DIY Skincare: A Risky Trend? BPOM Warns of Potential Dangers

The allure of crafting your own beauty products, fueled by social media trends and online communities, might seem enticing. However, the Indonesian Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) urges caution, warning that DIY skincare can pose significant risks to your skin health. Mixing your own skincare can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

Why is DIY Skincare So Risky?

Several factors contribute to the potential dangers of DIY skincare. First and foremost, the risk of contamination is a major concern. Using unsterile ingredients can introduce bacteria and fungi, leading to skin infections. Furthermore, individual skin sensitivities can be unpredictable. Ingredients that don't suit your skin can trigger allergic reactions, causing redness, itching, and severe irritation.

The potential for adverse reactions from incompatible active ingredients is another serious risk. Mixing active ingredients without proper knowledge can disrupt their intended function, potentially leading to permanent skin damage. Moreover, DIY skincare products bypass essential laboratory testing, which ensures the stability, safety, and effectiveness of commercial products.

Experts Sound the Alarm

Dermatologists and pharmacists reiterate BPOM's warnings, emphasizing the potential for severe consequences. Dr. Fitria Agustina, a dermatologist, highlights that DIY skincare products lacking proper standards can cause serious side effects like irritation, hyperpigmentation (dark spots), and long-term skin damage. "Mixing skincare can disrupt the concentration and stability of active substances, leading to negative skin reactions. These reactions may include redness, dryness, sensitivity, irritation, or even hyperpigmentation," she warns.

Mayagustina Andarini, a senior Food and Drug Supervisor, underscores the importance of expertise in skincare formulation. "Not everyone can be an expert. Making and selling skincare without BPOM approval violates regulations," she states.

Pharmacist Rahmat Hidayat Syah emphasizes that ingredient imbalances in homemade mixtures can cause significant skin damage. "For example, excessive use of salicylic acid or glycolic acid can lead to skin burns, redness, and even acne," he explains.

The risks associated with DIY skincare are real and can have lasting consequences. While the allure of creating your own beauty products might be strong, remember that beauty should never compromise your skin health. Always prioritize safety and seek professional guidance from dermatologists or pharmacists for effective and safe skincare practices.