What Accutane® Really Feels Like: Physical Side Effects You Should Know About

Accutane® (isotretinoin) is one of the most powerful and effective treatments for severe or stubborn acne. For many people, it can feel like a miracle—clearing skin when nothing else has worked. But it’s also known for its long list of potential side effects. While some are mild and manageable, others can be more significant, especially when it comes to how your body feels during treatment.

At CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers, we don’t offer Accutane®. Instead, we specialize in AviClear®—the first ever FDA-cleared laser treatment that targets oil glands at the root. But we know many of our clients have either tried Accutane® in the past or are weighing it as an option, and they come to us with questions about what to expect from the medication.

This guide will focus on the physical side effects of Accutane®—what they are, why they happen, and how people typically manage them. If you’re considering Accutane® or are currently taking it, understanding these effects can help you feel more prepared and in control.

HOW ACCUTANE® WORKS (AND WHY IT AFFECTS THE BODY)

Accutane® is a high-dose form of vitamin A that works by shrinking your oil glands, drastically reducing how much sebum (oil) your skin produces. It also helps regulate skin cell turnover, which prevents pores from clogging.

But because it’s a systemic medication—meaning it affects your whole body, not just your skin—it can cause side effects in many different areas, not just the face. Most side effects are related to dryness, inflammation, or sensitivity, but some people experience more significant discomfort.

MOST COMMON PHYSICAL SIDE EFFECTS OF ACCUTANE®

1. DRY LIPS AND MOUTH (CHEILITIS)

This is by far the most common side effect. Nearly everyone on Accutane® experiences cracked, peeling lips. You may also notice your mouth feels dry or that you need to apply lip balm constantly.

Tip: Many people find that Vaseline or Aquaphor applied multiple times per day (especially overnight) offers the best relief.

2. DRY, FLAKY, AND SENSITIVE SKIN

Your face and body may feel tight, itchy, or peel easily—especially after washing. You might also become more prone to irritation from soaps, razors, or skincare products you previously tolerated.

Tip: Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers and avoid exfoliants or retinoids unless prescribed by your dermatologist.

3. DRY EYES AND BLURRY VISION

Some people experience dry, irritated eyes or blurred vision while on Accutane®. Contact lens wearers may find lenses less comfortable. In rare cases, night vision is temporarily affected.

Tip: Lubricating eye drops can help, and switching to glasses may offer relief if contacts become uncomfortable.

4. DRY NOSE AND NOSEBLEEDS

Because the nasal passages also dry out, it’s common to experience crusting or nosebleeds, especially in dry or cold climates.

Tip: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils or use a saline nasal spray to keep tissues moist.

5. JOINT AND MUSCLE PAIN

Accutane® can lead to inflammation in the joints and muscles, especially in active individuals. You might feel soreness after exercise, experience stiffness in the mornings, or notice general aches throughout the body.

Tip: Stay hydrated, stretch regularly, and talk to your doctor if the pain becomes limiting.

6. FATIGUE AND LOW ENERGY

Some people report feeling more tired than usual, even without changes to their routine. While not officially listed as a common side effect, fatigue is a frequently discussed experience among Accutane® users.

7. BACK PAIN

Back pain—especially in the lower back—is another frequently reported side effect. It tends to be dull and persistent rather than sharp or sudden.

Tip: Supportive sleep setups, heating pads, or light activity like walking can help manage discomfort.

8. HEADACHES

Occasional headaches can occur, particularly at the beginning of treatment. In rare cases, severe headaches could be a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which requires immediate medical attention.

Tip: If your headaches are frequent or severe, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor.

LESS COMMON (BUT NOTABLE) PHYSICAL SIDE EFFECTS

While the side effects above are more common, some individuals may experience:

SUN SENSITIVITY (PHOTOSENSITIVITY)

Accutane® makes your skin more prone to burning. Even short sun exposure can lead to redness or peeling.

Solution: Wear sunscreen daily and avoid prolonged sun exposure when possible.

SKIN RASHES

In some cases, dryness progresses into itchy rashes or eczema-like flare-ups, especially on the arms, hands, or around the eyes.

HAIR THINNING

Some users notice increased shedding or thinning during treatment. This is usually temporary, with hair returning to normal after finishing the course.

BRITTLE NAILS

Just like your skin and lips, your nails may become dry and more prone to breaking or peeling.

CHANGES IN BODY TEMPERATURE

Some people report feeling cold more often or having chills, though this is rare and not well understood.

WHY SIDE EFFECTS VARY SO MUCH BETWEEN PEOPLE

Not everyone experiences every side effect—and some people are surprised by how tolerable Accutane® is, especially when well-managed. Others, however, find the physical symptoms too disruptive to their daily life.

Side effects are influenced by:

• Dosage: Higher doses increase the chance of more intense symptoms.

• Treatment length: Most courses last 4–9 months.

• Individual sensitivity: Some bodies just respond more strongly than others.

• Climate and lifestyle: Living in a dry climate or having an active lifestyle can make certain side effects worse.

MANAGING PHYSICAL SIDE EFFECTS: WHAT HELPS?

Dermatologists often provide detailed recommendations before starting Accutane® to help prevent or ease side effects. These may include:

• Hydrating lip and skin care products

• Gentle cleansers and thick moisturizers

• Avoiding harsh exfoliants or alcohol-based products

• Staying out of the sun or using SPF daily

• Monitoring for joint pain or fatigue

• Keeping up with regular lab work to check liver function and cholesterol levels

A WORD ON LONG-TERM PHYSICAL EFFECTS

For most people, Accutane® side effects fade after treatment ends. But in rare cases, joint discomfort, dry eyes, or changes to skin sensitivity can persist long term.

Because of these risks, many people are looking for newer, non-systemic options that are easier on the body while still delivering lasting results.

WHY MANY PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING ALTERNATIVES LIKE AVICLEAR®

At CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers, we specialize in AviClear®, a laser treatment that offers long-term acne relief without medication, dryness, or daily pills. It targets the oil glands the same way Accutane® does—just without affecting the rest of your body.

Unlike Accutane®, AviClear®:

• Doesn’t cause dry lips, joint pain, or fatigue

• Doesn’t require blood work or monthly pharmacy visits

• Offers long-term results after a series of three treatments

• Is safe for all skin types

If you’re tired of dealing with medications and side effects—or if Accutane® isn’t the right fit for you—AviClear® could be a gentler, lasting alternative.

SHOULD YOU TRY ACCUTANE®?

Accutane® can be life-changing for the right candidate—but it’s not an easy journey. The physical side effects are real and often uncomfortable, especially in the first few months of treatment. If you’re currently on Accutane®, stay in close contact with your dermatologist and take steps to manage dryness and inflammation.

But if you’re looking for a non-medication approach that targets acne at the source—without systemic side effects—AviClear® may be worth exploring.

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