Post-Isotretinoin Acne Management: A Pilot Survey of the American Acne and Rosacea Society Board of Directors

June 2025 | Volume 24 | Issue 6 | e38 | Copyright © June 2025


Published online May 16, 2025

Nikita Menta BA, Savanna I. Vidal BS, Adam Friedman MD FAAD

Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Post-isotretinoin acne vulgaris relapse rates remain substantial, ranging from 20 to 60%.1 Given these high rates, guidelines for post-isotretinoin acne management (PIAM) are essential for maintaining treatment success and limiting the need for repeated courses. Although several studies have examined relapse risk factors, the literature on PIAM is limited, and no consensus has been established.1 An IRB-approved (IRB#: NCR246024), pilot survey assessing PIAM was emailed to the American Acne and Rosacea Society board of directors, comprising 10 dermatologists.

Nine board members completed the survey (90% response); 1 was ineligible due to clinical inactivity. Responses are summarized in Table 1. The most frequent initial isotretinoin daily dose ranges prescribed were 0.25 to 0.50 (33.3%) and