Glycolic Acid + Isotretinoin (Accutane)
Avoid Combining
These ingredients should not be used together. The combination risks significant skin damage.
Do not use glycolic acid while taking isotretinoin - the combination causes severe skin barrier damage and scarring risk.
What the Research Says
Isotretinoin (commonly known by the former brand name Accutane) is a systemic retinoid prescribed for severe, treatment-resistant acne. It works by dramatically reducing sebum production, shrinking oil glands, and accelerating skin cell turnover throughout the entire body. While on isotretinoin, the skin is already in a state of extreme sensitivity - it is thinner, drier, and far more fragile than normal due to the drug's powerful effects on cell turnover and oil production.
Adding glycolic acid exfoliation to isotretinoin-treated skin is strongly contraindicated by dermatologists worldwide. The skin barrier is already severely compromised by the medication, and any additional exfoliation - chemical or physical - can cause chemical burns, persistent raw patches, delayed wound healing, and scarring. Even gentle, low-concentration glycolic acid products are too aggressive for skin that is systemically thinned by isotretinoin.
Most dermatologists recommend avoiding all chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs, retinol) for the entire duration of isotretinoin treatment AND for 6-12 months after completing the course. This waiting period allows the skin to fully recover its normal barrier function and thickness. Attempting to introduce glycolic acid too soon after isotretinoin can cause the same adverse reactions as using it during treatment.
Timing & How to Use
Do not use glycolic acid at any point during isotretinoin treatment. Wait at least 6 months after completing your isotretinoin course before reintroducing glycolic acid, starting at the lowest concentration available. Consult your prescribing dermatologist before reintroducing any exfoliants.
Practical Tips
- 1This is a hard rule, not a preference - glycolic acid during isotretinoin treatment can cause permanent scarring
- 2While on isotretinoin, use only gentle cleanser, rich moisturizer, and SPF 50+ sunscreen
- 3After completing isotretinoin, reintroduce glycolic acid very slowly - start with 5% or lower, once per week
- 4Consult your dermatologist about when it is safe to resume chemical exfoliants after isotretinoin
- 5Other exfoliants (BHAs, enzyme peels, physical scrubs) are also contraindicated during isotretinoin
References
- Layton AM, et al. A review on the treatment of acne vulgaris. Int J Clin Pract. 2006;60(1):64-72.
- Vallerand IA, et al. Efficacy and adverse events of oral isotretinoin for acne: A systematic review. Br J Dermatol. 2018;178(1):76-85.
- Leyden JJ, Del Rosso JQ. The effect of benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin combination gel vs. the individual components in acne vulgaris. Dermatol Ther. 2004;17(3):265-73.
- Zaenglein AL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74(5):945-73.e33.
