Can I use benzoyl peroxide on Accutane?

Why leave benzoyl peroxide out?

Benzoyl peroxide reduces bacteria on the skin and helps with spots and blocked pores. Isotretinoin treats severe acne and can shrink the oil glands. These are different treatments, but that does not make them a combination to assemble yourself. The usual advice during isotretinoin treatment is to avoid skincare containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Having tolerated benzoyl peroxide before starting your capsules does not change that instruction.123

Can you use benzoyl peroxide with Accutane?

The advice covers both a gel you leave on and a wash you rinse off. A gel wash and a gel you leave on are different formats, not two names invented to make the aisle longer. Rinsing a product off does not create an exception to avoiding benzoyl peroxide during isotretinoin treatment. Nor does applying it only to an individual spot. If your dermatologist has deliberately included benzoyl peroxide in your plan, confirm which product, strength, area and frequency they intend before using it.12

What should I do with my routine?

1. 1Review your existing acne products before your next application. Leave benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid out unless your prescriber has specifically instructed otherwise.
2. 2Tell your prescriber about the other medicines and supplements you use. Isotretinoin also has concerns with certain antibiotics, including doxycycline and tetracycline, and with vitamin A supplements.
3. 3Use the skincare routine agreed with your dermatologist. Do not scrub your face clean: irritation can make acne flare even during effective treatment.
4. 4Apply lip balm regularly for dry lips. When outside in the sun, use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply it regularly.

An acne treatment plan should include skin care, not a bathroom shelf auditioning for a pharmacy. The practical goal is to support your prescribed treatment rather than keep every product from your previous routine in service.4

What if I am still getting spots?

Acne often becomes a little worse for a few weeks after starting isotretinoin, then improves progressively through the course. Early spots are not a reason to add benzoyl peroxide yourself. Tell your dermatologist about worsening acne so they can review your treatment plan. Your course length depends on your symptoms and prescription; improvement is gradual rather than immediate. Keep your scheduled checkups and blood tests, which check treatment progress and side effects.15

What if I already used benzoyl peroxide?

Leave benzoyl peroxide out of your next application and ask your pharmacist or prescriber about any symptoms. Common reactions include hot, itchy or painful skin, redness, dryness and peeling. Redness can be harder to see on black or brown skin, so pay attention to discomfort too. Get advice if symptoms bother you or do not go away. Do not put benzoyl peroxide on broken or infected skin. Do not stop your isotretinoin capsules for ordinary dryness unless your clinician advises it.12

A swollen tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or a raised itchy rash can signal a serious allergic reaction. Seek emergency help immediately if you suspect one after using benzoyl peroxide.2

Does pregnancy change the answer?

Isotretinoin must not be taken during pregnancy or while trying to get pregnant because it can cause miscarriage or serious harm to a developing baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, and follow your pregnancy prevention programme. Benzoyl peroxide's usual suitability during pregnancy does not make the combination suitable.125