How does isotretinoin work?

Oral isotretinoin is a retinoid preparation that will decrease the size and secretion of the sebaceous glands (i.e. oil-producing glands that are located in the deeper layers of our skin). It works by normalizing our skin cells, especially those lining the pores and prevents the formation of new comedones. It also inhibits the growth of P. acnes (i.e. short for Propionibacterium acnes, the main culprit that is responsible for inflammatory acne) by changing the environment in which the P. acnes usually live and has an anti-inflammatory effect too.

Studies has shown that oral isotretinoin is able to tackle all of the underlying factors behind the process of acne. For example, during oral isotretinoin therapy, our sebum production can be reduced by 90% or more, in a way, this leads to a substantial decrease in the levels of P. acnes. However, both P. acnes and sebum levels will increase once the medication is discontinued.