A Roaccutane/Oratane Update – Week 4

Do you remember 4 weeks ago?  When I shared that post that I had to close my eyes and “publish” and then resist deleting.  Also known as the time my face looked like this:

Sorry for pouncing that one on you, I’ll wait while you recover from shock and/or the urge to vomit.

Anyway, I happened to be scrolling through my phone pictures looking for the pic I managed to take of the most adorable squirrel that lives in our garden.  Also WE HAVE A SQUIRREL THAT LIVES IN OUR GARDEN.  But instead I spotted this and had a mild heart attack that I ever even considered taking the picture, nevermind sharing it on the internet.

That being said, opening myself up like that was rather liberating.

Something that I always hope to be is real and honest.  By covering this up every single day it really was affecting the way I saw myself.  Definitely not being anywhere close to real.  (Because people won’t like me if I show them real)  Letting this out the bag is about as real as I could ever get.  And like I said it was liberating.  I felt like there was a huge weight that got lighter and lighter as your words of encouragement streamed in.  I was so touched by the feedback and your own personal stories and support that I promptly burst into tears whenever I read a new comment, tweet or Facebook message.  So know that even though I may not have had a chance to reply to each and every comment, your words were read and absorbed!

And while this all seems like a lifetime ago it was actually just 2 weeks ago.  What really stood out for me is how quickly I forget the worst of it.  Just 3 months ago I was sinking into what I can only assume was a form of depression over it all and now, even though it’s no where close to gone, I am happy and positive.

I thought I would post a quick update for those that are wondering how it’s going and also for those suffering with the same problem to maybe consider it as an option for treatment for your own skin.

This was two weeks ago…

This is now!

So over all in the last 4 weeks, there’s been a remarkable difference.

But let’s quickly talk about the side effects.

Skin issues:  I have noticed that although the redness is going down considerably, I am now getting a lot of actual big, sore pimples.  They are taking a while to heal and look rather odd when I attempt to cover them with make up.  Any tips in this area beauty bloggers?  This is what it look like with make up on – no matter what I try.  My current routine is to put on the Nutraderm face moisturiser and then cover with Dr Hauschuka liquid foundation and then cover bad areas with MAC concealer.  Would really appreciate some tips.

Also this is what it looks like after just half a days worth of wear.  I need something that stays for the long term.

Side effects:

• I often wake up with headaches, but they only last until after breakfast (usually).
• I am so very tired all the time, but that can be attributed to any one of the 3 kids.  Although I have noticed that my sleep is deeper and it’s a lot harder to wake up in the morning, which could be explained by the oncoming of Winter so who really knows?!
• My lips are the worst off, very, very dry (I use Lansinoh all day everyday and it works well while it’s on).
• At night my eyes are rather red and my nose is dry but I have never felt the need to use drops/sprays.

Not one single hint of depression though – seeing my skin change before my very eyes is just so satisfying!