Luckily, the one I'm seeing now is very compassionate and emphathetic. He always tells that I'll be ready to get married as soon as I'm off the medi ation, my skin will be that perfect. He says most of his clients are young women who are coming to see him right before their weddings. The funny thing is, I was engaged to be married last summer, but called off the wedding (not because of acne). I'd l ve to get married after I'm done with Accutane, now I just have to find someone! Keep me updated on your progress!

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I'm sorry. I'm sure that your derm is totally competent it is just that the one that I initially went to really new nothing about accutane and basically read from the warning label. He was fatter than hell, never had acne and acted openly impatient with me when I asked tough questions about accutane treatment. He was the last person I would've asked bout excersize or personal health in general.

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Hellooooooooooooooooooooo everyone!!!!!!! Well, I'm done exams and so I'm back. I'm on day 19 of accutane and things are looking great. Yes, Yes, reconstruction cream, which its been only one week, has already started to (and I don't know how, but it really is) heal red spots that were somewhat i dented. They are healing nice and smooth. I reapply the reconstruction cream like I've said 4 times a day. The bottle is not quite done but I know its close to done (There's probably another 1 week left because I use it SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OFTEN) I already o dered two more bottles, but don't worry Sonia and to those who have ordered it, it'll work, just reapply it a few time each day. Don't worry, you're faec won't look so oily. It gives your face a very nice, and I do mean nice, glowing look. The accutane ha already started to make my face feel dry but I love the results so far, and I'm only on day 19. Well, C'ya.

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To Steve- I don't know if he's ever had acne, but he does have psoriasis (spelling?), not sure if he's ever been on accutane...he's rated the #1 derm in my state and has been highly recommended, so I usually trust what he's talking about. Although, it breaks my he rt to stop working out, so I'm going to incorporate other kinds of workouts in place of my 2 hours of step/cardio boxing. My acne is gone, I never had oily skin to start with, so what he thought was that the combination of sweat and the accutane made my ace break out in a big rash- last Thursday it was diagnosed as psoriasis, which runs in my family. I got a really good steriod cream that has done wonders in only 4 days, the rash is almost gone, so my skin really looks great. I woke up with one new tee y weeny zit this morning, nothing I couldn't handle. I also did a 15.5 mile walkathon yesterday, and my skin was fine. I wore a high SPF- 25, and it was a little windburned, but other than that, it's still okay. Thanks for the words of encouragement to keep working out, I plan to do just that.

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To: Mardi I have been off accutane for almost a week now. I took 60 mgs a day for 4 months. I was extremely tired and cranky during that time. I cried a lot and just generally felt bad. I already feel much better. I think it was worth it. My skin s so much better. Try to hang on, all of your symptoms will go away when you stop taking it.

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Your doctor is full of shit. The last thing that you want to do now is stop working out. It's not sweat that is making your face break out. Sweat is NOT comedogenic. If anything, the sodium in your sweat has a drying effect on the surface oil of your skin Ask yourself these questions. Does your doctor have acne? Has your doctor ever had acne? Has your doctor ever taken accutane? Does your doctor excersize regularly? I guarantee that the answer to all of these questions is no. This being the case is he/she in a position to tell you, with any legitimacy, that you shouldn't excersize. No.

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Hello, Been on 60mg a day, (weigh 54kg) for over 3 months. Spots away but life in ruins. are these the horrible side effects everyone talks about but don't go into detail? Really emotionally uptight, could cry for Britain, sad all the time, no motivation, feel like I am not me at all, basically i am no fun- can't concentrate on work or my boyfriend, don't want to be with my friends. please tell me if someone else has experi nced this? I have got to the stage i want to stop the pills, but i see my spots are all going. Can anyone help?please thank you

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Has anyone also tried CLINIQUE's 3-step stuff? I ran out of my tea tree oil face wash on Saturday, and I only had a sample of Clinique soap for oily skin . So I tried it, and I did like the feel of it; it didn't dry my skin out as much as tea tree oil. Bu I'd like to hear from anyone who's been using it. Thanx..

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Oy ROCK- I'm still waiting for your progress with the Reconstruction cream. Thanks GINGER for the information. SO, straight after this, I'm gonna make a transfer of the money into those s.africans' account, and hopefully get it by next week. TO "JUST ME"- 'm gonna get the HIGH POTENCY VIT E cream as well by Friday, cool. My sister tried on some of her marks, and she said within a week there was a drastic change. I'm just as usual worried abt the petrolatum that it apparently contains, coz that's mineral oi , isn't it? But I'll start trying it out as from Friday directly on some of the dark red marks. Looking forward to it. I've only got a few days left for the treatment- time just flies so fast, it's amazing. Take care, u all..SOnia..

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This page has been very useful to me, particularly as it makes you realise that there are other people out there who are experiencing the same things as you are. I have not had severe acne, but have just never had clear skin, and now finally in my thirtie got sick of it and after seeing a dermatologist started on Roaccutane. I have been on it for about 9 weeks now, and what a roller coaster it has been. I think I have had just about every side effect described, particularly a dreadful flare up of my skin t the start of the treatment. I have to say I had never looked worse. However around the 6 week mark things started to settle down, and are now steadily improving. I still have blemishes and redness, but the underlying texture of my skin is getting smooth r, and I really do see a little improvement every day, I no longer dread looking in the mirror first thing in the morning when I get up. So I would urge anyone starting Roaccutane to hang in there, I contemplated stopping when things flared up, but am gla I persevered. Good luck everyone in the quest for clearer skin.

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I am wondering if you know of proactiv and if that works at all?

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TO LEE: Sorry the reason why u couldnt e mail me was becasue i forgot the 5...MY EMAIL IS burtonchick5@aol.com.....i would love to talk to you about hyperhidrosis. I will tell ya all about whats been helping me out...write soon...

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Also, is the Reconstruction Cream from South Africa any good?

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I've been taking Accutane for three weeks now and have noticed definite improvement. My skin now has fewer bumps on it than it did before. However, I am still having problems with something that I've had for months before Accutane: small red spots in ar s on both of my cheeks--not raised, but below the skin. What are they, will Accutane make them go away, and if not then what will?

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THE ROCK - My skin is smooth bar a few spots!But despite my smooth coplexion I still have red scarring, so do u think this reconstruction cream will be good for me??

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I want to know about the redness on accutane, anybody out there a male, golden brown complexion. if so please tell me how long the redness lasts, and what major side affects did you have!! thank you so very much !

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Hi. I tried emailing you but it didn't work. I left a message to you earlier on this board, just in case you missed it. Thanks. The other Lee since I just realized there is someone else who shares the same name on this board.:)

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Hi, I've had mild to severe acne for over 10 years and have mostly tried oral/topical antibiotics. They seem to work minimally at best, and my acne seems to return after the end of each dose. Each time I bring up accutane to my GP he seems to put it off nd has my try a different kind of antibiotic. I'm at a point where the scarring from prior blemishes is very visible and controlling new breakouts is getting to be a tiring job. I'm seriously considering taking accutane and would love to hear from anyon out there with advice on minimizing the side effects. Does accutane help clear the scarring/blemishes from prior breakouts and did any of the males out there experience hair loss? And is the drying of skin mostly on the face or the entire body? Thanks. br>

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TO: JENNY, I hope all goes well tomorrow at the Dr. Please let us know what he/she says. One more thing I meant to ask you, my Derm required me to start taking accutane on the second or third day of my period. That was to ensure that I wan't pregnant. Make sure to discuss that with you Dr. Even the Accutane package states that female patients should NOT start taking Accutane until that time.

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I took roacutan for about 8 months, 20mg a day.now,6 months later, acne began again my blood resaults show colesterol (though I am vegiterian) and the Free Thyroxine is low, I have low hemoglobin and iron. Do you know if it is from the roacutan? What can do about it? what would I do about Acne now? I would appreciate your advice. 10x

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TO John Allen: When I went on accutane my dermatologist said I MUST take 1200 mg of calcium a day and 1000 IU of vitamin E a day. The calcium, she told me, would prevent almost all joint stiffness, and the vitamin e would prevent dry eyes and help keep y heart in shape. I am now on week 5, and haven't had any side effects except dry lips and slightly flaky skin, so I think these vit's really help prevent some side effects. I also drink about 3 liters of water a day, which is also supposed to lessen si e effects a lot.

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My firt go on Roaccutane lasted 4 months, i am now on my 2nd go and i have nearly completed four months and i still have a few spots and lots of redness. It seems as though most people are on roaccutane for AT LEAST 6 months am i right? also I have a sugg stion for GILL, there are lots of qs which are asked over and over again a good example of this is WHAT can be done about the REDNESS?? People come up with various suggestions and i think it would be a good idea to put all the 'answers' into a FAQ section which can be added to at will!! What do u think guys?? bye

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Hi This is my second month of 1 pill of 40mg accutane/day and I have been experiencing a serious side effect (rectal bleeding). Has anyone else been experiencing this yet? Pls don't feel reluctant to inform me. Accutane has done wonders, but this side eff ct is scary. Got answers? pls help.

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Thanks to the lady who replied before. Yes I actually did have blood tests - but this was taken a long time before i actually went onto accuntane. I was never given a pregnncy test though since i have always used protected sex. I will talk to the dr tommorrow and hopefully I will find out for sure..maybe they can run some tests.

Thanks

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my acne was ruining my life i was so embarassed about it .i became so withdrawn i wouldn't even look at people , i tried to cover it with my hair and i never wanted to go out , it was ruining my relationship and my social life. finally i decided to get r d of it .I had tried every thing but nothing had worked so they put me on roaccutane, i was very scared of going on it i had heard of all the stories and of all the side affects but i wanted to get rid of my acne so i went through with it. I have to admit that i had terrible side affects, and there were times when i thought that i couldn't go through the whole 6 months, but i stuck with it, and now honest to God my skin is so good it is perfect. It was the best thing that i have ever done ,i am now a new erson. i have been of it now for 6 months and haven't had a pimple since. I can't express how good it feels now to have my good skin back. I can go out without makeup .Ilove ie. I totally recommend roaccutane, whats 6 months of side affects in comparison o a life time of good skin. you wont look back

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Is it more dangerous and/or harmful to one's liver to consume alcohol whilst taking Roaccutane?

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I have ance problem for several years and I tried many many things to get rid off that... Well, my dermathologist prescribed me Roaccutane and it seems like my last option since I tried everything else. I was determined to get rid off my acne problem, but lately I'm having some second thoughts about this drug. Well, I'm on Roaccutane for over 20 days now and it first started with very dry and painful lips (but I guess everybody gets that), so I was ok with that. Lately those things are getting on my nerves because I was bleeding from my nose three times lately and it's kinda hard to make that stop... I had some blood showing up in some other areas, including in stuff from my body (also in sperm). I had some similar problem a few times before I was taking t is drug, but my urologist said that it's because of the sensitive blood veins that I'm supposed to have... Anyway I'm wondering if these side effects will be getting worse as the weeks of taking Roaccutane go by or can I expect them to ease up a little? I'm really not sure if I should continue taking it, especially because of the nose bleeds. My dermathologist said it's nothing to worry about, but seeing blood everywhere kinda makes me scared and worried... I guess a lot of people have positive experienc with this drug, so I would like to know if the final effect is worth all the troubles? Thanks! I'm a person that doesn't give up so easily, so I'm ready to be patient with all the side effects, as long as it's not (too)dangerous for my health.

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VITIAMNS et al Does anybody take any vitiamn supplements while tehy r on accutane? if so what do you take, cause u cant take a multi vit & mineral as they contain vit-a. And u cant take a multi vit&mineral while u r taking minocyline (tetracyline) as it contains iron. Any help is much apprecuated!!

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Well, it's my last day on roaccutan. My face has cleared up, but is still RED. So how long does it usually take to fade away? If anyone has any info how to make it fade away faster or own experiences, feel free to contanct me at needto78@hotmail.com Any nformation is wellcome!!!

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Dear Dr. Desakelli, i am a 36 yr old female who has suffered from acne since age 14. mild at times and moderete at other times. this past year i was diagnosed as having acne rosecea my doctor tried antibiotics, metrocream etc. nothing worked! he finally gave me about 2 mo ths ago accutane, but right after that looking up info on the internet i came across an article on the link between rosecea and a bacteria called h-pylori that can cause ulcers. b/4 taking accutane i wanted to make sure i took care of this bacteria, got ested for this bacteria and the result was positvie. was put on triple therapy of antibiotics for 14 days. b/4 and while on the therapy my acne rosecea was terrible but now 4 weeks later my face is doing better, but not completely cured, still have some redness and bumps but nothing compared to b/4. i had an endoscopy done and i no longer have the bacteria or ulcers. my question now is should i go on accutane, will my face get even more reder than now? does accutane really help my condition? is it wo th going through the side effects, i have thin hair i dont want to lose what i do have! i also have high blood pressure and im medication for this. will i be okay if i go on the accutane? my prescription is for the 1st month 40 mg once a day. i'm so tir d of seeing my skin looking bad, red, bumpy, not being able to go with my daughter to the beach or making plans for the summer with my husband to away to the beach because of my acne rosecea, i sure would like to be able to go out with out spending an hou putting makeup on to cover. sorry if i go on and on, i really cant ask my doctor all these questions he gets upset that i have so many questions. and i dont really want to upset him since hes the only derm that has prescribe accutane for me. if my acne rosecea is mild should i still go on the accutane? my derm says i should not use hydrocortisone or steroid creams cause its very bad for the skin, but yet many people on this site have been put on steroid creams which are suppose to make rosece worse, i just dont know what to do. i tried to email you directly but the email was returned by aol, problems reaching your email. Thank you very MUCH in advance for any info you may give me. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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how are you?! it's nice to finally know someone who understands how it feels to suffer from hyperhydrosis and acne. it's extremely uncomfortable, not to mention embarrassing. i can already feel my uncomfortable barameter skyrocketing and spring has only just begun. i don't have to do much for beads of sweat to form on my forehead. my skin's gotten so bad that i quit my job and it has kept me from participating on a lot of things that interest me. what a bummer! anyway. i am interested to know if the accutane is working well and how much it has helped with your hyperhydrosis. good luck and take care. hope to hear from you soon. lee.

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Hi.I have been on roaccutane for about 5 weeks now,how long does it take for some of you guys to improve?also do you get a bit unflexible,stiff?

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JENNY: First of all, the Dr. who prescribed Accutane to you should have taken a pregnancy test before he prescribed it to you. I had to go through hell and high water before my prescription was written. This included a series of blood testing, includin a PREGNANCY test, as well as birth control councelling. I have THREE children and NEVER went two months (missing periods and everything) without knowing something in you body was going on. I realize that you are young, but it seems as though a major mi fortune has taken place, and if what you say is true, your Dr. has failed you! Since 6 months is to late for an abortion, you could be forced to have a baby with MAJOR malformations. I pray that everything turns out o.k., however if you are not planning to have a child, you should be using birth control even if you are not on Accutane!!!!!

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Hi, I just came across this site so, as I have had a lot of experience of taking Roacutane I thought I would post some info for you all. I first took Roacutane in 1995, when I was eventually refered to a dermotologist by my GP. I had been through every, (and I do mean every) other possible treatment prior to taking this drug. I was given 70mg a day, which is the maximum dosage for me. Roug ly this is worked out by your weight ie 70Kg = 70mg. It took about 4-6 months for it to clear up. For me, I found that it realy makes it extremly flared up whilst its working, and unfortunatly for me it came back very soon after I finished my course. so after waiting some time to see my dermotologist again, I was given a second course. this time, 70mg for 4 months. It quickly cleared up and stayed away for about 4 months after completing the course. The drug is a Vitamin A derivative which stores in the body for a long time. I have read that Vitamin A in mor than the recommended dose is very toxic for the body, so you must all be very careful how much Vitamin A you take in. Also, don't forget that the body converts sun light into vitamin A (which is partly the reason UVA light can help to clear up the proble as well). Well .. eventually, to cut a very long story short, after further courses, I was refered to the Uk's leading expert on Acne and in particular this drug, Roacutane. so ... It's now April 2000 and I'm almost 27 years old. I have had 6 (yes 6) cou ses of Roacutane. Apart from around the first time I took Roacutane, my skin was not really bad, I mean I've seen very much worse. Basically my experiences of taking Roacutane have been OK. The driness of the lips seems to have had a lasting effect though They are now very easily chapped. And can get dry and sore quite easily. It's not as bad as it sounds though. I basically use those chap stick things, which I personally think is a small price to pay. Other than that I have not experienced any other side effects. I have had regular blood tests with my dermotologist during my courses of Roacutane, which all came out fine. My dermotologist is trialing a newer use for the drug. My last course was 60mg for 2 months then 25mg 3 times a week indefinatley. which just about seemed to work for me. My skin was slightly oily from time to time but I never got a single spot. At last I seem to have found the solution after so many years. Any one reading this, who is concidering taking Roacutane, I would say definatley d it. As my dermotolgist told me, this drug works 100% of the time with everyone. With this drug working, I have absolutly no Acne whatsoever. With my continuing progress since first seeing the Proffessor at the Leeds LGI in the UK, It is now not a worry t me. The proffessor has also put me in touch with a plastic surgeon, who is linked directly with the hospital. I am having laser re-surfacing to elliminate the damage caused, which in all honesty isn't that bad at all anyway. It will just put this whole t ing behind me once and for all. I hope this is of use to you all. Thanks.

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I have been taking Roacutane for 4 months now, but yesturday i found i was 6 months pregnant.

I phoned the doctor straight away but he was not there. They told me to call back on monday.

Does this mean my baby will be deformed? Or stillborn? I have stopped taking the drug now if i new i was pregnant i wouldnt have taken it.

please any one know any answers?

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thanks to the person who told me that stool is your poop. strange name for poop though isnt it

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sorry, a correction to what i said below. I have not seen the same side effects from some people where my whole FACE is red, it is just spots that look kind of like zits but they aren't raised.. just to clarify because some people were talking about redn ss of their whole face. thanks..sorry

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hi- I know my question has probably been answered a lot but I don't read the messages on this website everyday, so if someone could please respond, i would be very thankful! It's my 5th week of Accutane, and I have done very well. My doctor said i have so e of the best results she has ever seen. I only have 5 blemishes now, when before I had too many to count. The problem is, you cannot tell of the improvement that well because I still have to wear makeup. I can still see the red spots where the old ble ishes used to be. I know some people say that about 1 or 2 months after treatment they begin to disappear, but does anyone know of ANYTHING i can do while i am on Accutane to get the redness away? It is just so frustrating to have to get up and go throu h my whole makeup routine that takes more time than i would like and to think about my prom coming up and having to take lots of time to put on makeup to cover the spots, when I thought Accutane would clear it all up. Please respond if u can. Thanks a l t!

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Hi everyone, ive been reading this guestbook for around two weeks and for that period of time i have been taking roaccutane. id just like to say that this site has been a great help and some way or another you are able to find most of the anwsers to your uestions. what i also think would be helpful is a site where we could see pictures of peolples progress on roaccutane, also we could see each others acne and be able to offer advice depending on the mildness and severeness. it will also help in finding out how severe your acne is. all in all i think this would be a helpfull site. Im a multimedia degree student and would have no trouble in setting up this kind of site but could not do it without you lot!. i personally would ove to see a site of this nature, if you think this would be a good site youll have to e-mail me and tell me, also if you think it wouldnt be a good idea do the same. thank you jamie

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Recently, a patient of mine notified me of this website and all it had to offer in terms of acne diversions, acne so-called "cures" and other helpful facts on acne and the highly prescribed drug, Accutane. Being a certified topical dermatologist, I have een many people with acne for a number of years. After scrolling down I noted that some were complaining that Accutane "destroyed" their immune system. I would just like everyone to know that Accutane is a highly researched drug and has no known reason o cause this immune faulty amongst humans. Also, Accutane is extremley safe and belive me; if I did not think so, I would not even begin to think of prescribing the drug to my son. I too have had acne, though extremley mild, and do know the damaging eff cts it has upon not only the youth of today, but also upon society. I would advise anyone with a case of either highly active acne-severe disfiguring acne to research the drug Accutane and consult with either your private, or medical plan based dermatolo ist. Thankyou. I am currently under the advision and employment of Kaiser Permanente, a wonderful, understanding and helpful medical plan. I also have a steady private practice which is listed below. You can reach me either via email, or at my private practice number and address below. Darius DeSakelli 18867 Tandem View Lane Columbia, MD 20871 (1-301) 831-8392

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Does anyone if you can have laser hair removal while you are on accutane? Any help is much appreciated. if i can help anyone, e-mail me.

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Hi everyone.Just quickly.SB what is Septra D/S.I have never heard of it.RICK.Taking tetracycline with Roaccutane can be very dangerous because it doesn't just give you headaches it can actually cause a condition called Pseudotumor cerebri which is basical y swelling of the brain.So please don't take the both.Has anyone tried the antibiotic Trimethoprim for their acne.I have been taking it nearly 3 weeks and no improvement yet.I know it is early days but just wondered if anyone has had it and it has worked or them.Feeling a bit desparate about it all.Thanks.Byee

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Hers my address, sorry !!!!!

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Hi, i need help on accutane. I posted a letter earlier and thank you everyone for responding. I would like to know what are the normal side affects of accutane, that you have for using it. i heard of dry lips and red face, is it true? I also heard its no good to take if a teenager, because you are still growing! Can it damage anything if your still growing. Thank you very much !!!!!