Dealing with persistent acne can be exhausting — physically, emotionally, and mentally. After trying countless treatments, from topical creams to antibiotics, I finally turned to buy accutane online, a powerful oral medication known to combat severe acne. While Isotroin can deliver dramatic results, it also comes with some intense side effects, especially related to skin dryness and sensitivity.
Throughout my Isotroin journey, one thing became clear: the right skincare routine makes all the difference. A well-structured, gentle routine helps reduce discomfort, prevent irritation, and support your skin’s healing process. In this post, I’ll share the complete skincare routine I followed while on Isotroin, tailored to manage the challenges that come with it.
Why Skincare Matters on Isotroin
Isotroin works by significantly reducing oil production from the sebaceous glands, which is one of the main reasons acne occurs in the first place. While this effect helps clear acne, it also strips the skin of its natural moisture. The result? Dryness, flaking, irritation, increased sun sensitivity, and extremely chapped lips.
That’s why your skincare while on Isotroin must shift from oil-control or acne-targeted products to hydration, barrier protection, and sensitivity management. The goal is no longer to “fight acne” but to support your skin while it recovers from within.
1. Cleansing Gently — No Harsh Ingredients
Cleansing is the foundation of any routine, but when on Isotroin, you need to handle your skin like delicate fabric. I chose a mild, soap-free cleanser with no fragrance or actives. The focus was on cleaning my skin without stripping it of the little moisture it had left.
I washed my face only twice a day — once in the morning and once at night — using lukewarm water and gentle circular motions. Hot water or scrubbing only worsens dryness. After cleansing, I gently patted my face dry with a soft towel, avoiding any rubbing.
2. Moisturizing Like My Skin Depends on It (Because It Did)
The dryness caused by buy isotretinoin online is relentless. Moisturizing wasn’t optional — it became a regular and repeated part of my day. I used a rich, creamy moisturizer designed for very dry or sensitive skin. It had to be fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and formulated to restore the skin barrier.
On dehydrated days, I layered my moisturizer, first applying a lightweight hydrating layer and then a thicker, occlusive cream. This layering helped trap moisture and reduce flakiness. I used moisturizer both in the morning and before bed — and sometimes even midday if my skin felt tight or sore.
3. Sunscreen — Every Single Day Without Fail
One of the most important steps during Isotroin treatment is sun protection. The skin becomes much more vulnerable to sunburn and damage, so sunscreen was non-negotiable.
I used a broad-spectrum SPF 50 every morning, even if I stayed indoors. The key was finding a sunscreen that didn’t irritate or clog my already-sensitive skin. I avoided chemical sunscreens and opted for lightweight, mineral-based formulas. Reapplying was essential if I spent any time outdoors, especially in warm or sunny weather.
4. Lip Care — My Lifesaver
Dry, cracked lips were the very first side effect I noticed — within just a few days of starting Isotroin. Lip balm became my best friend. I applied a thick, nourishing balm multiple times a day and especially before bed.
To keep my lips protected, I avoided anything with menthol, flavor, or fragrance — all of which only made things worse. Instead, I looked for basic, healing ingredients like petroleum jelly or lanolin. Consistency was everything. If I ever skipped it, my lips would become sore and flaky almost instantly.
5. Eye and Nose Support — Small Steps That Helped
Isotroin doesn’t just dry out your skin — it also dries out mucous membranes, like the eyes and nose. I started using lubricating eye drops to prevent itchy, dry eyes, especially if I stared at screens for long periods. For my nose, I applied a tiny bit of balm inside the nostrils to prevent cracks or nosebleeds, which are surprisingly common on this medication.
These small habits made a big difference in my daily comfort and helped me avoid unnecessary irritation.
6. Avoiding Exfoliants, Acids, and Actives
Before Isotroin, I was used to using exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to manage breakouts. Once I started the medication, those products had to go. My skin was far too sensitive to tolerate any acids or active ingredients.
I also avoided retinoids, vitamin C serums, clay masks, scrubs, and any other products that could potentially sting or over-dry my skin. While it felt strange to “do less,” it was the right choice. The focus shifted from aggressive treatments to gentle care and barrier repair.
7. Supporting My Skin From the Inside
Although this post is about topical care, it’s worth mentioning that staying hydrated was key. I made sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and added healthy fats like nuts and avocados to my meals. While not a substitute for skincare, this internal support helped my skin stay as balanced as possible.
I also made sure to take Isotroin with a meal that contained fat, which improves absorption and makes the treatment more effective.
8. Night Routine — The Time for Healing
At night, my routine was all about recovery. After gently cleansing my skin, I applied a generous amount of moisturizer and sealed my lips with a thick balm. I kept a humidifier running in my room to help fight overnight dryness, especially during winter months.
If my skin was feeling extra dry or inflamed, I sometimes used a calming barrier balm as the final layer — like a sleeping mask — to lock everything in overnight. Waking up with less irritation was always a good sign that my skin was healing.
Conclusion: Keep It Simple, Stay Consistent
If you’re on Isotroin or about to start, know this: skincare doesn’t need to be complicated — it needs to be gentle, simple, and consistent. Harsh products won’t help your skin clear faster. In fact, they can slow down healing and cause unnecessary irritation.
Throughout my journey, I stuck to the basics:
- Cleanse gently
- Moisturize deeply
- Protect from the sun
- Treat your lips, eyes, and nose
- Avoid harsh actives
This approach helped me manage the side effects of Isotroin while supporting my skin’s recovery. Today, I not only have clearer skin, but I also have a deeper appreciation for the importance of caring for it the right way.
Your journey with Isotroin will be unique, but I hope this skincare routine can serve as a helpful guide. Always consult your dermatologist if you’re unsure about a product or experiencing severe side effects.