Can You Have Laser and Skin Treatments While on Isotretinoin (also known as Roaccutane, Oratane or Accutane)?
Understanding the Risks, Benefits, and Latest Research
Q: Is it safe to have laser treatments while taking isotretinoin?
A: In the past, it was widely believed that laser treatments should be avoided while taking isotretinoin due to the risk of delayed wound healing, scarring, and increased skin sensitivity. However, recent research and advances in laser technology along with laser safety suggest that this is not always the case, particularly for those on low-dose isotretinoin.
Studies now show that certain types of laser and light therapies can be safely performed and even provide significant benefits for acne and acne scarring when carefully tailored to the patient’s individual needs. Treating acne scars early may have benefits over waiting until after the course of isotretinoin has been completed. However, precautions are necessary, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified dermatologist.
Q: What are the benefits of laser treatments for acne while on isotretinoin?
A: For individuals with inflammatory acne and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), certain laser and light treatments can:
- Target acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes), reducing skin damaging inflammation and breakouts.
- Calm inflammatory cells and decrease increased blood flow associated with active acne lesions and scar formation.
- Help prevent or reduce the formation of atrophic or rolling scars by turning off the destructive inflammation that leads to collagen and elastin damage and destruction along with scarring that pulls in the skin causing depressed and punched out acne scars.
- Improve scar response and outcomes when treated early, potentially leading to better long-term results compared to waiting until the end of isotretinoin treatment. Isotretinoin is a vitamin A or retinoid and has anti-inflammatory and collagen stimulating benefits.
By reducing inflammation early, lasers help prevent severe scarring, promoting a more even skin texture and tone and possibly improving the degree of scar improvement following laser treatment.
A: Yes, there are important precautions to take when considering laser treatments while on isotretinoin:
- Hair Removal and Waxing: Avoid waxing, as isotretinoin makes the skin more fragile and prone to damage. Waxing can strip off skin layers and even cause scarring.
- Skin Sensitivity: Isotretinoin increases skin sensitivity, making it crucial to choose gentler laser options and to take appropriate post-care measures.
- Tailored Recommendations: Treatment should be personalized based on factors such as:
- Your mix of acne and acne lesions (e.g., inflammatory vs. non-inflammatory).
- The dose of isotretinoin you are taking.
- The type of acne scars present (e.g., atrophic, rolling, or hypertrophic).
- Your skin type and overall skin sensitivity.
Q: Which lasers are safest and most effective while on isotretinoin?
A: Advances in laser technology have improved the safety and effectiveness of acne and scar treatments:
- Vascular Lasers and Light: These lasers target haemoglobin or redness (due to increased blood flow and inflammation due to active acne plus target the bacteria responsible for causing acne (Cutibacterium Acnes). They also target active inflamed and progressing scars.
- Fractionated Lasers: These create micro-injuries in the skin, promoting healing while leaving surrounding tissue intact for faster recovery.
- Hybrid Lasers: These combine the power of ablative lasers with the safety of non-ablative lasers, resulting in a more natural mix of collagen and elastin production.
- Non-Ablative Lasers and Light Treatments: These are safer options that target bacteria, inflammation, and vascular lesions without damaging the outer layer of the skin.
Q: Can isotretinoin actually improve laser treatment outcomes for acne scars?
A: Surprisingly, or maybe not surprisingly YES. Emerging evidence suggests that low-dose isotretinoin can enhance the results of certain laser treatments for acne scars.
Recent studies indicate that:
- Patients on low-dose isotretinoin experienced better scar improvement and faster healing compared to those who waited until after their isotretinoin course.
- The use of isotretinoin during laser treatment appears to support collagen remodelling, similar to the way topical retinoids are used to repair sun damage and maintain collagen production.
- Hybrid lasers, in particular, showed improved outcomes due to their balanced approach of ablative power with non-ablative safety, effectively stimulating a more natural collagen and elastin mix.
These findings challenge the old-school belief of waiting 6-12 months post-isotretinoin for laser treatments and open up new possibilities for scar management.
Q: What should you do before considering laser treatment while on isotretinoin?
A: If you’re on isotretinoin and considering laser or light therapy, it’s essential to:
- Consult a qualified dermatologist experienced in treating acne and acne scars with lasers.
- Discuss your current isotretinoin dose, acne type, and scar characteristics.
- Understand the potential risks and benefits, as well as the necessary precautions and aftercare.
- Follow a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique skin needs and medical history.
Final Thoughts:
While isotretinoin was once thought to be incompatible with laser treatments, modern research and technological advancements are changing this perspective. In many cases, low-dose isotretinoin combined with carefully selected laser and light therapies can offer significant benefits for active acne and acne scars.
However, it’s crucial to receive personalized, expert advice. At Kingsway Dermatology & Aesthetics (KDAA), we offer comprehensive consultations to develop a safe and effective treatment plan tailored to your specific skin type and needs.
Book a consultation today to explore your options and achieve clearer skin and whether early scar treatments should be considered in your individual circumstances.
Disclaimer:
This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Individual cases vary, and laser treatments while on isotretinoin should only be undertaken under the guidance of a qualified dermatologist. Consult with our dermatologists to receive personalized advice and care.
