HomeLocationsEncino, CAAccutane Treatment in Encino, CA

Accutane Treatment in Encino, CA

Accutane Treatment in Encino, CA

For patients with severe, treatment-resistant, or scarring acne, Accutane (isotretinoin) can be life-changing. It is the most effective acne treatment available — capable of producing permanent clearance in many patients. At BHSkin Dermatology’s Encino office, Dr. Asmi Berry carefully manages Accutane treatment from candidacy assessment through the full course of therapy, ensuring your safety and maximizing your results at every step.

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Skin Breakouts While on Accutane? Acne may worsen briefly when isotretinoin starts clearing clogged pores, though missed doses or hormonal imbalance can also play a role. Checking in with your medical provider can help clarify the cause.
Acne Resolution After Accutane. The majority of patients notice dramatic and lasting improvement after finishing the therapy

Is Accutane Right for You?

Accutane (generic: isotretinoin) is an oral vitamin A derivative that shrinks sebaceous glands and dramatically reduces oil production — the root cause of most severe acne. It is typically reserved for patients with moderate-to-severe acne that has not responded adequately to other treatments, or for acne that is causing significant scarring or psychological distress.

Dr. Berry takes a thoughtful approach to Accutane: she does not push patients toward it, but she also does not withhold it from patients who genuinely need it. If Accutane is the right tool for your acne, she will explain the full process honestly so you can make an informed decision.

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Conditions Accutane Treats

Severe nodular or cystic acne causing pain and significant skin damage

Moderate acne that has failed topical medications and oral antibiotics

Acne that is actively causing permanent scarring

Acne causing significant psychological distress or impacting quality of life

Recurrent acne that keeps returning after antibiotic treatmentRecurrent acne that keeps returning after antibiotic treatment

Acne in patients who cannot tolerate other systemic treatments

Accutane is most often recommended for:



Skin Breakouts While on Accutane? Acne may worsen briefly when isotretinoin starts clearing clogged pores, though missed doses or hormonal imbalance can also play a role. Checking in with your medical provider can help clarify the cause.

The Accutane Process at BHSkin Encino

1

Initial consultation: thorough evaluation of your acne history, skin, and overall health

2

Baseline labs: bloodwork to assess liver function, lipids, and other relevant markers

3

iPLEDGE enrollment: mandatory FDA program for all isotretinoin patients

4

Monthly monitoring: required office visits with lab work every 30 days

5

Dose adjustment: Dr. Berry adjusts dosing based on response and tolerability

6

Pregnancy prevention: strict protocols for patients of childbearing potential

7

Course completion: typically 16–20 weeks; most patients achieve lasting clearance

Accutane requires careful management throughout the treatment course:

Skin Breakouts While on Accutane? Acne may worsen briefly when isotretinoin starts clearing clogged pores, though missed doses or hormonal imbalance can also play a role. Checking in with your medical provider can help clarify the cause.

Managing Side Effects — What to Expect

The most common side effect of Accutane is dryness — of the skin, lips, eyes, and nasal passages. Dr. Berry provides detailed guidance on managing dryness proactively, including recommended moisturizers, lip balms, eye drops, and skincare routines for the duration of treatment.

Accutane carries a small risk of mood changes, which Dr. Berry discusses openly at every visit. Other potential side effects — including elevated cholesterol and liver enzymes — are monitored through required monthly labs. The vast majority of patients complete their course without serious complications, and most describe the experience as entirely worth it.

  • Dry skin and lips (managed with moisturizers and lip balm)
  • Dry eyes (managed with preservative-free artificial tears)
  • Mild joint aches (typically resolve after treatment)
  • Initial acne flare in the first 4–6 weeks (expected and temporary)
  • Sun sensitivity (SPF 30+ required throughout treatment)

Meet Dr. Asmi Berry — Encino's Integrative Dermatologist

Dr. Asmi Berry, DO, FAAD specializes in treating all forms of acne — including the most complex and treatment-resistant cases. Her integrative approach evaluates hormonal, dietary, and lifestyle factors alongside medical treatment, often allowing her to achieve results with lower doses or shorter courses of Accutane than a less personalized approach would require.

She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, a Clinical Instructor at Mt. Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, and has been recognized in Forbes and GQ for her expertise in skin health. Patients describe her as approachable, thorough, and genuinely invested in their wellbeing.

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Serving Encino, Sherman Oaks, Tarzana & the Valley

BHSkin Encino is located at 16030 Ventura Blvd, Suite 140, Encino, CA 91436 — easily accessible from across the San Fernando Valley. Monthly Accutane monitoring visits are required; our convenient location and flexible scheduling — including Saturday appointments — make this as easy as possible for working patients.

(310) 205-3555  |  Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM  |  Saturday appointments available

Frequently Asked Questions

Accutane is the most effective treatment available for severe acne. Studies show that approximately 85% of patients achieve lasting remission after a single course, and many experience complete long-term clearance. Patients who do have a recurrence typically respond well to a second course.
Most courses last 16–20 weeks (4–5 months), though some patients may require longer. The total cumulative dose is the key determinant of long-term efficacy. Dr. Berry calculates the target dose based on your body weight and adjusts throughout the course as needed.
Isotretinoin is a known teratogen — meaning it causes severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The iPLEDGE program requires that female patients of childbearing potential use two forms of contraception and take monthly pregnancy tests throughout treatment. These requirements are strict and non-negotiable under FDA guidelines.
The relationship between Accutane and depression has been studied extensively. While some patients report mood changes, large-scale studies have not established a causal link. Importantly, severe acne itself is strongly associated with depression and anxiety. Dr. Berry discusses mental health at every visit and takes any reported mood changes seriously.

Ready to Discuss Accutane? Book in Encino Today.

If severe acne is affecting your life, BHSkin Encino can help. Dr. Berry offers compassionate, expert Accutane management with same-day appointments available.

Book In-Office Appointment Book Virtual Consultation
Skin Breakouts While on Accutane? Acne may worsen briefly when isotretinoin starts clearing clogged pores, though missed doses or hormonal imbalance can also play a role. Checking in with your medical provider can help clarify the cause.

Visit Our Encino Office

BHSkin Dermatology — Encino
16030 Ventura Blvd, Suite 140
Encino, CA 91436
(310) 205-3555
Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM | Sat 9AM–12PM