Is facial hair growth a side effect of Isotretinoin?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 24 year old female. My height is 5 feet and 3 inches and I weigh127.87 Ibs. I have started to use Isotretinoin 20 mg per day. I have been taking it for the past seven days. But, my facial hair has grown more all over my face. They are not dark, but noticeable. What to do? Should I continue the medicine? But, the medicine really cleared my acne.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Growth of facial hair is not a side effect of Isotretinoin. It could be due to factors such as racial, hormonal and irregular menses. You can continue Isotretinoin till your acne clears and then reduce it to a maintenance dose of 10 mg twice weekly or as needed. However, make sure that you use adequate contraception and have a negative pregnancy test as the drug is teratogenic. Regarding unwanted facial hair, you may need Nd: YAG laser (Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet) for hair removal.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Isotretinoin is a drug, which can cause significant adverse effects if you are planning to conceive. Hence, it would be recommended only if the pregnancy test is negative. Also, it needs to be stopped at least one month prior to planning to conceive. Teratogenicity means the risk of affecting the fetus. Isotretinoin does not affect the adrenals. It does not lead to the growth of facial hair, instead, it may cause hair loss, which is totally reversible on stopping the drug and can lead to dryness of your scalp hair. Although skin pigmentation is one of the common side effects of laser therapy, if used correctly with necessary precautions of cooling during the sessions, sunscreen, and depigmenting cream after the session, the chance of it is very less. Your facial hair could be due to other reasons as I have mentioned in the previous reply. There is no reason to panic and would suggest necessary work up for the same.

Thank you.