Isotretinoin Diet: What to Eat and Avoid for Better Results

When you're taking isotretinoin, a potent oral medication used to treat severe acne that doesn't respond to other treatments. Also known as Accutane, it works by shrinking oil glands and reducing inflammation, but it also puts stress on your body—especially your liver, digestive system, and skin. That’s why what you eat matters just as much as the pill you swallow.

Isotretinoin is a synthetic form of vitamin A, and too much vitamin A from food or supplements can overload your system. That means avoiding liver, cod liver oil, and high-dose vitamin A supplements. Your body already gets enough from the drug, and extra can cause headaches, dizziness, or even liver damage. You should also skip alcohol. It doesn’t just make you feel worse—it increases your risk of liver toxicity when combined with isotretinoin. Studies show that people who drink while on isotretinoin are more likely to develop abnormal liver enzymes, and that’s not something you want to find out during a routine blood test.

On the flip side, your skin gets dry—really dry. Lips crack, eyes feel gritty, and your scalp might flake. That’s not just discomfort; it’s your body signaling it needs help. Focus on healthy fats: avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon. These help rebuild your skin’s natural barrier. Stay hydrated, but don’t rely on water alone. Electrolytes matter too. If you’re sweating a lot or spending time in dry air, add a pinch of salt to your water or eat a banana or two a day. You don’t need fancy supplements—just real food.

Some people swear by cutting out dairy, and while there’s no solid proof it directly boosts isotretinoin’s effect, many patients report fewer breakouts when they avoid milk, cheese, and ice cream. If you’re curious, try a two-week dairy-free test. Track your skin before and after. You might be surprised. Sugar and fried foods? Skip them. They spike insulin, which can trigger oil production—even when isotretinoin is doing its job. Your body is fighting hard already. Don’t give acne a free pass with junk food.

Isotretinoin doesn’t just change your skin—it changes how your body handles nutrients. Your cholesterol and triglycerides might rise. That’s why your doctor orders blood tests every month. What you eat now affects those numbers. Swap out processed snacks for vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. If you’re eating fast food daily, it’s time to rethink it. You’re not just treating acne—you’re protecting your long-term health.

You’ll also hear about sun sensitivity. Isotretinoin makes your skin burn easier. That’s not just a warning on the label—it’s a real risk. You don’t need to hide indoors, but you do need to be smart. Wear hats, use sunscreen (mineral-based works best), and avoid tanning beds. And no, tanning doesn’t clear acne—it just makes your skin more vulnerable to damage.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve been through this. Some compare isotretinoin to other acne treatments. Others break down how to manage dry skin, track side effects, or safely buy the medication online. You’ll see what works, what doesn’t, and what most doctors won’t tell you—because they’re too busy writing prescriptions to talk about food.