Yes, acne can come back after Accutane treatment, though it is often improved compared to before treatment.
While Accutane (isotretinoin) is highly effective for clearing severe acne, studies indicate that many individuals experience a return of their acne to some degree after completing the course.
Understanding Acne Relapse After Accutane
According to studies, 80% to 90% of patients experience relapse within 12 to 24 months after finishing their Accutane treatment. This means that while most people are clear at the end of the treatment, a significant majority may see their acne return within one to two years.
Relapse doesn't necessarily mean the acne will be as severe as it was before Accutane. For some, it might be milder, while others might require further treatment.
What is Relapse?
Acne relapse, in this context, refers to the return of acne breakouts after a period of clearance following Accutane treatment.
Factors Potentially Influencing Relapse
While not explicitly detailed in the provided reference, general dermatological information suggests factors like:
- Severity of initial acne
- Dosage and duration of Accutane treatment
- Individual biological factors
- Age
- Hormonal influences
It's important to note that despite the potential for relapse, Accutane often provides long-term remission or significant improvement for many individuals, even if occasional breakouts return. The provided statistic highlights the likelihood of some acne returning, not necessarily a return to pre-treatment severity for everyone.
| Treatment Outcome | Likelihood based on reference |
|---|---|
| Clear at end of treatment | Vast majority |
| Relapse within 1-2 years | 80% to 90% of patients |
If acne returns after Accutane, consult a dermatologist to discuss potential follow-up treatments or maintenance strategies.
