Acitretin Withdrawal: How to Stop Safely and What to Expect

Acitretin is a powerful retinoid used for severe acne and psoriasis. If your doctor says it’s time to stop, you probably have questions about how to do it without a flare‑up. Below you’ll find clear steps to taper off, signs to watch, and tips to keep your skin calm.

Why a Gradual Cut‑Down Works Better

Acitretin stays in your body for weeks because it’s stored in fat tissue. Dropping the dose abruptly can cause a sudden rise in acne or skin irritation. Most dermatologists recommend a short taper – lowering the dose over a few weeks – so the drug slowly clears out.

A typical taper looks like this: if you’re on 30 mg daily, cut back to 20 mg for a week, then 10 mg for the next week, and finally stop. Your doctor may adjust the schedule based on how your skin responds.

Common Withdrawal Symptoms and How to Handle Them

When you lower acitretin, a few things can happen. You might notice:

• Increased oiliness or mild breakouts – keep a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubs.
• Dryness or peeling – a fragrance‑free moisturizer helps restore the barrier.
• Joint stiffness or mild soreness – light stretching or low‑impact exercise can ease discomfort.

All of these are usually short‑lived. If anything feels severe or lasts more than two weeks, call your dermatologist.

Another important point: acitretin can raise liver enzymes. Your doctor will likely order a blood test a week or two after you stop to make sure everything’s normal.

Tips to Prevent a Rebound Acne Flare

Acne can bounce back quickly once the drug leaves your system. Here are practical steps to keep it in check:

1. Keep a simple skincare routine. Use a mild, non‑comedogenic cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and sunscreen daily.
2. Consider an over‑the‑counter retinoid. After a week or two off acitretin, a low‑strength retinol can help maintain skin turnover without the same side‑effects.
3. Watch your diet. Limit high‑glycemic foods and dairy if they usually trigger your breakouts.
4. Stay consistent with any prescribed topical meds. Benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin gel can keep bacteria under control during the transition.

Remember, the goal isn’t to jump straight back into a strong prescription. Give your skin time to adjust.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice any of the following, reach out to your dermatologist promptly:

• Severe joint pain or swelling.
• Unusual fatigue, nausea, or yellowing of the skin/eyes (signs of liver trouble).
• Rapid, widespread acne that doesn’t improve with OTC products.

These could indicate that the drug is still affecting your body or that an alternative treatment is needed.

Stopping acitren is a manageable process when you follow a taper plan, monitor your skin, and keep your doctor in the loop. By staying proactive, you can minimize withdrawal bumps and keep your skin looking its best.