Long-time acne sufferer claims her nose SHRUNK after using roaccutane

An Australian reality star has perpetuated the myth that acne medication roaccutane is a ‘free nose job’ and can shrink your facial features.

Leah Johnsen, who appeared on the hit TV series Instant Hotel, shared an image of her face at the age of 18 and again at 27 to prove that her nose had marginally changed shape while she used the strong drug.

‘There is an apparent theory that roaccutane can shrink noses,’ she said alongside the images.

The myth – which was born on TikTok – has been debunked by dermatologists, who don’t recommend trying the powerful medication in a bid to shrink your nose.

Ms Johnsen shared a photo of her face at 18 and at 27 to see whether the ‘myth’ was true

Accutane is a retinoid and it works by slowing the production of certain natural substances that can cause acne, but it is often only given to a patient who has exhausted all other remedies to treat their acne – and can handle the often serious side effects.

‘Accutane may make the nose look less bulbous because of its effect on the oil glands in that area,’ Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital Joshua Zeichner told Health.

‘We know that the nose has among the highest concentration and most active oil glands on the body.’ 

So you could potentially shrink the oil glands on your nose when you’re on Accutane but this isn’t likely to make such a visible difference.

Accutane is a retinoid and it works by slowing the production of certain natural substances that can cause acne, but it is often only given to a patient who has exhausted all other remedies to treat their acne (Pictured is Leah’s post)

Ms Johnsen has been extremely open about her acne journey, updating fans on January 7 to say she was ‘lost for words’ at the return of her pimples

Ms Johnsen has been extremely open about her acne journey, updating fans on January 7 to say she was ‘lost for words’ at the return of her pimples. 

‘After two rounds of roaccutane, an entire gut assessment, hormone assessment, endless supplements, tonics, treatments unfortunately I am back here with these painful cysts again,’ she wrote.

‘I will admit, my gut drinks made a huge difference for a good few months but since I’ve come to Byron Bay my skin has cracked it. Humidity is probably contributing or maybe something I’m eating. But nothing really is out of the ordinary. 

‘Maybe someone’s put a curse on me, I don’t know. Let’s get one thing straight, I’m not here to complain, I’m using my experience as a pillar to find solutions not just for me, but whoever can relate.

‘Yes, this makes me feel incredible flat and low.’

‘After two rounds of roaccutane, an entire gut assessment, hormone assessment, endless supplements, tonics, treatments unfortunately I am back here with these painful cysts again,’ she wrote

She spent the next three months changing her diet – sticking to fruits, vegetables and oats – alongside enzyme peels and using prescription-based The Secret Skincare to treat the red marks

She spent the next three months changing her diet – sticking to fruits, vegetables and oats – alongside enzyme peels and using prescription-based The Secret Skincare to treat the red marks.

‘I first went “public” I suppose with my cystic acne back in 2019. I practically was at wits end with the frustration and social media is a great place to seek help when asked,’ she said.

Working with a naturopath and nutritionist helped her feel healthier overall and improve her skin quality but it was the peels and a tailored skincare regime that helped the most. 

Working with a naturopath and nutritionist helped her feel healthier overall and improve her skin quality but it was the peels and a tailored skincare regime that helped the most

‘The reason I think it’s important to share this is not for the misconception of bad skin being part of the illusion of vanity. Anyone who struggles or has struggled with cystic acne knows how painful they are,’ she said.

‘And when your body is producing these painful lumps you can’t help but feel like something isn’t right. I personally felt dirty! Weird perception but I just felt gross. 

‘If I had a breakout I had no motivation to see people or go out. I would put on a million layers of concealer which was also deflating. 

‘From saying that, now my skin has improved, so has my daily motivation.’