Beginning of Month 6 Progress Pics

I'm working on my FINAL MONTH of Accutane!  I'm very very pleased with the results and I think I will continue to improve. I have not experienced anything new as far as side effects go.  I still struggle some with insomnia and my lips are definitely worse for wear.  Lanolin for lips is the best though.  Otherwise, I'm feeling good and feeling GREAT sans acne!  I still occaisonally have a small breakout and there is plenty of hyperpigmentation and redness, but it's nothing nothing nothing compared to what I dealt with before. 

Below are pictures from the beginning of Month 6.  I will update again once it's all said and done!
For reference:
End of Month 4 Pictures
Month 3 Pictures

End of Month 5/Beginning of Final Month:



 

End of Month 4 Progress Pics

My skin has been doing so great that I haven't felt like dwelling and posting on here lately!  That's a very good thing :) 

Today I had my LAST dermatologist appointment! I'm wrapping up Month 5 and I begin Month 6 pills in about a week, and then it will all be over! 

I did have several breakouts at the beginning of Month 4, but they healed fairly quick and since then I've only had two or three active bumps. I do have a small active bump right now, and boy does it stand out when the rest of my face is so clear! 

Side effects are minimal at this point.  I have had some problems with insomnia that is likely accutane related, but my skin has tolerated this drug surprisingly well.  Still ready to have my old self back, sans acne!

These pics are at the end of Month 4.  After I completely finish Month 5, I'll post some more pics.  This hyperpigmentation should fade with time - most everything is not true scarring.  If you'd like a reference to what things looked like before, check out these posts:
Month 3 Pics
Day 1-43 Pics

 

Month 3 Recap & Pictures

Month 3 was my best yet! 

Skin:

• Breakouts really started diminishing.  Only a few actives this month.
• Did not see much change in the hyperpigmentation. 
• Face is often very red, but overall quite smooth.
• Fair amount of clogged pores

Side Effects:

• Eyes became dry and irritated enough that I've basically stopped wearing contacts and only wear my glasses
• Inside of my nose extremely dry and raw, sometimes with bleeding.  Using saline spray.
• Fatigue/lack of energy
• Insomnia - some long nights awake despite being very tired!
• Some minor joint pain in my hands/wrists/ankles
• Cholesterol stabilized at 237
• Body is not particularly dry

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Day 91 - Beginning of Month 4



Somehow I managed to delete the picture of my right side. 

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For reference, past pictures:

Day 72

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Day 1:



Day 88

Month 3, Week 12

Last week I had my Dermatologist appt and I'm now just about done with Month 3!  My cholesterol had stabilized this month, only dropping a few points, but not increasing, so that was good news.  Triglycerides were creeping up, though still normal, so I better start being more diligant with my fish oil (I have been slacking the last couple of weeks!)

My skin is breaking out much much less now, which of course is awesome.  I still break out and I have a lot of hyperpigmentation that needs to heal, but my face is pretty smooth and no longer feeling congested. 

My lips are quite dry and my eyes have become Extremely dry, but otherwise my side effects are minimal for now!

 

Day 78

Month 3, Week 11

Skin - I do have a few small actives right now and some other spots that are healing, plus one little jerk on my neck. The hyperpigmentation looks like acne to the untrained eye, however my face is soooo much smoother compared to pre-Accutane. I haven't been obsessing as much lately or constantly checking for new bumps.

Side effects - Very dry lips with a big crack in one corner. Fatigue and some joint/back pain and having trouble sleeping. Otherwise, my body doesn't feel dry and my face is manageable if I keep it moisturized. I get headaches and crabby if I don't drink enough water.  My eyes are a lot more dry and I'm often wearing my glasses instead of contacts.  But all in all, I feel pretty stable.

Since I got my haircut I feel like my features are so much more noticeable, which I like, but it makes me want to cover that hyperpigmentation. So yesterday I broke down and switched up my makeup routine to a foundation that covers a lot better. It stayed on all day and definitely hid those marks, but I'm so concerned that my face will go crazy again. Today I'm back to my tinted moisturizer and mineral powder.

Monday is bloodwork and next Thursday is my Derm appt, before heading into Month 4. Here's hoping that my cholesterol has stabilized. I've been better with my eating habits this month, though still not perfect.

Day 74 & Progress Pictures

I am breaking out significantly less now and the bumps are much smaller...typically whiteheads that aren't too inflamed.  My skin looks and feels pretty smooth, but it's very red (the good ol' accutane "burn").  Lots of hyperpigmentation but I think that will fade in time.  I'm sure some of it already has. 

Still having some back and joint pain.  My lips are very dry and I still have that big crack in one corner of my mouth.  But otherwise, side effects are pretty minimal for now!

Here are my Day 72 progress pics and some older pics for reference.  

 

 

 

 

Day 57 Progress

 

 

 

 

 

And all the way back to Day 1

 

 

Day 67

Month 3
Week 9

Still trucking along at 60mg.  Still breaking out, though much less.  I've been trying to get rid of big bumps at the corners of my mouth (right next to the cracks, ouch) but they are hanging on for a long time.  There are some under-the-sink spots along my jawline that aren't very visible but aren't budging.  So all in all, I have four active bumps, three healing, and a several clogged pores.  And lots of hyperpigmentation!

Still have a lot of fatigue and I now struggling with some joint pain.  Major back pain the other night after cleaning all day.  I wake up in the middle of the night and in the mornings with pain in my ankles, toes, and wrists. 

I'm also having some trouble sleeping.  I wake up a lot, completely dehyrdated.  So I'm hoping that by consuming more water, I may start sleeping better. 

My face is dry but not flakey.  The rest of my body doesn't feel dry.  My eyes are becoming more dry and I think I'm going to have to start wearing my glasses more often. 

 

Month 2 Recap

Today is my final day of Month 2!  I've heard from some that Month 3 is the "magic month" so I'm hopeful that I'll see lots of improvement in the coming weeks!

A recap of Month 2 progress and side effects:

 Skin:

• Skin was improving towards the very end of Month 1 and very beginning of Month 2, but there was a lot of breaking out in Month 2.  Breakouts became less cystic in nature but individual bumps are much larger and go through a scab/peel/bleed cycle while healing.  
• Finally saw consistent improvement in the very last week of Month 2.  Even though I'm still breaking out, my skin is looking its best going into Month 3.  

Side Effects:

• Eyes are more dry but still able to wear contacts
• Lips became much more dry in the second half of this month.  Several cracks in the corners of my mouth and more peeling on my lips.  
• Inside of my nose has been a lot more dry. Needed to occasionally  use saline spray to combat nose bleeds due to the dryness.  
• Itchy scalp no longer a problem.  Scalp and hair is still dry, but does not feel flakey and itchy like it did.
• Body does not feel dry, no rashes, no eczema, etc.  Face very dry but manageable.
• Felt some agitation/anxiety a few days this month, which may or may not be because of the drug.  
• Started feeling a little joint pain in my ankles and toes when I first wake up in the mornings.  Last night I felt more joint pain in my wrists, neck, shoulders and back.  Nothing too concerning at this point.  
• Still experiencing random extreme fatigue but it was less often this month.
• Cholesterol is elevated to 245.

Day 57 and Progress Pictures

Month 2
Week 8

Today was my Dermatologist appointment as I finish up Month 2. She was very pleased with my progress!  I went without any makeup to discuss scarring and hyperpigmentation.  I was elated when she told me that she doesn't think I'll have any permanent scarring!!  Almost all of my post-acne marks are hyperpigmentation and should fade with time (though it can take a while).  Now that I'm seeing more healing, I'll also start seeing less red marks. My cholesterol is still inching up, however, so I'll need to be much more careful with my diet this month.


This week my skin was feeling and looking better.  I saw less breakouts.  My chin and around my mouth are peeling and I'm still nursing the crack in the corner of my mouth.  I really need to STOP touching my face!  I'm bad about checking it for new breakouts or to see if anything has magically healed in the last five minutes...

Side effects are pretty minimal this week.  That can change quickly though, I've found.  


Below are my Day 57 progress pictures.  For reference, here's my last post with progress pics: Progress pics through Day 43
Progress??

Day 54

Month 2
Week 8

Still breaking out, although the last few days have been much better.  Nothing huge, just small stuff.  Seems that several areas that have had clogged pores or stuff that's been sitting under the skin for a long time are starting to purge.  That's a good thing. 

My chin and around my mouth are irritated, peeling and feeling raw.  The crack on one corner of my mouth healed, but the other is still hanging on.  Trying to keep my face well moisturized.  No dry skin otherwise.  I've only been moisturizing my body after my shower with sweet almond oil.  And using hand creme. 

Feeling a bit agitated lately for some reason.  Not sure if it's a side effect or just a little frustration from wanting to see more progress.  Either way, I'm keeping on keeping on. 

Bloodwork was yesterday, Derm on Friday morning. 

Day 50

Month 2
Week 8

Getting towards the end of two months now and things are still looking and feeling pretty rough.  The number of active breakouts I have at one time has decreased since beginning Accutane, but breakouts are still steadily occuring.  The bumps are not as cystic in nature - they are usually larger whiteheads that take a long time to heal, are much redder and of course go through the peel, scab, bleed cycle before they do heal.  Perhaps non-cystic is a good thing?  Lots of clogged pores too.  And those inactive bumps under my skin on my jaw will just Not Go Away. 

I've started using a little tea tree oil (75% mixed w/ Vit E) to spot treat some of these monster bumps in an effort to reduce the size and pain associated a little more quickly.  Seems to be helping but careful to keep moisturized to avoid drying out too much. 

The red marks/scars I have are incredibly noticeable now that I have less active acne (albeit larger individual bumps)...the marks look like acne to everyone but me.  I hope they all fade with time but I feel like now that I can see them better, some of them are actual scars.  Will show my derm next Friday and see what she thinks. 

Fatigue is still my biggest side effect for right now.  My body actually isn't very dry at all...I often don't even feel the need to moisturize anywhere except my face and hands.  I have a pretty big crack in the corner of my mouth and a small one on the other side (and two zits right beside them - major ouch!) Thirst is ever-present and my water bottle is my best friend. 

Monthly bloodwork will be on Monday 8/27, and Derm appt next Friday 8/31.  Hopefully my cholesterol has stabilized. 

Reeeallly enjoying my super-short manageble hair!

Progress Pictures through Day 43

I've debated on whether or not I wanted to post progress pictures and while I'm not completely comfortable with the idea, I guess it's hard for people to read this blog without fulling understanding what it is I'm dealing with.  Sure, just about everyone has had acne at some point in their lives, but dealing with adult severe cystic acne is a class in it's own. 

There's only a handful of friends and family reading this and I know they wouldn't share these pictures or my identity with others (or you shall feel my wrath! ;) )

I feel progress, but it's just so hard to see it in the photos.  What you may not know from the pics:

• The increasing redness is a side effect of accutane and it will go away once off the drug
• A lot of what looks like acne is actually post-hyperpigmentation (not true scars), which should go away with time
• The healing process is different on Accutane (ie lots of scabbing)
• My face is not as congested or inflamed
• My skin is becoming smoother overall

 So here's me...au naturel...Up Close and Personal... 

Day 1

Day 21

Day 33

Day 43

Progress?  I'd like to see more at this point...  damn do I have a long way to go. 

Day 45

Month 2
Week 7

I was improving in week 5-6 but the end of week 6 into week 7 has brought on some more breakouts.  They are mostly concentrated on my cheeks.  My jawline is still in pretty good shape, which is where I normally had the most problems.  Still have a few bumps there under the skin that are taking a long time to flatten out, but they aren't inflamed/active.  The active bumps I do have are scabbing over, bleeding, scabbing over...fun.

Side effects... Still suffering from random fatigue, which is annoying.  My nostrils are extremely dried out and have been bleeding a tiny bit. Saline spray helps.  Some random skin peeling below my nose and on my toes but otherwise my skin is in pretty good shape.  I always wake up dehydrated, and lately I've had some very slight joint pain in my ankles and toes when I wake up.  My lips are in pretty good shape with the exception of a small crack in one corner.

I chopped off my below shoulder length hair to a pixie-style cut. I was losing a lot of strands, it felt like straw, and it looked like a stringy mess.  I kept it up in a ponytail which was boring and unflattering.  I was a little hesitant that such a short cut would accentuate the imperfections (to put it mildly!) in my skin but it's really just the opposite...you can see my oval face shape and my blue eyes and it's like it takes away from the acne.  I love it!

Day 40

Month 2
Week 6

Still breaking out!!  Ack!  I have 8 active bumps on my face and a lot of stuff under the skin, just sitting there...either waiting to push out or hopefully just flatten out.  My face is dry but not flaking.

I also have a lone zit on my back....and I've never had acne anywhere other than my face... probably not a big deal though.

The corner of my mouth is cracking which is a bit painful.  My ears are dry and I actually had a spot on my earlobe get so dry that it started bleeding.  Eyes are pretty dry by the end of the day, but still able to wear my contacts.  I have a big patch of scaly skin on my ring finger, but I think it will heal as long as I don't have a ring on it and I keep it moisturized. 

Thinking about chopping off my hair because I'm tired of being a straw head and keeping it pulled back in a boring ponytail all the time.  I hate dealing with it. 

Tired today. 

Day 36

Month 2
Week 6

Today will be my sixth dose of 60mg.  The only new side effect I really have is that my eyes are more dry.  Still wearing my contacts and plan to purchase some drops so perhaps I can continue to wear them.  My lips are more dry too and peeling but my body doesn't feel dry.  My hair is still straw-like of course but my scalp isn't itching too much even though it's still a bit flaky. 

I'm still breaking out but not nearly as much as I was in Weeks 3-4.  Things are starting to flatten out again but healing is slow overall.  My face is quite red but that's the classic "accutane burn" for you. 

I did purchase the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser to replace that 365 brand I've been using since it's been making my face burn some.  Even though it's not very natural I like the CeraVe much better - it feels milder on my sensitive face and does a good job of cleansing. 

Found out from my Dr. that my iron is quite low so I'm back on a supplement.  I use MegaFood Blood Builder and it doesn't have the side effects that traditional iron supplements do.  I'm hoping that this will help with my hair loss (which has slowed down after washing it less frequently) and my energy levels. 

I'm finally getting close to settling on a makeup I think...sheesh...what a pain...or at least I've made it a pain.  I purchased Aveda Inner Light Tinted Moisturizer in the color Beechwood.  And I think I've narrowed down my mineral powder to Alima Pure Satin-Matte Foundation in Beige 2 OR Everyday Minerals Jojoba Base in a mix of Cream/Shell Blanc.  The powders do seem a bit on the pale side but anything darker seems too dark. 

Product Update

Still trying to get set on my products, but here's what I'm doing so far:


Face Care:

Morning

• Rinse face with cool water
• Facial Moisturizer - MyChelle Daily Defense Cream SPF 17

Makeup
(Still trying to figure this out, especially the colors that suit me best)

• Choosing between: Physicians Formula Organic Wear Tinted Moisturizer OR Real Purity Creme Foundation OR Aveda Inner Light Tinted Moisturizer OR Juice Beauty Tinted Moisturizer
• Everyday Minerals Jojoba Mineral Powder OR Alima Pure Satin-Matte Mineral Powder
• Trying the green mineral powders too to combat redness

Evening

• Cleanser - Whole Foods 365 Facial Cleanser (non-paraben form of Cetaphil). This burns a little so I may be looking for something else.
• Moisturizer - Earth Science Almond-Aloe Unscented Moisturizer mixed with a few drops of Aura Cacia Organic Sweet Almond Oil (the oil is Very luxurious and moisturizing!)
• Sometimes I very gently exfoliate my face with a soft wash cloth. I REALLY want to get this: Clarisonic, although even the gentlest brush may be too harsh while on Accutane.

Body Care:

Moisturizers

• Aura Cacia Sweet Almond Oil (after a shower while skin is still wet)
• Whole Foods 365 Fragrance Free Body Lotion
• Whole Foods 365 Gentle Moisturzing Lotion (non paraben form of Cetaphil)
• Skikai Borage Therapy Unscented Body Lotion and Hand Cream
• Cashmere Unscented Argan Oil Lotion
• Nubian Heritage Raw Shea Butter Hand Cream

Lips

• Pure Lanolin and Lansinoh travel tubes (awesome natural alternative to Aquaphor)
• Dr. Bronner's, Desert Essence & Burt's Bees lip balms

Hair

• Avalon Organics Tea Tree/Mint Scalp Normalizing Shampoo & Conditioner (I wash no more often than every other day)
• Shea Moisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Deep Hair Treatment Masque (once or twice a week, apply and leave on ~45 minutes before rinsing out)
• Organic Coconut Oil (mixed with shea masque)

Other

• Florasone eczema/rash cream (homeopathic alternative to cortisone...worked really well)

Supplements:

• Nordic Natural Ultimate Omega Fish Oil: ~2-3 grams/day
• Vitamin D3: 1000IU/day or every other day
• Vitamin E: 400IU/day
• Jarrow Formulas Milk Thistle: 150mg/day
• MegaFood MegaFlora Plus Probiotic: 1/day or every other day

Month 1 Recap

A recap on my experiences during Month 1:


Week 1:

• Day 3: Eczema rash on hand
• Day 4-6: Rashes on lower back/hip/backs of legs
• Day 7:  Oil on face greatly reduced
• Frequent headaches
• Mild dry eyes
• Mild constant sore throat
• Some long-term cystic acne greatly reduced
• New breakouts continue, but milder

Week 2:

• Lips beginning to dry out
• Oil on hair greatly reduced
• Itchy and flaking dry scalp
• Mild constant sore throat
• Mild dry eyes
• Body is itchy
• More long-term cystic acne healing
• New breakouts continue, but milder and less frequent

Week 3:

• Lips much dryer
• Face very dry and starting to flake
• Zero oil on face and hair
• Losing a lot of strands of hair
• Mild dry eyes
• Occaisonal extreme fatigue
• Occaisonal headaches
• Face noticeably more red
• Healing of cystic acne slows
• New breakouts increase in number and frequency

Week 4:

• Lips are dry but manageable
• Hair extremely dry but scalp seems to be normalizing
• Losing a lot of strands of hair but also seeing new growth
• Mild dry eyes
• Several days of extreme fatigue, usually coupled with headaches
• Face is quite red
• Healing is still slow
• New breakouts continue, face is purging significantly more

Day 31

First day of Month 2!

Two days ago I went for my monthly dermatologist appointment.  My bloodwork was good with the exception of my cholesterol being slightly elevated. Nothing to be concerned about at this point.  She could see progress but reiterated that it is really early and not to worry if I continue to see breakouts for a while.  She bumped me up from 40mg to 60mg/day for my remaining 4-5 months (she is leaning towards 5 more).  Today was my first day on 60mg.

My random extreme fatigue is the only side effect that's really bugging me at this point.  It's usually coupled with a headache.  I feel super tired and sleepy and can't really do much of anything when it happens.  Then there are some days I feel pretty great.  So I'll take it in stride.

Other effects...dry lips, flakey face, very very thirsty.  I can still wear my contacts which I'm stoked about (I hate wearing my glasses).

My mom treated me to a pedicure and a haircut with a nice conditioning treatment for my straw like hair.  Thanks Mom!

Looking forward to hopefully seeing some healing this month.  Ready for whatever side effects that 60mg may cause....bring it on!

Day 26

Week 4

Yesterday I had my blood drawn done and I'll go to the dermatologist on Friday morning.  Fingers crossed that my bloodwork will be good and that I'll be able to continue on my dermatologist's dosage plan.  I'm also going to visit my regular doctor just to follow up and also do an iron test if that wasn't already included yesterday's bloodwork. 

I've been experiencing quite a bit of hair loss, which is why I want to get my iron levels checked.  I've had problems in the past with low iron causing me to lose a lot of strands so I'm hoping that's all that's going on here and that it's not a scary side effect (I've heard about major hair loss on accutane! yikes).  My hair is super dry and my scalp is still itchy though it does seem more manageable now that I'm washing it every other day instead of daily. 

My face is still breaking out but overall it feels much less inflamed.  I think it's still just purging so I'll let it do it's thing.  It's very dry and flaky, but that's the point, right?  I hope month 2 will bring on lots of healing! :)

Still working on choosing some healthy makeups.  I miss the coverage of my old makeup, but I love that my face can breathe now without it!  And I'm finding that usually, for the most part, I don't really care that it's not covering....because I know I'm healing!

I'm having a hard time curbing my caffeine intake....I need to slow that down.  I thought giving up wine and beer would be hard but it's the coffee that I don't want to do without! :P

Day 23

Week 4

Well my skin is definitely purging. It is breaking out quite a bit more. The cluster of bumps on my right cheek has finally started to heal but now the other cheek is breaking out. I have lots of little blackheads and clogged pores trying to push that junk out. Gross. So....I guess this stuff is working....

My face is very dry. I need to look into something to very gently exfoliate the flakiness. I'm keeping lanolin slathered on my lips as they continue to dry out so I can hopefully prevent any cracking.

Two days ago I had a horrendous headache with severe fatigue. I ended up taking a nap and getting rid of the headache but this fatigue has been hanging around. I'm sure the heat and humidity aren't helping.

Still opting for mineral powder only for makeup...I really think it's going to help speed the healing process to stop using the heavy liquid stuff. But it just doesn't cover as well...but I can't worry about that.

Some days I feel like I need an IV to get enough fluids... Monday morning I have bloodwork followed by my dermatologist appt on Friday. Can't believe I'm almost at 1 month.

Day 21

Week 3

I took pictures this morning and compared them to Day 1. I am quite disappointed! I felt like I was seeing more improvement than what it really looks like. I do have that big cluster of breakouts on my right cheek, but otherwise things were feeling better, including healing of some of the cystic stuff on my jawline. The pictures don't say that though.

I guess overall, my skin is smoother and some longterm cystic acne has healed.  My face is red, which it always has been, but that's also a side effect of accutane.  I haven't experienced a massive initial breakout so that's a really positive thing to keep in mind. 

I am starting to wear mineral foundation only instead of the longwear liquid stuff.  It doesn't cover nearly as well but my face feels much happier being able to breathe... and it doesn't slide off now that I have zero oil.  Waiting on some samples of new natural-ingredient stuff that I hope will cover a little better but is still quite light. 

Day 19

Week 3

Healing has slowed the last couple of days and I've had some new bumps pop up above my lip and on my jawline (which was starting to heal so nicely). 

I've had several bumps on my cheek that have been taking a long time to heal and they finally started scabbing over.  After washing my face last night, several bumps started bleeding and were very raw.  My makeup is so much harder to take off now that my skin is dry and everything is just sticking to those dead skin cells.  So using a wash cloth is necessary but makes it hard to avoid rubbing off scabs.  I dabbed a little neosporin on these spots last night.  They still look pretty rough this morning.

So it looks like finding a gentler makeup is really important now.  I can't scrub every night without doing damage.  I'm used to needing something for oily skin and usually those makeups are already formulated for acne prone skin.  Now I need something for dry skin, but I have to be careful that they won't cause breakouts!

Scalp is itchy again today.  My elbows are a peely mess. 

I know that this is all just part of the process so I'm not going to dwell on a little back pedaling.  Still kinda sucks though!

Thanks, Mom

I got a cool card in the mail from my sweet mom the other day: 

"There is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great, and no tonic so powerful as expectation of something better tomorrow"

-Orison Swett Marden

Day 16

Entering in to week 3!

I spoke too soon again...it really is shocking how quickly things can change.  My lips are now super dry and my face is starting to get flaky!  Nothing outrageous yet, but it does make me a little apprehensive about bumping up to 60mg in a couple of weeks. 

I made my trek to Whole Foods and got some more goodies.  That place is so overwhelming.  The cool thing is that I can return anything (with or without a receipt) if I don't like it, even if it's been used.  I purchased Avalon Organics Tea Tree Mint Scalp Normalizing Shampoo and Conditioner.  I used that last night after I did a coconut oil/tea tree oil scalp treatment.  I just slathered on a bunch of coconut oil on my scalp, mixed with a few drops of tea tree oil...kept it on for about an hour before washing it out.  The coconut smells divine!  It did help, but nothing seems to last more than a day. I'm trying to not wash my hair more than every other day, thinking that will keep me from drying out as much, but it seems to really help to scrub and condition! 

Looking for new makeup, trying to go the natural route there too. How I long for the day when I need zero makeup! :)  I love mineral foundations (I've used Bare Minerals in matte w/o bismuth, and I love Everyday Minerals too), but they just haven't given me enough coverage and my oiliness just erases it in no time.  Now that I'm not oily, I hope I can find some more natural makeups that will work for me.

Day 14

Two weeks!  Wow, time seems to be flying, but I have a looong way to go. 

My biggest side effect right now is my itchy scalp.  I've used that shea butter masque a couple of times and it does help but only for about a day.  I'll be making (another) trip to Whole Foods this evening to look for a good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.  Would prefer not to use a medicated dandruff shampoo if I can help it.  I'm hoping intense moisturizing will take care of this if I can find some good products. 

My body is itchy too, although no more rashes.  I purchased this Aveeno Bath Treatment and that really helped relieve and calm my skin. 

I've had some spells of being very fatigued but it doesn't last all that long. My thirst is never quenched and I'm loooving this new Hydroflask insulated 40oz water bottle...one of the best investments I've made for this journey!

The lanolin is really doing the trick on my lips so far.  They are dry but manageable. 

My face is drying out and some of the bumps are flaky, but my moisturizers seem to be doing their job because there's no extreme dryness yet.  On Day 12 my face looked red and rough and even more bumpy but the very next day it was looking better again.  Overall, it's improved and healing and my new breakouts are decreasing in frequency. 

I've been slacking on my healthy eating and I need to re-motivate myself.  I have to remind myself that a healthy diet is a part of this healing process, just like taking the pills. 

Day 11

It's amazing how big of a difference one day can make on this medicine.  Side effects can pop or or change in no time!

My scalp has become dry, itchy and flaky!  Last night, I purchased Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque and left it in for a couple of hours.  Felt great and it does seem to have helped as I'm not as itchy/flaky today.  Finding the right stuff to combat this side effect may be trial and error. It may need to be a combo of less hair washing, more moisturizing conditioners, deep conditioners a couple of times/week, anti-dandruff shampoo.  Earlier today at Target, I saw THIS: Shea Moisture Purification Masque (African Black Soap and specific for dry itchy scalp!) and I sort of wish I had seen it first, but I'll try it after I finish up what I bought. 

My whole body feels itchy but moisturizing is helping keep the eczema rashes at bay.  Trying to make it a relaxing ritual twice a day so it doesn't start feeling like a pain to do...

Lips are peeling some but are not uncomfortable at this point.  And still able to wear my contacts!

I saw some more healing of the cystic jawline acne overnight!  Still breaking out but those breakouts seem to heal more quickly and aren't as painful as normal. 

Still feeling good about the overall success thus far :)

Day 8

I spoke too soon yesterday when I said my lips hadn't started drying out...definitely started feeling/seeing that last night.  But the lanolin is really nice. 

Face is still much much less oily.  So is my hair!  Not seeing any flakiness on my face but my scalp is a bit itchy.

My throat is constantly very slightly sore.  I think it's just the dryness. 

The eczema rashes are much better now that I'm moisturizing frequently.  I got this more natural cream at Whole Foods and it's helped more than the hydrocortisone I was using on my hand: Florasone

Day 7

A few things to report as I approach the one week mark! 

On Day 3, I developed a rash on one hand that was very tiny little blisters.  I thought at first it was poison ivy, but then began to see other itchy spots arise on other areas of my body, though my hand and elbows are the only spot that there are actual raised bumps.  Yesterday, a red rash was showing up in more places, with a very large portion of my lower back/hip area and on the backs of my legs.  My arms are a bit splotchy as well and the same rash that is on my hands is popping up on my elbows.  Sometimes it itches and other times it doesn't bother me.  After reading about other's side effects on this medicine and talking to the dermatologist this morning on the phone, it seems that this is a very common ezcema reaction to Accutane.  Even though my skin doesn't feel very dry yet, the dermatologist believes that intense moisturizing will help.  If it gets worse, I can go in and get a steroid cream, though I'd like to avoid that if possible.  I was very surprised to see such a quick reaction to this medicine, especially because my skin did not yet feel dry.  But this is nothing I can't handle!

This morning was the first morning I woke up and my face did not feel oily!  That was a good feeling.  My face also seems to feel smoother and I am still seeing some of the cystic acne along my jawline (which has been there for months!) reducing in size and clearing up.  Feeling very positive so far about this working well on my acne. 

I'm still working on my skin care routine and I'll be happy once I get settled in to something that works well.  I really like using the lanolin on my lips and I really haven't experienced dry lips yet. 

My eyes are starting to dry but I hope I can squeeze in a little more time with my contacts!  I did receive my Maui Jim prescription sunglasses in the mail, so I'll be all ready to switch over to my glasses when it's time!

I stay EXTREMELY thirsty all the time and I've greatly increased my water intake.  My appetite has decreased but that could be due to drinking more water and feeling fuller, although I've heard of this side effect from others too. 

Overall, feeling pretty good about it all, especially now that I have a more clear answer about this rash. 

One week DOWN! :)

Day 4

I'll take my fourth dose this evening.  I've had a couple of headaches that I'm not sure I can attribute to the drug - it could be the excessive heat we've been experiencing lately. No other side effects at this time, other than being extremely thirsty!  However, this morning I woke up to see that some of the cystic acne along my jawline (which has been there for months) was Greatly reduced in size - some of it even gone!  Wow!  I am still seeing new breakouts, but I was really excited to see that improvement. 

It's DAY 1!!!

Friday, July 6, 2012 is DAY 1 in my Isotretinoin journey!  The process of getting my prescription was relatively painless and I'm relieved to finally be able to get started.  I'm all stocked up on lotions, lip balms, eye drops, face wash, supplements, etc etc etc.  Ready to go! 

The generic I was prescribed is Claravis.  This month, I'll be taking 40mg/day.  I will likely move up to 60mg after that for the following 4-5 months.

I did take photos of my skin this morning, pre-Claravis. But I don't think I'm quite prepared to share those publicly! :)

Here's hoping for quick healing and minimal side effects!

~bodyandsoul

Plan of Attack!

I went to the Dermatologist almost a month ago (first time I had been in quite a while - had been visiting my regular Dr only).  After taking my history and seeing that I had literally tried everything, she quickly recommended Accutane.  I told her how hesitant I was but that I also knew I couldn't be on antibiotics/etc forever.  She felt the drug was very safe, even stating she would give it to her own children if necessary.  She noted that many of the reported side effects are "unfounded", but did warn about elevated cholesterol/triglycerides, dry skin, mild joint pain, and possible/unlikely depression.  However, I'm much more skeptical than she, since it's MY body!

I went ahead and signed up for the IPledge program and took the required pregnancy test that day.  I'd have to wait a month before starting anyway (after a second required negative pregnany test) - so this gave me a whole month to research and think on it.  I received samples of Ziana and Aczone topicals along with a prescription for Bactrim. 

After almost a whole month of research, a bad sunburn and allergic reaction due to the antibiotic, and general frustration without skin improvement.....I decided I would use Accutane as my last resort.  I feel confident in my decision but have vowed to myself that I will take good care of myself to minimize side effects.  Here's my plan of attack:

Diet/supplements:

• Drink plenty of water! Minimum 64oz/day
• Eat as CLEAN as possible, eliminating sugar, alcohol and caffeine and processed foods and minimizing dairy and flour products in particular.  I'll opt for organic meats, eggs, nuts & seeds, beans (sans soy), vegetables (sans corn) and fruits whenever possible.  This won't be too hard for me since I mainly eat this way anyway...just getting back in the straight and narrow a bit!
• Plenty of FIBER!  I think this will be important in preventing potential IBS symptoms
• Probiotics:  Will take a high quality supplement since I'll be avoiding dairy (yogurt, kefir)  Also important for gut health!
• Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega fish oil: ~3 grams/day.  Great for inflammation and combating elevation of my cholesterol/triglyceride levels
• Vitamin D3: 1000IU/day or every other day
• Vitamin E: 400IU/day
• Milk Thistle or another liver support?  To help combat liver stress.

Facial care:
Here's what I've purchased, and I'll be experimenting with the regimen I'm sure as I find out what works and what doesn't.  I am going for GENTLE and MOISTURIZING to combat the dryness I know I'll experience.  Not to mention as NATURAL as possible.

• Whole Foods 365 Gentle Skin Cleanser (their version of Cetaphil)
• Earth Science A-D-E Creamy Cleanser
• Earth Science Almond-Aloe Facial Moisturizer
• MyChelle Dermaceuticals Daily Defense Cream SPF 17
• Aura Cacia Organic Sweet Almond Oil (moisturizer)

Body care:
Keeping in mind that my whole body will need moisture, here are some other things I've purchased to combat that dryness. 

• Pure Lanolin for my lips, inside of my nose, and possibly for my hands and feet if I experience cracking.  I think this will be a good alternative to petroleum based products like vaseline and aquaphor. 
• Lip balms including Burt's Bees and Dr. Bronners
• Nubian Heritage Raw Shea Hand Cream
• Aura Cacia Sweet Almond Oil - used all over after showering, before toweling off
• Body Moisturizer with argan oil (will have to look at the brand name again)

Mental care:

• Zoloft: 50mg/day (Because I'm already prone to some anxiety, I decided to start this in hopes that I would eliminate the potential depression side effect)
• Meditation!  I want to set time aside each day to reflect and "encourage" my body to heal.  I want to stay positive through this process, even if/when the side effects are difficult. 

I'm trying to prepare myself mentally for the good chance that I'll experience an initial breakout.  But here's hoping I have a good plan of attack and I'll experience success right off the bat! 

~bodyandsoul

The Beginning of my Journey!

About this Blog!
I plan to document my experience on Isotretinoin (aka Accutane) as a way to monitor my progress and hopefully help others who are experiencing their own struggle with acne and considering this drug.  Deciding to try this drug was a long and arduous process.  After much research and debate, I do feel that I'm the type of person this drug is intended for - I've tried all other routes (traditional and natural) and my acne is chronic.  Now that I've committed to this treatment, my goal is to stay positive during the process and take the best care of myself that I can in order to minimize any potential side effects. 

What led me to Isotretinoin...
At 30 years old, I've been suffering with acne for 12 years. Unlike many young women, I had no significant break outs during puberty/high school era. During my first year in college, the breakouts started and it's been a battle ever since. While I have seen progress and improvement at times, I've never been able to establish a connection and therefore manage this problem.

My acne is confined to my face and is more concentrate around my jaw line and chin. It is cystic in nature and I would classify it as moderate-severe, though I know "severe" can mean different things to different people. My skin is also quite oily.

I'd like to start with a list of what I have tried and thus what has ultimately led me to the very difficult decision to start Isotretinoin...

OTC Washes/Topicals - Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid (a variety of brands, Proactive)
Oral Antibiotics - Erythromycin, Minocycline, Tetracycline, Bactrim
Prescription Topicals - Retinols, Tazorac, Differin, Clindamycin, Benzoyl Peroxide
Natural Topicals - Tea Tree Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Witch Hazel, Clay masks, a Variety of natural/organic brand washes/treatments, Oil Cleansing Method for washing and moisturizing
Professional Treatments - Salicylic acid/lactic acid skin peels, Extractions
Diet - Elimination of sugar and flour products, Elimination of dairy, wheat and gluten, soy, corn, eggs, Liver detoxifications
Supplements - Fish oil, Probiotics, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Zinc, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin D3, Milk Thistle, Undecylenic Acid
Hormone Therapy - Several brands of birth control, Bioidentical hormone therapy after testing low in progesterone, (Mild) hypothyroid treatment

Without getting into major detail of everything I've tried, suffice it to say that I gave all of these things listed a very honest attempt, especially with my drastic change in diet. While I did see improvements sometimes, I have never been able to pinpoint a connection, leaving my unable to manage my acne.  I've seen MD's, Dermatologists, Naturopaths, and Applied Kinesiologists.

If I could manage it naturally, I most certainly would. However, I do know that I cannot continue to live with my acne as my prison. I do not feel that longterm antibiotic and harsh topical treatments have the potential for side effects worse than that of a short course of Isotretinoin. And, again, the natural route has yielded no signficiant results either.

I will also add that I have done significant research and spoke to several individuals who used Isotretinoin. I do not take this decision lightly and I am accepting that I will have to deal with potential side effects. This is an educated decision from a competent adult and I'm looking forward to achieving clear skin.

More to come before I start (which will likely be at the end of this week!)

-bodyandsoul