Does Accutane Permanently Cure Acne?
Medically reviewed by Andre Stone | MD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine on August 25th, 2026.
Accutane does not permanently cure acne, though it can provide long-term remission for many patients. Many patients have major or complete improvement after one course, but results vary and acne can return months or years later. Isotretinoin reduces the size and activity of oil glands and lowers sebum production, which can lead to long-lasting improvement. However, factors like hormonal changes, genetics, and age can trigger acne recurrence. If acne returns, a dermatologist can decide whether another course or a different treatment is appropriate. Isotretinoin requires medical supervision because it can cause serious adverse effects and severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The reduction in oil production may last for years, but it is not necessarily permanent, and acne can recur.
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