Skin Care During Oratane Treatment
Why does my skin need special care?
During Oratane treatment, your skin may become drier and more sensitive.
The information in this section is intended to help you care for your skin and manage treatment-related dryness and irritation.
Good skin care is best started before dryness and sensitivity become severe.
What should I avoid while taking Oratane?
To help keep your skin in good condition:
- Do not squeeze or pick acne lesions
- Do not peel off dry or flaky skin
- Avoid facial treatments
- Do not use waxing for hair removal
- Do not use other acne medicines unless advised by your doctor
- Avoid body piercing during treatment
- Avoid cosmetic skin-treatment devices unless approved by your doctor
- Avoid hair dyes containing hydrogen peroxide
- Avoid perming or other treatments that may irritate the scalp and hair
- Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and tanning lamps
- Avoid showering or bathing with excessively hot water
How can side effects be reduced?
Dryness is one of the most common effects of Oratane.
Appropriate moisturising and gentle skin care can help manage dryness.
If you notice any unusual or concerning skin changes, consult your doctor.
What products may help relieve dryness?
Dry skin
Skin dryness is common during Oratane treatment and may affect the whole body.
Avoid very hot showers or baths.
Facial cleanser
Use only gentle cleansers designed for sensitive skin.
Body cleanser
Avoid harsh soaps.
A mild, soap-free cleanser may be more suitable.
Facial moisturiser
Regular use of a moisturiser may help relieve dryness and discomfort.
Oil-free moisturisers may be more appropriate for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Body moisturiser
Apply moisturising lotion regularly to help maintain the condition of the skin.
For very dry areas, a richer cream may be more appropriate than a lotion.
Dry lips
Oratane may cause dry or cracked lips.
Apply lip balm regularly, for example every one to two hours as needed.
Pay particular attention to the corners of the mouth, which may crack easily.
A lip balm containing sun protection may be useful during the day.
If your lips become severely cracked or begin to bleed, consult your doctor.
Dry nose
The inside of the nose may become dry during treatment and may occasionally bleed.
A small amount of petroleum jelly may be applied gently inside the nostrils using a cotton bud.
If nosebleeds are frequent or difficult to stop, seek medical advice.
Dry eyes
Lubricating eye drops may help relieve dry or uncomfortable eyes.
People who regularly wear contact lenses or work in air-conditioned environments may experience more dryness.
Contact lens wearers may need to reduce the length of time they wear their lenses.
Sun protection
Oratane may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds.
Cover exposed skin where possible, wear a brimmed hat, and use sunscreen with SPF 30+.
A sunscreen without oily or alcohol-based ingredients may be more suitable.
Dry hair and scalp
If your scalp and hair become drier than usual, consider using a mild shampoo designed for dry hair.
Conditioner may help protect the hair and scalp.
Avoid hair dyes, particularly those containing hydrogen peroxide, as these may further irritate the scalp and dry the hair.
If you have scalp problems, consult your doctor regarding an appropriate medicated shampoo.
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness may occur and may cause discomfort during sexual intercourse.
A suitable vaginal lubricant may help relieve dryness.
Anal dryness
The skin around the anus may become dry and uncomfortable.
Petroleum jelly applied several times a day may help relieve symptoms.
Cosmetics
Some cosmetics may aggravate acne.
If you wish to use make-up during treatment, choose products carefully and consult your doctor if necessary.
Lipstick
Moisturising lipstick may be used during Oratane treatment.
Products containing sun protection may be preferable.
Applying lip balm before lipstick may provide additional protection.
Lip balm
A lip balm with sun protection may be useful.
Keep one with you during the day and apply it regularly.