Queen City Skin
Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life.
Queen City Skin
30. All About Accutane | A Patient and Dermatology Perspective with Jane Lewis
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If you’ve ever Googled Accutane and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. What you find online can feel confusing, even intimidating, but the reality of treatment is often very different. In this episode of Queen City Skin, Dr. Emily O. McLean is joined by medical assistant Jane Lewis to break down what isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, is really like from both a clinical and patient perspective. Together, they walk through what treatment looks like month to month, how side effects are managed, and why this medication can be life-changing for patients with acne. Jane shares her personal experience taking Accutane as a teenager and now guiding patients through the process in clinic. Her dual perspective offers reassurance, practical tips, and a clear understanding of what to expect every step of the way.
Jane Lewis graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology. She has spent the past two years working as a medical assistant at Charlotte Skin and Laser, where she has gained hands-on clinical experience in dermatology. Jane plans to attend physician assistant school and hopes to build a career centered on compassionate, patient-centered care.
Resources mentioned:
3 Things to Know Before Starting Accutane
- Accutane is highly effective for the right patients. For moderate to severe acne or acne that risks scarring, isotretinoin can dramatically improve skin and help prevent long-term damage.
- Side effects are expected but manageable. Dryness is common, but with the right support, routine check-ins, and simple strategies, most patients tolerate treatment very well.
- Clear skin is just the beginning.Accutane is a powerful reset, but long-term skin health depends on maintenance with sunscreen, gentle skincare, and often a topical retinoid.
Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life.
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