Have you experienced at any point in your life? It can be characterized as chronic, that form deep beneath the skin — and seem to stick around a while. Then you may already be . Technically speaking, Accutane was a brand name (which is no longer manufactured) for an , a derivative of vitamin A, NYC-based dermatologist , MD, tells PS.

This oral acne medication is still around today, but needs to be prescribed by a professional. , a dermatologist at Union Derm in New York, adds: "It works by decreasing the amount of oil production released by the sebaceous glands in the skin, [and] has the potential to provide a long-term decrease in acne after a five-month course of medication." She says that the ideal candidate is someone with severe or who has tried — without success — other , antibiotics, or hormonal agents .

If you're curious about trying Accutane/isotretinoin, we spoke with both Dr. Gymrek and Dr. Schultz to learn the common side effects and risks.

Here's what you need to know. , MD, is a dermatologist at in New York. , MD, is a dermatologist at Park Avenue Skincare and based in New York.

Before you begin taking isotretinoin, you should know that a typical treatment plan lasts between three and six months. During those months, it's common to experience the following mild, short-term side effects. The higher your dosage is, the more noticeable these side effects may be.

For that reason, some doctors prescribe low dosages that are taken over a longer period of time. I.