The article accepts that Accutane should only be used as a last resort and so looks at the practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of acne growing worse. The three most common are to avoid picking at the pimples, minimizing stress and avoiding the side effects of drugs.

The article looks at the iPledge Program which is operative in the US to protect female patients who propose to take Accutane.

The article reflects the sad reality that many teenagers with acne are given a rough ride in school. Parents will need to maintain their children’s’ self-esteem whilst taking sometimes difficult medical decisions.

The article reflects on the fact that the cause of acne in women is an excess of male hormones. That means one of the standard treatments is the use of oral contraceptives containing the anti-male hormone cyproterone. If you are using contraceptives, you can use Accutane if other acne treatments fail.

Acne has been a real trial for Michael. He has been living in self-imposed seclusion for the last five years and is only now starting to go out at night.