Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a type of vitamin A derivative, a drug used especially for treating severe acne. It is often prescribed when conventional treatments are not effective, and because it is effective but also has many side effects, it is called the ultimate weapon (last resort) against acne.

It is a powerful drug that puts a burden on the liver, and taking it during pregnancy or while trying to conceive can cause teratogenicity (birth defects) in the fetus, so if you take it, an examination by a doctor and a blood test at a medical institution, including our clinic, are always required.

While it is very effective, its side effects are significant, so it cannot be the first choice for acne treatment.
If other treatments show no effect, it is prescribed at the doctor’s discretion.
At our clinic, we have you visit the acne clinic, carry out an examination and blood test, and prescribe it while carefully observing your condition.

Effects

  • Suppression of sebum secretion: It shrinks the sebaceous glands and greatly reduces sebum secretion, suppressing clogged pores and the growth of acne bacteria
  • Normalization of the stratum corneum: It prevents the keratin of the skin from hardening and reduces clogged pores
  • Anti-inflammatory action: It has the effect of reducing inflammation caused by acne
  • Prevention of recurrence: The effect continues long after treatment ends and can prevent acne from recurring

Side effects

While isotretinoin is highly effective, many side effects may occur

  • Dryness: Dryness of the skin, lips, eyes, and nose is the most common
  • Cracked lips: Along with dryness, lips often crack
  • Effects on liver function: It may burden the liver, so liver function must be checked during treatment
  • Teratogenicity: Taking it during pregnancy has serious effects on the fetus, so pregnancy during treatment must absolutely be avoided. Contraception is strongly recommended for female patients during the treatment period

Prices

20 mg, 1 month supply¥15,800
30 mg, 1 month supply¥25,800
40 mg, 1 month supply¥31,600
Blood test (first visit and every 3 months)¥3,480

FAQ

I am worried about side effects

The acne specialist doctor decides the appropriate dose from sebum amount, acne condition, body weight, etc. at the examination and prescribes it.
The dose can also be controlled while observing your reaction, so we ask you to attend regular examinations.

When will the effect start to appear?

It varies by individual, but effects often appear in about 2 weeks to 1 month.
Also, as a flare-up reaction, you may become more prone to acne, but this is a temporary reaction and gradually settles.

Can I receive aesthetic treatments while taking isotretinoin?

While taking isotretinoin, the skin is sensitive and its regenerative ability is reduced.
The possibility of pigmentation is also high, so in principle you do not receive other treatments while taking it and concentrate on treatment with isotretinoin.

Low-invasiveness treatments such as electroporation can be offered, but it depends on your skin condition, so please consult our staff or the acne specialist doctor for details.

Doctor

Director Sara Motomura

  • 6 years of experience in aesthetic dermatology
  • 2023: Opened Cleo Beauty Clinic
  • Currently: Director, Cleo Beauty Clinic

Qualifications

  • Skincare Meister and Cosmetic Meister, Japan Cosmetic Association
  • Botox Vista Certified Physician
  • Juvederm Vista Certified Physician
  • JPCA Personal Color Assistant Advisor

Memberships

  • Japanese Society of Aesthetic Dermatology
  • Medical Art Makeup Society