Some Successful Regrowth After Accutane

Merry

New Member
My Regimen
Reaction score
3
Hi everyone,

I've been following this forum for months, but this will be my first post.

A little over a year ago, at 28, I experienced terrible shedding and a devastating bout of seborrheic dermatitis. For the first time in years, my acne had returned. I consulted several specialists, but found that my hormone levels were fine, I had no signs of polycystic ovaries, and everything else appeared to be in order.

In order to avoid scarring from the cystic acne I had developed, my dermatologist started me on a course of Accutane. While the medication solved my acne issues and improved the condition of my scalp, I experienced a severe shed about four months into the treatment.

Even though my hair had always been thick, my hair had receded quite a bit at the temples by the end of my treatment. My friends, family, and boyfriend all noticed and commented on the difference.

After a few months of hiding my bald spots with bangs, toppers, hats, and hair powder, I was desperate for a solution. I had seen all sorts of specialists -- nutritionists, gynecologists, and endocrinologists. Finally, I decided to see a second dermatologist, a family friend. She spent a good amount of time with me and helped me to create a regimen that gave me immediate results.

-Shower every morning with cool water. Alternate between zinc-based and a dandruff shampoo. In the beginning, I also used Ketoconazole.
-Dry hair completely.
-Take iron and vitamin D supplements. It turns out that my iron reserve was depleted.
-Perform scalp massage at night.
-Apply minoxidil 5% before bedtime.

Aside from these steps, I have improved my sleep, eating, and exercise habits. In my case, I needed extra help from a nutritionist to pinpoint where my diet was going wrong. Because I'm allergic to milk proteins, I wasn't receiving important nutrients. I now maintain a very careful diet and I've cut out all processed foods and even my Friday-night beer. Also, I made the decision to take a step back from work and to dedicate more time to relaxing and taking care of my body. As a freelancer and a full-time student, my sleep schedule had been a mess for years and, even though I wasn't overweight, I was definitely not in good shape. I started taking a pilates class about six months ago, which has helped me to relax, get more in tune with my body, and sleep better at night.

Now, about six months after finishing my course of Accutane, I am experiencing regrowth at my temples and noticing that my hair is returning to its previous strength. I will post some photos soon.

For anyone else who is going through the same thing, remember not to give up! Keep looking for solutions until you find what works for you!
 
Top