HOW TO DEAL WITH ACNE DURING AN AAS CYCLE?

Accutane/Roaccutane is the brand name for Isotretinoin ⇒ a medication used to treat severe forms of acne. It is a vitamin A derivative that:

Reduces sebum production
Shrinks sebaceous glands
Has anti-inflammatory effects
Restores keratinisation, preventing clogged pores

It is used during or after AAS cycles with the aim of curing severe acne. A dosage of 10–30 mg daily for 1–6 monthsis usually sufficient, until the acne completely clears up. After discontinuation, there is typically a long-term period without acne (or only a mild form). Low doses are practically free of side effects, which generally appear only at doses above 30 mg per day.

ISOTRETINOIN AND REJUVENATION:

ISO (short for isotretinoin) affects the metabolism of collagen and elastin, and is therefore associated with improvements in skin texture and fine wrinkles:

Reduces collagen breakdown
Stimulates new production of type I and III collagen in the skin
Improves the structure of the dermis, thereby enhancing skin elasticity

It has a positive effect on some existing scars, improving their colour, texture, and elasticity in the affected area (though it does not completely remove scars).

Most people, after a proper ISO cycle, have a “baby face” appearance, a nose free of blackheadsund visibly younger-looking skin.

MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS:

Dry skin, cracked lips, dry eyes, and increased sensitivity to sunlight
Worsening of cholesterol and triglyceride levels (at high doses)
Depressive moods (at very high doses)
Joint pain, as ISO affects collagen and causes tissue dryness (at high doses)
In some individuals (3–5%), hair loss and reduced hair quality may occur, but this is only temporary – after discontinuation, hair growth and quality return to normal.

IMPORTANT FACTS:

ISO must always be taken with food to ensure full absorption and maximum effectiveness! Taking it on an empty stomach significantly reduces its effect.
During ISO use, it is necessary to avoid vitamin A.
Women must not become pregnant while taking ISO, as there is a high risk of severe birth defects. If you are using ISO, you should not donate blood, to prevent it from being given to a pregnant woman.
For many users, acne may worsen during the first 2–4 weeks – this is a normal reaction, after which a turning point occurs and the acne starts to clear rapidly.
In some cases, ISO may negatively affect vitamin D levels, so supplementation is recommended.