Rachel Sennott Says She Started Accutane Because Hollywood Executives Told Her to ‘Keep All’ of Her Acne

In a recent discussion featured in The Hollywood Reporter’s Comedy Actresses Roundtable, actress Rachel Sennott opened up about her experiences with acne and how it has affected her acting career. The 30-year-old star, known for her roles in HBO’s *I Love LA* and Netflix’s *Big Mistakes*, shared personal anecdotes that shed light on the pressures of maintaining appearances in Hollywood.

During the roundtable, which included a panel of notable comedians such as Hannah Einbinder, Keke Palmer, Quinta Brunson, and Ashley Padilla, Sennott revealed that her battle with acne had drawn comments from industry executives. These remarks, she noted, often pertained explicitly to her skin, showcasing a bluntness that is characteristic within the entertainment sector.

Sennott recounted a particularly jarring moment during an audition where she was met with feedback regarding her acne. “I used to think I could hide it with makeup,” she said. “I would look in the mirror thinking, ‘They can’t tell… No one knows.’ And then the first thing I hear is, ‘We’re keeping all of that,’” she explained, illustrating the anxiety and self-doubt she felt when entering audition spaces.

The topic of acne treatment came up as Sennott mentioned her journey through Accutane, a powerful medication used to treat severe cases of acne. “I talk about it every second of every day,” she said, highlighting the significance of the treatment in her life. Fellow panellist Einbinder playfully acknowledged Sennott’s role in encouraging her to explore the same medication, while Palmer chimed in to share her own experience of using Accutane before the others.

Their candid conversation served as a reminder of the often invisible pressure that performers face regarding their appearance. The discussions sparked gasps from the audience as the actresses reflected on the often superficial expectations of the industry, with Sennott’s experience resonating deeply with her peers.

It was clear throughout the roundtable that the stigma around acne and skin issues runs deep in Hollywood. Sennott’s openness about her self-consciousness demonstrates the toll that such beauty standards can take on individuals, particularly young actors who are trying to make their mark in a highly competitive environment.

Accutane, or isotretinoin, is prescribed when other acne treatments have proven ineffective. According to experts at the Cleveland Clinic, it’s often used in more severe cases, underscoring the lengths individuals may go to in order to conform to industry standards of beauty. For Sennott, finding a solution to her acne was a pivotal step in her personal and professional journey.

In addition to addressing personal struggles, Sennott’s revelations also invite broader discussions about mental health, self-acceptance, and the importance of addressing body image issues. The fact that such conversations are taking place among Hollywood’s rising stars reflects a gradual shift towards greater inclusivity and understanding within the entertainment industry.

As Sennott continues to carve out her niche in comedy and acting, her honesty about her experiences could inspire others facing similar challenges. Her journey highlights the importance of dialogue surrounding physical appearance and mental health—an issue that not only pervades the entertainment world but affects countless individuals across various walks of life.

With a growing number of voices advocating for change and authenticity in Hollywood, discussions like these may contribute to a more accepting environment where talent can shine without the looming shadow of unrealistic beauty standards. Sennott’s experience is just one example of how the narrative around acne and self-image is evolving, promising a more inclusive future for performers of all backgrounds.