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Accutane Induced Eye Dryness

Dry eye is a serious side effect of Accutane (Isotretinoin/Roaccutane). Our specialized assessment helps you manage this discomfort and prevent long-term damage, in direct collaboration with your dermatologist.
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The effectiveness of Accutane should not come at the expense of your eye comfort

You work hard to get clear skin, but the side effects on your eyes can be hard to bear. Do you recognize these symptoms?

  • Intense burning sensation or “broken glass” in the eyes.
  • Blurred vision that is constantly changing, especially in front of a screen (studies, work).
  • Extremely sensitive to light.
  • Inability to wear your contact lenses.

These symptoms can be severe enough to make you think about stopping your acne treatment. Our aim is to help you continue it safely.

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Clear skin AND comfortable eyes: It's possible

Precise Assessment
We measure the impact of Accutane on your glands using advanced imaging.
Effective relief
Get access to specialized treatments that go beyond standard drops.
Care Coordination
We send a comprehensive report to your dermatologist to ensure comprehensive care.

Why does Accutane cause such severe dry eyes?

The reason is simple: the medication affects every oil-producing gland in your body.

  1. The objective: To fight acne, Accutane reduces the production of sebum (oil) on your skin.
  2. The side effect: Your eyelids also have glands (Meibomian Glands) that produce essential oil to prevent your tears from evaporating.
  3. The Problem: The medication affects these eye glands in the same way it affects your skin: it shrinks them and reduces their oil production.
  4. The result: Without this protective oil layer, your tears evaporate instantly, leaving your eyes exposed and inflamed.
Why is it critical to act now?

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Although most of the effects go away after treatment, ignoring severe dryness now can have consequences.

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More importantly, it can permanently damage your oil glands (this is called atrophy). If this happens, you could suffer from chronic dry eyes for life, long after your Accutane treatment is over.

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Proactive management is essential to protect your eyes.

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Histoire de patients

Severe dry eyes with Accutane
La Situation
A young male student, on treatment with isotretinoin (Accutane), developed severe and disabling dry eyes. Despite a history of chalazions and long hours in front of a screen, his symptoms (constant irritation, redness, major discomfort) intensified, making his studies difficult. Basic hygiene measures were no longer enough.
Notre Approche
After a thorough diagnosis revealing major meibomian gland dysfunction (DGM) and chronic inflammation, we put in place a combined care protocol. The aim was twofold: to unblock the glands and to calm the intense inflammation exacerbated by the medication. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and medical plasma treatments have been initiated in addition to rigorous eyelid hygiene and adapted anti-inflammatory drops.
Le Résultat
Within a few months, the patient reported a dramatic improvement in his symptoms, with his discomfort score dropping from 5/10 to only 1/10. The function of his glands improved, relieving him permanently and allowing him to continue his studies with a comfort that he thought he had lost. This case demonstrates the importance of expert and personalized care, especially in a complex drug context.
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Avant
Après
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THE CARE EXPERIENCE
Beyond treatments, we offer care rooted in listening and empathy. Each patient is unique, and our greatest satisfaction is restoring the comfort you thought you had lost.
An approach appreciated by our patients. Rated 5.0/5 on Google.

Meet our team of optometrists dedicated to dry eye

Dre. Francesca Olinga
Optometrist

An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.

Dr. Trang Nguyen
Optometrist

Optometrist with over 30 years of experience and speaker for eye care professionals. Dr. Nguyen has experience in improving visual quality affected by dry eye. She supports her patients in reconciling their aesthetic goals (makeup, cosmetics) and optimal eye comfort.

A simple and non-invasive assessment

1

Accutane Impact Analysis

We use advanced technology to visualize the condition of your oil glands.
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Personalized Management Plan

Receive a tailored strategy for managing your dry eye.
3

Follow-up and Coordination

We work closely with your dermatologist to adjust your treatment plan.
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Nos traitements spécialisés

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INFLAMMATIION
Surgical Excision of Eyelid Lesions
En Savoir Plus
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FAQ
Can I wear contact lenses during treatment?

This is often difficult because Accutane makes the eyes very dry and sensitive, increasing the risk of irritation and infection. We can assess whether it is safe for you and recommend specialized lens options if needed.

Will I have to stop taking Accutane?

Our main goal is to help you continue your treatment safely. With appropriate and proactive eye management, the vast majority of patients can successfully complete their Accutane course.

Is eye damage permanent?

Most of the effects are reversible after stopping the medication. However, proactive monitoring is essential to prevent permanent gland atrophy (damage to oily glands), which can occur if severe dryness is ignored for too long.

I finished Accutane months ago but my eyes are still dry. Can you help?

Yes, absolutely. We can assess the condition of your glands post-treatment and develop a rehabilitation plan to restore your eye comfort.

Start your journey to relief

Don't let dry eye get in the way of your treatment

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Talk to our team
CARE Clinic, your trusted partner in Greater Montreal for clear and comfortable vision. Specializing in innovative dry eye treatments, we're here to support you every step of the way. Explore our solutions and rediscover the joy of serene sight.
25 Saint-Joseph Street, Office 200, Sainte-Thérèse, QC, J7E 4X5
+1 (450) 990-2322
+1 (450) 634-5650
care@experiencecare.ca
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