Skincare on Roaccutane: A Dermatologist’s Guide to Managing Side Effects

Roaccutane (isotretinoin) is one of the most effective treatments available for acne, but it comes with a trade-off. As a vitamin A derivative, it works by shrinking the oil glands, which is exactly why it clears acne so well, and also why it causes the skin and mucous membranes to become dry and more sensitive during the course of treatment.

For Acne Awareness Month, Consultant Dermatologist and co-founder of the Institute of Dermatologists, Professor Nicola Ralph, explains how to support your skin through treatment.

The short answer: Swap actives and acid-based products for gentle, ceramide-rich hydration, protect your skin with daily SPF, and keep lips, nose and eyes well lubricated. The aim is to manage the dryness and photosensitivity so you stay comfortable while the treatment does its work.

What does Roaccutane do to the skin?

By shrinking the oil glands, Roaccutane reduces the sebum that feeds acne. The flip side is significant dryness, not just on the face but across the lips, eyes and other mucous membranes. Skin also becomes considerably more photosensitive, and some people experience joint aches during treatment. Knowing this in advance makes it much easier to manage.

How should I change my skincare routine?

The priority shifts from treating oil to protecting a barrier under strain.

• Stop acid-based cleansers and toners. These are too harsh during treatment. Switch to a gentle, creamy cleanser that calms rather than strips.

• Hydrate with ceramides. Look for moisturisers rich in ceramides to lock in moisture and repair the barrier.

• Protect daily. SPF is non-negotiable, as the skin is far more sensitive to the sun. Choose a mineral, non-comedogenic sunscreen.

• Lips and eyes. Lip balm applied frequently throughout the day, and lubricating eye drops to relieve the dry eye that commonly accompanies treatment. Don't forget lubrication inside the nostrils at night.

"The priority on Roaccutane shifts from treating oil to protecting a barrier under strain. Ceramides, SPF and consistent lip care are the three pillars."
Professor Nicola Ralph, Consultant Dermatologist, Institute of Dermatologists

Which products help during Roaccutane treatment?

To make this simpler, the team has put together a dermatologist-selected kit that targets each of the main side effects.

The Roaccutane Bundle

A clinically curated bundle designed to support skin and eye health during Roaccutane treatment, targeting dryness, eye irritation and UV sensitivity with clinical-grade products.

• Revive Omega Active. A super Omega-3 supplement (1,362mg per two-capsule serving, with 756mg EPA and 504mg DHA) in a plant-based enteric shell for superior absorption and no fishy aftertaste. Helps reduce inflammation from within during treatment. Certified by Friend of the Sea and suitable for pescatarians.

• Hylo-Dual Intense Eye Drops. Preservative-free drops with 0.2% high molecular weight hyaluronic acid and 2% Ectoin, giving instant, long-lasting relief from the dry eyes that may occur while on Roaccutane and stabilising the tear film for sustained comfort.

• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (Non-Tinted). An oil-free facial sunscreen with 9% transparent zinc oxide, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and lactic acid. Broad-spectrum protection is essential as the skin becomes more photosensitive. Calms redness, evens tone and leaves no white cast. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

• EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex. An intensive ceramide moisturiser clinically proven to hydrate and improve dry, compromised skin within 24 hours. Formulated with five types of ceramides, squalane, biotin, vitamin E and enzymes, it repairs the lipid barrier and reduces redness. Ideal for the barrier disruption caused by Roaccutane.

RRP €189.00 · Bundle price €160.00 · Save €29.00

Recommended by dermatologists at the Institute of Dermatologists for patients on Roaccutane therapy.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my normal acne products on Roaccutane?

Usually not. Acids and active ingredients that suited oily skin are often too harsh once treatment dries the skin out. Switch to gentle, hydrating products.

Why do my eyes get dry on Roaccutane?

Roaccutane affects the mucous membranes as well as the skin, and dry eye is a common side effect. Preservative-free lubricating drops help.

Do I need SPF even in winter on Roaccutane?

Yes. The photosensitivity continues throughout treatment regardless of season, so daily SPF is important year-round.

Is the dryness permanent?

No. The dryness and sensitivity ease once treatment finishes and the oil glands return to normal activity.

Can I wear makeup on Roaccutane?

Yes, but choose fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas and always apply SPF underneath. Avoid heavy or occlusive foundations that may further stress a compromised barrier.