Doctors warn of dangers from 'pharmacy skincare' trend on social media

A new trend on social media, dubbed "skincare apotek," sees users freely applying over-the-counter medications such as Melanox and Vitacid as part of their facial skincare routines. However, experts are raising alarms about the potential dangers of this practice.

Dr. I Gusti Nyoman Darmaputra, a specialist in skin and kelamin diseases, explained that while these medications can be safe when used correctly and prescribed by a doctor, their unsupervised use poses significant risks. The primary concern is applying them without understanding the specific skin diagnosis and appropriate dosage, or without monitoring the skin's response.

According to Dr. Darmaputra, using potent drugs without the right indications can lead to various skin problems. Common side effects include redness, stinging, burning sensations, dryness, and peeling. More seriously, improper use can damage the skin's protective barrier, making it more sensitive and susceptible to other issues. Another frequent risk is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where the skin darkens after inflammation, contrary to the desired brightening effect.

"Many people hope for brighter skin, but due to irritation from improper use, the skin becomes inflamed and produces more pigment, leading to more dark spots," Dr. Darmaputra stated. He emphasized that the effectiveness and safety of dermatological treatments depend not only on the drug itself but also on precise dosage, application frequency, and adjustments based on medical evaluation. He stressed that these factors necessitate professional medical oversight.