It depends on the prescription and the reason it was prescribed. Here’s a general guide:
✅ When it might be okay to stop:
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Short-term prescriptions (like antibiotics for a limited breakout) are usually meant to be discontinued once the course is completed.
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If your dermatologist planned for short-term use, they may recommend tapering or stopping after improvement.
❌ When you shouldn’t stop without guidance:
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Chronic skin conditions (like acne, rosacea, or eczema) often require maintenance treatment even after visible improvement.
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Stopping abruptly—especially with topical steroids, retinoids, or oral medications like isotretinoin—can lead to flare-ups or rebound symptoms.
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Some treatments need to be tapered slowly to avoid withdrawal effects (e.g., topical steroid withdrawal).
✔️ Best Practice:
Always talk to your prescribing dermatologist before stopping any prescription, even if your skin looks clear. Clear skin doesn’t always mean the underlying issue is resolved.