Dermatologist tips to avoid dryness from Accutane (isotretinoin) | acne expert explains

[@maeveryan7680]

Thank you! for such sound, evidence common sense-based information. My son was on isotretinoin 3x and we never were told/or knew about omega 3 supplement to use concurrently. It wasn't that long ago.

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Glad that you have found these videos helpful!

[@isagoldfield7393]

Thank You so much Dr. Barbieri this is very helpful. My son just started isotretinoin, he’s 14 with cystic acne:(

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Thanks for watching and glad that you found the video helpful!

[@AcoIytee]

The dryness is so bad right now and I had no idea about Omega 3. Just ordered it on Amazon! Thank you so much

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Glad you found the video helpful!

[@esatabin4546]

I’m glad i found you on youtube, Dr. Barbieri! It definitely supplements my monthly visits with you while on isotretinoin.

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

I'm glad that you found the videos helpful!

[@KathleenBound]

Can you recommend a brand to order of the Omega 3? Thank you

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Many people like Nordic Naturals. Another option is generic prescription Lovaza.

[@maliabella]

Thanks for another great video! Do you have recommendations for an Omega-3 supplement that is not fish oil derived? I mainly see Omega-3 supplements from fish, krill or algae oil. I’m unaware of another source for Omega-3s. Edit: just did more research and found this ~ “Ethyl ester (EE) is a synthetic form of omega-3.” Should I be looking for supplements with Ethyl Ester omega-3?

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Great question! There are a variety of plant and algae based Omega-3 supplements. I prefer the algae based ones as they tend to be higher in DHA/EPA, whereas things like chia/flax/etc tend to be mostly ALA (which is inefficiently converted to DHA/EPA in the body).

[@windleavesandgrass]

Do you think you could make a video on low dose or even micro dosing Accutane? Thank you!

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Dosing is discussed in a few of the isotretinoin videos on the channel, but a video on different dosing regimens sounds like a great idea!

[@Ka-h4d]

Hello, I’m wondering about starting low dose Isotretinoin but I’m really worried about dry eyes. How common is permanently dry eyes from this drug? Can patients with history of eye surgery use isotret? Are dry eyes dose dependent, so when using low dose , can I expect less dry eye symptoms? Thank you!

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Dry eyes are a risk with isotretinoin. We can't reliably put a number of it given all the heterogeneity in who is treated and dosing regimens. It is a dose dependent side effect and Omega-3's seem to be potentially protective. Ultimately, it is up to you and your doctor about whether isotretinoin is right for you. Fortunately, we now have many alternatives such as 1726nm laser, sarecycline, multimodal topicals, which are discussed in other videos on the channel.

[@Ka-h4d]

@@DrJohnBarbierithank you! Could you please tell me from your clinical experience, what is the situation of dry eyes a when using low doses of isotretinoin? Like 0,2-0,3mg/kg?

[@tkataby73]

Thank you very much for this informative video. My son is starting a low dose treatment. I am looking into which Omega 3 to get but now I am confused with the DHA to EPA ratio. I read that you want the DHA to be higher while others say EPA should be higher and some don't even mention it at all! What ratio do you suggest? Also, are natural olis such as castor oil and jojoba oil safe to use on face and/or body while on Isotretinoin? Thank you.

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

We don't have studies comparing different ratios of DHA:EPA, so we don't have much information to guide us. At the same time, I don't think it is likely to make a huge difference.

[@1515ff]

Is 1g a day safe? I saw that high doses can cause atrial fibrillation

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

There are some studies about Omega-3 supplementation for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease that have suggested a potential increased risk of atrial fibrillation. However, those studies do not necessarily generalize to this scenario, which is typically a younger population and a much shorter duration of treatment (several months vs indefinite).

[@lolomostafa9223]

Thank you ❤

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

You're welcome 😊

[@ironthefinges]

Do you ever prescribe the prescription strength Omega 3s? (Lovaza)

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Yes, I often do that to make it easier for patients to get the right product and since it is only about $25 out-of-pocket even if not covered (which is usually the case).

[@sanjidanabila7460]

Can I use isotretinoin cream or retinoids with roaccutane capsule??

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

I do not recommend combining topical and systemic retinoids as it increases issues with skin dryness and irritation. Oral retinoids are so effective, there is no need for a topical retinoid at the same time.

[@kathiaking7287]

❤❤thanks. i m going through it

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@Macorelppa]

Jai Shree Ram 🙏📿

[@DrJohnBarbieri]

Thanks for watching