06/01/10

Facials and Isotretinoin

I was asked the following question by a patient:
"I have regular facials at a beauty salon (every 2-3 weeks). Should I stop having facials once I start taking Isotretinoin?"

I recommend you refrain from getting facials during your course of isotretinoin treatment as well as for several months afterward. Permanent scarring or discoloration of the skin can occur with treatments including facials, waxing, acne surgery, electrolysis, and laser hair removal, during isotretinoin therapy. Speak to your dermatologist about physician-recommended and/or physician-supervised in-office treatments that can be done during isotretinoin therapy to maintain healthy skin.
http://www.realself.com/find/New-York/New-York-City/Dermatologist/Channing-Barnett