Hollywood’s New Beauty Trend

Hollywood is no stranger to beauty fads, but the latest trend is a bit different from the usual invasive procedures like injectables or expensive facelifts.

Instead, many celebrities are opting for a small pill to maintain smooth, camera-ready skin, opting out of surgery altogether.

This trend revolves around isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, which is typically used to treat acne but is now being taken in lower doses by those obsessed with their appearance.

It even has a playful nickname: “the Hollywood dose.”

High-profile figures like Anne Hathaway and Emma Stone have sparked interest with their seemingly ageless looks. Kris Jenner’s recent $100,000 facelift has also drawn attention. All of this has many people curious about this purported secret on social media.

Dr. Anjali Mahto, a dermatologist, noted, “It seems to be everywhere right now. The concept of ‘microdosing’ isotretinoin has been around but is gaining traction thanks to social media.”

Lower doses of isotretinoin have been used for various conditions by dermatologists for years, particularly for adults dealing with persistent acne or oily skin.

Dr. Stuart Kaplan, a dermatologist in Beverly Hills, believes that “low-dose Accutane, or Hollywood dosing, is becoming increasingly popular.” He highlighted the differences between the standard and low doses.

Ordinarily, isotretinoin is prescribed at about 1mg/kg; for instance, a 175-pound person might need around 80mg daily, typically over a six-month treatment course.

In contrast, low-dose regimens can range from 10 to 40mg taken only a couple of times a week, extending the treatment duration from six months to possibly over a year.

Dr. Taylor Bullock shared on Instagram the rationale behind using this method: “People are doing this mainly to shrink oil glands and keep pores clear, quietly controlling acne with fewer side effects.”

With higher doses of Accutane, users often report side effects like severe dryness or increased sensitivity to sunlight, along with possible mood changes. It’s worth noting that pregnant women cannot take isotretinoin at any dosage.

At lower doses, isotretinoin tends to primarily lower oil production, which can help manage acne over a longer period. However, celebrities aren’t merely focused on avoiding pimples; they aim for flawless skin that shines under the spotlight.

Kaplan remarked, “Actresses really dislike oily skin. No one wants that glare on camera.” The recent Oscars showcased this, with celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Gwyneth Paltrow looking particularly refreshed and flawless.

Kaplan also mentioned the potential anti-aging benefits of low-dose Accutane, indicating it might stimulate collagen production and reduce fine lines. Many patients notice smoother skin and smaller pores, helping with age-related issues like rosacea.

Of course, using Accutane isn’t without risks. Serious side effects can include birth defects, mental health issues, liver damage, and elevated cholesterol, which necessitate careful monitoring by a dermatologist.

Kaplan highlighted the importance of monthly pregnancy tests for women who could become pregnant while on the medication, and blood tests to monitor their liver health every three months.

Isotretinoin requires strict guidelines. As Mahto emphasized, “It is a potent medication and can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy.”

Interestingly, the approach with this “Hollywood dose” resembles other modified uses of medicines, like Ozempic, which was initially designed for diabetes but is often used for weight loss.

Kaplan explained that this low-dose approach is considered off-label use, allowing patients to take smaller doses over a longer time. Remarkably, this method seems well-tolerated, especially among older individuals who often experience fewer side effects.

Overall, it seems that the Hollywood dose is becoming a go-to choice for stars across various age groups, from Kylie Jenner to her mother, Kris, making it clear that this trend is here to stay.