Skincare while taking isotretinoin: a simple routine for dry, sensitive skin
Dry lips, tight skin and increased sun sensitivity are common during oral isotretinoin treatment. They happen because isotretinoin reduces the amount of oil produced by the skin. The answer is usually not a complicated routine: gentle cleansing, regular moisturising, lip care and reliable sun protection are the foundations.
This guide gives general UK patient information. Follow the individual advice from your dermatology team, because your dose, skin and other treatments may change what is suitable.
Why does isotretinoin change the skin?
Isotretinoin is a prescription-only retinoid used for severe acne, acne at risk of permanent scarring, or acne that has not responded to appropriate standard treatments. It is not suitable for everyone and requires specialist assessment and monitoring.[1]
By reducing sebum, isotretinoin helps address an important driver of acne. Less oil also weakens the skin’s usual protective barrier, so lips and skin may become dry, delicate or easily irritated. Dry eyes and a dry or sore nose can also occur. These effects can start early, although their severity varies and may change if the dose changes.[2]
A simple morning routine
1. Cleanse only as much as you need
Use lukewarm rather than hot water. Choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that does not leave the skin feeling tight. If your face is not oily or dirty in the morning, rinsing with water may be enough. Avoid scrubs, cleansing brushes and harsh foaming products.
Pat the skin dry with a soft towel; do not rub. Washing repeatedly will not clear acne faster and may worsen irritation.
2. Apply moisturiser
Choose a simple, non-comedogenic moisturiser intended for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Creams are often more comfortable than thin lotions once dryness develops. Ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides or hyaluronic acid can help retain water, but you do not need an expensive product.
Apply moisturiser while the skin is slightly damp and repeat during the day if needed. If a product stings persistently, causes swelling or makes redness worse, stop it and ask your pharmacist or clinical team for advice.
3. Protect your lips
Use a bland, unflavoured lip balm frequently and before the lips feel cracked. Keep one with you and apply a thicker layer before bed. Licking the lips gives only temporary relief and often makes dryness worse.
4. Use sunscreen every day
Isotretinoin can increase sensitivity to sunlight. The British Association of Dermatologists advises an SPF of at least 30, alongside protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and avoiding sunbeds.[2] Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that you can apply generously without significant stinging. Reapply when outdoors, particularly after sweating or swimming.
Sun protection matters in the UK too, including on bright winter days and during outdoor sport. It can also reduce the tendency for healing acne marks to become darker.
A simple evening routine
Remove make-up and sunscreen gently. A single mild cleanser may be enough; double cleansing is unnecessary if it leaves your skin tight. Follow with moisturiser and lip balm.
This is usually a time to simplify rather than add “active” skin-care products. Unless your prescriber specifically advises otherwise, pause exfoliating acids, abrasive scrubs, retinol or retinal products, and strong acne treatments. Some topical acne medicines can cause additional irritation when combined with isotretinoin.[2]
Do not use another person’s prescription cream or restart an old acne treatment without checking. Tell your prescriber and pharmacist about all medicines, supplements and skin products you use. Vitamin A supplements and tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline or lymecycline should not be combined with isotretinoin.[2,4]
What about eyes, nose and scalp?
For dry eyes, preservative-free lubricating eye drops may help. Contact lenses can become uncomfortable, so some people need to wear glasses more often. Seek advice promptly for persistent eye pain, significant redness or vision changes.
For a dry nose, a small amount of bland moisturising ointment around the entrance of the nostrils may help; do not push products deeply into the nose. Recurrent or heavy nosebleeds need medical advice.
The scalp may also become drier. Reduce the frequency of shampooing if comfortable and use a mild shampoo. Avoid harsh anti-dandruff products unless advised.
Shaving, waxing and cosmetic procedures
Use a clean, sharp razor with a gentle shaving product, and shave less often if the skin is sore. Electric trimming may be better tolerated by some people.
BAD advises avoiding waxing, epilation and dermabrasion, as well as tattoos and piercings, during treatment and for up to six months afterwards because of the risk of irritation, scarring or colour change.[2] Ask your dermatology team before peels, lasers, microneedling or other cosmetic procedures; suitability and timing depend on the procedure and your skin.
When dryness needs clinical advice
Contact your dermatology team if dryness becomes painful, the skin cracks or bleeds, eczema develops, or symptoms interfere with sleep or everyday activities. Do not change the dose or stop treatment solely on internet advice; the prescriber can review your skin care, other products and dose.
Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips, mouth or throat, difficulty breathing, a severe blistering rash, a persistent severe headache with sickness or visual change, severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or serious changes in mood or behaviour. If you have thoughts of self-harm, seek urgent medical help.[3]
Skin care supports comfort, but it does not replace isotretinoin safety monitoring. Current MHRA measures include an Acknowledgement of Risk Form, mental-health and sexual-function assessment and follow-up, and the Pregnancy Prevention Programme for anyone who could become pregnant.[1] Never take isotretinoin during pregnancy, share capsules or donate blood during treatment and for one month afterwards.[2]
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear make-up?
Usually yes. Choose non-comedogenic products, remove them gently and stop anything that stings or worsens dryness. A moisturising base may sit better than long-wear or mattifying products.
Can I use spot treatments?
Do not add benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, topical retinoids or other strong acne products unless your prescriber recommends them. They may make irritation worse.
Should I start moisturising before treatment?
It is reasonable to have a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, lip balm and sunscreen ready before the first dose. Your clinical team can suggest suitable product types without requiring a complex routine.
Getting the treatment plan right
Isotretinoin may be considered only after a proper acne assessment; it is not the right treatment for every patient. mySkinDoc provides a structured, doctor-led acne assessment and monitoring pathway. The consultation considers previous treatment, scarring risk, medical history and current UK safety requirements. An assessment does not guarantee a prescription, and appropriate alternatives will be discussed.
References
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Isotretinoin: changes to prescribing guidance and additional risk minimisation measures. Published 22 January 2026.
British Association of Dermatologists. Isotretinoin patient guide. Produced October 2023; accessed 3 October 2026.
NHS. Isotretinoin: a medicine for severe acne. Accessed 3 October 2026.
Roche Products Limited. Roaccutane patient information leaflet. Accessed 3 October 2026.
