Why does my skin become dry after using acne medications?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am on Isotretinoin 20 mg per night and using Adapalene plus Benzoyl peroxide (0.1 % plus 2.5 %) at night daily. My skin is getting dry even though I have oily and acne-prone skin. Should I use any moisturizer or cream? If yes, what kind of a specific name?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can completely understand why this is worrying for you, especially when you already have oily, acne-prone skin, and now you are dealing with dryness. Please do not feel discouraged; what you are experiencing is very common and expected with Isotretinoin and Adapalene plus Benzoyl peroxide.

Isotretinoin, even at 20 milligrams, significantly reduces oil production, and when it is combined with Adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide, the skin barrier becomes weaker for some time. That is why dryness, tightness, mild peeling, or even sensitivity can happen even in people who previously had very oily skin. This dryness is actually a sign that the medicines are working, but the skin barrier needs to be protected alongside the treatment.

Yes, you should definitely use a moisturiser. This is not optional; it is an essential part of your treatment. Using the right moisturiser will not worsen acne, will not block pores, and will actually help your skin tolerate Isotretinoin better, so you can continue treatment comfortably.

Look for a non-comedogenic, oil-free, fragrance-free moisturiser that is made for acne-prone or sensitive skin. Ingredients like ceramides, Glycerin, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, or Panthenol are very helpful.

Some good options you can consider include ceramide-based moisturising lotion or cream, Glycerin-based moisturising lotion, barrier repair moisturiser with ceramides and Niacinamide, lightweight gel-based moisturiser for acne-prone skin, or moisturiser formulated for sensitive acne-prone skin.

Apply the moisturiser twice daily, once in the morning and again at night. At night, you can apply it after your Adapalene plus Benzoyl peroxide (wait 15 to 20 minutes after applying the medicine, then moisturise). If dryness is significant, you can even apply a thin layer of moisturiser before your night treatment; this is called the sandwich method to reduce irritation.

Also, please remember to use a gentle face wash, avoid scrubs or harsh cleansers, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning, as Isotretinoin makes the skin more sensitive to the sun. With the use of a moisturiser, you will notice a considerable difference in your skin soon.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.