Accutane and large pores
Question:
Hi, I started my first course of accutane about a month and a half ago at 60mg/day. My results have been fairly good, and I am getting the usual side-effects. One side-effect I have received that I had not counted on and I find very discouraging is that the size of my pores has dramatically increased on my nose and in the area immediately beside my nose. Well, I can’t really say for sure that my pores are bigger — it’s not really something I can measure — but I can definitely see my pores now I have never had a problem with my pores before (well, except I guess that their clogging causes my acne) so I refuse to believe that the change is unrelated to accutane. I went into deja news and found that many people have had the same problem. However I found an article from Dr. Bark that stated that accutane does not change the size of your pores. So really do not know what to think. What I’m really concerned about is that this will be a permanent problem or if is a temporary side effect. My acne was only moderately severe when I started to take it and I’m beginning to wonder if it was worth it. Normally I’d ask my derm about this but I can’t see him for a few weeks. Any input on this matter from anybody who has experienced this problem or knows anything about it would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Peter Huang
Response:
Peter, It’s my opinion that AC just re-lines the openings of the pores with a better type of cells that don’t tend to jam the oil gland shut and don’t tend to cause new acne. That is the major benefit of AC. I have no evidence that the pores are actually bigger. However, their content of sebum (oil) may be different now, and that may make them look different. Usually, these tend to clear up somewhat on the latter stages of the course of AC. See what you think. Good to talk with you! Dr. Joe
Response:
Filed under: Acne
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